Travel Smart
Honest, sourced guidance so you travel confident. Most of any country is calmer than the headlines suggest.
Safety
Countrywide advisory (Government of Canada)
Exercise increased cautionExercise a high degree of caution (with regional advisories) Regional advisories apply; see the source for zone-level detail.
Source: Government of Canada · Verified 2026-07-26
Nairobi and central business district
Exercise increased cautionKenya's capital has serious crime issues, especially after dark. Daytime movement in tourist areas (Nairobi National Park, upscale neighborhoods) is generally safe with awareness. Avoid large amounts of cash, isolated areas, and night travel.
Avoid: Avoid Kibera, Mathare, and other informal settlements. Eastleigh district (Somali-dominant) has periodic insecurity. Avoid walking alone at night anywhere in Nairobi.
Source: UK FCDO · Verified 2026-07-06
Masai Mara National Reserve and surrounding areas
Exercise normal precautionsOne of Africa's premier safari destinations. Tourist infrastructure is excellent; organized safaris are very safe. The local Maasai communities are welcoming.
Source: UK FCDO · Verified 2026-07-06
Coastal regions (Mombasa, Diani Beach, Lamu)
Exercise increased cautionCoastal towns and islands are popular tourist destinations with good infrastructure. Petty theft and occasional jihadist activity remain concerns. Tourist areas are generally secure; avoid remote beaches and late-night walks.
Avoid: Avoid Mombasa Old Town late at night. Isolated beaches away from populated areas. Extreme northern coast near Somalia border.
Source: UK FCDO · Verified 2026-07-06
Central highlands (Mount Kenya, Aberdares, Nairobi surroundings)
Exercise normal precautionsThe cool highlands with trekking and forest reserves are generally safe. Tourist routes and lodges have good security.
Source: UK FCDO · Verified 2026-07-06
Northern frontier (Turkana, Samburu, Isiolo, border with Somalia/Ethiopia)
Reconsider travelRemote pastoralist areas and the Somalia border have banditry, resource conflicts, and security risks. Travel to these regions requires experienced guides and is not recommended for typical tourists.
Avoid: Areas within 100km of the Kenya-Somalia border. Remote Turkana and Samburu without experienced guides.
Source: UK FCDO · Verified 2026-07-06
6 zones rated separately against Government of Canada, UK FCDO. Oldest check on this page: 6 July 2026.
Emergency Contacts
Kenya Police Service
police
Nairobi hospitals (Kenyatta National Hospital, Aga Khan Hospital)
ambulance · Nairobi