COVID-19

If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below.

Do not travel

Do not travel to areas bordering Somalia due to the significant threat of terrorism, kidnapping and cross-border attacks. This includes Garissa county, Mandera county and Wajir County (Level 4 of 4).

Do not travel to the border areas with Ethiopia and South Sudan. Cross-border kidnapping and armed banditry make these border areas extremely unsafe. (Level 4 of 4).

Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid non-essential travel to Lamu county, coastal areas of Tana River and Kilifi counties north of Malindi due to the threat from terrorism and violent crime (level 3 of 4).

Avoid non-essential travel to the Eastleigh and Kibera neighbourhoods of Nairobi due to the threat from terrorism and violent crime (level 3 of 4).

Exercise increased caution

Exercise increased caution elsewhere in Kenya due to the threat of terrorism and violent crime (level 2 of 4).

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Kenya

Terrorism
There is a heightened risk of terrorism throughout Kenya. The Somalia-based terrorist group Al Shabaab has carried out a number of attacks in Kenya in the past and continues to publicly threaten to carry out further attacks. Credible information indicates that Westerners may be targeted by extremists in Nairobi, coastal areas of Kenya including Mombasa, Meru, Narok, Naivasha and Nanyuki.

The majority of attacks occur in coastal regions and in the north-east of the country near the Somali border, and have included shootings, bombings and grenade attacks.

In January 2019, a terrorist attack on the DusitD2 Hotel complex in Nairobi resulted in 21 deaths. In 2013, an attack on the Westgate Mall in Nairobi resulted in 68 deaths, including foreigners. There have been multiple terrorist incidents in Lamu, Mandera, Wajir and Garissa counties in recent years.

Methods of attack include the use of improvised explosive devices, suicide bombings, roadside bombs, shootings, kidnappings, and knife attacks.

Future attacks are highly likely, and could happen at any time. Such attacks could be directed at foreigners or places frequented by travellers, including Government buildings (including Embassies), places of worship, transport hubs and networks, tourist locations, public areas, international schools and United Nations facilities.

New Zealanders in Kenya are advised to be security conscious at all times and follow any instructions and restrictions issued by the local authorities. Particular care should be taken in crowded and public areas known to be frequented by foreigners, as well as on and around public transport, and during religious holidays and sporting events. Additional security measures such as avoiding areas with large crowds should be considered.

Kidnapping
There is an ongoing risk of kidnapping in areas close to the border with Somalia, South Sudan, Ethiopia, Garissa county, Mandera county, Wajir county and coastal areas and towns in north-eastern Kenya, particularly Lamu county. Westerners and aid workers have previously been the target of kidnappers in these areas, including in the Dadaab refugee camp, and further attacks are considered likely. New Zealanders in Kenya are advised to be particularly vigilant about their personal security in these areas, let your family and friends know about your travel plans and keep a low profile in public places.

Violent Crime
There is a high crime rate in Kenya, particularly in the major cities of Nairobi, Mombasa and Kisumu, and at coastal beach resorts. Violent crime, including carjacking, mugging and armed robbery is common especially in urban areas. No resistance should be given if you are the victim of an armed robbery, mugging or carjacking as this could lead to an escalation in violence. Police regularly confront criminal suspects in public places, bystanders have sometimes been caught up in the crossfire, resulting in death or injury.

Foreigners travelling to or from the international airports in Nairobi and Mombasa have been targeted, and advice for Jomo Kenyatta Airport is to use Mombasa Road, rather than the old airport road (the Airport South Road) and Jogoo Road.

In the past, foreigners have been the target of home invasions in Nairobi. Slum areas have higher crime rates – New Zealanders should exercise extreme caution in the slum areas of Nairobi, the old town of Mombasa, and on and around the Likoni Ferry, particularly at night. Stampedes and overcrowding on the ferry have resulted in multiple injuries. There is increased criminal activity at night, including robberies and street attacks. New Zealanders in Kenya should avoid walking or travelling alone, particularly at night and to isolated areas.

Violent incidents involving herders is common in central and north central Kenya, herders are often armed. These incidents are usually aimed at either private ranches or wildlife conservation parks, tourists have not been targeted. If you plan on travelling to this area, check with your accommodation or tour provider about conditions on the ground.

There are reports of bandit groups and robbers at unauthorised border crossing points with Uganda and Tanzania.

Crime
Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, bag snatching and robberies, occurs and is common in transport hubs and on trains. Crime tends to increase during holiday periods. We advise New Zealanders to be alert to their surroundings at all times and take steps to safeguard and secure their personal belongings. Avoid displaying or wearing items that appear valuable, such as mobile devices and jewellery. 

