Travel Vaccines and Advice for Kenya
Kenya is an amazing country to experience wildlife and to take in a gorgeous and diverse landscape. You can find everything from equatorial glaciers to tall mountains to extensive plains.
Many who visit Kenya opt to go on a safari, where they catch glimpses of animals like rhinos, elephants and lions. Hikers will find adventure with Mount Kenya, an impressive peak which offers both day hikes and more ambitious excursions.
Kenya has beautiful beaches that are welcoming to travelers looking for relaxation or to participate in water sports, including diving and snorkeling.
Culturally, Kenya also boasts impressive diversity, with more than 40 different ethnic groups with their own unique traditions.
Do I Need Vaccines for Kenya?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Kenya. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Kenya: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, cholera, yellow fever, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia and influenza.
COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. Check with your local Passport Health clinic if immunization is offered in your area.
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:
- COVID-19 –
Airborne & Direct Contact –
Recommended for all unvaccinated individuals who qualify for vaccination - Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travelers - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Recommended for travelers to most regions. - Typhoid –
Food & Water –
Recommended for travelers
to most regions. - Cholera –
Food & Water –
Cases have been reported in multiple regions throughout 2018 and 2019. Vaccination recommended for long-term, humanitarian and healthcare travelers. - Yellow Fever –
Mosquito –
Required if traveling from a region with yellow fever. Recommended for all travelers over 9 months of age, except if traveling to: North Eastern and Coast Province; Kilifi, Kwale, Lamu and Malindi states; and the cities of Mombasa and Nairobi - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals. - Meningitis –
Airborne & Direct Contact –
Located in the meningitis belt, vaccination is recommended during the dry season (Dec. – June) - Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) –
Various Vectors –
Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. - TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) –
Wounds & Airborne –
Only one adult booster of pertussis required. - Chickenpox –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. - Shingles –
Direct Contact –
Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. - Pneumonia –
Airborne –
Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. - Influenza –
Airborne –
Vaccine components change annually. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended.
See the tables below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for Kenya |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| COVID-19 | Airborne & Direct Contact | Recommended for all unvaccinated individuals who qualify for vaccination |
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travelers |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Recommended for travelers to most regions. |
| Typhoid | Food & Water | Recommended for travelers to most regions. |
| Cholera | Food & Water | Cases have been reported in multiple regions throughout 2018 and 2019. Vaccination recommended for long-term, humanitarian and healthcare travelers. |
| Yellow Fever | Mosquito | Required if traveling from a region with yellow fever. Recommended for all travelers over 9 months of age, except if traveling to: North Eastern and Coast Province; Kilifi, Kwale, Lamu and Malindi states; and the cities of Mombasa and Nairobi |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
| Meningitis | Airborne & Direct Contact | Located in the meningitis belt, vaccination is recommended during the dry season (Dec. – June) |
Routine Vaccinations for Kenya |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) | Various Vectors | Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. |
| TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) | Wounds & Airborne | Only one adult booster of pertussis required. |
| Chickenpox | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. |
| Shingles | Direct Contact | Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. |
| Pneumonia | Airborne | Two vaccines given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. |
| Influenza | Airborne | Vaccine components change annually. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. |
The risk of contracting malaria for is considered moderate by the CDC. Travelers should consult a travel medicine specialist to determine the best antimalarial for their trip. Dengue and chikungunya are also present in the country. Be sure to bring and use mosquito repellents and netting.
Travelers should also discuss the risk of contracting yellow fever while in Kenya. Vaccination is available at Passport Health locations throughout the country.
Meningitis poses a risk to travelers to Kenya. Be sure you are vaccinated before leaving for your trip.
Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now.
Is There Cholera in Kenya?
Kenya has had cholera outbreaks in recent years. Because of issues with sanitation and neighboring countries with outbreaks, cholera remains a very real threat for travelers to the African nation.
The CDC recommends visitors to Kenya receive a cholera vaccination before their trip. Vaccination is the best form of protection against the disease.
The best protection against cholera is through vaccination. Passport Health clinics offer the cholera vaccine. Book your cholera vaccination appointment today!
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Kenya?
U.S. citizens must have a visa to enter Kenya. Visitors should obtain their visa before arrival in the country.
Kenya Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Kenya? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | |
|
| Business Visa | |
|
| Vaccinations | |
|
Sources: Embassy of Kenya and U.S. State Department
Travelers must have a passport that is valid for at least three months past the intended date of departure.
