The United States Embassy in Kenya has issued a travel advisory urging US citizens planning to travel to Kenya to exercise caution.
In the advisory dated Tuesday, March 18, 2025, the Embassy cited various concerns including crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping in some parts of the country that have posed safety risks.
“Exercise caution in Kenya due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping. Some areas of the country have a greater risk,” the advisory reads in part.
Highling the high-risk areas, the US Embassy, warned its citizens against travelling to the counties of Garissa, Wajir, Mandera, Tana River, and north of Malindi due to terrorism and kidnapping, additionally West Pokot, Turkana, part of Marsabit because the areas are highly prone of banditry.
In addition, the embassy flagged some parts of Nairobi county including Eastleigh and Kibera as high risk in terms of insecurity.
“Do Not Travel to: Kenya-Somalia border counties (Garissa, Wajir, Mandera), Tana River County, and coastal areas north of Malindi due to terrorism and kidnapping,” the advisory reads in part.
“West Pokot and western Turkana County due to banditry. Parts of Marsabit and Turkana Counties are within 30 miles (50 kilometres) of the Ethiopian border due to cross-border incursions. The Nairobi neighbourhoods of Eastleigh and Kibera due to crime and kidnapping.”
US Embassy on insecurity
According to the advisory, violent crimes such as armed carjackings, muggings, home invasions, and kidnappings can happen at any time. Another key concern raised in the advisory is the growing prevalence of motorcycle crimes.
“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 and terrorist attacks. Emergency medical and fire services are limited. Avoid travelling after dark in Kenya due to crime and poor traffic safety.
“Motorcycle crimes are common, where thieves grab items from victims and quickly flee the scene. Crimes typically occur in crowded areas or when people are distracted. Police have limited ability to respond to these crimes. Handbags, mobile phones, and other easy-to-reach valuables are the most stolen items.”
It further stated that demonstrations which sometimes turn violent are common mostly in the western part of Kenya and the capital city.
“Demonstrations, strikes, and other political and economic protests are common. They block key intersections or highways, resulting in widespread traffic jams. Violence during demonstrations has occurred across the country. This includes rock-throwing and police using deadly force. Political violence is most common in western Kenya and Nairobi,” the advisory reads in part.
Health concerns
The embassy also cautioned travellers about the limitations of medical care in the country, noting that medical facilities in Kenya may not meet the same standards as those in the United States.
“Access to medical care in Kenya may not be on the same level as it is in the United States, and medical facilities may not have adequate medication supplies, especially outside large cities. Medical evacuation insurance valid for travel to Kenya is strongly recommended. Hospitals usually require payment before treatment,” the advisory added.
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