7 Best Kenya Travel Insurance Plans for US Citizens in 2023

Updated on by Matthew H. Nash – Licensed Insurance Agent

Kenya is a dynamic country of awe-inspiring natural beauty, culture and history. Between its wildlife conservancies, 7 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, extreme sports and adventure activities, diverse landscapes and arts and crafts, it’s no surprise that Kenya frequently tops Americans’ bucket lists for travel destinations. However, with continued uncertainty around international travel, having the best Kenya travel insurance policy is the ultimate way to protect the financial investment you’ve made in your vacation. It can compensate you for trip delays and cancellations, lost or damaged luggage, unforeseen medical emergencies and more. This article will explore average costs, levels of coverage, differences in policies and optional upgrade packages. We may receive compensation when you click on the affiliate links below.

4.9
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to Kenya travelers. Learn more at the end of this page.

STARTING PRICE
FOR 2-WEEK TRIP TO THE KENYA

$62.53

CAN YOU CANCEL YOUR TRIP FOR ANY REASON? 

Yes

BEST
 WEBSITE
FOR

Comparing Policies

  • Compare dozens of the best Kenya travel insurance policies from all the major providers in one place
  • Easily filter for the features you want and get support from their award-winning customer service team
  • Founded in 2013, TravelInsurance.com has helped hundreds of thousands of travelers find affordable insurance coverage
4.8
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to travelers. Learn more at the end of this page.

STARTING PRICE
FOR 2-WEEK TRIP TO THE KENYA

$78.75

CAN YOU CANCEL YOUR TRIP FOR ANY REASON? 

Yes

BEST
POLICY
FOR

Travelers Aged 55+

  • Pre-existing medical conditions are covered for a reasonable fee and they offer “cancel for any reason” as an add-on
  • $2,000 COVID quarantine coverage available w/ Safe Travels Voyager plan
  • Founded in 1998 and underwritten by Nationwide and GBG Insurance
squaremouth
4.8
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to travelers. Learn more at the end of this page.

STARTING PRICE
FOR 2-WEEK TRIP TO THE KENYA

$87.53

CAN YOU CANCEL YOUR TRIP FOR ANY REASON? 

Yes

BEST
WEBSITE
FOR

Filtering Plans

  • This comparison website has the most comprehensive filters especially for Covid-19 which helps you search for the specific benefits you need
  • They have “Zero Complaint Guarantee” which promises a fair claims process
  • Established in 2003, Squaremouth has consistently been recognized for it’s exceptional customer service
4.7
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to travelers. Learn more at the end of this page.

STARTING PRICE
FOR 2-WEEK TRIP TO THE KENYA

$88.00

CAN YOU CANCEL YOUR TRIP FOR ANY REASON? 

Yes

BEST
POLICY
FROM

An Established Brand

  • Well rounded, inexpensive travel insurance plans from an established and top rated global insurance company
  • AXA has plans that cover pre-existing conditions and their “Platinum” plan covers “cancel for any reason” with an optional add-on. They also offer helpful 24/7 Worldwide Travel Assistance Services
  • Founded in 1959 and underwritten by Nationwide
4.7
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to travelers. Learn more at the end of this page.

STARTING PRICE
FOR 2-WEEK TRIP TO THE KENYA

$68.63

CAN YOU CANCEL YOUR TRIP FOR ANY REASON? 

No

BEST
POLICY
FOR

Adventure Travel

  • Covers almost all adventure activities for a reasonable price for U.S. residents up to age 70 (worldwide up to age 65)
  • Can insure up to 9 people in one family and the signup process is super easy
  • Founded in 2002 and underwritten for U.S. travelers by Nationwide Insurance
4.2
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to travelers. Learn more at the end of this page.

STARTING PRICE
FOR 2-WEEK TRIP TO THE KENYA

$139.00

CAN YOU CANCEL YOUR TRIP FOR ANY REASON? 