When travelling by car, it is advisable to keep doors locked and windows up at all times, hide valuables from view and do not stop to assist with vehicle breakdowns, clear debris from the road or pick up hitchhikers. Travel in remote areas should be undertaken in convoy. If travelling to Lamu Town or Manda Island, it is advisable to do so by air rather than by road travel.

Civil Unrest
There is the potential for escalated tensions and civil disorder in the lead up to election periods as well as after the declaration of results. Demonstrations and clashes are possible throughout the country, particularly in the Western region and at all political gatherings, including those at county level. Demonstrations can cause disruptions to traffic and public transportation, including access to and from the airport. 

Major protests against the draft Finance Bill 2024 occurred across multiple cities in Kenya, including Nairobi, during late June. Some demonstrations turned violent and there were reports of barricades, looting and a number of protestors that were injured or killed. New Zealanders in Kenya are advised to avoid all demonstrations, protests and large public gatherings as even those intended as peaceful have the potential to turn violent with little warning. Avoid areas where an event may take place, such as government buildings, universities, political party headquarters and electoral commission offices. Monitor local and international media, review personal security plans and be aware of your surroundings. If unexpectedly in the vicinity of a protest or demonstration, exercise caution and leave the area quickly.

Banditry, tribal clashes and sporadic violence have occurred in parts of north and north-eastern Kenya. Foreigners are not normally involved or targeted but could be incidentally caught up in violence. 

Scams
Beware of thieves acting as police officers, security guards or government officials who attempt to obtain money from tourists. Always ask for ID and if issued with a fine, ask for an official government receipt.

Internet romance scams and commercial and internet fraud are common in Kenya. New Zealanders should be wary of any offers that seem too good to be true, as they may be a scam. For further information see our advice on Internet Fraud and International Scams and Internet Dating Scams. 

Local Travel
Public transport options such as long-distance buses, motorbike taxis (boda-bodas) and minivans (matatus) are dangerous. They are often poorly maintained, un-insured and badly driven. There are also frequent reports of these buses and minivans being hijacked and passengers being robbed. Always check the bus operator’s safety standards.

Most visits to game reserves and other tourist areas are trouble-free. Serious incidents are rare, but crime can occur. Wildlife viewing poses risks, particularly if on foot and at close range. If you plan to visit a game reserve or national park, only use reputable tour operators. Always follow park regulations and instructions from the park wardens.

Piracy
Piracy remains a significant threat in the coastal waters off Kenya. In the past, Somali pirates have attacked vessels as far as 1000 nautical miles from the Somalian coast. Mariners are advised to be vigilant and take appropriate precautionary measures in these waters. For more information view the International Maritime Bureau's piracy report.

General Travel Advice
It is a legal requirement to carry a form of identification with you at all times. Failure to produce them could result in a fine or arrest.

New Zealanders are advised to respect religious and social traditions in Kenya to avoid offending local sensitivities. Modesty and discretion should be exercised in both dress and behaviour. Homosexual activity is illegal and could result in arrest and imprisonment. We would advise against taking photos when visiting poorer neighbourhoods, as there have been incidents of stone throwing.

The Kenya Tourism Federation operates a 24/7 Safety and Communication Centre, which provides information on tourism, road conditions and regional assistance in an emergency.

Taking photographs of official buildings (including embassies) and airports can lead to detention. If in doubt, seek advice from an official before taking photographs.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe and can include lengthy imprisonment or fines.

Drought is the primary natural hazard in Kenya, primarily affecting the North Eastern and Eastern areas.

New Zealanders travelling or living in Kenya should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for adventure activities and medical evacuation by air. The safety standards of some transport and tour operators can vary.

New Zealanders in Kenya are strongly encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

 

Travel tips

• For current health alerts

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The New Zealand Embassy Addis Ababa, Ethiopia is accredited to Kenya

Street Address Bole Sub City, Woreda 03, House No 111, Behind Atlas Hotel/close to Shala Park, (Namibia Street), Addis Ababa, Ethiopia Postal Address New Zealand Embassy, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Private Bag 18-901 Wellington Mail Centre 5045, Wellington Telephone +251-11-515-1269 Email aue@mfat.govt.nz Web Site https://www.mfat.govt.nz/ethiopia Hours Open to the public: Monday – Friday, 9am-12pm by appointment Note In an emergency or if you require urgent assistance after hours, please call the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade's 24/7 Consular Emergency line on +64 99 20 20 20.

See our regional advice for Africa