Kenya travel advice

Risk level

Disclaimer

The features in this map do not constitute an authoritative source of geographical information. This map is solely intended to assist Canadians by illustrating the risk levels contained in the Travel Advice and Advisories for this destination. The features in this map do not necessarily represent the views of the Canadian government on international boundaries, nomenclature or political status. The text under the Risk levels section takes precedence over this map.

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Kenya travel advice

Disclaimer

The features in this map do not constitute an authoritative source of geographical information. This map is solely intended to assist Canadians by illustrating the risk levels contained in the Travel Advice and Advisories for this destination. The features in this map do not necessarily represent the views of the Canadian government on international boundaries, nomenclature or political status. The text under the Risk levels section takes precedence over this map.

Safety and security

Terrorism

There is a threat of terrorism throughout Kenya, including in Nairobi.

Terrorist attacks have occurred in the past:

• in Nairobi
• in the coastal region, including Mombasa and Malindi
• in the Lamu, Mandera, Wajir and Garissa counties, near the border with Somalia

Foreigners have been targeted, and further attacks cannot be ruled out.

Targets could include:

• government buildings, including police stations
• schools, including universities
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners
• cultural venues

Be particularly vigilant during: 

• sporting events 
• religious holidays 
• public celebrations 
• major political events, such as elections 

Terrorists may use such occasions to mount attacks. 

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places and stay at hotels that have robust security measures.

Areas bordering Somalia

Kenya’s border with Somalia is porous despite being officially closed. Armed groups, including Somali militias, continue cross-border attacks and have targeted foreigners and humanitarian workers in the past. Some incidents involved the use of improvised explosive devices (IEDs), resulting in casualties, including incidents near the Dadaab refugee camp, 80 km from the Somali border.

There is a risk of kidnapping in the northeastern counties bordering Somalia, including Mandera, Wajir and Garissa, as well as in Lamu County’s coastal areas. Groups based in Somalia and northeastern Kenya have previously targeted humanitarian workers, tourists, and local residents, resulting in casualties.

Accommodations in beachfront areas are vulnerable to armed robbery, break-ins, and carjackings.

Disputes between Somali clans further contribute to instability. Kenyan authorities maintain a heightened security presence and frequently use roadblocks to limit Somali incursions and arms trafficking in the border area.

Areas bordering South Sudan and Ethiopia

There is a risk of kidnapping, terrorism, cross-border violence, and criminal activity in the northern counties of Marsabit and Turkana bordering Ethiopia and South Sudan.

Northern and Western Kenya

Some areas located in Turkana, Marsabit, Isiolo, Wajir and Mandera counties are unsafe. The ongoing threat posed by terrorism is joined by various regional, clan-based conflicts involving land, cattle and water.

If you decide to visit these counties:

• Consider using armed escorts, which may be arranged at local police stations
• Avoid venturing away from tourist areas
• Do not travel after dark

Crime

There is a high crime rate in most regions of Kenya, particularly in major cities such as Nairobi, Mombasa and Kisumu, and at coastal beach resorts.

Petty Crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs frequently, particularly in urban centres.

Theft occurs in public areas such as: 

• popular tourist areas, including beaches
• buses, trains, bus and train stations and airports
• hotel lobbies
• markets
• restaurants, including outdoor seating areas
• nightclubs and cinemas
• shopping centres

Snatching from passing motorcycles or cars is frequent. Common targets are bags, jewelry, and electronics.

In Nairobi, exercise increased caution in and around:

• Central Business District
• Mathare, Kibera, and other informal settlement communities

In Mombasa, exercise increased caution in and around the Old Town.

During your trip:

• keep your personal belongings, including your passport and your other travel documents, in a secure place
• don’t show signs of affluence, wear expensive jewellery or visibly display electronics
• don’t carry large sums of cash or valuables unnecessarily
• seek local advice on the security situation prior to visiting beaches
• when walking along the street, do not carry your bag with the strap across your body
• walk towards the traffic so you can see the vehicles approaching
• avoid walking outside after dark

Violent crime

Violent crime occurs throughout the country. Incidents include:

• armed robberies
• burglaries
• home invasions
• carjackings
• assault, including sexual assault

These crimes are often conducted by large and well-armed criminal groups.