Yes

BEST
POLICY
FOR

Family Travel

  • Their “Trip Interruption for any Reason” feature allows you to get a 75% reimbursement for any additional expenses if you decide to go home early from your trip
  • They have a variety of insurance products to suit any travel needs
  • Founded in 1993 and underwritten by Nationwide Insurance
3.6
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to travelers. Learn more at the end of this page.

STARTING PRICE
FOR 2-WEEK TRIP TO THE KENYA

$521/yr

CAN YOU CANCEL YOUR TRIP FOR ANY REASON? 

No

BEST
POLICY
FOR

Long-term Travel

  • Ideal for digital nomads and long-term travel, available to anyone anywhere
  • Scored lower because short-term travel coverage isn’t as robust as competitors
  • Founded in 2018 and is underwritten by Lloyds of London

travel insurance
4.9
  • SwiftScore
      Our SwiftScore is a unique and proprietary insurance ranking system objectively comparing key metrics which are most important to travelers. Learn more at the end of this page.

STARTING PRICE
FOR 2-WEEK TRIP TO THE KENYA

$62.52

CAN YOU CANCEL YOUR TRIP FOR ANY REASON?

Yes

BEST
WEBSITE
FOR

Comparing Policies

  • Compare dozens of travel insurance policies from all the major providers in one place
  • Easily filter for the features you want and get support from their award-winning customer service team
  • Founded in 2013, TravelInsurance.com has helped hundreds of thousands of travelers find affordable insurance coverage

Kenya travel insurance FAQs

Is it worth having Kenya travel insurance?

Kenya travel insurance will protect your investment in your vacation when it comes to lost or stolen luggage, trip interruptions or cancellations, medical emergencies, evacuations and any other reason should you choose that upgrade. Since travel is expensive and costs continue to increase, getting the best Kenya travel insurance will serve as a financial safety net and provide critical support in emergencies, such as coordinating evacuations and medical care that meets US standards. The peace of mind from having the best Kenya trip insurance policy is priceless. And since most plans run only 2-3% of your total trip cost, it is very affordable.

What are important things to look for in a Kenya trip insurance plan?

Whichever travel insurance company you choose to get your policy from must offer coverage for Kenya. (There tend to be a few countries excluded at any moment due to health or safety issues.) When applying for a plan, you will also want to ensure that it runs the entirety of your trip–from the day of your departure to the day of your return.

What is “Cancel for Any Reason” travel insurance?

“Cancel for Any Reason” (CFAR) travel insurance is an optional upgrade that you can add to your policy. It allows you to cancel your trip and get a 75% reimbursement of your nonrefundable trip costs, even if your standard policy does not cover your reason for cancellation.

How do you calculate “total trip cost” when applying for a travel insurance policy?

Your travel insurance provider will determine your Trip Interruption and Trip Interruption benefits based on your total trip cost. As a result, you must calculate and submit the correct amount when applying for a policy. To do so, you must add up the total cost of all prepaid, nonrefundable expenses.

Examples include airfare reservations, hotels, retreats, cruises, tours, events, activities and other entertainment. If you’re uncertain, remember to include everything for which you have prepaid and could not get a full refund should you need to cancel. Also, you must factor in any penalties you would have to pay if you canceled, regardless of whether you had to prepay.

When applying for coverage, round up to the nearest dollar for the total trip cost, never down. If you submit an inaccurate amount for your ‘total trip cost,’ your insurer will consider you ineligible for the benefits outlined in your policy.

Will my Kenya trip insurance cover adventure activities and extreme sports?

Being active outdoors is one of Kenya’s biggest draws for tourists. With such a variety of activities and sports to participate in, getting the right travel insurance coverage is crucial. Since many of the top insurance providers cover everything from surfing and skydiving to mountain climbing and paragliding, I recommend using the comparison site SquareMouth.com, which has a “Sports & Activities” filter that you can use to find the policy that covers your preferred activities. Remember to read the full details of any policy before purchasing.

