kenya travel uk gov

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. Learn more

Information on how to stay safe and healthy abroad. About us.

• Destinations
• Asia (Central)
• Asia (East)
• Australasia & Pacific
• Central America
• Europe & Russia
• Middle East
• North America
• South America & Antarctica

Kenya (Africa)

Advice for all destinations.

Read the information on the COVID-19: Health Considerations for Travel page for advice on travelling during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Vaccinations and malaria risk

Review both the Vaccination and Malaria sections on this page to find out if you may need vaccines and/or a malaria risk assessment before you travel to this country.

If you think you require vaccines and/or malaria risk assessment, you should make an appointment with a travel health professional:

• How to make an appointment with a travel health professional

A travel health risk assessment is also advisable for some people, even when vaccines or malaria tablets are not required.

• Do I need a travel health risk assessment?

Risk prevention advice 

Many of the health risks experienced by travellers cannot be prevented by vaccines and other measures need to be taken.

Always make sure you understand the wider risks at your destination and take precautions, including:

• food and water safety
• accident prevention
• avoiding insect bites
• preventing and treating animal bites
• respiratory hygiene
• hand hygiene

Our advice section gives detailed information on minimising specific health risks abroad:

• Travel Health Advice A-Z

Other health considerations

Make sure you have travel insurance before travel to cover healthcare abroad.

Find out if there are any restrictions you need to consider if you are travelling with medicines .

Know how to access healthcare at your destination: see the GOV.UK English speaking doctors and medical facilities: worldwide list

If you feel unwell on your return home from travelling abroad, always seek advice from a healthcare professional and let them know your travel history.

Vaccinations

• Confirm primary courses and boosters are up to date as recommended for life in Britain - including for example, seasonal flu vaccine (if indicated), MMR , vaccines required for occupational risk of exposure, lifestyle risks and underlying medical conditions.
• Courses or boosters usually advised: Diphtheria; Hepatitis A; Poliomyelitis; Tetanus.
• Other vaccines to consider: Hepatitis B; Meningococcal Meningitis; Rabies; Typhoid; Yellow Fever.
• Selectively advised vaccines - only for those individuals at highest risk: Cholera.

Yellow fever vaccination certificate required for travellers aged 1 year or over arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission .

Notes on the diseases mentioned above

Risk is higher during floods and after natural disasters, in areas with very poor sanitation and lack of clean drinking water.

• Diphtheria :  spread person to person through respiratory droplets. Risk is higher if mixing with locals in poor, overcrowded living conditions.

Risk is higher where personal hygiene and sanitation is poor.

Risk is higher for long stays, frequent travel and for children (exposed through cuts and scratches), those who may require medical treatment during travel.

• Meningococcal Meningitis :  spread by droplet infection through close person to person contact. Meningococcal disease is found worldwide but epidemics may occur within this country, particularly during the dry season. Risk is higher for those mixing with locals for extended periods.
• Tetanus :  spread through contamination of cuts, burns and wounds with tetanus spores. Spores are found in soil worldwide. A total of 5 doses of tetanus vaccine are recommended for life in the UK. Boosters are usually recommended in a country or situation where the correct treatment of an injury may not be readily available.
• Typhoid :  spread mainly through consumption of contaminated food and drink. Risk is higher where access to adequate sanitation and safe water is limited.
• Yellow Fever :  spread by the bite of an infected, day-biting mosquito. The disease is mainly found in rural areas of affected countries but outbreaks in urban areas do occur. Vaccination is usually recommended for all those who travel into risk areas. (View yellow fever risk areas here), and areas where there is an outbreak ongoing (check the 'news' section for outbreaks). In addition, certain countries may want to see proof of vaccination on an official yellow fever vaccination certificate - check above under Immunisations .

Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease transmitted by mosquitoes.You cannot be vaccinated against malaria.

Malaria precautions

• Malaria risk is high throughout the year in the whole country, but low in Nairobi, the immediate surrounding areas, and the highlands (above 2500m) of Central, Eastern, Nyanza, Rift Valley and Western Provinces. Note that there can be a high risk in valleys of the highlands.
• Malaria precautions are essential. Avoid mosquito bites by covering up with clothing such as long sleeves and long trousers especially after sunset, using insect repellents on exposed skin and, when necessary, sleeping under a mosquito net.
• Check with your doctor or nurse about suitable antimalarial tablets.
• See malaria map – additional information can be found by clicking on the Regional Information icon below the map.
• High risk areas: atovaquone/proguanil OR doxycycline OR mefloquine  is usually advised for those visiting risk areas.
• Low to no risk areas: malaria tablets are not normally advised for Nairobi and the immediate surrounding areas.
• If you have been travelling in a malarious area and develop a fever seek medical attention promptly. Remember malaria can develop even up to one year after exposure.
• If travelling to an area remote from medical facilities, carrying standby emergency treatment for malaria may be considered.

Other Health Risks

Altitude and travel, dengue fever, schistosomiasis.

There is a risk of exposure to coronavirus (COVID-19) in this country.

Please be aware that the risk of COVID-19 in this country may change at short notice and also consider your risk of exposure in any transit countries and from travelling itself. 

• The 'News' section on this page will advise if significant case increases or outbreaks have occurred in this country.

Prior to travel, you should:

• Check the latest government guidance on the FCDO Foreign travel advice and country specific pages for travel to this country and the rules for entering the UK on return.
• Ensure you are up to date with UK recommendations on COVID-19 vaccination.
• You can check this in the FAQ's.
• If you are at increased risk of severe COVID-19 you should carefully  consider your travel plans  and consider seeking medical advice prior to making any decisions.

For further information, see  Coronavirus disease (COVID-19)  and  COVID-19: Health Considerations for Travel  pages.

Polio Vaccination Exit Recommendations

If you are visiting this country for longer than 4 weeks, you may be advised to have a booster dose of a polio-containing vaccine if you have not had one in the past 12 months. You should carry proof of having had this vaccination. Please speak to a travel health professional to discuss.

Zika Virus Infection

This country has been categorised as having a risk of Zika (ZIKV) virus transmission.

ZIKV is mainly spread through mosquito bites. The mosquito responsible most commonly bites during daylight hours and is common in towns and cities. There is a low risk of sexual transmission.

The illness is usually mild but infection during pregnancy may lead to babies being born with birth defects. There is no vaccine currently available against ZIKV.

Advice for All Travellers

You should practice strict mosquito bite avoidance at all times.

Do not travel without adequate travel insurance .

Seek pre-travel health advice from a travel health professional 6 to 8 weeks in advance of travel.

• If you are pregnant , you should postpone non-essential travel to this country.
• 2 months afterwards if you are female
• 3 months afterwards if you are male

These measures reduce the chance of sexual transmission of ZIKV and/or the risk of ZIKV infection in pregnancy.

For further information, see Zika virus infection page.

• 80 additional items in the news archive for this country

back to top

The following are the updates and requirements for all travellers going to Kenya from the United Kingdom, that came into effect from 24th September 2021 ;

• All passengers coming to Kenya   must be in possession of a valid COVID-19 negative PCR test certificate conducted within 96 hours before travel.
• Operating crew are exempt from COVID-19 test when on a layover between flights. They must adhere to COVID-19 protocols from airport to hotel/residence and back to airport
• All children below the age of 5 years will be exempted from COVID-19 negative PCR test to enter Kenya.
• All travellers will be expected to fill the International Travelers Health Surveillance Form and submit before travel information and thereafter submit daily health information through the 'Jitenge' Platform App (available on the Google Play Store) for 14 consecutive days.
• Diplomats and Senior government officials will be exempt from quarantine but must be in possession of negative PCR test conducted within 96 hours before travel to enter Kenya.

Further information on the COVID-19 updates including the list of approved states and territories whose travellers are exempt from quarantine and and other restrictions by the Government of Kenya can be found on the Ministry of Health's Website and the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority Website

For further enquiries please contact us;

a)   Consular and Immigration Services

Email: [email protected]

Mobile Tel. Line:- (+44) 07979973794

                    or

b)   General Information 

Email: [email protected]

Mobile Tel. Line:- (+44) 07423840893

Monday - Friday 09:30 - 12:30 (Appointment Only) ‍

Monday - Friday 09:00 - 13:00 14:00 - 17:00

45 Portland Place, Marylebone London W1B 1AS

Monday - Friday 09:00 - 12:30 (Appointment Only) ‍

• Corporate Profile
• Board of Directors
• Service Charter & Quality Policy
• Press Release
• In The Media
• The Aviator
• Aircraft Movements
• Cargo and Mail Traffic
• Passenger Traffic
• Airworthiness
• Aviation Medicine
• Aviation Security
• Flight Operations
• Personnel Licensing
• Air Transport
• Aeronautical Information Management
• Air Traffic Services
• Engineering Services
• Corporate Communications
• Corporate Planning
• Human Resource
• Corporation Secretary
• Internal Audit and Review
• Procurement
• Kenya Mission to ICAO
• Consumer Protection
• Corporate Social Responsibility
• Contact Form
• Feedback Form
• Complaints Form
• Industrial Attachment

To plan, develop, manage, regulate and operate a safe, economically sustainable and efficient civil aviation system in Kenya, in accordance with the provisions of the Civil Aviation Act, 2013.

• Visa Free Regime in Kenya
• COVID-19 Travel Requirements
• Approved COVID-19 PCR Testing Labs
• Protocol for Air Travel Operations

Travel to Kenya

Kenya is a multi-ethnic, multi-racial, and multi-religion country. The official languages are English and Swahili. The population is approximately 54 million people.

• National Aviation Safety Plan
• Safety Performance Measurement (SPM)
• Certificate of registration
• Certificate of Airworthiness
• Approved Maintenance Organization
• Special Flight Permit
• Noise Certificate
• Air Operator Certificate
• Carriage of Dangerous goods
• Adhoc Permits
• Air Service Licensing
• Aircraft Lease Approvals
• Approval of Service Provider Operational Manuals
• Certification of Air Navigation Service Providers (ANSPs)
• Oversight of Air Navigation Service Providers and Meteorological Services for Air Navigation
• Aerial Masts and Other Structures Height Approvals
• Category E Aerodromes
• Certification of Aerodromes
• Licensing of Aerodromes
• In-Flight Catering Operators
• Aviation Security Training Centers
• Aviation Security Service Providers
• Certification of Aviation Security Personnel
• Aviation Security Programmes Review and Approval
• Aviation Security Legislation
• Reporting of Security Incidents
• Approval of Aviation Security Courses
• Remote Air Operator Certificate(ROC)
• Unmanned Aircraft Systems Training Organization (UTO)
• Unmanned Aircraft Systems Resellers/Distributors

Safety and Security Oversight

Regulation and oversight of Aviation Safety & Security.