During your stay:

• stay in accommodations with adequate security measures
• keep doors and windows locked at all times
• keep valuables out of sight and reach
• avoid isolated areas
• be extra cautious when withdrawing cash from ATMs 
• don't resist an attack

Kidnappings

Kidnappings of foreigners and Kenyans occur throughout Kenya. The threat is greater in coastal and northern counties bordering Somalia.

Express kidnappings

Express kidnappings have occurred near hotels and transportation facilities in Nairobi, where kidnappers demand small immediate ransoms.

Criminals kidnap the victim from the street or a taxi and force the person to withdraw funds from an ATM. The victim is sometimes held overnight so that a second withdrawal can be made the next day.

These kidnappings are sometimes committed by taxi or ride-share apps drivers.

• Only use reputable cab companies or ride-sharing apps
• When using a ride sharing app, ensure the vehicle licence plate is the same as the one displayed on the app
• Do not accept rides from new acquaintances or strangers
• Avoid hailing taxis on the street
• Do not get into a vehicle that already has a passenger in it
• If you're threatened by armed criminals, stay calm and don’t resist

Crime in and around airports

Tourists have been the target of carjackings, robberies and kidnappings while travelling to or from the international airports in Nairobi and Mombasa.

When travelling to and from an airport:

• stay on highways and main roads
• avoid shortcuts
• plan your trip in advance and verify your travel itinerary with a trusted local source
• consider arranging an airport transfer

Incidents of passport theft have occurred in the departure area of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi. Theft from checked luggage has also occurred.

• Store your valuables in locked hand-luggage
• Do not exchange currency in the public areas of the airport

Demonstrations

Political and social tensions remain high in Kenya. Large-scale demonstrations can occur with little warning and turn violent at any time. Security forces have used excessive force to disperse crowds, including tear gas, water cannons, rubber bullets, and, in some cases, live ammunition. Protesters have been arrested, detained, or abducted. Women have been sexually assaulted during past protests. During periods of civil unrest, telecommunication and Internet access may be disrupted.

Demonstrations can also lead to significant disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Expect enhanced security measures and increased security presence
• Expect curfews and restrictions on movement
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Curfews

Curfews can be imposed without notice.

Always comply with the orders issued by local authorities.

Power outages

Power outages occur regularly across the country. Not all buildings are equipped with generators.

Power outages could impact essential services, such as:

• the public water supply
• telecommunications

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Avoid accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances, as these items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Fraud

Criminals have been known to impersonate hotel employees, police officers or government officials in attempts to get money from tourists.

If someone claiming to be a government official or police officer approaches you and asks you to pay a fine, ask them for a copy of the written fine that can be paid later, or insist on going to the nearest police station.

Credit card and ATM fraud

Credit and debit card as well as ATM fraud occurs frequently. People have been followed and robbed after withdrawing cash at ATMs.

When using your debit or credit card:

• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• pay careful attention when others are handling your cards
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Cybercrime

Criminals can compromise public Wi-Fi networks to steal personal data or credit information. 

Criminals can monitor social media and listen to your phone conversations. 

Romance scams through dating sites and/or social media have occurred.

• Be cautious when posting information or photos on social media 
• Use secure public Wi-Fi networks 
• Beware of people who show a keen interest in you online 
• Keep in mind that you may be the victim of a scam if you go to Kenya to meet an online acquaintance in person
• Always meet new acquaintances in a secure and familiar location 
• Know the risk of inviting new acquaintances to your accommodation 
• Do not discuss travel plans or any other personal information within earshot of strangers

Useful links

Overseas fraud

Cybersecurity while travelling

National parks and nature reserves

Many national parks and nature reserves are in remote areas with limited emergency services. Wild animals often venture within boundaries of camps. Tourists have been victims of crime, sometimes involving violence, in national parks and reserves, as well as on safaris.

If you decide to visit parks and reserves:

• Only use reputable and professional guides or tour operators
• Follow the advice and warnings of local tour guides and camp employees
• Do not walk around at night
• Never leave children unattended

Wildlife observation

Wild animals can be dangerous, particularly if you are on foot or at close range. 