What should I do if I have an emergency during my Kenya trip?

In an emergency, dial 999 or 911 from any phone. It will connect you with the police, fire department and EMS. Furthermore, contact your travel insurance provider’s support line if you or any insured travel companions have a medical emergency. They can help coordinate transport to a hospital of high standards.

Is Kenya safe to visit?

Kenya is one of the safest countries in Africa, but it doesn’t mean that you don’t need to exercise a reasonable amount of caution. Crime rates in the four main cities are relatively high, especially regarding pickpocketing, mugging and street scams. I encourage all visitors to Kenya to check the US Department of State’s Kenya Travel Advisory page for more in-depth safety and security insights.

Will my Kenya travel insurance cover canceled flights?

In most circumstances, your travel insurance policy will cover canceled flights. Of course, cancellation must be for an approved reason listed in your policy. If your airline cancels flights for 24 hours or more due to natural disasters, inclement weather or employee strikes, you can generally expect reimbursement for your flight.

Typical problems tourists may experience while traveling in Kenya and how to avoid them:

Illnesses

If you want to stay healthy while on vacation in Kenya, you must be mindful of a few things. The first is to be careful about the meat you consume and not eat any raw fruits and vegetables you cannot peel. Instead, indulge in their delicious samosas, bean stews and rice-based dishes. Second, only drink tap water that is boiled or purified. Traveling with your own water bottle with a built-in filter or, at minimum, water purification tablets is best. Traveler’s diarrhea is a serious issue.

You can contract traveler’s diarrhea via contaminated water or food, but it is often the result of poor restaurant hygiene. However, since it can be a severe health threat, it’s best to seek medical treatment immediately. Symptoms to look out for are bloating, nausea, cramping, watery stools, fever, exhaustion, abdominal pain and the feeling you frequently need to use the toilet.

Another food and waterborne disease is Hepatitis A. It causes jaundice and lethargy for an extended period but isn’t fatal. Symptoms include yellowing of the whites of the eyes, dark yellow urine, abdominal pain and fever.

It’s essential to note that malaria, dengue fever and waterborne diseases are real issues. People contract malaria via mosquito bites. Medical professionals highly recommend taking daily malaria tablets. Consult your doctor before leaving on vacation. Malaria symptoms include fever, severe headaches, chills, shivering and sweats, and it is a life-threatening illness.

Seek medical treatment immediately. You can purchase the necessary medication at a pharmacy if you can’t get to a hospital. Be sure to stay hydrated. Also, note that symptoms often don’t set in until 1-3 weeks after being infected, so don’t be surprised if you start feeling ill upon returning home.

Dengue fever is also a health threat in Kenya. Its symptoms are very similar to those of malaria. Dengue fever can leave you bedridden for up to 2 months and can be fatal. Therefore, getting medical care is paramount, as is staying hydrated. Other food, water or airborne illnesses include meningococcal meningitis, typhoid and diphtheria.

A disease you can contract from swimming in rivers or lakes is called bilharzia, in which tiny worms (parasites) some freshwater snails carry enter the body through the skin and eventually migrate to the bowels or bladder. If you notice blood in your urine or stools or a rash on your body, or you come down with a fever, get to a doctor immediately. Treatment is necessary to prevent kidney failure as well as damage to your intestines and colon.

Furthermore, sexually transmitted diseases are an issue throughout Kenya, particularly HIV and Hepatitis B. The latter causes jaundice and sometimes can lead to liver failure. While condoms are available in Kenya, you cannot trust the quality. Hepatitis B vaccines are available.

Be aware that blood transfusion recipients in Kenya face an extremely high risk of contracting HIV. Contact the Blood Care Foundation in the UK to request pre-screened blood, and they will arrange its transport worldwide within 24 hours.

Should you have a medical emergency in Kenya, there are several things to remember. First, most drugs are available over the counter, but due to the considerable risk of improper storage or counterfeit pills, it’s best to get them directly from a hospital if possible.

