Suppose there’s one question we get asked all the time. In that case, it’s this: “Is it safe to travel to Kenya?” or “Is Nairobi safe?” or “What about Kenya tax protests? What is the current situation?”. Some might even joke that you might be eaten alive at the moment you step off the plane. While the jokes are light-hearted, the concerns behind them are real and valid; we had them, too.
In this article, we aim to shed light on the safety of traveling to Kenya, mainly Nairobi and Mombasa, drawing from our experiences living here for six months and current observations.
The US Department of State, for example, states on its website that visitors should “exercise increased caution in Kenya due to crime, terrorism, and civil unrest.” We have not experienced any of that; yes, there was a major attack at a shopping centre in 2013 that killed 71 people, but after that event, security measures in Kenya have been tightened.
There is metal detection and security in every shopping centre, small or big, and in almost every business. For example, when we checked in to JW Marriott, they scanned our bags using airport-style X-ray baggage scanners, and security searched our bags and car, which made us safe.
Our personal experience
In general, our experience in Kenya has been safe and enjoyable. Yes, we heard stories of phone snatching, but considering the bike phone theft pandemic in London, where we came from, we are well-trained in how to take care of our phones. In fact, we consider ourselves experts.
Nairobi, Kenya’s capital, offers a mix of modernity and tradition. neighbourhoods like Kilimani, where we live right now, are generally considered safe, filled with expatriates, cafés, and vibrant nightlife. Of course, like any city, there are areas we avoid, especially at night, such as some parts of Pangani, South C, and Eastleigh. However, these are easily identifiable and avoidable with basic precautions.
For example, during our stay in Kilimani, we felt safe walking around both day and night, visiting local markets, and dining in restaurants. The key is to stay aware of your surroundings, just as you would in any major city around the world.
Recently, we even saw a young white woman jogging at sunset in Kilimani, highlighting the sense of security in the area. I’m writing this article at a coffee shop, and it’s almost 10 pm. Afterward, I will walk with my backpack to our apartment, which is a 15-minute walk.
Yes, horror stories attract the attention of the mass media such as reports of killings in Nairobi recently, where a 33-year-old confessed to killing 42 women, including his wife, since 2022. However, these killings happened in the Mukuru slums.
The Current Political Situation
The political climate in Kenya can be unpredictable, which sometimes raises safety concerns. Recently, there have been riots and isolated attacks in certain areas, often tied to political tensions and protests. These events are usually localized and can be avoided by being informed about current affairs and avoiding hotspots of unrest. For now, protests happen on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Recently, there have been quite a lot of protests against a proposed finance bill that included several tax hikes. These protests, which turned deadly, saw violent clashes in Nairobi and other cities, leading to a high level of unrest. Multiple people were killed, and many more were injured as the situation escalated. During the protests in Mombasa, the restaurant we usually go to, Qaffee Point, was looted a day after our visit by some protesters. They also set several cars on fire.
Friendly and Helpful People
Kenyan people are generally friendly and welcoming. In most places, you’ll find locals willing to help and guide you. Some people have their agendas, but that happens in any place, even London, where we came from. People in Kenya are especially kind and considerate towards children. They are willing to go the extra mile for children to be comfortable, something that we did not observe in London.
For example, during our trip to the Maasai Mara, our interactions with the local Maasai people were enriching. They shared their culture and traditions with us, making our visit both educational and enjoyable. Their hospitality left a lasting impression, reinforcing the notion that the majority of Kenyans are warm and generous people.
Wildlife: No, you will not be eaten by a lion
Kenya is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and wildlife, which are major draws for tourists. The national parks and reserves, like the Maasai Mara, Amboseli, and Tsavo, are well-managed and safe for visitors. Rangers and guides are professional and ensure that safety protocols are followed during safaris, so don’t worry, lions will most likely not eat you.
During our safari in the Maasai Mara, we felt safe and well taken care of. The guides were knowledgeable about the wildlife, providing us with an unforgettable and secure experience.
Health and Hygiene
Kenya has made significant improvements in its healthcare facilities and sanitation standards since our first visit in 2016, especially in urban areas and tourist hotspots. Yes, you will breathe that open sewage, and the pollution will irritate your eyes, but that is the only drawback we have seen so far. Additionally, taking antimalarials and strictly drinking bottled water is advisable.
We will write more in detail about this topic soon.
Conclusion and Our Take
In conclusion, while Kenya has its share of challenges, we felt safe during our travels. The friendly people, stunning natural beauty, and well-maintained tourist attractions make it a worthwhile destination.
Nonetheless, if you are a foreigner moving to Kenya or traveling, we recommend staying more in the western and southern sides of Nairobi, such as Westlands, Lavington, Ngong Road, Karen, Muthaiga, Parklands, Kileleshwa, Kitisuru, Kilimani, Gigiri, Runda, Ridgeways etc.
However, the current political climate does add an element of uncertainty. Staying informed, taking basic precautions, and planning your trip carefully can help ensure a safe and enjoyable visit to Kenya. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a nomad, or a family looking for adventure, Kenya has much to offer, in our opinion.
Yes, corruption does exist, but that is for another article.
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