The US Embassy in Kenya has issued a travel advisory urging American citizens to take precautions when visiting the country. The advisory, dated March 18, 2025, highlights concerns related to crime, terrorism, and kidnapping.
“Violent crimes, such as armed carjackings, muggings, home invasions, and kidnappings, can occur at any time. Local police may not always be able to respond effectively to serious crimes or terrorist incidents. Emergency medical and fire services are limited. We advise against traveling after dark due to safety concerns, crime, and poor traffic conditions,” the advisory states.
The Embassy specifically warned against travel to Kenya’s counties bordering Somalia, including Garissa, Wajir, and Mandera, as well as coastal areas like Malindi, citing heightened risks of terrorism and kidnapping. Additionally, the advisory cautioned against travel to West Pokot county due to banditry, and to Turkana and Marsabit counties within 50 kilometers of the Ethiopian border due to cross-border incursions.
US citizens planning to travel to Kenya are advised to take extra precautions. Recommendations include remaining vigilant in popular tourist areas, avoiding resistance during robbery attempts, monitoring local media for updates, and having contingency plans for an emergency departure.
This latest advisory follows a previous warning issued by the US Embassy in September 2024, urging Americans to remain alert to the potential risk of attacks in Kenya.
