Is it safe to travel to Nairobi? | Natural World Kenya Safaris

Written by: Felix Abel, Local Expert

A gateway city for travelers going on a Kenya safari, Kenya’s capital city of Nairobi is known for its cozy cafes, unique shopping, and sites like the Karen Blixen Museum, Giraffe Manor, and the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust nursery for orphaned elephants.

Unfortunately, Nairobi doesn’t have a great reputation when it comes to crime and safety mainly as a result of Kenya’s poverty and a lack of security resources. Many government travel advisories also warn travelers of the threat of terrorist attacks. However, there are steps every first-time visitor to Kenya’s capital city can take to avoid risk and remain safe while on vacation.

Is it safe to walk around Nairobi?

It is generally safe to walk around Nairobi during daylight hours in the city’s better neighborhoods. However, it is strongly recommended to travel around with a local guide. Certain areas such as Kibera, Eastleigh, and the entire Kamukunji area, east of the city center can be dangerous, and a guide will steer clear of these areas when you visit Nairobi.

Unfortunately, violent crime and incidents such as muggings, carjackings, and armed robberies do occur in Nairobi, so listen to the recommendations of your guide. Nairobi Central and City Square as far east as Moi Avenue are bustling with Kenyans and expats and safe by day and well-lit and policed in the evening. But, it is best not to go alone at night. As you would in any city around the world, use common sense and walk like you know where you’re going. Kenyans are for the most part very friendly, but you must be aware of your surroundings.

Uhuru Park, Nairobi Kenya

Is Nairobi safe for LGBTQ travelers?

Homosexual acts were outlawed in Kenya during British colonial rule and those laws have remained, post-independence. However, same sex couples can move about freely in Nairobi if they are discreet and avoid public displays of affection while they walk down the street.

Sadly, homophobia is common in Kenya and you could encounter this if you visit Nairobi. Crimes such as harassment and kidnapping have occurred so be prudent, stay aware of your surroundings, and know that many LGBTQ+ people travel safely around when they visit Nairobi.

Is Nairobi safe for solo travelers?

Jomo Kenyatta International Conference Centre, Nairobi Kenya

Visiting Nairobi is generally safe for most people when they use common sense, even those traveling alone. However, it is highly recommended that you hire a guide if it is within your budget. Given that Nairobi is an emerging business travel hub, solo travel is becoming more common with visitors from around the world. Stick to well-populated areas while venturing out and do not travel alone at night. It’s also best to take a taxi instead of using public transportation, where you could get lost.

While there is a certain level of risk for solo travelers in Nairobi, it can be experienced safely as long as a few common sense tips are followed.

Nairobi safety tips

1. When hiring a taxi, do so through your hotel concierge or a trusted tour guide. Check that you are using a taxi that is registered. Ask to see registration if it’s not visible within the car.
2. Do not, under any circumstance, accept rides from strangers.
3. Do not walk the streets alone, especially at night; walk with a group if you can.
4. While locals tend to be friendly and helpful, sexual assault against women is still a risk, as is true anywhere in the world. Hence, it’s highly advisable for females especially not to travel alone.
5. When exchanging currency, do so at a reputable bank or hotel and not with strangers. Do not flaunt your money in public.
6. Keep valuables such as cameras and wallets close to your person. Carry passport and credit cards separately from your wallet, preferably in a hidden money belt. If you do get mugged, do not resist.
7. Leave gaudy jewelry and other valuables at home; this can draw attention while out walking.
8. If you need to access Google Maps on your phone, step into a storefront or hotel to use your phone.
9. Prior to departure, get a prescription for malaria pills from your doctor if you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors.
10. Purchase travel insurance.
11. Do a news check for travel advisories from the government of the country in which you live before departure.
12. Read up on recent articles on political climate and international relations from reliable news sources prior to your trip.
13. Avoid dangerous neighborhoods such as Kibera unless you are traveling with a trusted guide or on a reputable, guided walking tour.
14. If you must travel during rush hour between 6 a.m. and 9 a.m. and between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m., plan your travel times accordingly as it will take longer due to heavy traffic.
15. Be wary of unregistered tour guides, thieves impersonating police officers, and pickpocket scams. Incidents related to all three do occur in Nairobi.

Parliament Buildings, Nairobi Kenya

Important Nairobi safety resources

In case of emergency, U.S. citizens traveling in Nairobi or anywhere else in Kenya can contact the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi at the following numbers and e-mail address:

• American Citizen Services Unit
• U.S. Citizens with emergencies, please call: 254-20-3636451
• U.S. Citizens with emergencies after office hours, call: 254-20-3636000
• Email: Kenya_ACS@state.gov
• If you’re a British national traveling in Nairobi or anywhere else in Kenya with an emergency, call the British High Commission in Nairobi on +254 (0) 20 2873000 or +254 (0) 20 2844000.

Other important resources for tourists in Nairobi:

Kenya Police. 999; www.kenyapolice.go.ke

AMREF Flying Doctors. 020/699–2299; 020/600–0090; www.flydoc.org

The Flying Doctors Service provides air evacuation services for medical emergencies anywhere within a 621 miles (1,000 km) radius of Nairobi.