Additionally, there are three types of hospitals. The first and cheapest are public hospitals, but they lack advanced equipment and treatments. You can find the highest quality care and the best equipment at private clinics and hospitals. Of course, their services come with significantly higher price tags. Lastly, mission hospitals are a middle ground with reasonably good care, and they accept payments in the form of donations.

Keep in mind that if you have Kenya travel insurance, your insurer can serve as a great resource and line of support to ensure you get treated at the best hospitals possible and coordinate your transport.

Accidents

While many accidents involving tourists usually occur due to road collisions or adventure sports, a significant portion results from tripping and falling. Sprained wrists, twisted ankles, open wounds and broken bones are the most common. That said, severe car collisions can and do occur because of poor road conditions and unruly drivers.

Muggings

Muggings, bag-snatching, and pickpocketing are common in Kenya, especially in cities, tourist centers, transportation hubs, or mini-buses (through open windows). Therefore, stay aware of your surroundings, and do not keep your valuables out for the public to see. Check out the Safety section below for detailed information and safety measures.

Emergency resources for Kenya

Phone numbers

If there is ever an emergency during your vacation, dial 999/112/911 from any phone. Those numbers will put you in direct contact with the police, fire department and emergency medical services. Nairobi also has a 24-hour tourist helpline. If you’re calling from a US cell phone, dial 011 254 20 604 767. And if you’re calling from a local phone, dial 020 604 767.

US embassy or consulate details

The United States has an embassy in the capital city of Nairobi. Visit the Embassy’s website for citizen services, contact information and opening hours.

If you wish to take extra precautions, you can enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Program. It allows you to list your travel itinerary for your vacation in Kenya, and you will receive health and safety advisories relevant to your trip. Registering also enables the Embassy to liaise with you or your family back in the States in an emergency.

Other local knowledge that is helpful for travelers

Accommodations

The types of accommodations available in Kenya are similar to those in other countries. From hostels, bed-n-breakfasts, vacation rentals, five-star hotels and more, tourists have their pick of where to stay, irrespective of budget. The primary difference is the abundance of safari lodges, bandas (traditional huts and cottages) and camps.

Adventure Activities & Extreme Sports

Kenya is an outdoor lover’s dream with incredible scuba diving, hiking, safaris, kitesurfing, biking, stand-up paddle boarding, rock climbing, white water rafting, ziplining and more. No matter where you go in the country, there’s always something to keep you busy outdoors. Do your research in advance and book your excursions with reputable tour operators.

If you think you’ll be doing any outdoor sports or activities during your time in Kenya, travel insurance is a must. It will shield you financially against unexpected injuries and medical emergencies. You can find policies with top insurance providers covering the excursions you’re most interested in using the comparison site SquareMouth and selecting the “Sports & Activities” filter.

Communication

The Internet connections in Nairobi are very good. However, visitors are often shocked to learn that WiFi is only available in the airport, some coffee shops, and mid-range and high-end hotels. Even lodges and hotels in remote areas that offer it have unreliable connections, and they usually charge a steep fee.

On the other hand, internet cafés are abundant in towns, cities and major tourist centers. Relying on these cafés is a cheap option for staying connected, but be careful not to access personal or sensitive information using public computers, such as bank and credit card accounts.

If you want to stay connected 24/7 on the cheap, your best bet is to purchase a local SIM card from Airtel, Safaricom or Telkom. Prepaid phone plans come with plenty of data and the speeds are some of the best in Africa. Before you leave home, verify with your mobile phone carrier whether your phone is unlocked.

The last but most expensive alternative is to add an international roaming plan that includes Kenya to your US cell phone. You can do this via your online account management tool or call your mobile carrier’s customer service line. Remember that such plans come with minimal data allowances. Therefore, turn off the background data on your apps so your phone does not eat up data when you’re not using it. If you don’t, you risk returning home hundreds of dollars in overage charges.