• Student Pilot Licence
• Private Pilot Licence
• Commercial Pilot Licence
• Air Transport Pilot Licence
• Ground Instructor Licence
• Flight Operations Officer / Flight Dispatchers’ Licence
• Flight Radio Telephony Operator’s Licence
• Flight Engineers Licence
• Air Traffic Controllers Licences
• Ratings and Endorsements
• Cabin Crew Member Certificate (CMC)
• Conversion of Foreign Flight Crew Licences
• Foreign Licences Validation and Conversion
• Validation of Foreign Flight Crew Licences
• Aircraft Maintenance Engineers
• Authorized Flight Examiners
• Designated AMEL Examiners
• Approved Training Organization

Personnel Licencing

Examinations, Licencing, Training, Regulatory And Administration.

• Air Traffic Control Service
• Provision Of Air Traffic Surveillance Services
• Search and Rescue (SAR) Service
• AIC on UAV Operating Procedures-Zipline Operations
• Services and Payment of Services Provided by the Authority through the Government Digital Payment Platform- Ecitizen
• Issuance of Mode 'S' Transponder Codes for Aircraft

Air Navigation Services

Provision of Air Navigation Services

• Air Navigation Services and Aircraft Maintenance
• Aviation Safety and Security Management
• Aviation Business Services
• Instructional Techniques
• Hospitality Services

East African School of Aviation

ICAO Regional Training Center of Excellence

• Draft Regulations for Stakeholder Validation
• Draft Regulations for Stakeholder Consultation
• Civil Aviation Act
• Aviation Regulations
• Air Transport Forms
• Airworthiness Forms
• Air Navigation Services Forms
• Flight Operations Forms
• Meteorology Forms
• Personnel Licencing Forms
• Aerodromes Forms
• Aviation Security Forms
• General Forms
• Air Transport Advisory Circulars
• Airworthiness Advisory Circulars
• Air Navigation Services Advisory Circulars
• Flight Operations Advisory Circulars
• Meteorology Advisory Circulars
• Personnel Licencing Advisory Circulars
• Aviation Security Advisory Circulars
• Safety Management Systems Advisory Circulars
• General Advisory Circulars
• Aviation Publications
• Enforcements
• Special Authorizations
• ISO Procedures Flowcharts
• Air Transport Manuals
• Airworthiness Manuals
• Air Navigation Services Manuals
• Flight Operations Manuals
• Meteorology Manuals
• Personnel Licencing Manuals
• Aviation Security Manuals
• Safety Management Systems Manuals
• General Manuals

Legislation & Publications

• Advanced Air Transport Information System (AATIS)
• Mandatory Occurrence Reporting (MOR)
• ROMS/Drones
• Voluntary Reporting (VOR)
• ELT-Registration Forms
• ASSR Online
• KCAA eCitizen Portal

• Service Charter
• Awarded Tenders
• Tenders FAQ
• Regulated Agents and Catering Operators
• Remote Air Operator Certificate
• Unmanned Aircraft Systems Training Organizations (UTO)
• Unmanned Aircraft Systems Resellers/Distributor
• Student Pilot License
• Private Pilot License
• Commercial Pilot License
• Ground Instructor License
• Flight Operations Officer / Flight Dispatchers’ License
• Flight Radio Telephony Operator’s License
• Flight Engineers License
• Air Traffic Controllers Licenses
• Conversion of Foreign Flight Crew Licenses
• Foreign Licenses Validation and Conversion
• Validation of Foreign Flight Crew Licenses
• Authorized Flight Examiner
• Issuance of Mode 'S' Transponder Codes for Aircraft
• General Advisory Manuals
• RPAS/UAS Operations Management System (ROMS)

This article is free to read if you register or sign in.

Simply register at no cost.

Questions or problems? Email [email protected] or call 0711 046 000 .

REMOVED FROM THE RED LIST

Kenya lauds removal of restriction for travel by uk government, kenyan citizens are now allowed to travel into the country and uk citizens can travel to kenya..

• Radier said the UK remains one of the top key source of visitors into the country and described the removal of Kenya on the Red list as timely as countries continue to open up for business.

• With the removal of Kenya from the red list, travellers from or transiting through Kenya will be exempted from compulsory hotel quarantine, although they may be required to isolate for 10 days and take tests.

The tourism sector has pledged to continue upscaling measures that ensure that the destination remains safe for visitors.

This is following the recent move by the UK government to remove Kenya from its Red List that restricted travel of citizens of both countries.

Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) Chief executive, Betty Radier, while lauding the move,   said progressive initiatives aimed at ensuring the destination remains safe for travellers, will be enhanced.

“This is why in 2020, the government, through the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife, unveiled the Magical Kenya Tourism and Hospitality protocols which were reviewed in August of 2021 with the aim of ensuring that the industry continues to operate safely, and that visitors and citizens are protected against the Covid-19 pandemic,” Radier said.

Last week, the UK government announced the removal of Kenya from its Red List effective   September 22  at 4am in its latest review of Covid-19 travel restrictions.

This means that Kenyan citizens are now allowed to travel into the country and UK citizens can easily travel to Kenya.

The Red List restricts travellers from the listed countries from entering the UK, with the exception of British and Irish citizens and official UK residents.  

Those travellers returning from ‘red list’ countries must also provide a negative result on arrival within 72 hours.

They must also quarantine in government-provided facilities at a cost of Sh 345,117 (£2,285) per head – covering food, accommodation, transport, and testing.

Radier said the UK remains one of the top key source of visitors into the country and described the removal of Kenya on the Red list as timely as countries continue to open up for business.

Vaccination of Kenyan citizens and mostly in critical areas that interface with the public including the frontline workers in key sectors, is seen as a major step in increasing confidence on the safety of travellers.

KTB CEO notes that the measures have continued to be instrumental in instilling travellers’ confidence in the destination, with the assurance of a safe travel within the destination.

With the removal of Kenya from the red list, travellers from or transiting through Kenya will be exempted from compulsory hotel quarantine, although they may be required to isolate for 10 days and take tests.

Kenya is now categorised as Amber with the move expected to ease travel between Kenya and the United Kingdom and give the tourism industry a much-needed boost with the UK being one of Kenya’s Key tourist source market.

Between January to July this year, Kenya received 19,000 visitors from the UK market marking the largest number of tourists arriving from Europe.

KTB has kept the destination connected to travellers through various programs including campaigns targeted to the market, hyping the London 2020 Marathon and outdoor branding of buses as part of ensuring that Kenya stays top of mind.

Kenya removed from the UK’s red listed countries

Most popular, stay away from thwake dam, police warn residents, budgets cut enough, prudence must follow, return to work, lawmakers tell striking medics, ruto to address the nation on friday, news brief: biden elevates ruto in africa charm offensive, latest videos, mother's love: i was told to let my children to drown, but i saved ..., kiambu building starts to sink, tenants urged to vacate, sign up for the free star email newsletter and receive the latest kenya news daily..

Introducing Kenya

About kenya.

• Images of Kenya
• History, language & culture
• Weather & geography
• Doing business & staying in touch

Plan your trip

• Travel to Kenya
• Where to stay

While you’re there

• Things to see & do
• Shopping & nightlife
• Food & drink
• Getting around

Before you go

• Passport & visa
• Public Holidays
• Money & duty free

Book your flights

• Mombasa Moi International Airport
• Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta International Airport
• Bamburi Beach
• Diani Beach
• Mombasa beaches

Kenya travel guide

Lions and leopards are just part of the landscape in Kenya, one of East Africa's favourite safari destination. More than 40 national parks and nature reserves are scattered between Lake Victoria and the Indian Ocean, covering every imaginable landscape and featuring just about every animal in Africa: from aardvarks to zebras.

As you might expect, wildlife safaris are the lifeblood of Kenyan tourism, and the infrastructure for travellers is impressive. Jeeps, buses and light aircraft fan out daily across the country to safari lodges and tented camps, some simple and rustic, others lavish and opulent. Refreshingly, you can enjoy close encounters with nature even on a budget, with walking safaris run by tribal guides and economic-tented camps that scrimp on creature comforts, but not on creatures.

Most people start their journey in Nairobi, Kenya's capital city, but few linger when there are more attractive cities strung out along the sun-kissed Kenyan coast and dotted around the Great Rift Valley. Whether you pick the interior or the coast (with its beach resorts and Islamic ruins), you can be sure to find a national park or reserve close at hand. Even Nairobi has a national park within the city limits, with zebras and giraffes just a stone's throw from the suburbs.

Kenya is also a great place for cultural encounters, with more than 40 different tribal groups, each following its own unique way of life. The semi-nomadic Maasai tribe, with their multi-coloured, bead-covered adornments, is perhaps the most obvious group, but visiting any tribal village is a fascinating and enlightening experience.

On appearances, Kenya would seem like the perfect holiday destination, but tourism has had its ups and downs in recent years, with political upheaval during elections and a string of high-profile militant attacks in Nairobi and along the coast.

These setbacks have made a noticeable dent in Kenya's tourist industry, yet travellers still flock to the teeming plains of the Maasai Mara and trek the slopes of Mount Kenya, and the biggest decision for most is not whether to go to Kenya, but instead, which wild animal to search for first.

580,367 sq km (224,081 sq miles).

52,580,497 (2019).

79.2 per sq km.

President William Ruto since 2022.

Travel Advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Areas where FCDO advises against all but essential travel

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against FCDO advice.

Kenya-Somalia border

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to areas within 60km of Kenya’s border with Somalia.

Eastern Garissa County

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to eastern Garissa County, up to 20km north-west of the A3.

Mandera County

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Mandera County, excluding Mandera West subcounty.

Lamu County

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Lamu County, excluding Lamu Island and Manda Island.

Tana River County

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to areas of Tana River County north of the Tana River, up to 20km north-west of the A3.

Coast between the Tana River and Galana River

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to within 15km of the coast between the Tana River and the Galana (Athi-Galana-Sabaki) River.

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide and any specific travel advice that applies to you: 

• disabled people  
• LGBT+ people

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications for Kenya when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Kenya set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Kenya High Commission in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

You do not need a negative COVID-19 test or proof of vaccination to enter Kenya.

If you have flu-like symptoms when you arrive, you must take one or more COVID-19 tests at your own expense. If tests show you have COVID-19, you must isolate. For more information see COVID-19 travel requirements from the Kenyan Civil Aviation Authority .

Passport validity requirements

To enter Kenya, your passport must have:

• an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive
• at least 2 blank pages

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to. 

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

On 12 December 2023 the President of Kenya announced that Kenya would be visa-free from January 2024.

Visitors to Kenya are now required to apply online for an electronic travel authorisation in advance of travel. Some exemptions apply and can be found in full on the website of the Kenyan Civil Aviation Authority .

Travellers who currently hold a valid visa can continue to travel using their visa until its expiry.

Further information on immigration requirements can be found on the websites of the Kenyan High Commission in London , the  Kenyan Department of Immigration  and the Kenyan Civil Aviation Authority .

Vaccine requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Kenya guide .

