Entry & Exit Requirements
U.S. citizens must have a valid passport to enter Kenya. Passports must be valid for at least six months after the date of entry and have at least two blank pages available.
A tourist visa is also required for entry. The visa application and payment must be submitted online prior to travel. Visit https://evisa.go.ke/evisa.html to complete the visa application. Once you receive your approval via email, you must download and print the eVisa and carry it with you when you travel. Visas cannot be obtained upon arrival at the airport in Nairobi or via the Kenyan Embassy or consulates. The visa fee is USD $50 for a single-entry visa and USD $100 for a multiple-entry visa. These fees are subject to change at any time.
If you are not traveling with a U.S. passport, please check with the Kenyan Embassy for the requirements based on your nationality.
According to the U.S. State Department, travelers should have proof of yellow fever immunizations or risk being denied entry into the country.
Health Information
IMMUNIZATIONS
The Centers for Disease Control recommends that all travelers be up to date on routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus vaccine, varicella (chicken pox) vaccine, and your yearly flu shot before every trip.
Yellow fever is a risk in much of Kenya, and the CDC recommends yellow fever vaccination for most travelers. Furthermore, according to the U.S. State Department, travelers without proof of yellow fever immunization may risk being denied entry into the country.
Though not required for entry, the CDC also recommends inoculation against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid for most unvaccinated travelers to Kenya.
Meningitis can be a risk during the dry season (December-July). If you are traveling during these months, your physician may recommend a meningitis vaccine.
Please consult your physician for additional information and recommendations based on your individual circumstances.
MALARIA
The CDC warns that travelers to Kenya may be at risk for exposure to malaria. Malaria is caused by a parasite found in Anopheles mosquitos, which are active from dusk until dawn. Prevention is twofold: the use of anti-malarial drugs and the prevention of insect bites. If you choose to use an anti-malarial drug, as recommended by the CDC, see your physician for a prescription.
OTHER INSECT-BORNE ILLNESSES
In addition to malaria, the CDC warns that travelers may be at risk for other illnesses transmitted by mosquitos, ticks, or sand flies, such as dengue fever, chikungunya, African tick-bite fever, and others. Travelers are advised to protect themselves against insect bites. Cover exposed skin with lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants, consider treating clothes with permethrin, and use an insect repellent containing an active ingredient like DEET or picaridin. Apply sunscreen first, followed by the repellent (preferably 20 minutes later).
After spending time outdoors, especially in grassy or wooded areas, the CDC recommends showering and conducting a full-body check for ticks. If you find a tick attached to your skin, safely remove it as soon as possible.
WILDLIFE
Follow all instructions from your guides regarding wildlife. Animals may become aggressive to protect themselves, their young or their mates, or to guard a food supply. Do not make sudden movements either toward or away from them, as this may be interpreted as threatening or territorial. Avoid stray dogs, as they may carry rabies. In the unlikely event of being bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal, clean the wound and control bleeding. Seek medical attention immediately.
SUN EXPOSURE
The effects of the sun can be damaging to the eyes and skin. Spending time outdoors exposes you to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, even on cloudy days. To protect yourself from the sun, use a broad spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 15, protect skin with clothing, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and drink plenty of fluids.