Is Nairobi safe to visit right now? (November 2026)

Travel advisories for Kenya

What the advice says

• The US State Department advisory for Kenya is Level 3 - Reconsider Travel, dated 2026-10-19; this is a country-level advisory and not specific to Nairobi.
• The UK FCDO, last updated October 30, 2026, states there is a high threat of terrorist attack in Kenya, with Al Shabaab, an Al Qaida-affiliated group, as the main source of concern; attacks could target hotels, bars, restaurants, shopping centers, and other places visited by foreigners, so travelers should stay alert in these settings.
• The FCDO also warns of a high threat of terrorist kidnapping across Kenya, with westerners, including tourists and business travelers, seen as potential targets; this risk is noted as higher in counties bordering Somalia and coastal areas.
• Protests, demonstrations, and strikes are described as common in Kenya, particularly in Nairobi, and have led to injuries and deaths in recent years; solo travelers should avoid political gatherings and large crowds and monitor local media for updates.
• The FCDO notes frequent violent crime, including mugging, armed robbery, and carjacking, with higher risk in parts of Nairobi such as Eastleigh, the Central Business District, and the Mathare and Kibera areas; walking alone in isolated areas, even in daylight, is discouraged.
• The text warns of scams involving people posing as police or security officers to seize valuables and passports, so always ask for identification, and it advises against accepting drinks or food from strangers due to the risk of drink or food spiking.
• For solo travelers and after-dark situations generally, it is wise to keep others informed of your whereabouts, avoid displaying cash or valuable items, keep vehicle doors locked and windows closed while driving, and avoid travel at night when possible, consistent with the vehicle crime guidance in the FCDO text.