Depending on your circumstances, these may include a yellow fever certificate.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Kenya . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

It is illegal to import or export drones without prior approval from the Kenyan Civil Aviation Authority ( KCAA ) . Contact the KCAA well in advance of travel if you wish to bring a drone to Kenya.

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain vigilant at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .

Terrorism in Kenya

Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Kenya.

Beware there is a heightened threat of terrorism across Kenya. Attacks could target Westerners, including British nationals. These could occur at any time including religious events, public holidays or celebrations. Attacks are indiscriminate and could occur in places frequented by foreigners, including tourists, such as, but not limited to:

• restaurants
• sporting events
• supermarkets
• shopping centres
• safari parks
• commercial and government buildings
• places of worship

You should be particularly vigilant in these areas and where possible avoid regular patterns of movement and travel during daylight hours. You should consider whether there are effective local security arrangements in place (for example, bag searches, physical security, guards).

The main terrorist threat is from extremists linked to Al Shabaab – an Al Qaeda affiliated militant group in Somalia. Al Shabaab has issued threats and carried out attacks against Kenya, in part, due to Kenyan military intervention in Somalia.

Recent significant attacks affecting British nationals include:

• in 2020 Al Shabaab conducted an attack on a military airstrip in Lamu County, killing 3 people
• in 2019 there was an attack at the hotel and commercial complex at 14 Riverside in Nairobi, resulting in injuries and loss of life

There is some evidence of growing support for Daesh (formerly ISIL) in Kenya. On 4 January 2024 Daesh published a statement calling for a new global campaign of terrorism including a specific focus on western and Jewish targets. This statement and the ongoing conflict in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories could increase the likelihood of terrorist attacks which affect British Nationals.

Travellers to Lamu Island and Manda Island should be particularly vigilant given the close proximity of these islands to the Lamu County mainland. You should only travel to the islands by air to Lamu airport (a civilian airport on Manda Island), and not by road. The only commercial option for air travel to or form Lamu Island and Manda Island is through Lamu airport.

There is a high threat of terrorist kidnapping across Kenya. You should be alert to the heightened threat of terrorist kidnapping targeting Westerners, including British nationals, who are viewed as legitimate targets. Westerners have been the target of kidnaps in northern counties bordering Somalia and coastal counties. Further kidnaps are very likely.  

The long-standing policy of the British government policy is not to make substantive concessions to hostage takers. The British government considers that paying ransoms and releasing prisoners builds the capability of terrorist groups and finances their activities. This can, in turn, increase the risk of further hostage-taking. The Terrorism Act (2000) makes payments to terrorists illegal.

Political situation

There have been deaths and injuries at anti-government political demonstrations in recent months. Avoid political gatherings and large crowds, and follow local media coverage.

There are frequent incidents of violent crime including mugging, armed robbery and carjacking, particularly in the large cities. In Nairobi, the risk of these crimes is higher in Eastleigh, Central Business District, Mathare, Kibera and slum areas, but this risk remains high across the city, in the surrounding areas and elsewhere in the country.

In Mombasa, the risk is higher in the Old Town and on and around the Likoni Ferry (which links Mombasa to the southern resorts).

Although uncommon, violent crimes have resulted in the deaths of British nationals, including during daylight hours.

Avoid walking alone in isolated areas, including in daylight. You might be directly targeted by criminals so be aware of your surroundings and make sure people know where you are and when you are due to return.

Crime rates are often higher around the Christmas and new year period so take particular precautions at this time of year.

Protecting your belongings

Bag snatching is common in bus stations, railway stations and airports. Be vigilant at all times and take into account any security advice given by your hotel, employer or your hosts. If you’re attacked, do not resist. Avoid carrying large sums of money or wearing expensive jewellery.

Be aware of thieves posing as police officers and private security guards. Always ask for identification.

Drink and food spiking

Do not accept food or drink from strangers as it may be drugged.

Attacks and sexual assault

Sexual assaults are rare, but do happen, and can affect both male and female travellers.

In an emergency, contact the emergency services on 999 or 112.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal id.

You must carry ID with you at all times. A copy of your passport is normally acceptable, but police officers may insist on seeing the original document.

The coastal areas of Kenya are mainly Muslim. There is no strict dress code. Out of courtesy you should dress conservatively away from tourist resorts and hotels – particularly in Mombasa, during Ramadan or if you visit religious areas or buildings.

Smoking and e-cigarette bans

It is illegal to smoke in any public place in Kenya, except in designated smoking areas. If you smoke in a prohibited place, you can face a fine of up to 50,000 Kenyan shillings or up to 6 months’ imprisonment.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

If you use or traffic illegal drugs in Kenya, you can get a heavy fine and prison sentence. The penalty for possession is up to 10 years in prison. Individuals found to be trafficking illegal drugs can face life imprisonment.

Using cameras in secure areas

It is illegal to take photographs of official buildings, including embassies, or at airports. You could be arrested if caught.

LGBT+ travellers

Same-sex activity is illegal and not tolerated in Kenya’s conservative society. Showing affection in public could lead to arrest and imprisonment.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers .

Wildlife, animal products and souvenirs

It is illegal to buy, sell, kill or capture any protected wild animal or trade any of its parts without a licence. Those caught purchasing or trafficking banned goods may face a fine or prison sentence. 

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism

Game reserves and national parks.

Most visits to game reserves and other tourist areas are trouble-free. If you’re visiting game reserves, use reputable tour operators and arrive at your destination in daylight hours. Do not purchase safari tours from touts. Always follow park regulations and wardens’ advice.

There are risks associated with viewing wildlife, particularly on foot or at close range. Swimming in rivers and lakes is illegal in national parks and is best avoided elsewhere due the dangers from wildlife and waterborne diseases.

Hiking and mountaineering

You may be required to hire a local guide when hiking in Kenya. Be conscious of the risk posed by wildlife and do not approach wild animals.

Altitude sickness is a risk when hiking in high-altitude areas, including on Mount Kenya.

Make sure your travel insurance covers all your planned activities.

Transport risks

Road travel.

If you are planning to drive in Kenya, see information on driving abroad .

You need either a 1968 international driving permit ( IDP ) or a UK driving licence to drive in Kenya. The 1949 IDP is not accepted any more. You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel.

You can use a UK photocard driving licence in Kenya for up to 3 months. If you still have a paper driving licence, you may need to update it to a photocard licence .

If you’re staying longer or living in Kenya, you’ll need to get a Kenyan driving licence.

Hire car companies often have stricter requirements for their customers, such as driving experience, age and holding an IDP . Only hire vehicles from reputable companies.

Road conditions and driving standards are often poor. Always drive with windows closed and doors locked. When driving outside of cities and in remote areas, consider driving in convoy. Avoid driving at night if possible.

There have been serious accidents involving long-distance buses and minibuses (‘matatus’). The accidents are often caused by poor maintenance and speeding. Often minibuses are uninsured. Check operators’ safety standards.

There are frequent minibus hijackings and robberies.

Driving fines

On-the-spot fines from traffic police are common but illegal. If a traffic police officer stops you, ask them to follow the legal process. The officer should issue you with a ‘receipt for cash bond’. This paperwork tells you when and where you need to attend court to answer the charge against you.

If you charter a private aircraft, check with the company about the condition of the aircraft and runways. If the company has no safety pilot, find another company that does.

Rail travel

Passenger trains run between Nairobi and Mombasa. Take care of your belongings while on the train and at railway stations. If you leave your compartment, take your valuables with you.

Piracy and armed robbery off the coast of Somalia, in the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean remain a significant threat.

For more information see piracy and armed robbery at sea .

Remote areas

Monitor local media and take care in all remote areas. The Kenya Tourism Federation Safety and Communication Center provides tourist advice and emergency help.

Extreme weather and natural disasters 

Earthquakes.

Kenya lies on an active fault and tremors occur from time to time. The last significant earthquake to affect the region was of magnitude 5.2 in 2007.

The US Federal Emergency Management Agency has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake .

Kenya is experiencing heavy rains which are causing widespread flooding. Avoid walking, swimming, or driving through floodwater, plan your journeys carefully and make sure to follow local guidance. Consider contacting your accommodation provider before you travel to check that access is possible.

This section has safety advice for regions of Kenya. It only covers regions where FCDO has specific advice.

You should also read FCDO ’s overall travel advice and safety and security advice .

There have been a number of terrorist attacks in Kenya in recent years. In particular, there are frequent attacks in the north-eastern border regions (Lamu, Garissa, Wajir and Mandera Counties), most of which were attributed to Al Shabaab. These have killed members of the Kenyan security forces as well as civilians. The Kenyan security forces have increased their presence in the affected areas. Armed militia groups operate within the Boni Forest and along the border with Somalia. Due to the terrorism risk, the FCDO advises against all but essential travel along the Kenya-Somalia border, and north-eastern coast.

Due to on-going terrorism activity, FCDO advises against all but essential travel to areas within 60km of Kenya’s border with Somalia.

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Eastern Garissa County, up to 20km north-west of the A3.

If you travel to Lamu Island or Manda Island, you should fly to Lamu Airport (a civilian airport on Manda Island). Do not travel by road.

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to Nairobi City

For travel between Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and Nairobi City, you should use the Mombasa Road or the Nairobi Expressway. There is a higher risk of carjacking on the old airport road (Airport South Road) and Jogoo Road.

The Mombasa Road can get very busy during rush hour, and check-in can take several hours. Allow plenty of time to get to the airport. A vehicle security check outside the airport may add to your journey time.

North and north-east Kenya

In early 2024 there have been increased reports of criminal activity linked to cattle rustling and banditry in the area from West Pokot (in the northern Rift Valley) east towards Isiolo county. Foreigners are not usually the target, but you should take great care when travelling in the area. The Government of Kenya have announced an enhanced security presence in the area.

Turkana, West Pokot, Elgeyo-Marakwet, Baringo, Laikipia and Samburu counties

The Kenyan government has imposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew in parts of Turkana, West Pokot, Elgeyo Marakwet, Baringo, Laikipia and Samburu counties. Follow local security measures and use caution.

Kenya-Ethiopia border

Landmines have been used in attacks around Moyale, close to the main A2 road south. Vehicles crossing the Kenya-Ethiopia border at this point should stay on the A2. Avoid staying at the rest house at Sololo – travel directly to Marsabit before breaking the journey.

Mount Elgon

There is a large security presence in Mount Elgon because of armed clashes. Further incidents are possible. Seek local advice before you set off.

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Dial 999 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccinations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip check:

• the latest information on vaccinations and health risks in TravelHealthPro’s Kenya guide
• where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Kenya. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro .

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro .

The NHS has information on whether you can take your medicine abroad .

Healthcare facilities in Kenya

FCDO has a list of English-speaking doctors in Kenya .

There is also guidance on healthcare if you’re living in Kenya .

COVID-19 healthcare in Kenya

The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority has information on COVID-19 testing facilities .

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health . There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro .

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Kenya

Telephone: 999 (ambulance, fire, police)

Kenya Tourism Federation Safety and Communications Center

The Kenya Tourism Federation Safety and Communication Center provides tourist advice and emergency help.

