How safe is it to travel to Nairobi, Kenya?

Nairobi is a fairly safe place for travelers wishing to spend their safari holidays in Kenya. Nairobi is recognized as a tourism center, with a higher number of people visiting for safaris and holidays than other East African countries. Many areas in and around Nairobi offer a secure and comfortable environment, with most venues being well-guarded by government and security forces.

While Nairobi has experienced two terrorism-related incidents in the past, it remains a safe city for tourists.

Nairobi is noted for having most international headquarters, including the famed UN buildings, several diplomatic offices, and other well-known international institutions, making it safer to stay in Nairobi.

Safety Tips for traveling to Nairobi

As an individual traveling to Nairobi either for a safari or a business holiday, here are some of the general safety tips to observe.

While in Nairobi, make it a point to use a recognized cab, such as Yellow Cab Nairobi, and avoid accepting rides from strangers.
Avoid moving alone in lonely situations, such as deserted streets at night; instead, always move in groups or with a guide if feasible.
Avoid smoking in public; most sections of Nairobi have stringent smoking bans. So, if you smoke, be sure to do so in the approved smoking places both inside and outside the facility.
In Nairobi, avoid high-risk areas such as Kibera unless you are traveling with a trusted guide, driver or hotel staff.
Be aware of common tourist scams in Nairobi, which are operated by unregistered guides and thieves disguised as police officers.