Kenya Travel Insurance Plans

In this article:

• Kenya Travel Insurance Plans
• Kenya Travel Tips and Safety Information
• Other Kenya FAQs

A travel insurance plan isn’t required for entry to Kenya; however, it is highly recommended to have medical expense coverage when traveling internationally since many U.S. healthcare plans may not provide international coverage. Depending on where you are traveling in Kenya, it may take a bit of traveling to get to medical care, so having medical evacuation coverage is also a good idea. Additionally, a travel insurance plan can give you a variety of other coverages, which may include Baggage Delay, Trip Interruption, Trip Cancellation and more to help protect your travel investment.

Travel Guard’s Deluxe Plan is a great option for travelers visiting Kenya since it has the highest benefit limits for most coverages, including medical expense coverage which can be essential in helping protect your travel investment. If you're traveling with any expensive gear (like camera gear to capture those once in a lifetime shots) higher Baggage Coverage limits could come in handy. Other popular coverages include Missed Connection, Emergency Evacuation and Trip Cancellation. Finally, all of our travel insurance plans come with access to Travel Guard’s 24-hour emergency travel assistance, so you don’t have to deal with unexpected events on your own.

A travel insurance plan usually costs between 5-7% of the total price of your trip. Several factors come into play when it comes to pricing your plan, which may include the product you choose and the number of travelers in your party. For more details on pricing, check out our article on how much travel insurance costs.

To help ensure travelers to Kenya are as safe and informed as possible, Travel Guard has compiled some popular questions asked by tourists visiting the country.

For the latest information related to COVID-19 travel requirements for Kenya, please visit the official U.S. Embassy website for Kenya.

Kenya offers unforgettable adventures with stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife and rich culture. However, it's crucial to be aware of safety concerns before you go. The country faces security challenges, including terrorism threats, and it is important to research specific destinations to understand the risks. Travelers should stay informed about the current situation and follow any government advisories. 

Crime rates are relatively high in Kenya, with incidents of petty theft, pickpocketing and scams targeting visitors. Violent crimes such as armed robbery and carjacking can also occur, especially in urban areas. It is advisable to remain vigilant, avoid carrying valuables and keep phones stowed away. Traveling after dark should be limited to the extent possible, and visitors should only use ATMs in secure locations such as inside banks and major hotels. 

With respect to transportation, incidents of robbery and assault have been reported on public transportation and unlicensed taxis. It is recommended to pre-book transportation through reputable taxi services or other trusted service providers. Travelers should not hail cabs on the street. Road safety can be a concern, so sticking to main roads and traveling with a trusted guide can enhance security. 

In addition to crime considerations, travelers should be aware of the potential for protests and demonstrations, which can lead to transportation disruptions and escalate into violence. Visitors should monitor local news and avoid large gatherings. 

For those exploring Kenya's natural wonders or engaging in adventurous activities like safaris, booking with reputable tour operators in advance of travel is recommended. Medical facilities in remote areas may be limited, so travelers should also pack extra medications and have an emergency plan in place. Traveling during daylight hours, keeping doors locked and windows up and staying on designated paths can also help with safety. It is also advised to carry copies of important documents and be prepared for authorities to request identification. 

Kenya is prone to natural disasters such as droughts and flash flooding. Travelers should be aware of potential risks and travel disruptions associated with planned activities and should follow any guidance issued by local authorities. 

All U.S. travelers should consider enrollment in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), a free service offered to U.S. citizens traveling and living abroad. Enrolling in this program allows you to receive important information from the embassy as well as helps the embassy contact you in an emergency. 

The official currency of Kenya is the Kenyan Shilling which can be exchanged from U.S. dollars at a local bank before departure, an airport exchange kiosk or an ATM once you arrive. Debit and credit cards are accepted in major cities, though smaller towns and vendors may only accept cash. Finally, if using your credit or debit cards, let your bank know of your travel plans to help avoid interruption in accessing your finances.

The official languages of Kenya are Swahili and English, which means you can find English speakers throughout the country. It is still a good idea to learn common sayings and phrases or download a translation app that works offline to avoid confusion.

Yes, tourists visiting Kenya require a visa in addition to a passport that is valid six months past your arrival and two blank pages for your entry and exit stamps.

The U.S. Embassy in Kenya is located in Nairobi. Visit the official U.S. Embassy government website for a list of up-to-date phone numbers and addresses.

Kenya has little variation between seasons with a hot, dry season from October to March. February and March have the highest temperatures. Kenya sees a cooler, wet season from April to November with July to August being the coolest with temperatures in the mid-60s.

The best times of year to visit Kenya are from January to February and from July to October since these are typically the driest time of year, though the latter is an ideal time to go for a safari. For better deals and less crowds, consider traveling during the months of October, November and December for the country’s shoulder season where some rainfall can be expected.

The dial code for Kenya +254, when calling from the U.S. remember to use the exit code of +011, followed by the area code and seven-digit number of the caller you’re trying to reach. To call home from Kenya, use the U.S. dial code of +1 followed by the 10-digit number you’re contacting. Be sure to contact your phone provider before departure to help avoid service interruptions and unwanted fees during your trip.

Kenya uses a higher voltage than the U.S., which means you’ll need a transformer to be able to use your devices. Additionally, an adaptor is needed to connect your electronics to the wall plug, we recommend a universal adaptor that can be used on other trips in the future.

A Yellow Fever vaccination is required for travelers who are under one year of age; however, there are several recommendations from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Visit the official CDC website for an up-to-date list of information.

Kenya is a great destination for families, though be sure to check any age restrictions for safaris and other activities you may be planning.

Travel Guard offers comprehensive and customizable travel insurance plans for travelers visiting Kenya. With excellent coverage and specialized emergency travel assistance representatives ready to help you at any time, Travel Guard is there for you. Compare our popular plans and find the best one for you!