Is it safe to walk around Nairobi at night?

No. Never walk outside after dark. Always take a pre-booked car or Uber from door to door, even for short distances.

Should I drink the tap water?

Never drink tap water. Stick to bottled water, even for brushing your teeth if you have a sensitive stomach.

What should I do if I am stopped by police?

Remain polite and calm. Keep your documents accessible, but do not hand over your physical passport unless absolutely necessary; keep a copy on hand. If you feel harassed, ask to speak to their supervisor.

Staying Safe and Secure While Traveling in Kenya

Prioritize staying in reputable accommodations, avoid driving at night, and use registered tour operators for all safari activities. Stick to well-traveled tourist routes and maintain a low profile in urban centers like Nairobi and Mombasa.

Vet your safari operator. Only book game drives or excursions with companies that are members of the Kenya Association of Tour Operators (KATO). Check their registration status on the official KATO website before transferring any deposits.
Use pre-arranged transport. Do not hail street taxis. Use apps like Uber or Bolt for city travel, or have your hotel book a private car for airport transfers. Never use public 'matatus' (minibus taxis) as a first-time visitor.
Secure your valuables. Keep your passport and large amounts of cash in a hotel safe. Carry only what you need for the day in a front-facing bag. In Nairobi, do not walk with your phone out in public spaces.
Check safety alerts daily. Monitor the travel advisory websites for your home country (e.g., State Department or UK Foreign Office) daily for updates on regional instability or protests, specifically in Nairobi's CBD.

Is it safe to walk around Nairobi at night?: No. Never walk outside after dark. Always take a pre-booked car or Uber from door to door, even for short distances.
Should I drink the tap water?: Never drink tap water. Stick to bottled water, even for brushing your teeth if you have a sensitive stomach.
What should I do if I am stopped by police?: Remain polite and calm. Keep your documents accessible, but do not hand over your physical passport unless absolutely necessary; keep a copy on hand. If you feel harassed, ask to speak to their supervisor.