Currency

Kenya’s currency is the Kenya shilling (KES/KSh), and each one is divided into 100 cents. Banknotes come in denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1000. However, KES 10 and 20 bills are not very common. There are also 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 40 and 50-cent coins.

If you want the best exchange rate, use your US debit card to withdraw Kenyan Shillings from an ATM. The safest places to do so are at the airport and banks. If you use an ATM at a bank branch during regular banking hours (9 am to 3 or 4pm), the staff can assist you should you have any issues. Additionally, you can swap US dollars for KES at currency exchange desks in the airport or at your hotel, but be prepared to pay high fees and get the least favorable exchange rates.

While you can pay for meals at high-end restaurants and your hotel room using a credit or debit card, the Kenyan economy still revolves heavily around cash. Therefore, you must keep plenty of cash handy at all times.

Whenever using your debit or credit card (even at ATMs), always request that you be charged in Kenyan shillings. If you choose to have the conversion calculated for you, you will be charged a handsome fee for this “service” known as Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC) and the amount won’t be disclosed. It will simply be included in the total you see on the screen.

Remember to notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans before leaving the US so they don’t block your card for suspicious activity.

Entry Requirements

Kenya requires that all US citizens have an e-visa before entering the country. You can apply for your visa directly online. For more information and a link to the e-application, visit the Kenya Embassy of Washington DC’s website. Additionally, you must present a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate for entry. Kenyan law also requires you to carry a copy of your passport with you at all times.

Food & Drink

Mealtimes in Kenya vary, but they generally adhere to this loose schedule: 6-9 am for breakfast, 12-2 pm for lunch and 8-10 pm for dinner. One thing worth noting is that Kenyans take time to drink before their meals and never do so while eating.

Kenyan food varies from region to region based on whatever is seasonal and most readily available in the area. Greens, grains and tubers play a prominent role in the Kenyan diet, but you’ll be amazed at the variety of meals you’ll have as you visit different parts of the country.

One type of food quite common throughout Kenya is ugali, of which nearly every region has its version. Ugali is a dough-like porridge made from maize flour (or cornmeal) and water, much like polenta. It’s most often served with stewed collard greens (sukuma wiki) and eaten with your fingers. Take a piece of the ugali, roll it into a ball, and make an indention with your thumb so that you can scoop up some of the stew.

The Kikuyu people of Central Kenya created one of the country’s most famous and filling side dishes called irio. Irio is mashed potatoes that include maize and peas or leafy greens. They often serve it alongside nyama choma (slow-roasted goat) or grilled steak.

Since Kenyans are known for their stews, you can’t visit without trying one of the country’s most famous, githeri. Githeri, also called mutheri, is another of the Kikuyu tribe’s culinary contributions. It’s made from maize and beans stewed with tomatoes and onions and seasoned with turmeric, chili powder or cumin. Occasionally, you will see it made with potatoes and meat.

Another delicious option is kuku paka or kuku na nazi, a coconut milk-based curry made with grilled chicken. The smoky flavor of the grilled chicken blends beautifully with the warming Indian curry spices. Some recipes will substitute grilled fish or shrimp for the chicken and add eggs and potatoes. Squeeze a dash of lime juice on top, and you’ve got a hearty meal you can soak up with some chapati bread.

The most popular condiment eaten with most meals is kachumbari, a Kenyan salsa. It’s made from onions, green chili peppers, tomatoes, coriander and lemon juice. It’s either served as a topping or a side to nyama choma or other meat dishes.

Despite being one of the world’s most elite coffee producers, Kenya’s national drink is tea (chai). The country grows a vast amount of black tea in the Rift Valley Province. The red, iron-rich soil makes for a much stronger tea. Regardless of the time of day, you’ll find Kenyans drinking tea with milk and sugar.

