Travel Guidelines (UK Government Website)

All participants should review travel guidelines outlined by the UK before departure.

Rules for Non-Local Participants

• Exercise heightened situational awareness at all times due to the credible threat of militancy; leave the area immediately and notify the security forces if you notice any suspicious behavior.
• Abide by all curfews and security directives. Rates of crime in Kenya are high and pose a significant risk to travelers; remain alert at all times and minimize pedestrian travel (walking is not recommended at any time).
• Use a trusted local driver for road travel. Benson Drivers Are Highly Recommended: Call to book a driver +254 (0)723 100 225.
• Do not self-drive unless very familiar with local conditions and avoid all non-essential travel after dark.
• Avoid non-essential travel to low-income urban areas due to the prevailing risks posed by high levels of violent crime, terrorism and periodic outbreaks of communal violence. If essential, travel should be carried out in daylight hours only and with security support.
• Rates of crime in Kenya are high and pose a significant risk to travelers; remain alert at all times and minimize/eliminate pedestrian travel.
• Arms ownership is common. In the event of being accosted, assume that your assailant is armed; do nothing to resist or antagonize the attacker.
• Do not use minibuses (matatus), motorcycle taxis (boda-bodas), unregistered taxis or other forms of public transport. See transportation contact for Benson above.
• Do not visit Somali markets.
• Remain abreast of information on volatile gatherings and avoid them due to the credible risk of indiscriminate violence or clashes between protesters and the security forces; do not stop to watch or photograph them.
• Visit game reserves and tourist spots during daylight hours only, in organized groups, and accompanied by an experienced local guide.
• Travelers to Nairobi and Mombasa should contact the Assistance Centre for itinerary-specific pre-travel advice, including for advice on accommodation options.
• Avoid high crime risk and low-income areas. Even in secure areas, minimize travel on foot.
• Journeys after dark should only be conducted in a locked vehicle.
• Exercise increased vigilance and minimize time spent in the vicinity of potential terrorist targets such as government buildings, diplomatic missions, public transport infrastructure and ‘soft’ civilian targets. When visiting public areas, including shopping centers or hotels, minimize time spent in foyers, lobbies or other parts of the building that are accessible to the public. If you detect unusual behavior or suspect packages, leave the area immediately and notify the nearest member of the security forces.
• All travelers should have local and international emergency contact numbers on their person at all times to ensure quick access to assistance if required.