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans , including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding English-speaking lawyers and funeral directors in Kenya
• dealing with a death in Kenya
• being arrested or imprisoned in Kenya
• getting help if you’re a victim of crime
• getting help if you’ve been a victim of rape or sexual assault in Kenya
• what to do if you’re in hospital
• if you’re affected by a crisis , such as a terrorist attack

Contacting FCDO

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.

Help abroad in an emergency

If you’re in Kenya and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact British High Commission in Nairobi .

You can also contact FCDO online .

FCDO in London

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)

Find out about call charges .

Risk information for British companies

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.

Book a Hotel

© Columbus Travel Media Ltd. All rights reserved 2024

Update April 12, 2024

Information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Share this page:

Kenya Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 31, 2023, kenya - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in Kenya due to  crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping .  Some areas have increased risk.  Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do Not Travel to: Kenya-Somalia border counties and some coastal areas, due to terrorism and kidnapping .

Areas of Turkana County, due to crime .

Reconsider Travel to: Nairobi neighborhoods of Eastleigh and Kibera, due to crime and kidnapping .

Certain areas of Laikipia County, due to criminal incursions and security operations , reconsider travel through Nyahururu, Laikipia West, and Laikipia North Sub-counties.

Country Summary :  Violent crime, such as armed carjacking, mugging, home invasion, and kidnapping, can occur at any time.  Local police often lack the capability to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents and terrorist attacks.  Emergency medical and fire service is also limited. Be especially careful when traveling after dark anywhere in Kenya due to crime.

Terrorist attacks have occurred with little or no warning, targeting Kenyan and foreign government facilities, tourist locations, transportation hubs, hotels, resorts, markets/shopping malls, and places of worship. Terrorist acts have included armed assaults, suicide operations, bomb/grenade attacks, and kidnappings.

Demonstrations may occur, blocking key intersections and resulting in widespread traffic jams.  Strikes and other protest activity related to political and economic conditions occur regularly, particularly in periods near elections.  Violence associated with demonstrations, ranging from rock throwing to police using deadly force, occurs around the country; it is mostly notable in western Kenya and Nairobi.

Due to risks to civil aviation operating in the vicinity of the Kenyan-Somali border, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM).  For more information, U.S. citizens should consult  Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions, and Notice .

Some schools and other facilities acting as cultural rehabilitation centers are operating in Kenya with inadequate or nonexistent licensing and oversight.  Reports of minors and young adults being held in these facilities against their will and physically abused are common.

Read the  country information page  for additional information about travel to Kenya.

If you decide to travel to Kenya:

• Stay alert in locations frequented by Westerners.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Make contingency plans to leave the country. in case of an emergency Review the  Traveler’s Checklist ..
• Always carry a copy of your U.S. passport and visa (if applicable).  Keep original documents in a secure location.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Kenya.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.

Specified Areas - Level 4: Do Not Travel U.S. government personnel are prohibited from traveling to the below areas.

Kenya-Somalia Border Counties:

• Mandera due to kidnapping and terrorism.
• Wajir due to kidnapping and terrorism.
• Garissa due to kidnapping and terrorism.

Coastal Areas:

• Tana River county due to kidnapping and terrorism.
• Lamu county due to kidnapping and terrorism.
• Areas of Kilifi County north of Malindi due to kidnapping and terrorism.

Turkana County:

• Road from Kainuk to Lodwar due to crime and armed robbery, which occur frequently.

Specified Areas - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Nairobi neighborhoods of Eastleigh and Kibera:

• Violent crime, such as armed carjacking, mugging, home invasion, and kidnapping, can occur at any time.  Street crime can involve multiple armed assailants.  Local police often lack the resources and training to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents.

Laikipia County:

• Certain areas of Laikipia County, due to criminal incursions and security operations, reconsider travel through Nyahururu, Laikipia West, and Laikipia North Sub-counties.

Consider carefully whether to use the Likoni ferry in Mombasa due to safety concerns.

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas.

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, search for travel advisories, external link.

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

UK Issues Travel Advisory on Kenya; Here's Why

T he United Kingdom (UK) through the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has issued an advisory to British nationals residing in Kenya providing advice on the risks of travel.

The advisory, FCDO noted in a statement on May 1, 2024, is aimed at helping British nationals make informed decisions in the midst of the ongoing heavy rains and recent incidents of terror attacks witnessed in different parts of the country.

The office listed areas where British Nationals are to avoid travelling to within Kenya, further warning that their travel insurance could be invalidated if they go against FCDO advice.

Among the areas listed include the Kenya-Somalia border where the office advised against all but essential travel to areas within 60km of the border due to on-going terrorism activity.

“In Eastern Garissa County, FCDO advises against all but essential travel to eastern Garissa County, up to 20km north-west of the A3 while in Mandera County, the office advises against all but essential travel to the County, excluding Mandera West subcounty,” reads the statement in part.

At the same time, travel to Lamu County was advised against excluding Lamu Island and Manda Island.

UK Travel Advisory

UK Nationals were asked to fly to Lamu Airport (a civilian airport on Manda Island) if travelling to Lamu Island or Manda Island and avoid travelling by road.

Also Read:   US Embassy Issues Security Alert in Nairobi Residential Areas

In Tana River County, UK advised against all but essential travel to areas of the County north of the Tana River, up to 20km north-west of the A3.

“Coast between the Tana River and Galana River, FCDO advises against all but essential travel to within 15km of the coast between the Tana River and the Galana (Athi-Galana-Sabaki) River,” reads part of the advisory.

Travel between the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to Nairobi City was also highlighted with the UK advising on the use the Mombasa Road or the Nairobi Expressway.

According to FCDO, there is a higher risk of carjacking on the old airport road (Airport South Road) and Jogoo Road, which its nationals should avoid.

Also Read:   Australia Issues Travel Advisory on Kenya Over Terrorists Attacking Foreigners

At the same time the office noted that Mombasa Road can get very busy during rush hour, and check-in at the airport can take several hours.

“Allow plenty of time to get to the airport. A vehicle security check outside the airport may add to your journey time,” adds FCDO.

For areas located in North and North-east Kenya, the office warned that there have been increased reports of criminal activity linked to cattle rustling and banditry in the region from West Pokot (in the northern Rift Valley) east towards Isiolo county.

According to the UK, foreigners are not usually the bandit targets, but instead advised its nationals to take great care when travelling in the region.

Other regions highlighted

Other areas listed include Turkana, West Pokot, Elgeyo-Marakwet, Baringo, Laikipia and Samburu counties where FCDO advised UK nationals to follow local security measures and use caution.

While addressing recent cases of landmine explosions around Moyale, the office advised vehicles crossing the Kenya-Ethiopia border to stay on the A2 Road.

“Avoid staying at the rest house at Sololo – travel directly to Marsabit before breaking the journey,” the advisory adds.

The FCDO constantly reviews its travel advice for each country or territory to ensure it includes up-to-date information and advice on the most relevant issues for British people visiting or living there.

It covers a range of topics, including entry requirements, safety and security issues, health risks, details about local laws and information on the threat from terrorism.

The UK updates travel advice as quickly as possible if it is aware of an incident that might significantly affect British people travelling or living in a certain area.

Do you want to be part of an updated community without the interruptions of unwanted messages? Click the link below and join our WhatsApp Channel!

https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaB3k54HltYFiQ1f2i2C

Travelling in Kenya - Entry Requirements, Packages, and Travel Guide

Kenya is the ultimate safari paradise and the business capital of Africa. After a long halt due to COVID-19 lockdowns, our country has now fully resumed tourism and business travel. But how do you plan a safe and successful business or safari trip to Kenya in 2024/2023? Is Kenya safe for UK citizens?

Luckily, our experts have prepared the ultimate Kenya travel guide for 2024/2023. We will share the new Kenya entry requirements, safety guidelines you need to keep in mind when visiting Kenya , the vaccines you should take for Kenya, and travel advice on how to stay safe when touring Kenya.

We also answer the most common questions UK tourists ask while travelling to Kenya. But before then, let us share our contact details and our most booked Kenya travel packages from the UK.

Contact Us to Start Planning Your Trip to Kenya from the UK

At KenyaLuxurySafari.co.uk, we make travelling to Kenya from the UK a fun and enjoyable experience.

We help our guests apply for Kenyan visas, book hotels, book flights, set up a personal SIM card, plan a detailed itinerary for their safari holiday , and do everything else they need for a successful safari in Kenya including game drives.

We invite you to contact us by phone or WhatsApp at +254704532105. You can also reach us via email at [email protected] or [email protected].

We are the local experts of safari tours in Kenya from the UK. Our promise is to show you our country better than anyone else.

Explore Our Most Booked Kenya Travel Packages - Safari and Beach Holidays

Travelling in kenya in 2023/2024 - safety risks.

There are several types of safety risks that tourists may face in Kenya. Health hazards remain the primary concern followed by petty crimes like theft, mugging, scams and financial fraud. 

There are some rare instances of violent crimes like robbery, kidnapping, carjacking, and home invasions. Tourists should usually avoid crowded places and travel with a reputed tour agency. Here are some of the biggest safety risks while travelling to Kenya from the UK.

Is Kenya Safe - Crime & Fraud

There are criminal threats in Kenya, particularly in urban centres such as Nairobi and Mombasa. Travellers should be vigilant at all times, avoid travelling to remote areas, and avoid walking alone after dark. Travelling by car is generally safer than on foot, and those who do plan to travel in more remote areas of Kenya are advised to arrange for a security escort. 

If you are travelling alone, you should be aware of local scams that can occur in urban areas of Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Malindi, and Lamu counties. There have been reports of petty crimes like bag snatching, mugging, and carjacking. 

Those who are victims of violent crimes like robbery are also advised to report the incident to the local police and seek immediate medical treatment. In addition, travellers should be wary of scams and frauds that may target them specifically in Kenya, including fake police officers or government officials who may try to extort money from unsuspecting foreigners. 

Avoid risk areas like northeastern Kenya and border areas. Ideally:

• Consult with local travel agents on strong personal security measures. You can reach us via +254704532105. You can also reach us via email at [email protected] or [email protected].
• Travel in groups whenever possible. 
• Keep the phone number of the UK embassy and local police stations. 
• Read safety guidelines published by different embassies and consulates. As well as the travel advice we have shared on this page.
• Lock car-doors properly at all times.
• Avoid conversations with strangers.
• Avoid travelling in Kenya at night. 
• Avoid crowded public places as much as possible.
• Travel with a reputed tour agency, ask for proof of licence from Kenyan Tourism Regulatory Authority.
• Carry your Passport, Alien ID, and Insurance documents, along with you at all times. 
• Do not resist if you face any violent crime.
• Seek advice from local tour agents in times of crisis.
• Contact the nearest police station or tourism development office if you face any crime.

Overall, by following these simple tips and taking measures to remain vigilant, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to Kenya.