Getting Around

If time is a concern, catching domestic flights may be the most efficient choice, particularly if you want to get to national parks, go between major cities or reach coastal resort areas. Kenya has close to a dozen airlines, including Kenya Airways, SafariLink, JamboJet and AirKenya. Check with your preferred airline for information regarding luggage restrictions.

Getting around Kenya using slower modes of transport can provide some of the best sightseeing opportunities possible. For those nostalgic for a different era, consider catching one of Kenya’s few remaining passenger trains, which RIFT Valley Railways operates. The most famous is the Madaraka Express, running between Nairobi and Mombasa because it journeys through Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks. If you travel back to Nairobi from Mombasa, you may even be fortunate enough to glimpse Kilimanjaro.

This particular train has 3 seat classes, of which you can reserve your spot for first and second classes only. First class consists of private 2-berth couchette/room and second class of 4-berth couchettes. 4-berth rooms are designated single-sex unless you and your party book an entire room. Third class lacks any comforts you may be used to regarding train travel and seating is first-come, first-served, so it’s no surprise that it is cheaper than even the lowest-priced buses.

Meals and bedding are available for those in first and second class, but you must pay for them at the time of booking. They are frequently included in your ticket, but it’s worth double-checking. While you can book your ticket at the train station, paying a small fee and having a travel agent take care of it is much easier. Ask your hotel concierge to recommend a reliable travel agent. Even with drinks and meals included, you will want to bring snacks for the journey.

For those who need to travel further afield, the country’s bus network serves every town. It’s worth mentioning that in Kenya, they refer to the bus station as the bus stage or bus stand. Several private companies operate these buses, such as Coast Bus, Modern, The Guardian Coach and Dreamline. The best way to purchase a ticket is directly from one of said companies’ ticket offices in or around the bus stations. These bus lines offer clean, comfortable transportation that is relatively efficient and safe.

The most popular way among locals to get around is via matatus (mini-buses). These are large Nissan or Toyota vans that cover a variety of routes, including those of large buses, and are even cheaper than buses and third-class train seats. You can easily recognize them since they’re often decorated with bright colors and play loud music.

While matatus are a fantastic way to experience life among locals, they are often unsafe. Despite the Kenyan government’s efforts to improve the safety of matatus, enforcement of new regulations has proven futile. Seatbelts rarely work, music blares and unruly, speed-obsessed drivers are the norm, so much so that it terrifies most Westerners.

Should you decide to take a matatu, only get in a nearly full one. Otherwise, you could wait quite a while for it to depart. Always lock your bags, keep your valuables with you and never sit next to the driver in case of an accident.

An alternative to matatus is shared taxis, which Kenyans call “Peugeots,” which don’t stop between their origin and destination. If you’re traveling within a city, you can also hitch a ride with a tuk-tuk (small 3-wheeled vehicle), a boda-boda (bicycle with passenger seat) or a piki-piki (motorcycle taxi).

For a more conventional taxi experience, approach any of the countless taxi ranks in tourist areas, transport hubs and other busy urban areas. Since most don’t have or use meters, negotiate a fare before getting in the car. Of course, you and your travel companions can also hire a taxi for significantly longer trips. Expect to pay KSh 200/kilometer and anywhere from KSh 300-500/hour. And if negotiating fares does not appeal to you, use a ride-hailing app instead. Some options available are Uber, Bolt (formerly Taxify), Delight Cabs, and Hava.

Lastly, renting a car is always an option but often the riskiest due to questionable road conditions, unpredictable driving habits and bandits (especially at night). Nevertheless, tourists still rent vehicles in Kenya, including 4-wheel drives for off-roading. To do so, you will need your US driver’s license as well as an International Driver’s Permit (IDP), which you can obtain via AAA. There’s much to know about driving in Kenya, so do your research in advance.

For safety reasons, it’s recommended that you undertake all travel, irrespective of your mode of transportation, during the day, taking the earliest departure possible. This allows you to arrive at your destination and settle in at your hotel or other accommodation before dark.