• Always maintain a safe distance when observing wildlife
• Only exit a vehicle when a professional guide or warden says it’s safe to do so
• Closely follow park regulations and wardens’ advice

Kenya Wildlife Service

Water activities

Coastal waters can be dangerous, even for experienced swimmers. Riptides are common. Several drownings occur each year. Beaches are generally unsupervised. There is no warning system to alert of unsafe conditions.

If you plan to participate in boating activities, such as snorkelling or diving:

• use a reputable company
• ensure that life jackets are available for all passengers
• do not use the equipment if you are unsure of its safety 
• consult residents and tour operators for information on possible hazards, the presence of dangerous species and safe swimming areas 
• don’t board boats that appear unseaworthy

Non-governmental organizations

Foreigners volunteering with local non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have sometimes reported incidents of fraud, threats and mistreatment by local staff.

If you are considering volunteering with an NGO in Kenya, you should contact the National Council of NGOs to confirm that the organization you wish to work with is legitimate, before making any commitments or departing from Canada. All NGOs in Kenya are required by law to be registered with the National Council of NGOs, a self-regulating, non-partisan body.

National Council of NGOs

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

Incidents of attacks and sexual assault against women, including rape and murder, have been reported throughout the country, particularly in urban centers like Nairobi and Mombasa.

• Choose accommodations that provide good security measures
• Be suspicious of recent acquaintances or strangers approaching you, including online
• Do not accept transportation offers from new acquaintances or strangers 

Advice for women travellers

Forced marriage

Some Canadians have been forced into marriage against their will and without their consent in Kenya. Family and/or community members have used emotional pressure, threats, abduction, or even physical violence to coerce individuals to marry in Kenya. Sometimes, the affected individual doesn’t know in advance about the planned marriage, but once they arrive in the country, their passport and money may be taken to prevent them from returning to Canada.

While both men and women can experience forced marriages, this is most often a form of violence that affects women and girls.

Forced to travel and remain abroad

Some Canadians have reported being forced to travel to or remain in Kenya against their will. Once abroad, family members have confiscated the person’s passport and cellphone and withheld money to prevent them from returning to Canada. In some cases, family members have used deception or coercion to admit individuals and forcibly confine them in certain facilities claiming to offer medical, religious, or cultural "rehabilitation" services. These facilities may operate with little or no licensing or oversight, and incidents of abuse have been reported.

If you’re in Canada

If you’re in Canada and believe that you’re being forced to travel to Kenya to marry and/or to be left abroad against your will, you may want to consider the following safety measures:

• try to avoid or delay your travel
• share your concerns and travel details with a trusted person, such a teacher, counselor, friend or neighbour who can help you find support
• maintain control over your passport and other important documents
• contact your local police for immediate assistance

If you’re in Kenya

If you’re in Kenya and believe that you’re being forced to marry or are being kept abroad against your will and prevented from returning to Canada:

• contact the nearest office of the Government of Canada
• contact the 24/7 Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Forced marriage

2SLGBTQI+ persons

Kenyan law prohibits sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. Those convicted face up to 14 years of imprisonment and possibly a fine.

Even though there are few convictions, 2SLGBTQI+ persons are frequently subjected to physical and verbal harassment by both the local population and authorities.

Security forces sometimes carry out arbitrary arrests and searches based on sexual orientation or gender identity. Interventions include:

• detentions
• interrogations
• alleged physical abuse

In some cases, 2SLGBTQI+ persons have been lured through online dating apps and then robbed, assaulted or extorted.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Kenya.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Roads

Road safety

There are major road safety issues in Kenya. Fatal accidents are common, particularly on the Mombasa Highway. Pedestrians are often involved in accidents. Police and emergency services assistance is limited in rural areas.

Road conditions

Road conditions vary throughout the country and at different times of the year. Major highways are generally in good condition, but minor roads are poorly maintained. Driving conditions may be hazardous during heavy rains. A four-wheel-drive vehicle may be necessary to travel outside cities, off major highways and during the rainy season.

