The safari destination moved from "Exercise Increased Caution" to "Reconsider Travel" over crime, kidnapping, terrorism, unrest and limited medical care. Officials also flagged gold scams and property disputes targeting Americans.
The US State Department has raised its travel advisory for Kenya, one of the world’s best-known safari destinations, and is now telling Americans to think twice before going.
On Monday, the advisory moved from Level 2, "Exercise Increased Caution," to Level 3, "Reconsider Travel." Officials listed health risks, crime, civil unrest, kidnapping, terrorism and dangerous roads among the reasons. The notice also gives blunt advice: "Prepare a will," and "Establish a proof of life protocol with your loved ones."
Where the risks are
Americans are urged to stay away from certain Nairobi neighborhoods and several counties because of crime, kidnapping and terrorism, and from areas near the Ethiopian border because of unrest. Violent crime "can occur at any time," the department says, and petty crime is common nationwide.
Solo travelers are told to be especially careful. The advisory says some Americans have been sexually assaulted in bars, resorts and hotels, and that "local police often are unable to respond effectively to crimes."
Protests can also turn violent. In past demonstrations, protesters have attacked vehicles carrying Americans, including safari trucks and motorcycle taxis.
Scams, land disputes and medical bills
The department warns that Americans are often targeted in investment scams involving gold and other valuable commodities, and that Kenyan authorities are unlikely to help recover the money. "Property disputes are common in Kenya," it adds, noting that Americans who bought land, churches and businesses have lost them or been forced off by locals claiming ownership.
Medical care is limited, especially outside the cities, and some facilities lack basic medicines and equipment. Apart from a few well-equipped private hospitals in major urban centers, officials say, many health problems may require medical evacuation at the traveler’s own expense. Facilities usually refuse treatment unless payment is made upfront.
Visitors are advised to stay alert at tourist sites, keep a low profile and avoid crowds and demonstrations.
Kenya drew about 2.7 million international visitors in 2025, with travelers from the Americas making up 14% of arrivals, according to government tourism figures. The warning follows recent advisories for other popular destinations, including Peru, and cautions for tourists in Brazil about criminals who use bars and dating apps to drug and rob visitors.
Reporting in this story is based on coverage by Fox News, republished by the New York Post. The photographs are stock file images.