What Is the Climate Like in Kenya?
Kenya is a warm and humid country with a tropical climate. It has two rainy seasons from March to May and October to December. The dry season falls between June and September and January to February. The most popular tourist destinations in Kenya are the coastal region, including Mombasa and Malindi, and the national parks and game reserves, such as Masai Mara and Amboseli.
Along the coast, temperatures are warm to hot throughout the year with average highs ranging from 80 to 90 degrees. The region experiences two rainy seasons, with the long rains typically occurring from April to June and the short rains from October to December. It is generally sunny and dry from January to March and from July to September.
In the national parks and game reserves, temperatures can vary depending on the altitude and location. The parks experience hot and dry weather during the day and cooler temperatures at night. The long rains occur from March to May, while the short rains fall from October to December. The dry season from June to September offers the best opportunities for wildlife viewing due to the reduced vegetation and animals gathering around water sources.
Is It Safe to Travel to Kenya?
The US government has issued a travel warning affecting travel to the border area between Somalia and Kenya due to threats by the terrorist group al-Shabaab. There is a risk of crime and terrorism throughout the country.
Travelers are advised to avoid large gatherings, as they are also prime sites for incidences of crime and terrorism.
Hundreds of people have died in terrorist attacks in Kenya since 2011. The State Department recommends travelers avoid travel to the following regions:
- Northeastern Kenya – Mandera, Wajir, Garissa
- Coastal Areas – Tana River, Lamu, Kilifi
- Nairobi – Eastleigh
Home invasions, burglaries, armed carjackings, muggings and kidnappings have turned violent or fatal. Travelers should be aware they can happen at any time. Matatus, privately-operated buses, are often targeted.
Forced marriages occur and sexual assaults are prevalent. Scams are also frequent in Kenya.
All travelers should be aware of the risks, particularly from terrorists.
Kenya’s Rules
Avoid an Embarrassing Stop
Over 70% of travelers
will have diarrhea.
Get protected with Passport Health’s
travelers’ diarrhea kit!
In Kenya, penalties for drug possession, trafficking, and use are severe. There are also strict rules about the sale and consumption of alcohol and cigarettes. Penalties for public intoxication are severe. Smoking is only permitted in public in designated areas.
Travelers who wish to import a firearm must obtain a permit.
Consensual same-sex sexual activity is criminalized in Kenya. LGBT travelers may face harassment and discrimination.
Customs regulations for importing or exporting religious materials, antiquities, currency, wildlife products and other items are strict. Travelers wishing to import or export special items should review these policies.
Under the Kenya Wildlife Service, all tour and safari operators must carry insurance. Travelers should confirm any tour company they plan to use has insurance and should check the safety record of a company and observe all local or park regulations. Travelers should review banned wildlife items under Kenya’s Wildlife Act.
What Should I Pack for Kenya?
When packing for a trip to Kenya, it’s important to think about the weather and what you’ll be doing. Here are some things to remember:
- Pack lightweight and breathable clothing to stay cool in the heat. Also bring some warm clothes for cooler places.
- Bring comfortable shoes for walking on rough ground, and sandals for the beach.
- Remember to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
- Bring insect repellent to protect yourself from mosquitoes.
- Bring any medications you need, along with a basic first aid kit.
- Bring a travel adapter for your electronics, as Kenya has different power outlets.
- Bring cash, preferably in Kenya shillings, and credit cards.
- Bring a camera and binoculars to capture the wildlife and beautiful scenery.
- Bring respectful clothing, especially if you’re visiting religious sites or the countryside.
Remember to pack light but bring what you need to be comfortable and safe on your trip.
U.S. Embassy to Kenya
All Americans visiting Kenya should register online with the U.S. Department of State before departure. This will inform the office of your travel plans within the country and will allow them to reach out in the case of an emergency or evacuation.
Once in Kenya, here is the information for the U.S. Embassy:
U.S. Embassy Nairobi
United Nations Avenue
Gigiri, Nairobi, Kenya
Phone: +(254) (20) 363-6451
Fax: +(254) (20) 363-6170
Visit the Embassy to Kenya website before departure to confirm correct contact details for the office.
Stay safe abroad with Passport Health. Call or book online now and start traveling safely today!
Customer Reviews
Passport Health – Travel Vaccines for Kenya
“Your nurse was compassionate, thoughtful, caring, and thoroughly covered everything we needed to know for our trip to Kenya!”
