Travel Advisory - Kenya

Updated 25th November 2011 18:06

- We advise against all but essential travel to coastal areas within 150km of the Somali border, due to the threat of kidnapping.  This includes the Lamu area.  There were two attacks by armed gangs in small boats against beach resorts in this area on 11 September and 1 October 2011.

- We advise against all but essential travel within 60km of the Somali border inland from the coastal strip and to the Garissa district, due to continuing instability in these areas.

- There is a high threat from terrorism in Kenya.  Attacks could be indiscriminate, and could be aimed at Kenyan institutions and places where expatriates and foreign travellers gather, such as hotels, shopping districts and beaches.

- Following Kenyan military intervention in Somalia, the Kenyan authorities have increased security to counter potential reprisal attacks. We advise extra vigilance in public places and at forthcoming public events.

- There is a high threat of kidnapping in the areas to which we advise against all but essential travel. Westerners have previously been the target of kidnaps and further attacks are likely. See Safety and Security - Terrorism.

- Piracy is a significant threat in the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean, especially for shipping which does not take appropriate precautions or follow agreed shipping industry best practice guidelines. On 23 October 2009, two British nationals were taken hostage while sailing in the Indian Ocean. They were approximately 60 nautical miles from the Seychelles' main island of Mahé. Since this incident occurred, other nationals have been taken from yachts. See Safety and Security - Sea Travel .

- We advise against all but essential travel to low income areas of Nairobi, including all township or slum areas, which experience high crime levels.  See Safety and Security - Crime.

- Large public gatherings and demonstrations occur from time to time in Kenya and these should be avoided.  Any rally, even if advertised as peaceful, could potentially turn violent. You should check local media reports for information about any planned demonstrations.

- 174,051 British nationals visited Kenya in 2010 (Source: Kenya Tourist Board). 81 British nationals required consular assistance in Kenya in the period 01 April 2010 - 31 March 2011. See General - Consular Assistance Statistics.

- You should take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. See General - Insurance.