Language

While there are 62 languages spoken in Kenya, the only official ones are Swahili and English. Knowing a bit of Swahili can help bridge the cultural gap and get your interactions with locals off on the right foot. Here are some useful words and phrases to get you started:

  • hello – jambo
  • hello (formal) – shikamoo
  • goodbye – kwa heri
  • please – tafadhali 
  • thank you – asante
  • thank you very much – asante sana 
  • no thank you – hapana asante
  • excuse me – samahani
  • good morning – habari za asubuhi
  • good afternoon – habari za mchana
  • good evening – habari za jioni
  • good night – usiku mwema
  • How are you? (singular) – Habari?
  • I’m fine (peaceful). – Nzuri/safi or salama
  • Do you speak English? – Unsema Kiingereza?
  • I don’t understand. – Sielewi.
  • yes – ndiyo
  • no – hapanaOK – sawa

Local Customs & Etiquette

Greetings are vital to Kenya’s social fabric, even among strangers. They usually involve a back-and-forth that lasts up to a few minutes of asking how one another is doing. Approaching someone and asking for their assistance or information without a proper greeting is considered rude. In addition, always greet the staff upon entering a shop or business. Finally, learning a few Swahili words and expressions will go a long way in endearing yourself to locals.

Kenya is a conservative country. Therefore, travelers should dress modestly in loose-fitting clothes. Women should avoid wearing anything that falls above the knees, shows cleavage or reveals the shoulders, midriff and back. Also, always have your hair tied up or wrapped in a scarf. Wearing it down is considered provocative unless your hair is short. And remember, going topless at the beach or by your hotel’s pool is prohibited.

These guidelines are even more important if you visit any areas that are predominantly Muslim. Since Kenya has a hot climate, pack clothes made from light fabrics like cotton and linen.

Since Kenyans often eat with their fingers, washing one’s hands before and after a meal is standard practice. And always eat or hold silverware with your right hand. In Kenya, like in many African and Asian countries, the left hand is considered dirty, as it is used for wiping oneself in the bathroom. Therefore, never shake hands, eat or pick up anything (especially bowls or platters of food) with it. If you do, locals will look at you in shock and horror.

Moreover, never point at someone or something with your finger, as it’s considered indecent and rude. Another gesture foreigners often do without realizing is beckoning someone with their palm up. Instead, always call someone to you with your palm facing downwards.

Members of the LGBTQ+ community should keep in mind that homosexual activity is illegal in Kenya. It is punishable by 14 years in prison. That said, guests are not harassed on the grounds of hotels and resorts.

Safety & Scams

Traveling around Kenya requires travelers to be more aware and proactive regarding health and safety than in many other countries. Beware of street scams, bag-snatching, pickpocketing and armed robbery in Kenya’s four largest cities: Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu and Nakuru as well as in coastal resorts and transportation hubs.

Exercise caution wherever you go in the country. If you want to stay safe, heed the following advice: Consult your hotel’s staff for tips on areas or events to stay away from. Only carry whatever cash you need for the day and nothing more. Dress modestly. Remember, the more covered you are the better. Do not flash valuables around. Avoid walking alone anywhere or at night. Steer clear of parks. After sunset, take taxis (or ride-hailing apps) wherever you need to go and avoid walking. Do not travel throughout the country at night as there is an elevated risk of crime and the roads are not safe.

Other areas to steer clear of are the borders with Sudan, Somalia and Ethiopia. Bandits, also known as shiftas, frequent these areas. Carjackings, other theft, kidnapping and tribal warfare are common in these parts. Occurrences of crime in national parks are an issue. Heed all of your safari guide’s instructions at all times. Do not spend evenings on the beach either.

Civil unrest is not uncommon in Kenya, particularly during elections. If you notice any demonstrations or large protests, leave the area immediately. Again, your hotel’s front desk agents and concierge can advise you on anything you need to be aware of.