“The RN was awesome! All my questions were answered and we had a great discussion about what I needed to keep me safe in Kenya. The information packet is above and beyond what I expected and contains great information all in one place. I definitely recommend Passport Health!”
“I am going on a trip to Kenya next month and went to a Passport Health office in Houston. I was very impressed with the knowledge of the lady I dealt with. She was very thorough in explaining all the possible risks and all my options. I felt as though I got much more out of the visit than just the necessary vaccines.”
“From first contact with Passport Travel we were provided with thorough medical advice for our trip to Kenya and excellent medical care.”
“We worked with the staff at the North Michigan Ave location. We are taking our first trip to Kenya for pleasure this May and needed several immunizations for the trip. They shared relevant information about the area we’re visiting, its risks, and what we needed to be aware of as domestic travelers. The overview was incredibly comprehensive, offering us practical advice about keeping safe in the region and giving us easy tips to avoid contaminants, germs, etc. Not to mention – all of the advice was peppered with awesome personal stories and plenty humor! I absolutely hate needles and never thought I’d enjoy getting several immunizations, but thanks to Passport Health, I can honestly say I enjoyed the experience. Thank you very much.”
“I really enjoyed the visit. The RN was very knowledgeable and patient with my questions. She gave me great confidence that I am prepared for Kenya from an immunization perspective. Thank you!”
“I did everything I was told to do and it worked. I read all the pamphlets and literature about Kenya. I was ready for the trip.”
“I was so pleased with the preparation that went into our family visit to PH for our planned trip to Kenya. I just thought we would get shots and leave but instead we got an education on the various vaccinations and why we needed them.”
“The doctor had a booklet prepared for me outlining all the details of what each recommended medicine was for as it related to my trip to Kenya. Very organized, efficient, helpful, and friendly! And, on time for my appointment!”
“The RN was a VERY thorough with the information that I needed to know when traveling to Kenya, Africa. I would recommend Passport Health to anyone traveling abroad, as it was recommended to me, because of the extreme and absolute attention to detail.”
“Passport Health knew exactly what I needed in order to travel safely to Kenya. The went through all of the vaccines that were recommended and possible sicknesses that could occur. They even alerted me that my company would reject the corporate card if I did not get a prior approval.”
“I had to select a reason to submit this survey but this vaccination was not for travel. I have used this service before when I was traveling to Kenya.”
“The nurse was very informative, professional and friendly. She gave us as much time as we needed and she was obviously very experienced in the field of international vaccine requirements. She gave us information on rabies of which we were previously unaware, despite having had a rabies vaccination for a previous trip to Kenya. Overall we felt very confident in her recommendations.”
“My partner and I made an appointment to inquire about required and recommended vaccinations and medications prior to a trip to Kenya. The nurse was helpful, thorough and efficient.”
“I’m going to Kenya on a medical mission trip. I set up an appointment a week ago. There were lots of times open. I live in Hoboken. This was the most convenient and closest with the most appointments available. Elizabeth is very knowledgeable and thorough!”
“Four of us went to the San Rafael clinic this morning to get our shots needed for our trip to Kenya. The nurse was very helpful in explaining what we needed and then giving us both the prescriptions and shots. We were very impressed!”
“I travel the United States regularly, but this trip to Kenya is my first overseas experience making me a nervous traveler. I do not like taking risks and I do not like the unknown. Passport Health addressed both my issues. I got the 8 Shots I needed to minimize my risk, but more than that they took a hour with me one on one to discuss the unknowns. We talked about everything from the medical to the practical. From pre-trip advise, to trip best practices to post trip recovery. Thank you for helping me travel safe and put my mind at ease.”
“Great service in support of our upcoming trip to Kenya and Tanzania. Comprehensive review of existing records and discussion of threats specific to the area. Superb!”
“My experience at Passport Health was great. The staff was awesome to work with. I was well educated on traveling to Kenya, and the immunizations were thoroughly explained before administering them to me. Very professional environment.”
“The RN was very professional, helpful, caring and informative. My husband and I feel much more prepared for our trip to Kenya!”
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Kenya?
Is There Cholera in Kenya?
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Kenya?
What Is the Climate Like in Kenya?
Is It Safe to Travel to Kenya?
Kenya’s Rules
What Should I Pack for Kenya?
U.S. Embassy to Kenya
US – English
CA – English
UK – English
Rest of World – English
