Kenya - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

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

Do not travel to:

• Kenya-Somalia border and some coastal areas due to terrorism.

Reconsider travel to:

• Nairobi neighborhood of Eastleigh at all times and Old Town in Mombasa at night due to crime.

Violent crime, such as armed carjacking, mugging, home invasion, and kidnapping, can occur at any time. Local police are willing but often lack the capability to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents and terrorist attacks. Emergency medical and fire service is also limited.

Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting Kenyan and foreign government facilities, tourist locations, transportation hubs, and markets/shopping malls. Terrorist acts could include armed assaults, suicide operations, bomb/grenade attacks, and kidnappings.

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 Airmen (NOTAM). For more information, U.S. citizens should consult Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices.

Read the Safety and Security section on the country information page.

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.
• Have evacuation plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
• 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 Crime and Safety Report for Kenya.
• U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.

Kenya-Somalia Border Counties and Coastal Areas

Due to terrorism concerns, U.S. government personnel are prohibited from traveling to the Kenya-Somalia border counties and coastal areas.

Kenya-Somalia Border Counties

• Mandera
• Wajir
• Garissa

Coastal Areas

• Tana River county
• Lamu county
• Areas of Kilifi county north of Malindi.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

Nairobi Neighborhood of Eastleigh and Old Town in Mombasa

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. 

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

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.