Also, note that terrorist-related events occur in Kenya, usually at the hands of the militant group Al-Shabaab because of Kenya’s military intervention in Somalia. See the US Government’s travel guidance for Kenya in the FAQ section above.

Street scams frequently target foreigners. The best thing you can do is politely decline all requests for help and assistance and keep walking, even if they come from desperate-looking children. Give into one, and you’ll be hounded by countless more. Keep your bag close to your body and valuables out of sight. Wearing a money belt under your shirt is highly recommended.

One scam that Kenya’s capital is famous for is the “Nairobi Bump.” This is when someone smashes into you, pretends that it was an accident, and steals your wallet and phone as they apologize incessantly. Again, a money belt minimizes your risk. Putting small padlocks on your suitcases and backpacks serve as an extra deterrent.

Always keep a photocopy of your passport in your luggage and leave your fancy jewelry and watch back home. There is no reason to bring them on vacation to Kenya.

Lastly, be aware that female prostitution is rampant throughout the country, though it’s not always obvious. Sexual expressiveness and promiscuity are openly accepted, except in Muslim regions. Casual sexual encounters, even when using condoms, are ill-advised.

Tipping

Tipping practices vary throughout the country. Expect to tip in restaurants, bars and hotels in Nairobi and along the coast, as this is where most of Kenya’s tourists and wealthy locals spend their time. 15% is appropriate in restaurants, but feel free to tip more to show your appreciation for excellent service.

In hotels, you can tip the bellhop Ksh 110-220 per bag for delivering them to your room. For the rest of the staff, you are welcome to take one of two approaches: tip individual employees as they assist you or deposit a tip into the staff tip box in the lobby that the manager will divide among all employees.

If you choose the latter, US$10-20 will suffice. This is approximately KSh 1,000-2,000. Should you prefer to tip individually, leave Ksh 500-1,000 per day for your housekeeper, 15% for servers in hotel dining rooms and restaurants and Ksh 800-1,200 for the concierge or check-in agent whenever you request extra assistance. Other staff worth tipping are room service, spa and pool staff.

Tipping is not the norm in casual cafés and bars that mostly locals frequent. Of course, it is appreciated, so feel free to round your bill up. For example, if your bill is Ksh 56, you can leave Ksh 60.

Even though tipping in US dollars is acceptable, it’s not advantageous to those who serve you. So always tip in cash (Kenyan shillings) and remember that smaller bills are always better.

If you participate in extreme sports or outdoor activities and have a good experience, do not hesitate to tip your guide Ksh 1,000-2,000. The higher amounts are for those activities that take a full day or close to one.

Tips for taxi drivers and drivers for ride-hailing apps like Uber range from KSh 100-200 up to 10% of your fare if you have a long journey or they help you with your luggage.

And do not forget to tip your safari guide. Ksh 1,000-2,000 (US$10-20) per person daily is appropriate. If you have a wonderful time, tipping more is always welcome. Tip tour guides similarly, and any drivers you may have Ksh 500-1,000 per person per day.

While it’s always best to ask your safari tour operator for tipping guidance for safari lodge staff, we can review some basics of how it works. Generally, you will get three envelopes when you arrive at the lodge. One each for your safari guide/ranger, tracker/spotter and lodge staff. Once you put the appropriate tips in each envelope, you give the envelopes to the relevant person and deliver the envelope for lodge staff to the lodge office.

Toilets

Public toilets are rare, and if you do find one, have low expectations. They will most likely be unclean and in a state of disrepair. Many toilets throughout the country are nothing more than a hole in the ground you must squat over. If you need to use the bathroom, your best bet for finding Western-style facilities is using those in your hotel or any higher-end restaurant. Be aware that cheaper restaurants and bars may have sit-down toilets, but it is common for the seats to be missing.

A final note about travel insurance for the Kenya

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I wish you and yours an incredible journey.

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