Roads are poorly maintained and can be dangerous due to:

• potholes
• stray animals
• numerous motorcycles and bicycles
• lack of traffic signs
• pedestrians on the road
• insufficient lighting
• vehicles not using their headlights

Driving habits

Drivers often disregard traffic laws and speeding is common. Pedestrians and other drivers’ rights of way are not respected. Drivers often don’t stop at traffic lights, making intersections very prone to accidents. Drinking and driving is common, particularly at night.

Traffic accidents can quickly draw large and sometimes hostile crowds. Remain calm if there is a dispute, particularly in a public place. If threatened by a large crowd, seek direct intervention from the local police.

If you choose to drive in Kenya:

• always drive defensively
• avoid driving after dark outside of urban centres
• always keep doors and windows closed and locked 
• consider using a four-wheel-drive vehicle outside urban centres
• fill your gas tank before you travel
• during the rainy season, confirm with local authorities that the chosen route is passable

Checkpoints

Police checkpoints are common throughout the country, particularly in major cities and border areas.

• Be prepared to show your identification
• Follow the instructions of the police
• Remain calm and courteous

Travelling to remote areas

Visitors travelling overland to certain game parks and reserves have been attacked by armed criminals. Attacks have taken place between:

• Malindi and Lamu
• Nairobi and the Amboseli, Masai Mara, Nakuru and Tsavo game parks/reserves
• Nairobi and the Mount Kenya/Aberdare area

Public transportation

Public transportation services are limited and unsafe.

Buses

Buses, including inter-city buses and mini-buses, locally known as “matatus”, are unsafe, overcrowded and frequently involved in fatal accidents. Incidents of assaults and thefts are common, particularly after dark.

Taxis and ridesharing services

Taxi availability may be limited outside city centres.

• Avoid using motorcycle taxis, locally known as “piki piki” or “boda boda” or three-wheel taxis, “tuk tuks”, as they are frequently involved in accidents
• Use only licensed taxis selected by a reputable hotel or restaurant, or one located at an official taxi stand
• Never share a taxi with strangers
• Make sure the driver doesn’t pick up other passengers along the way to your destination
• Always ask for identification before accepting transportation and check that the driver’s ID matches the name of the car registration and taxi licence
• Ask the driver to start the meter or negotiate the fare in advance
• Have small bills ready for payment

Rideshare services are available.

• Use a trusted ridesharing app
• Confirm the driver’s identity and the licence plate before getting in the car
• Do not share your ride with another person
• Use a security feature to share your ride status with a contact

Rail

The Madaraka Express Railway line between Nairobi and Mombasa is reliable and well-maintained. Other passenger train lines are very limited, unsafe and are routinely late.

Marine transportation

The Likoni Ferry, linking Mombasa to Likoni, should be avoided due to a combination of petty crime, overcrowding, poor maintenance and lack of safety equipment and security measures.

If you still choose to travel by ferry:

• make sure the vessel you are boarding is carrying appropriate safety equipment and that life jackets are provided for all passengers and accessible at all times
• don’t board vessels that appear overloaded or unseaworthy
• avoid using water transportation during bad weather conditions

Local assistance

The Kenya Tourism Federation operates a 24-hour Safety and Communication Centre, which provides information on tourism and road conditions, and has information about regional assistance in an emergency.

Safety and Communication Centre – Kenya Tourism Federation

Piracy

Pirate attacks and armed robberies against ships occur in coastal waters. Mariners should take appropriate precautions.

Live piracy report – International Maritime Bureau

Air travel

We don't make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Entry and exit requirements

The authorities of a country or territory decide who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from Kenyan authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.

Passport

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you're travelling with.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country's entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into Kenya.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, verify this information with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

You should also be aware that current systems used by some countries and travel companies may not recognize the “X” gender identifier. You may still be asked to provide your sex/gender information as either male or female when travelling.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, verify this information with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics
• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports and other travel documents

Visas

Tourist visa: not required, however you must apply for an eTA
Transit visa: not required
Business visa: required
Student visa: required
Work permit: required

Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA)

You must obtain your visa or eTA online prior to your departure. Make sure you are using the official Kenya eTA website for your application to avoid potential fraud and that the dates match the duration of your planned stay in Kenya. You do not need an eTA if you are transiting through an airport in Kenya without passing border control.

