The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) advise against all but essential travel to:
- Mombasa island and within 5km of the coast from Mtwapa creek in the north down to and including Tiwi in the south (this area does not include Diani or Moi international airport)
- Areas within 60km of the Kenya-Somali border
- Kiwayu and coastal areas north of Pate Island
- Garissa District
- The Eastleigh area of Nairobi
- Low income areas of Nairobi, including all township or slum areas
If you’re currently in an area to which the FCO advise against all but essential travel, you should consider whether you have an essential reason to remain. If not, you should leave the area. See Terrorism and Local travel
There is a high threat from terrorism, including kidnapping. The main threat comes from extremists linked to Al Shabaab, a militant group that has carried out attacks in Kenya in response to Kenya’s military intervention in Somalia. There has been a spate of small-scale grenade, bomb and armed attacks in Nairobi (especially the area of Eastleigh), Mombasa, and North Eastern Province. See Terrorism
You should take care in public places where people gather, and exercise a heightened level of vigilance. Monitor local and international media and keep up to date with this travel advice by subscribing to email alerts.
The death on 1 April of a prominent cleric in Mombasa has led to unrest and increased tension in the area. There is a possibility of further disturbances in the Mombasa area, particularly on Fridays after prayers. You should follow the local news, remain vigilant at all times, and avoid demonstrations and large crowds.
There are frequent incidents of violent crime including mugging, armed robbery and carjacking, particularly in the large cities. See Crime
There is a threat of piracy in the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean. See Sea travel
185,967 British nationals visited Kenya in 2012. Most visits are trouble-free.
The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.
Take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before you travel.
© Foreign Office