Travel to Kenya Advice - Health Precautions

Health risks in Kenya are quite common. There is an increased risk of contagious diseases like tuberculosis, cholera, dengue, yellow fever, meningococcal meningitis, and malaria. Ideally, monitor local media for reports of a severe disease outbreak in different parts of Kenya. Maintain personal hygiene like hand sanitization, and use reusable masks, even during safaris and game drives.

If you are planning to trek Mount Kenya on your next safari trip, make sure to check for symptoms of acute mountain sickness. 

You should also take extra precautions inside safari lodges to avoid mosquito bites. Travellers from the UK to Kenya are advised to avoid public transportation.

If you have no other option, wear a mask at all times inside public transport to avoid airborne diseases through respiratory droplets.

Due to the prevalence of HIV, you should check for contaminated needles and infected blood while visiting a hospital in Kenya.

If you contract a severe disease, get admitted to the nearest hospital, contact any of the nearest western embassies, and try to shift to Nairobi. Kenya is well connected by major highways and airways. Make sure your travel insurance covers the costs of basic medical care. Email, call or whatsapp us at +254704532105 with any questions on visiting Kenya and we shall be happy to assist.

There are both private and public medical facilities in Kenya, but advanced medical treatment care is mostly located in urban centres. Food poisoning is  also common in Kenya.

To avoid health risks due to contamination, you should consult with your tour agent on the quality of food and availability of bottled drinking water while visiting Kenya.

Also, tell your guide and tour operator of any underlying medical conditions you may have. If you have any underlying medical conditions that require you to take medicine, park enough and a buffer stock of about 20 days.

Contaminated food and poor sanitation can lead to parasitic infection. Take extra caution if you are travelling with younger children.

Is Kenya Safari for UK Citizen - Terrorism and How to Stay Safe

There are some incidents of terrorism in Kenya due to religious extremism. The terrorist group al-Shabaab is known for cross-border terrorism. However, terrorist incidents are limited to certain border regions in Northern Kenya and some Coastal areas near the Indian Ocean. The Masai Mara safari region is well protected and free from terrorist activities. 

Travellers are advised to remain vigilant at all times. You should carefully consider your destination and travel routes, avoid risk areas known for terrorist activities, such as coastal areas and border regions with Somalia, Ethiopia and South Sudan, and heed official warnings from local authorities. Strictly avoid the Kenya-Somalia border regions for tourism purposes. The border areas of South Sudan, Somalia, and Ethiopia are most prone to further attacks. 

In the event of a terrorist attack or security incident, travellers should leave the area immediately if it is safe to do so, avoid any affected areas in the aftermath of an attack, and follow instructions from local authorities. Additionally, tourists are advised to keep abreast of current security developments by monitoring local media outlets and staying in touch with friends and family back home.

Crowded places like supermarkets, government buildings, international schools, public transportation, sporting events, and public gatherings are more prone to terrorist attacks in Kenya. UK citizens are advised to remain vigilant, even in tourist destinations like beaches, cafes, hotels, nightclubs, and bars.

Travel to Kenya from UK Advice - Political Unrest

When travelling to Kenya, it is important to be aware of political unrest and civil violence. Even though political tension and civil unrest don’t directly affect UK tourists, westerners can get caught in the middle.

Political protests and large gatherings can turn violent, so it is important to avoid these areas entirely. You should also be wary of any riots or clashes that may take place in urban areas such as Mombasa, Nairobi, Kisumu, or Malindi. Avoid rural areas with a high concentration of refugee camps.

Kenya-UK Travel Tips - Natural Calamities

Natural disasters can occur anywhere, and Kenya is no exception. Being located at the Eastern coast of Africa, Kenya is prone to storms and heavy rainfall.

If you are visiting Kenya during the rainy seasons (mid-March to May and November-December), track the local weather reports before travelling. There are some rare instances of landslides in mountainous regions.

Travel Tips Kenya - Immigration and Local Laws

International tourists are required to declare all currency holdings (including gold jewellery) above $10,000 upon arrival. It is illegal for travellers to carry firearms, ivory, exotic wildlife, or original antiquities.

The government has strict laws against the exploitation of its natural heritage. Be respectful of local culture and traditions while visiting Maasai villages, or UNESCO world heritage sites in Kenya. Kenya has strict laws against public smoking. You can only smoke in Designated Smoking Areas in Kenya.

How to Select Insurance while Travelling to Kenya

Insurance is a good way to mitigate health risks while travelling in Kenya. Make sure your insurance covers overseas medical costs for serious diseases like meningococcal disease, hepatitis b, dengue, or any underlying health conditions.

You can also get coverage for COVID-19-related expenses like hospitalisation and quarantine. If you are travelling in Kenya during Masika or heavy rains, you may insure against booking cancellations, missing flights, or cancellations due to bad weather.

How to Keep your Money Safe in Kenya?

While travelling in Kenya, it is important to take measures to keep your money safe. You can exchange your UK sterling for Kenya Shilling at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.

You will also find a number of foreign exchanges. Additionally, you can exchange your money at select branches of big banks in Kenya. You can avoid cash by using ATM cards. However, make sure to check with your bank if your card would work in Kenya.

Incidents of ATM card fraud and card skimming are increasing in Kenya. Try using ATMs at large shopping centres or banks, as these are generally more secure than standalone machines. Additionally, travellers should always be cautious when paying with credit cards or using ATMs and should check for unusual parts on the machine before using it. Keep a close eye on your card while paying.

Do I need a Covid test to enter Kenya?

All passengers travellers to Kenya above the age of 12 will require one of the following-

• A vaccination certificate. All doses (full doses of WHO-approved vaccines only) must be completed at least 14 days prior to departure. 
• A negative PCR test result was done within 72 hours prior to departure. 
• A Rapid Antigen Test on arrival at the passenger’s own cost. 

Although a COVID test is not required for vaccinated travellers, if you have flu-like symptoms, you must also fill out the online health surveillance form , and undergo testing at your own expense.

If you are found covid positive, you will be quarantined for at least 14 days as per guidelines issued by Kenya Health Ministry.

You also need to upload the certificates to PanBios or Global Haven website , which will generate a QR code for easier validation at immigration. The COVID-19 restrictions apply even if you board domestic flights within Kenya. 

If you are travelling to Kenya from the UK, it is important to be aware that the country will accept proof of COVID-19 recovery and vaccination records from the UK, as well as proof of COVID-19 vaccination issued in the Crown Dependencies. However, it is important to note that your NHS appointment card cannot be used as a vaccination certificate in Kenya.

Do I have to be vaccinated to fly to Kenya?

No, it is not mandatory to be vaccinated to fly to Kenya. However, you will need a negative PCR test result for COVID-19 to get into Kenya, unvaccinated. The Kenyan government further recommends vaccination for Hepatitis B, Rabies, Cholera, and Typhoid, but these are not mandatory. 

There is a high risk of yellow fever in Kenya. You may need to get vaccinated for yellow fever and have copies of the yellow fever vaccination certificate, if you are planning to visit high-risk areas like Garissa, Isiolo, Lamu county, Mombasa, Kilifi, Kwale, and Malindi.

 Also, if you are travelling from a country with high risks of yellow fever, you need to be vaccinated at least 14 days prior to arrival. The certificate of vaccination against yellow fever (ICVP) is valid for a lifetime.

Is Kenya open for tourism?

Kenya officially reopened its tourism after the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2021. The government has slowly relaxed several travel restrictions. To know the current status of restrictions, you can visit the official website of the Ministry of Health, Kenya .

Are there any travel restrictions for Kenya during the COVID-19 pandemic?

Kenya introduced multiple restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic, including lockdown of its cities, tourist spots, and all forms of long-distance transportation.

However, as the number of reported cases dropped, most restrictions were lifted. Tourists in Kenya are currently not required to wear masks, but COVID-19 regulations can change. For more updated information of COVID-19 travel restrictions for Kenya, you may visit the official website of the Ministry of Health, Kenya.

Can Kenyan citizens travel to the UK?

Kenyan citizens require a valid visa for travelling to the UK. You can avail of a visa for tourism education, medical care, business, or work purposes. The standard UK visa allows individuals to stay in the UK for up to 180 days. The actual number of days you are granted will depend on your travel purpose and itinerary.

Do I need a PCR test to enter the UK?

The UK removed all COVID-19 restrictions in March 2022. Travellers are no longer needed to show vaccination certificates or go through a PCR  test to enter the UK.

Is it currently safe to travel to Kenya?

Kenya is one of the safest countries in East Africa. Kenya is a democracy that believes in the rule of law. The country has a well-developed tourism infrastructure to take care of international travellers.

It has an excellent network of highways, tourist help centres, police stations, and modern hospitals. If you need specialised medical attention, you can easily find a good healthcare professional in Nairobi or Mombasa.

What do I need to know when travelling to Kenya?

While visiting Kenya, it is important to be aware of new rules, regulations, Kenya entry requirements to avoid any misadventure.

• Kenya has banned single-use plastic. 
• COVID-19 vaccination is required to enter Kenya. Unvaccinated tourists will need to go through a PCR test at their own expense.
• You are required to carry a Yellow Fever Vaccination certificate by law. 
• Recommended Kenya-specific vaccines: Typhoid, meningitis, and polio vaccination. 
• Take precautions against mosquito-borne diseases like malaria, and dengue. Take anti-malaria pills. 
• Carry portable charging devices for your safari trips. 
• Bring your raincoats and umbrellas, if you are planning to visit Kenya during the rainy season (March-May, and Nov-Dec). 
• The currency of Kenya is Shilling. You can find multiple banks and foreign currency exchanges in Nairobi and Mombasa. You can also exchange currency at prominent hotels at a premium rate. 
• The new Generation Bank Notes were introduced in 2019 by the Kenya Central Bank. Old 1000 Shilling Notes are not accepted. 
• Pay heed to travel advice from the UK embassy, and the Ministry of Health, Kenya.

Do you need a PCR test to leave Kenya?

Pre-departure PCR or RTD tests will depend on the individual’s travel plan, And the health guidelines of the transit and destination country. In some cases, a PCR test may be required by certain airlines departing from Kenya.

Is a PCR test required to travel to the UK?

The UK government removed all COVID-related restrictions on international tourists in March 2022. This includes both travellers to the UK and passengers in transit.

Under the new guidelines, you do not need to take any COVID-19 TEST before you travel or after you arrive in the UK. This is applicable even if you are not vaccinated. However, if you travel to the UK through a third country, check the COVID-19 transit restrictions for the third country.

How much is a visa from Kenya to the UK?

Currently, the United Kingdom allows a max stay of 180 days for its standard visitor visa.

Flexible processing speeds and diverse pricing plans. You are able to choose from three processing speeds for your standard visitor visa application:

• Standard: 30 days
• Rush: 4 days
• Super Rush: 2 days

Pricing options for the visa application are based on the processing speeds they correspond to:

• Standard: GBP 150
• Rush: GBP 155
• Super Rush: GBP  165

The standard visitor visa is offered in both long-term and short-term options.