Extension of stay

To stay in Kenya beyond your authorized period, apply for an extension at a Kenyan immigration office in person. The extension must be requested before your eTA or visa expires. Overstaying can result in fines, arrest, imprisonment or deportation.

Useful links

Apply for an eTA – Government of Kenya

Work Permits

It is illegal to perform any type of work, including volunteering, on a tourist visa. To work or volunteer in Kenya, you must have a valid work permit, which you are required to carry at all times, along with valid identification. Convicted offenders could face heavy fines, jail sentences of up to five years and deportation.

Apply for a work permit – Kenyan Department of Immigration Services

Children and travel

Learn about travelling with children.

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

The Kenyan authorities regularly carry out spot checks for proof of yellow fever vaccinations. Carry a copy of your proof of vaccination with you at all times.

Health

Routine vaccines

Make sure your routine vaccinations are up-to-date before you travel, no matter where you’re going.

These may include vaccines for measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), polio, varicella (chickenpox), meningococcal disease, seasonal flu, and others.

Provincial and Territorial Immunization Information

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

When travelling in this destination, you might be at risk for diseases that can be prevented with vaccines or medications. Talk to a travel health care provider about which ones are right for you based on your travel plans.

The highlights below will also tell you if your destination may require that vaccine for entering or exiting.

Safe food and water precautions

Eating or drinking unsafe food or water, or swimming in contaminated water can make you sick while travelling. Take precautions by following these tips:

• Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it (only eat food that is prepared safely)
• Avoid, if possible, getting water in your eyes, mouth, or nose when swimming in freshwater (like streams, lakes, or canals), especially after heavy rain or flooding - the water might look clean but can still be contaminated 
• Don’t swallow water when bathing, showering, swimming in pools, or using hot tubs 

Eat and drink safely abroad

Tick and insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by bites from infected ticks and insects like mosquitoes, fleas, or flies. Before you travel, find out what types of ticks or insects are in the area, when they’re most active, and what diseases they can spread.

To protect yourself from bites:

• use an approved bug spray (insect repellent) on exposed skin
• wear light-coloured, loose clothing made of tightly woven materials like nylon or polyester
• wear socks and closed-toe shoes
• sleep under mosquito netting if you’re outdoors or staying in places that aren’t fully enclosed
• do a full body tick check on yourself, your children, your gear, and any pets you’re travelling with when you return from outdoor activities

Insect bite and pest prevention
Personal insect repellents

Animal precautions

Some infections can spread directly from animals to people, like rabies or bird flu (avian influenza). Others don’t spread directly from animals but can infect people who visit areas animals have contaminated with their droppings or body fluids.

Certain activities can increase your chances of coming into contact with animals, their droppings, or their body fluids, like:

• travelling in rural or forested areas
• camping, hiking, or visiting caves
• visiting places where live animals are sold or killed for food, like wet markets

To reduce your risk of getting sick:

• avoid contact with animals like stray dogs, livestock (such as pigs and cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats.
• stay away from places where animal waste can build up, such as caves
• avoid eating undercooked meat

Make sure to closely watch children; they are more likely to try to touch animals.

Person-to-person infections

When travelling, you can reduce your risk of getting or spreading respiratory infections, like the flu or COVID-19, by:

• staying at your accommodation and limiting contact with others if you’re sick
• wearing a well-fitting mask, especially: 
  
  • if you’re sick and need to be around others 
  • when you’re at large indoor events or in crowded settings, like sporting events, concerts, and airports
• cleaning your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or using hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol
• covering your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow, not your hands

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Clean your hands to help reduce the spread of infectious diseases
Respiratory infectious diseases: How to reduce the spread with personal protective measures

To lower your risk of getting sexually transmissible infections (STIs), HIV, and mpox, you can:

• get vaccinated against mpox if you’re eligible
• practise safer sex methods
  • use barrier protection during sexual activity, like condoms and dental dams.

Mpox vaccines
Sexual health and travel
HIV and AIDS: Travel health advice

Medical services and facilities

Good medical facilities are available in Nairobi, but health care standards in other parts of the country vary and can be very limited.

Medical facilities may require proof of insurance or up-front payment before starting treatment.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

Laws and culture

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.

