The U.S. State Department has issued a travel advisory for Kenya, urging caution due to concerns over crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping. Specific regions have been identified as high-risk areas where travel is strongly discouraged.
"Do Not Travel" advisories have been placed on the Kenya-Somalia border counties of Garissa, Wajir, and Mandera due to terrorism and kidnapping threats. Similar warnings apply to Tana River County and coastal areas north of Malindi. Additionally, West Pokot and western Turkana County are flagged due to banditry risks, while parts of Marsabit and Turkana Counties near the Ethiopian border face dangers from cross-border incursions.
Travelers are advised to "Reconsider Travel" in Nairobi's Eastleigh and Kibera neighborhoods because of crime and kidnapping incidents. The advisory highlights that violent crimes 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 crimes or terrorist attacks.
Motorcycle thefts are common in crowded areas where thieves quickly grab items from victims. Public places like government buildings, schools, places of worship, malls, and hotels have previously been targeted by terrorists with little warning.
Demonstrations and protests frequently occur across Kenya. These events can lead to blocked intersections or highways causing traffic jams. Political violence is particularly prevalent in western Kenya and Nairobi.
Healthcare access in Kenya may not meet U.S. standards with limited medication supplies outside major cities. Travelers are advised to secure medical evacuation insurance valid for travel in Kenya.
Reports indicate some schools operate without proper licensing or oversight in Kenya with instances of physical abuse reported against U.S citizens held against their will.
Property disputes occasionally turn violent with cases of property confiscation involving U.S citizens being reported.
Travelers should stay alert in tourist-frequented locations and avoid resisting robbery attempts. It's recommended to monitor local media for updates on security situations and make contingency plans for emergencies including reviewing the Traveler’s Checklist provided by the State Department.
U.S government personnel are prohibited from traveling to certain specified areas including Mandera, Wajir, Garissa counties; parts of Tana River (excluding Tsavo National Park); Lamu; Kilifi north of Malindi; West Pokot; western Turkana south of Lodwar; parts within 30 miles (50 kilometers) of the Ethiopian border due to various security threats.
For assistance or more information regarding travel safety measures in Kenya contact details for the U.S Embassy Nairobi along with enrollment options for receiving alerts through Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) are provided within the advisory document.