Is Kenya visa-free to the UK?

No, Kenya entry visas are not free to the UK. UK citizens above the age of 16 years are required to submit their Kenya entry visas electronically. The standard Single Entry Visa costs around 42 GBP, while a Transit Visa costs around 17 GBP. 

You can also avail of a multiple entry visa for 83 GBP. You can pay the visa fees using card payments, online banking, or mobile wallets. Courtesy visas, issued to diplomats and government officials, are free.

Can UK citizens live in Kenya?

UK citizens cannot live in Kenya beyond their visa timeframe. If you overstay in Kenya, you can be declared as an “undesirable immigrant,” and be forcefully deported back to the UK. It will also adversely affect your future travel to Kenya from the UK. 

If you plan to visit Kenya frequently for business, medical, tourism or other reasons, you can avail of the multiple entry visa, which is valid for up to 12 months. US citizens can apply for a 5-year multiple-entry visa.

If you have a work permit, you can legally stay and work in Kenya. The visa application process is digital, and all visas to Kenya are issued electronically. You can apply for citizenship You may contact the Kenyan Immigration Department or the Kenyan Embassy in London for more details.

Does Kenya require a PCR test?

You will need a negative PCR test result (the test should be done within 72 hours from departure) to enter Kenya without vaccination. If you do not have a PCR test result, you must go through a Rapid Antigen Test on arrival, at your own expense. Additionally, if you have flu symptoms, you need to get the Rapid Antigen Test done on your, irrespective of your vaccination status.

Can I drive in Kenya with a UK licence?

As road conditions and driving standards can be poor in Kenya, it is important to exercise caution when travelling by car. Travellers are advised to drive with windows closed and doors locked, avoid driving at night whenever possible, and consider driving in convoys when travelling outside cities or in remote areas. In addition, UK citizens should be wary of poorly maintained and uninsured matatus, or minibuses, that are common in the country. 

Another potential risk while driving in Kenya is being stopped by traffic police, as on-the-spot fines are not legal. If you do encounter a police officer during your travels, you should ask for due process to be followed and request a ‘receipt for cash bond’, a document that will inform you of when and where to attend court in order to answer the charge against you.

What are the new requirements to enter the UK?

The UK removed all COVID-19-related restrictions for international travellers entering the UK. You are no longer required to undergo a PCR test, carry vaccination certificates, or register with the locator app. You can enter the UK with a valid visa.

You are also required to declare all goods that you plan to sell, or cash holdings above €10,000 if you are coming from outside the EU. You cannot carry any of these banned or restricted goods into the UK.

You may also be subject to customs checks upon arrival, so it is important to familiarise yourself with these regulations prior to travel. Overall, if you are planning a trip to the UK, it is essential to do your research in order to ensure smooth and hassle-free immigration.

Do I need a PCR test to leave Kenya?

Pre-departure COVID testing depends on the discretion of the airlines you choose to travel in. Whether you need a PCR or RTD test depends on the COVID related guidelines of the destination and transit countries. However, if you have visible symptoms of COVID-19, you may have to go through testing before boarding a flight to leave Kenya.

Do we need a PCR test to enter the UK?

No, you do not need a PCR or any COVID testing to enter the UK. You also do not need to go through any COVID testing on arrival. It applies to all passengers, vaccinated or not. You are also not required to quarantine after your arrival in the UK.

What is a good tip in Kenya?

There is no set amount that is considered a “good tip” in Kenya, as the amount you should tip will depend on various factors such as the quality of service, the type of establishment, and your budget. Generally speaking, we recommend tipping a tip of 10-15% for good services at restaurants, bars, spas, hotels, and safari tours . 

If you are unsure about how much to leave, it is best to ask for guidance from management at the establishment or simply start with a smaller tip and see how it is received before increasing the amount. Overall, it is important to keep in mind that giving a good tip in Kenya is always appreciated by those who work hard to provide great service throughout your visit!

What should I know before travelling to Nairobi?

Nairobi is the capital of Kenya and a major transportation hub, linking all major domestic and international destinations. Two Trans-African Highways pass through Nairobi; the Cairo-Cape Town highway, and the Lagos-Mombasa highway.

Other transport hubs like Mombasa and Kisii are well connected with East Africa. The country is well connected through a network of paved roads, and numerous private bus operators. Some areas in Nairobi like Eastleigh, Kibera and Pangani, have high crime rates, so it’s better to avoid these areas.

Yes, Kenyan citizens can travel to the UK with a valid visa. A visa allows you to enter and stay in the country for a specific purpose and period of time. The UK offers several different types of visas to Kenyans, including short-term and long-term options. The most common one is the standard visitor visa, which you can use to stay in the UK for up to 180 days.

You can apply for a UK visa up to 3 months prior to departure. It may take up to 30 days for processing the UK visa for Kenyan citizens. If you are in a hurry, the UK offers Rush (4 days) and Super Rush (2 days) Processing to Kenyans for an additional fee. You can apply for a Work Permit in the UK if you have a job offer from a company located inside the UK, or specific skills that are in demand in the UK.

Kenya does not require a PCR test if you are vaccinated for COVID-19. You need to complete full doses of WHO-approved vaccines to get into Kenya without a PCR test. However, if you have flu-like symptoms, you may be required to go through a PCR test at your expense on arrival.

Do you need to be vaccinated to fly to Kenya?

All tourists (arrival and transit) are required to upload either their COVID vaccination certificate or a negative PCR test (done within 72 hours of departure) on PanBios or the Global Haven website (you will get a QR code). Additionally, tourists also need a yellow fever vaccination while travelling to Kenya from the UK.

Travellers in transit are not required to be vaccinated. UK citizens are further advised to get vaccinated for Hepatitis  B, Rabies, Cholera, and Typhoid before travelling to Kenya, though these are not mandatory.

Is it safe to travel to Kenya right now?

While Kenya is one of the safest countries to travel in Africa, you should be aware of several health and security risks, before planning to travel to Kenya from the UK.

You must also be aware of the local laws and customs of Kenya before travelling. If you are travelling alone, take note of country-specific information to avoid risk-prone areas, natural disasters, or political unrest. Having a knowledgeable guide with you at all times is highly recommended.

• +254719222430
• [email protected]
• [email protected]

• Visa types Tourist Visa Transit Visa Multi - Single Entry
• Status of my visa
• Choose a visa Angola Antigua and Barbuda Armenia Australia Azerbaijan Bahrain Benin Brazil Cambodia Canada Colombia Cuba Djibouti Dominican Republic Egypt Ethiopia Europe Georgia Guinea India Ivory Coast Kenya Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Laos Madagascar Mexico Montserrat Myanmar Nepal New Zealand Oman Papua New Guinea Puerto Rico Russia Rwanda Saudi Arabia Singapore Sri Lanka Tanzania Thailand Turkey Uganda United Arab Emirates United States Vietnam Zambia Zimbabwe

How to get a visa for Kenya from UK: Steps and requirements

• 1. Is it necessary to get a visa for Kenya from UK?
• 2. Requirements to apply for the visa for Kenya from UK 
• 3. The cost of a Kenya visa for UK citizens
• 4. Do UK citizens need any vaccines to travel to Kenya?
• 5. Where is Kenya’s embassy in the UK?
• 6. Where is the UK’s embassy in Kenya?
• 7. What is the time difference between the UK and Kenya?
• 8. What is the currency of Kenya and the exchange rate to Pounds sterling?
• 9. Are there direct flights from the UK to Kenya?

Are you traveling to Kenya? Great choice! There are so many things to do in Kenya , which will let you experience many different cultures and the African savannah in its truest form.

However, you will need to apply for a visa for Kenya from UK. You can learn everything about the process in this thorough guide.

Is it necessary to get a visa for Kenya from UK?

Yes , it’s mandatory to have a valid visa for Kenya from UK to be granted entry into the country. Thankfully, the Kenyan government installed an entirely online application system that greatly reduced waiting and processing times for applicants.

Requirements to apply for the visa for Kenya from UK 

The Kenya travel requirements state that all travelers from the UK need to be holders of an approved Kenya eVisa to be able to cross the border. But that’s not all: they also must have a passport with 6 months of validity remaining at the moment of traveling, which must also have at least two blank pages.

You can apply for your visa for Kenya from the UK easily at Visagov . It only takes a few minutes! Just click on “Choose a visa” and select Kenya to begin the application process. 

You will have to complete an online form with personal and travel information, pay the visa fees with a bank card and await your approved Kenya visa for UK citizens, which will arrive on your email. 

The cost of a Kenya visa for UK citizens

The last step to apply for a visa for Kenya from UK is to pay the attached fees. However, depending on which visa type you select, the fees will be different :

• The single entry visa costs 55 EUR
• The East Africa visa costs 109 EUR
• The transit visa costs 22 EUR

Make sure to have your bank card on hand when completing the application!

Do UK citizens need any vaccines to travel to Kenya?

Even though it’s not mandatory, a trip to Kenya exposes travelers to a risk of yellow fever transmission. To avoid getting sick, it’s recommended to get the vaccine against yellow fever and to travel with the certificate . 

Where is Kenya’s embassy in the UK?

The Kenya High Commission is located in London, UK.

Address : 45 Portland Pl, London W1B 1AS, United Kingdom

Telephone number : 020 7636 2371

Email : [email protected]  

Website : https://www.kenyahighcom.org.uk/  

Where is the UK’s embassy in Kenya?

The British High Commission is located in Nairobi, Kenya.

Address : Upper Hill Road, P.O. Box 30465-00100, Nairobi, Kenya

Telephone number : +254 (0) 20 287 3000 / +254 (0) 20 2844 000 / +44 20 7008 5000

Email : [email protected]  

Website : https://www.gov.uk/world/organisations/british-high-commission-nairobi  

What is the time difference between the UK and Kenya?

The UK’s time zones are Greenwich Mean Time (UTC+0) and, during the summer, British Summer Time (UTC+1). Kenya’s time zone is East Africa Time (UTC+3). 

This means that the time difference between these two countries is:

• 3 hours during the regular time zone of the UK 
• 2 hours when Daylight Savings Time is in effect

What is the currency of Kenya and the exchange rate to Pounds sterling?

The Kenyan currency is the Kenyan Shilling (KES) . The current exchange rate between the Kenyan Shilling and Pounds sterling (GBP) is:

• 1 GBP = 191,59 KES
• 1 KES = 0,0052 GBP

Are there direct flights from the UK to Kenya?

Yes , but the only direct flights depart from London and arrive in Nairobi. There are other options from different parts of the UK flying to other cities in Kenya , but all involve at least one stop.

Pilar Dujan

You are using an outdated browser. Upgrade your browser today or install Google Chrome Frame to better experience this site.

