Safety and Security While Traveling in Kenya

Arrival

The safest way to travel from the airport to Nairobi city proper is by shuttle service offered through the hotel.

The potential for carjackings and robberies of tourists travelling to and from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and Nairobi, particularly at night, continues to be of concern. Travellers arriving at JKIA should only use transportation organized by reputable tour companies or well-marked taxis. Currency should not be exchanged in the public areas of the airport.

The mail system can be unreliable, and credit cards and cheques are often stolen. Use international couriers to ship envelopes or packages, and insure all objects of value.

Local Travel

Violent crimes, muggings, carjackings, and house break-ins occur frequently in Nairobi. Travellers should be aware that the Nairobi City Hall has launched an awareness campaign against rape.

Traffic drives on the left. Excessive speeds, unpredictable driving habits, and poorly maintained vehicles pose hazards. Road conditions are poor. Drive with doors locked and windows closed at all times. The road from Nairobi to Mombasa is congested and can be dangerous for tourists unfamiliar with local driving conditions. Visitors should consider air travel. Use only authorized border crossings when travelling by vehicle between Kenya and Tanzania. Public transportation is unsafe. Long-distance buses have been involved in a number of serious accidents. Minibuses (matutus) are generally poorly maintained and recklessly driven. Visitors should only use hotel taxis and confirm the fare in advance. Passenger trains are not safe and are routinely late.

There are normally two rainy seasons in Kenya: from October to November, and from late March to mid-June. Heavy rains can result in flash floods and mudslides. Roads may become impassable during these periods. Travellers should keep informed of regional weather forecasts and plan accordingly.

Medical Care

Standards of medical care may differ from those in Canada. Treatment may be expensive, and payment in advance may be required. Travellers are advised to arrange for medical insurance prior to departure. Prescription medications should be kept in the original container and packed in carry-on luggage.

Visit the World Health Organization website at http://www.who.int/en/ to read the latest updates on diseases and medical care in Africa. Additionally, the Public Health Agency of Canada offers a wealth of information and advice on their Travel Medicine Program website at http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/tmp-pmv/index.html.

Registration Service for Canadians Traveling Abroad

Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada offers a registration service for Canadians travelling or residing abroad. Canadians who choose to travel to the region(s) specified despite this warning should register with the responsible Canadian government office in this country. Registration can be done on-line or by calling the responsible Canadian government office abroad to request a registration form. Canadians visiting other areas of the country for three months or more should also register. Canadians visiting for less than three months are strongly advised to: (a) leave a detailed travel itinerary and contact information with family or friends in Canada; (b) provide family with the emergency number for Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada (1 800 267-6788 or 613-944-6788); and (c) keep the phone number of the responsible Canadian government office on hand.

Visit Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada’s Consular Affairs website at http://www.voyage.gc.ca/dest/ctry/reportpage-en.asp to access important information and assistance for Canadians abroad.

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