Currently, Certificates of inoculation against Yellow Fever and Cholera are not required for all travelers from the East African Community Partner States, Europe, Asia, North America, Australia, North and South America except from visitors arriving from countries where these diseases are endemic. However, valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificates are required for all travellers over 1 year old, arriving from Yellow Fever endemic countries mainly in central and West Africa, South and Central America, South East Asia, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh. Vaccinations for international travellers are obtainable from all international air and sea ports, cities and major municipal councils.  

Note: Yellow Fever Certificate is valid 10 days after vaccination.

Since rules concerning disease prevention change from time to time, a check should be made at the Kenya Embassy or any airline flying scheduled services into Kenya. Malaria is endemic to most parts of Kenya and intending visitors are strongly advised to take anti-malarial tablets before, during and after their visit. The visitors to Kenya are also advised to take various preventable actions including use of insect repellant after dusk, wearing suitable cover-up clothes in the evenings to avoid bites from mosquitoes and sleeping in beds with insecticide-treated nets (ITNs).

The Equatorial sun in Kenya can be deceptive and can inflict severe sun-burns even on overcast days. Precautions against over-exposure to the sun are advised particularly at the Kenyan coast where reflection from the water and pearly white sands increases the sun’s intensity. There is also a risk of sunburn on Kenya’s Mountain ranges, at heights above 3,200 meters above Sea-level. At very high altitudes, climbers are also advised to be aware of the dangers of Pulmonary Oedema.

Outside Nairobi and Mombasa, drinking water from the tap may be considered risky. Where the water supply is unreliable, hotels and Lodges usually provide safe water in a thermos flask or jugs in their guests’ rooms. Bottled mineral water is available in almost all hotels in Kenya. Bilharzia is sometimes present in some lakes and rivers in Kenya. Therefore, bathing in such places may be avoided. 

From the above, the Embassy therefore strongly recommends that visitors to Kenya ensure that they have up-to-date insurance cover when travelling.