Kenya Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Kenya. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 2 Practice Enhanced Precautions

• Updated   Global Polio April 26, 2024 Some international destinations have circulating poliovirus. Before any international travel, make sure you are up to date on your polio vaccines. Destination List: Afghanistan, Algeria, Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Guinea, Indonesia, Kenya, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Republic of the Congo, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan, Tanzania, including Zanzibar, Yemen, Zambia, Zimbabwe

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Areas of active cholera transmission are  localized  to to the counties of Busia (last case reported 6-9 months ago), Garissa (last case reported 3-6 months ago), Homa Bay (last case reported 6-9 months ago), Isiolo (last case reported 6-9 months ago), Kajiado (last case reported 6-9 months ago), Kiambu (last case reported 6-9 months ago), Kirinyaga (last case reported 9-12 months ago), Kisumu (last case reported 9-12 months ago), Kwale (last case reported 6-9 months ago), Lamu (last case reported in the past 3 months), Machakos (last case reported 9-12 months ago), Mandera (last case reported 6-9 months ago), Marsabit (last case reported 6-9 months ago), Meru (last case reported 6-9 months ago), Migori (last case reported 6-9 months ago), Mombasa (last case reported 6-9 months ago), Murang’a (last case reported 9-12 months ago), Nairobi (last case reported 6-9 months ago), Nakuru (last case reported 9-12 months ago), Samburu (last case reported 9-12 months ago), Siaya (last case reported 6-9 months ago), Tana River (last case reported in the past 3 months), and Wajir (last case reported 6-9 months ago) in Kenya. Cholera is rare in travelers.  Certain factors  may increase the risk of getting cholera or having severe disease ( more information ). Avoiding unsafe food and water and washing your hands can also help prevent cholera.

Vaccination may be considered for children and adults who are traveling to areas of active cholera transmission.

Cholera - CDC Yellow Book

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Kenya.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Kenya. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Kenya.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of Kenya take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for Kenya.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Meningitis (Meningococcal disease)

Recommended for travelers 2 months old or older traveling to  areas of Kenya  that are part of the meningitis belt during the dry season.

Meningococcal disease - CDC Yellow Book

Meningitis Belt Map

In Kenya poliovirus has been identified in the past year.

Travelers to Kenya are at increased risk of exposure to poliovirus.

Vaccine recommendations : Adults traveling to Kenya who received a complete polio vaccination series as children may receive a single lifetime booster dose of inactivated polio vaccine; travelers who are unvaccinated or not fully vaccinated should receive a complete polio vaccination series before travel. Children who are not fully vaccinated will be considered for an  accelerated vaccination schedule .

Polio - CDC Yellow Book

Polio: For Travelers

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Kenya. If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Kenya, there may be limited or no rabies treatment available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

• Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
• Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
• Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Kenya. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥1 year old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

Recommended for all travelers ≥9 months old except as follows. Generally not recommended for travel limited to: the city of Nairobi (the capital); the counties of the former North Eastern Province (Mandera, Wajir, and Garissa); or the counties (except Taita-Taveta) of the former Coast Province (Kilifi, including the city of Malindi; Kwale; Lamu; Mombasa, including the city of Mombasa; Tana River) .

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

• Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Schistosomiasis

• Wading, swimming, bathing, or washing in contaminated freshwater streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, or untreated pools.

Avoid bug bites

African tick-bite fever.

• Avoid Bug Bites

African Tick-bite fever

Chikungunya

• Mosquito bite

Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic fever

• Tick bite 
• Touching the body fluids of a person or animal infected with CCHF
• Mosquito bite

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite
• Avoid animals

Marburg Hemorrhagic Fever

• Touching infected animals (including bats and primates) or their body fluids
• Touching body fluids (blood or sweat) from an infected person
• Touching objects contaminated with the body fluids of a person infected with Ebola or Marburg virus
• Avoid sick people
• Avoid animals and areas where they live

Marburg virus

Rift Valley Fever

• Touching blood, body fluids, or tissue of infected livestock

Rift Valley fever

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Kenya, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Kenya. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Kenya include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Kenya. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Kenya’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in Kenya. Fill your malaria prescription before you leave and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Kenya may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Kenya, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

For information traffic safety and road conditions in Kenya, see Travel and Transportation on US Department of State's country-specific information for Kenya .

Traffic flows on the left side of the road in Kenya.

• Always pay close attention to the flow of traffic, especially when crossing the street.
• LOOK RIGHT for approaching traffic.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Kenya for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

Other Destinations

If you need help finding travel information:

Message & data rates may apply. CDC Privacy Policy

File Formats Help:

• Adobe PDF file
• Microsoft PowerPoint file
• Microsoft Word file
• Microsoft Excel file
• Audio/Video file
• Apple Quicktime file
• RealPlayer file
• Zip Archive file

Exit Notification / Disclaimer Policy

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) cannot attest to the accuracy of a non-federal website.
• Linking to a non-federal website does not constitute an endorsement by CDC or any of its employees of the sponsors or the information and products presented on the website.
• You will be subject to the destination website's privacy policy when you follow the link.
• CDC is not responsible for Section 508 compliance (accessibility) on other federal or private website.

Neighbouring Tanzania, where at least 155 people have been killed in flooding and landslides, is also expected to feel the force of Hidaya.

"The presence of Hidaya Cyclone... is expected to dominate and affect the weather patterns in the country including heavy rain and strong winds in some Regions near Indian Ocean," Tanzania Red Cross Society said on X, formerly Twitter.

Kenya's capital Nairobi is among the areas expected to suffer heavy rains over the next two days, the Kenya Meteorological Department said on X.

The heavier than usual rains have also cost at least 29 lives in Burundi, with 175 people injured, and tens of thousands displaced since September last year, the United Nations said.

- Stranded tourists -

Earlier this week Ruto announced he was deploying Kenya's military to evacuate everyone living in flood-prone areas.

In a bulletin released Thursday evening, the interior ministry ordered anyone living close to major rivers or near 178 "filled up or near filled up dams or water reservoirs" to vacate the area within 24 hours, warning that they would otherwise face "mandatory evacuation for their safety."

The devastation has also affected Kenya's tourism sector -- a key economic driver -- with some 100 tourists marooned in the famed Maasai Mara wildlife reserve on Wednesday after a river overflowed, flooding lodges and safari camps.

Rescuers later managed to evacuate 90 people by ground and air, the interior ministry said.

The area is currently inaccessible with bridges washed away, Narok West sub-county administrator Stephen Nakola told AFP, adding that about 50 camps in the reserve have been affected, putting more than 500 locals temporarily out of work.

There are no fatalities but communities living around the area have been forced to move away.

"Accessing the Mara is now a nightmare and the people stuck there are really worried, they don't have an exit route," Nakola said, adding that waterborne diseases were likely to emerge.

"I am worried that the situation could get worse because the rains are still on."

In the deadliest single incident in Kenya, dozens of villagers were killed when a dam burst on Monday near Mai Mahiu in the Rift Valley, about 60 kilometres (40 miles) north of Nairobi.

The interior ministry said 52 bodies had been recovered and 51 people were still missing after the dam disaster.

- Travel warnings -

Opposition politicians and lobby groups have accused Ruto's government of being unprepared and slow to respond to the crisis despite weather warnings.

"Kenya's government has a human rights obligation to prevent foreseeable harm from climate change and extreme weather events and to protect people when a disaster strikes," Human Rights Watch said Thursday.

The United States and Britain have issued travel warnings for Kenya, urging their nationals to be cautious amid the extreme weather.

The devastation has sparked an outpouring of condolences and pledges of solidarity from all over the world, including from Pope Francis and UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres.

The rains have been amplified by the El Nino weather pattern -- a naturally occurring climate phenomenon typically associated with increased heat worldwide, leading to drought in some parts of the world and heavy downpours elsewhere.

ho-keo/amu/spb

Latest stories

‘all creatures great and small’ scribe to pen itv drama about repeal of double jeopardy law starring sheridan smith.

EXCLUSIVE: All Creatures Great and Small scribe Jamie Crichton is taking on ITV’s latest campaigning drama, a series about the fight to repeal the notorious double jeopardy law starring Sheridan Smith. Details about the drama first started emerging last night and we can reveal it will be titled I Fought the Law and is produced …

TfL 'not looking at' London bus stop safety change because incidents are 'rare'

Officials are 'exploring ways to ensure that the vehicles on our streets are as safe'

Students stage pro-Palestine protest at North East uni campus in UK-wide movement

Student pro-Palestinian protests will spread across the UK, according to organisers, who do not expect to see any repeat of the violence witnessed at US campuses.

Hundreds of people are tripping on this ‘optical illusion’ cycle lane

A council has refused to pay compensation to people who tripped on an “optical illusion” cycle lane.

Five stray horses on the loose on Orpington residential road

Police were called to a road in Oprington where five stray horses arrived on a residential road.

Orpington pair charged after £3.6 million of cocaine found on Heathrow flight

Two people from Orpington have been charged with drug smuggling offences after £3.6m worth of cocaine was found on a Heathrow Airport flight.

Gun-wielding Orpington home invader threatened 96-year-old woman with hammer

Gun-wielding Orpington home invader Paul Debenham pushed over a 76-year-old woman and threatened a 96-year-old woman with a hammer.

Schoolboy arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after machete attack

Two teenagers, including a 14-year-old boy, have been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder

Families excavating a hillside to create space to live ordered by court to stop

A group with caravans and diggers moved onto the grassy hillside earlier this year

Man arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to murder teen stabbed in city street

A man has been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to murder after a teenager was jailed for murder today.

High Court orders traveller families to stop digging out Welsh hillside after residents feared landslip

Traveller families have been stopped from digging out a hillside after a council won a High Court injunction.

Huge thunderstorm hits London with 'biblical' rain as Met Office issues fresh weather warning

‘Biblical’ and ‘crazy’ storm jolts many Londoners from their beds as Met Office warns of possible disruption

‘Sword killer’ attacked man in home while four-year-old girl slept, court told

A 36-year-old man charged with the murder of a teenage schoolboy during a sword attack also broke into a nearby home where a four-year-old girl was asleep and attacked her father, a court has heard.

People 'banned' from mowing lawns until date in July after warning

The UK has been hit by a cold and wet April, but gardeners are being urged to hold off on mowing their lawns until a certain date in July at the earliest

Martin Myers tried and failed to steal a cigarette. Why has he spent 18 years in prison for it?

A devoted father with a zest for life, he was given an indeterminate sentence in 2006. He is still locked up – and losing hope that he will ever be released

Police in violence-hit Indian state led women to mob which stripped and raped them, probe agency finds

Two women and a man, fleeing the violence, sat inside a police vehicle, begging officials to drive them to safety but they drove them to the mob instead, CBI finds

Two 12-year-olds killed man with machete blows to the skull and heart, jury told

The youths deny murdering Shawn Seesahai, who died at the scene after being attacked while ‘utterly defenceless’ in Wolverhampton.

Heartless teen stopped people trying to save boy, 13, after inflicting fatal injuries on him in 'abhorrent' scenes

A drunk driver hit and killed 13-year-old Kaylan Hippsley in February

Tinder match from hell imprisoned woman on first date

A Caversham Tinder match from hell who imprisoned a woman in her flat for two hours on their first date and strangled her has been jailed.