Drugs

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect heavy fines and jail sentences from 10 years to life imprisonment. You could also face fines and jail time if you are convicted of being in a location where there are illegal drugs, even if they are not yours.

• Pack your own luggage and monitor it closely at all times
• Never transport other people’s packages, bags or suitcases

Alcohol

There are strict restrictions on the sale of alcoholic beverages and on consuming alcohol in public places.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Identification

Police and immigration officials may request to see your identification, residence permit or valid visa at any time.

• Always carry valid identification, a residence permit or a visa
• Keep a photocopy of your passport in a safe place in case it’s lost or seized
• Keep a digital copy of your identification and travel documents 

Smoking

Smoking, including the use of shishas and e-cigarettes, is prohibited in all public places. Offenders could face heavy fines or a jail sentence.

Photography

Photography of sensitive installations is prohibited. This includes:

• military sites
• government buildings
• foreign embassies and missions, including the Canadian High Commission
• airports and harbours

Seek permission before taking photos of individuals. 

Illegal and restricted items

Wildlife items

Possession of ivory or other banned wildlife items, even if purchased outside of Kenya, is strictly prohibited. Killing, buying, selling or trading any protected wild animal or any of its parts is illegal. Offenders can be arrested and given lengthy prison sentences and heavy fines.

Plastic bags ban

The use, manufacture or importation of plastic bags, including garbage bags and shopping bags, is illegal. Convicted offenders, including tourists, can face very heavy fines (up to USD 40,000), up to two years of imprisonment, or both.

Drones

The recreational and commercial flying of drones is strictly regulated.

You must seek permission from the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority before your arrival. If you don't comply, you may be fined and your drone may be confiscated.

Drone regulations – Kenya Civil Aviation Authority

Firearms

To carry firearms, you must obtain permission from local authorities prior to entering the country. Firearms are strictly forbidden in wildlife reserves and national parks.

Pornographic material

Possession of pornographic material is forbidden.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Kenya.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Kenya, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.

Dual citizens

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Kenya.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Kenya by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Kenya to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

Useful links

• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• Children and travel
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

Driving

You can drive in Kenya with a Canadian driver's licence for up to 90 days from your date of entry. The licence must be in English otherwise a certified translation is required.

An International Driving Permit is accepted, if presented alongside your original Canadian licence.

International Driving Permit

Traffic violation

If a police officer asks you to pay a fine on the spot for a traffic violation, ask for a written copy of the fine, which can be paid later, or insist on going to the nearest police station.

Dress and behaviour

To avoid offending local sensitivities, particularly in the coastal region where Islamic beliefs are influential:

• dress conservatively
• behave discreetly
• respect religious and social traditions

Ramadan

In 2027, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around February 7.

In public, between sunrise and sunset, be discreet when:

• drinking
• eating
• smoking

Money

The currency of Kenya is the Kenyan shilling (KES).

Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities and popular tourist destinations, but not in remote locations. ATMs are widely available in cities. You can exchange currency at banks, hotels, exchange bureaus or at the airport.

M-PESA is a common form of electronic funds transfer accepted across Kenya, including at national parks. National parks do not accept cash and generally accept credit cards, but at times, due to technical difficulties, only payment via M-PESA is accepted.

Amounts exceeding the equivalent of USD 10 000 must be declared to customs upon both arrival and departure.

More information about M-PESA

Natural disasters and climate

Climate change

Climate change is affecting Kenya. Extreme and unusual weather events are becoming more frequent and may affect your travel plans. Monitor local media for the latest information.

Rainy seasons and droughts

Drought mainly affects the eastern, northeastern and coastal areas, as well as parts of the Rift Valley.

The two rainy seasons usually extend from October to November, and then again from March to mid-June. This can vary from year to year due to climate change. Seasonal flooding, including flash flooding and mudslides, can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services, even in large cities. Roads may become impassable due to flash floods, mudslides and landslides. Infrastructure may be damaged.

• monitor local media for the latest information, including on road conditions
• stay away from flooded areas
• monitor weather reports
• follow the advice of local authorities, including evacuation orders

Volcanoes and earthquakes

Kenya is in an active seismic zone. While there have not been any recent incidents, earthquakes and volcanic activity may occur.