CCTV appeal after almost £1k worth of items stolen from Boots on busy high street

Police said a male handed items to a female, who then 'placed them in her clothing'

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

Ireland Threatens to Return Asylum Seekers to U.K., Sparking Diplomatic Squabble

The Irish government said it was drafting emergency legislation to return asylum seekers to Britain, after seeing a surge of people leaving there for sanctuary in Ireland.

By Mark Landler

Reporting from London

Britain’s newly ratified plan to put asylum seekers on one-way flights to Rwanda has drawn objections from human rights groups, British and European courts, the House of Lords and even some members of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s Conservative Party.

To that list, add another aggrieved party: Ireland.

The Irish government said last week that asylum seekers in Britain who fear being deported to Rwanda are instead traveling to Ireland . It is drafting emergency legislation to send them back to Britain, triggering a clash with its neighbor, which said it would refuse to accept them.

Irish officials estimate that 80 percent of recent applicants for asylum crossed into the country via Northern Ireland, which is part of the United Kingdom, and with which the Republic of Ireland has an open border. That suggests that Britain’s vow to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda is already having something of a deterrent effect, which was Mr. Sunak’s sales pitch for the policy.

But it comes at the expense of Ireland, which is already struggling to absorb an influx of refugees from Ukraine and elsewhere, and has seen violent clashes over immigration erupt in small towns and major cities. On Sunday, Ireland’s prime minister, Simon Harris, said, “This country will not in any way, shape or form provide a loophole for anybody else’s migration challenges.”

“Other countries can decide how they wish to advance migration,” said Mr. Harris, who became prime minister earlier this month. “From an Irish perspective, we intend to have a firm rules-based system where rules are in place, where rules are in force, where rules are seen to be enforced.”

British officials, however, countered on Monday that they would not accept any asylum seekers from Ireland, a European Union member, unless they had a broader agreement with the E.U. to return them to France, another E.U. member, from where many refugees set off for Britain in small boats across the English Channel.

“Of course we’re not going to do that,” Mr. Sunak said to ITV News about accepting returnees from Ireland. “I’m determined to get our Rwanda scheme up and running because I want a deterrent.” He added, “I make absolutely no apology for doing everything I can to tackle illegal migration.”

The Rwanda policy has unexpectedly put the border between Northern Ireland and the Irish Republic back in the spotlight, echoing the tensions between Britain and Ireland after Britain voted to leave the European Union in 2016. The Republic of Ireland fought to keep an open land border with Northern Ireland, which necessitated complex negotiations between London and Brussels over trade arrangements in the North.

After years of friction, Mr. Sunak last year struck a deal with the European Union, known as the Windsor Framework, which finally seemed to defuse the issue. But Britain’s abrupt cancellation on Sunday of a meeting between its home secretary, James Cleverly, and Ireland’s minister for justice, Helen McEntee, added to the sense of a fresh diplomatic crisis. A meeting of lower-level British and Irish officials produced only a vague agreement to “monitor this issue closely.”

“It’s something that needs to be solved, and I don’t see any easy solution,” said Bobby McDonagh, a former Irish ambassador to Britain. “It clearly isn’t workable if a very large number of refugees are going through the U.K. and coming down here through Northern Ireland.”

The problem is, political pressures on both sides militate against resolving the issue. For Mr. Sunak, who lobbied for months against legal challenges to pass the Rwanda plan, the diversion of asylum seekers to Ireland is proof that his policy is working. Far from taking back these people, he has vowed to round up thousands of those still in Britain and put them on planes to Rwanda.

Mr. Harris, analysts in Dublin said, is under pressure to act firmly because the swelling numbers of asylum seekers, combined with Ireland’s acute housing shortage, are causing social unrest. Last week, protesters in County Wicklow clashed with the police over proposed accommodations for refugees. A riot rooted in anti-immigrant hatred convulsed parts of Dublin last fall.

“The protests have become increasingly ugly and violent, orchestrated by groups that see Ireland as fertile ground,” said Diarmaid Ferriter, a professor of modern Irish history at University College Dublin. “The politicians are under pressure to be seen as doing more, and they’re trying to reduce the ground for anti-immigration forces.”

The tensions are even altering Ireland’s political landscape. For example, the poll ratings of the main opposition party, Sinn Fein, have fallen in recent months because of criticism that it is not hard-line enough on immigration.

Sinn Fein’s leader, Mary Lou McDonald, criticized the Irish government for failing to level with residents about how immigration would affect their towns and cities.

“You need rules and regulations,” Ms. McDonald said at a recent briefing for journalists in London. “Particularly in more deprived areas, where services are poor, they feel the struggle all the more when they consider the people coming in.”

Mr. Sunak predicted that Britain’s use of Rwanda to process asylum applications would be copied by other countries. But critics say that would pose a thorny challenge to the global legal system for protecting refugees. If more countries outsource the processing of asylum seekers, they may simply end up displacing the flow of refugees to their nearest neighbors, as Britain has.

Mr. Harris, moreover, faces some of the same legal obstacles that dogged Mr. Sunak in his quest to enact the Rwanda policy. Ireland’s high court has ruled that the government cannot designate Britain as a “safe third country” and return asylum seekers there, because of the risk that Britain would send them to Rwanda.

Britain’s Supreme Court struck down an earlier version of the Rwanda legislation because it determined that Rwanda was not a safe country. Mr. Sunak then signed a treaty with the Rwandan government and revised the legislation, essentially overruling the court. Parliament passed that law last week.

Immigration experts in Ireland have expressed doubts about the government’s claim that 80 percent of recent asylum applicants crossed the border from Northern Ireland. Some, they said, could have arrived at airports or seaports in the Irish Republic and not immediately applied for asylum status.

Still, said Nick Henderson, the chief executive of the Irish Refugee Council, “If people are moving to Ireland from the U.K. in numbers, it should be viewed in the context that the U.K. is not a safe country for people seeking protection.”

Mark Landler is the London bureau chief of The Times, covering the United Kingdom, as well as American foreign policy in Europe, Asia and the Middle East. He has been a journalist for more than three decades. More about Mark Landler

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

• International
• International aid and development

UK announces funding to unlock fifty green projects in Kenya

The UK is providing £6.6m to help Kenyan counties access green finance, and has funded expert analysis to guide these investments

Thursday 25 April – The UK has announced funding to kick-start the development of fifty green investment projects across Kenya. The funding was guided by the County Green Finance Assessment, which was launched today at an event in Nairobi.

The report, funded by the UK, assesses the ability of ten counties from across Kenya to access green finance. It will empower counties to direct investment towards sectors in most need of support, which could include water, healthcare, or energy infrastructure. These could deliver economic returns whilst meeting the specific needs of local communities.

The uplift in funding from £3.1m to £6.6m will mostly support Kenyan counties to develop these fifty projects and secure financing to make them a reality. These green investments could also create jobs and grow local economies, whilst simultaneously protecting Kenya’s incredible biodiversity and unique landscapes.

It will also support the development of new financial solutions to increase access to affordable, green, quality, housing – including associated infrastructure and services.

The analysis was produced by Financial Sector Deepening Kenya, an independent trust set-up and supported by the UK government to deliver financial solutions to the real-world challenges facing Kenya. They will also provide the support to counties to develop and implement projects.

The County Green Finance Assessment analysed each county based on four criteria including financial performance, credit risk, the availability of green investment opportunities and the counties’ abilities to manage green finance.

The report is an African product for Africa, developed with Africa’s first and only credit-rating agency certified to perform verification of green bonds, projects and assets - Agusto & Co.

They have partnered on the project along with the Capital Markets Authority, the ADA Consortium, and the Nairobi Securities Exchange. The assessment was completed with the approval of The National Treasury and Economic Planning.

Leigh Stubblefield, Development Director at the British High Commission Nairobi, said:

As flooding causes disruption across Kenya, we can see clearly how the countries that are least responsible for climate change are the worst affected. We admire Kenya’s impressive climate credentials and are proud of our climate partnerships.

This report and funding are long-term commitments to find quality, long-term solutions. I encourage countries to use the report to continue along the path of green growth, so together we can protect our people, planet, and prosperity. We go far when we go together.

Tamara Cook, CEO at FSD Kenya, said:

The assessment of the green opportunity in counties illuminates the immense natural asset base that needs to be managed, protected and preserved. It is also clear that core government services such as water, energy, waste management and transport provide valuable avenues for green investment possibilities where there is growing demand. The next step will be to prepare green projects with counties so that green funding can be directed towards local development priorities in a manner that creates lasting impact.

The 10 counties included are Embu, Kirinyaga, Kisumu, Laikipia, Nairobi, Makueni, Nandi, Taita-Taveta, Vihiga, and Wahir.

FSD Kenya has previous experience of supporting Kenyan counties. They worked together on the County Climate Change Fund (CCCF) mechanism which has already helped counties to allocate more than KES 636 million towards green projects in local communities.

The uplift in funding will also support the development of new financial solutions to increase access to affordable, green, quality, housing – including associated infrastructure and services.

This report supports the UK-Kenya Strategic partnership - an ambitious five-year agreement delivering mutual benefits for the UK and Kenya, including job creation and economic growth.

Notes to Editors

Assessment criteria.

The assessment focused on the following:

Economic and fiscal assessment to gauge a county’s fiscal performance, strengths, challenges, and ability to take on (additional) debt.

Credit risk assessment to estimate the county government’s relative likelihood of defaulting on its obligations from the listing.

Green asset and activity assessment to evaluate availability of green investment opportunities and assets in the selected counties.

Green finance capability assessment to analyse a county government’s ability to manage green financial instruments and related projects.

The UK-Kenya Strategic Partnership

The UK-Kenya strategic partnership  joint statement can be found here .

About FSD Kenya

Financial Sector Deepening Kenya (FSD Kenya) is an independent trust dedicated to the achievement of a financial system that delivers value for a green and inclusive digital economy while improving financial health and capability for women and micro and small enterprises (MSEs). We work closely with the public sector, the financial services industry, and other partners to develop financial solutions that better address the real-world challenges that low-income households, micro and small enterprises, and underserved groups such as women and youth face. More: www.fsdkenya.org

About Augusto & Co

Agusto & Co. is registered as a credit rating agency by the Kenyan and Rwandan Capital Markets Authorities and the Securities Exchange Commission in Nigeria. Agusto & Co. is also Certified as an Approved Verifier by the Climate Bond Standards Board as the first company of African origin to have the capabilities to perform verification of green bonds, projects, and assets in Africa.

Share this page

The following links open in a new tab

• Share on Facebook (opens in new tab)
• Share on Twitter (opens in new tab)

Is this page useful?

• Yes this page is useful
• No this page is not useful

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. We’ll send you a link to a feedback form. It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. Don’t worry we won’t send you spam or share your email address with anyone.