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Is Kenya Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Kenya as a travel destination has diverse experiences to offer and is generally welcoming. However, cautiousness should be maintained, especially in crowded markets and urban centres against petty crimes like pickpocketing. It's always advisable to avoid walking alone at night, taking only licensed taxis, and avoiding remote areas. Moreover, due to sporadic instances of political unrest and terrorism, staying updated about the local news will keep you more aware and safer.

Safety rating

3.9 /5

Based on 5 experiences

3.5 /5

Based on research and crime data

Safety overview

Safety at night:Unsafe

Kenya, like many places can have safety concerns particularly during late hours, and general advice would recommend avoiding walking alone at night. This is especially true in isolated areas, although busy well-lit areas can be relatively safer. It's always important to listen to the advice of locals and stay knowledgeable about your surroundings.

Public transportation: Moderate

Public transportation in Kenya, including buses and matatus (minibuses or vans), is often crowded and can be less regulated. It's advised to remain vigilant due to instances of pickpocketing, particularly in larger cities like Nairobi. Also, road safety can be an issue, as traffic regulations are not always adhered to. However, the introduction of more regulated services like Uber and Bolt has helped increase the safety standards. Make sure to use reliable and accredited services whenever applicable and avoid traveling during late hours if possible.

Street harassment: Moderate

While Kenya is generally welcoming, some experiences of verbal harassment are reported, particularly in urban settings or busier tourist areas. It is often unaggressive and usually in the form of unsolicited comments or compliments. Responding calmly or ignoring can often stop the behavior. Dressing modestly also helps, particularly in the more traditional areas. As always, trust your instincts, be aware of your surroundings and stick to well-populated areas as much as possible.

Petty crimes:Moderate

Kenya has instances of petty crimes such as bag snatching, pickpocketing, and theft from hotel rooms. Typically these crimes are more prevalent in crowded places such as markets and public transportation, especially in larger cities like Nairobi. Travelers are advised to exercise caution and always monitor their belongings.

Tap water:Unsafe

Drinking tap water in Kenya is generally not recommended for travelers. There can be contaminants in the water, including bacteria and parasites that can cause illness. It's advisable to drink bottled water, boiled water or treated water. Ensure the bottled water you buy is properly sealed. Alternatively, carry a water purification device or water purification tablets.

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Travel experiences

Overall rating

4.2 /5

based on 5 experiences

Rating summary

Things to do

4.2/5

Safety

3.9/5

Food

4.2/5

Budget-friendly

4.2/5

Group travel experience

I traveled with a friend, without a travel agency. We organized everything ourselves. It was wonderful, a journey through almost the whole of Kenya. We felt safe, but of course, we didn't go out after dark. Lots of traveling by cars, minibusses, and trains through Kenya. I highly recommend it.

Posted: August 29, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

I spent 8 days solo in Kenya last September and had an amazing time. Never did I feel unsafe. Spent 3 days on a safari in the Masai Mara Reserve, went to the Elephant Orphanage, Giraffe Center, Nairobi Museum, and shopping downtown. Had an amazing private guide the whole time.

Posted: August 2, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 4/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

Had a wonderful time solo in Nairobi, Mara and Mombasa. Never felt unsafe or uncomfortable. Just took the usual tips of being aware of my surroundings and trying not to stick out any more than necessary. Had a great time and enjoyed the beautiful country and lovely people of Kenya.

Posted: July 31, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

I went to Kenya for 2 weeks. The first week, I joined a group safari tour to visit Maasai Mara, Nakuru, and Naivasha. Then on the second week, I continued my trip alone to Mombasa, Diani Beach, and Kilifi. I felt safe there, however, I was advised not to wander alone during the night. The hostel I stayed in Diani Beach insisted that I was accompanied across the street to the restaurant for dinner.

Posted: June 14, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

Certain cities are not exactly safe - I was happily walking around in Mombasa and locals told me to get away as it’s dangerous. In the capital too, it’s better to take taxies in the evening, to keep safe, no walking around. Other than that, I took buses to various parts of the country, I took matatus and I took a tour to areas where we went on safaries.

Posted: November 19, 2022
Things to do: 4/5Food: 4/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 3/5
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Pheny

Pheny

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Am someone who is social,outgoing,straighforward and really amaizing if you get to know me well

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Vivienne

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Hi, My name is Vivienne and I'm interested in fashion, food & cuisine, events & social, art, nature, business, culture, swimming and live music

Countries I’ve Visited

🇨🇳 China, 🇪🇬 Egypt, 🇫🇷 France, 🇬🇭 Ghana, 🇭🇰 Hong Kong, 🇮🇳 India, 🇮🇹 Italy, 🇲🇿 Mozambique, 🇳🇬 Nigeria, 🇶🇦 Qatar, 🇸🇬 Singapore, 🇹🇿 Tanzania, 🇹🇭 Thailand, 🇹🇷 Turkey, 🇺🇬 Uganda, 🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates, 🇬🇧 United Kingdom, 🇺🇸 United States, 🇿🇼 Zimbabwe, 🇿🇦 South Africa, 🇮🇩 Indonesia

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Wangu

Wangu

About Me

Ola! I'm Wangu, and I'm absolutely passionate about exploring the world, connecting with new people, immersing myself in diverse cultures, and conquering summits! Back in Nairobi, they affectionately call me a music aficionado. If you ever find yourself in Nairobi, I'd be thrilled to show you around the city's hidden gems. While I was born and raised in 🇰🇪, I consider myself a global citizen. So far, I've explored 🇿🇦🇦🇪🇹🇭🇸🇬🇭🇰🇲🇾. Looking forward to even more adventures & the opportunity to make lifelong friendships with like-minded travelers from all over the world! 🌍✈️

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Stay with locals in Kenya

Pheny

Pheny

Speaking

You can stay for:

6 days

About me

Am someone who is social,outgoing,straighforward and really amaizing if you get to know me well

Countries I’ve Visited

🇬🇭 Ghana

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Rita

Rita

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You can stay for:

3 days

About me

I’m Rita Pendo from Kenya

Countries I’ve Visited

🇮🇶 Iraq, 🇰🇪 Kenya, 🇸🇦 Saudi Arabia, 🇹🇿 Tanzania, 🇶🇦 Qatar

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Defence

Defence

Speaking

You can stay for:

3 days

About me

Free and full of life...loves everything finest

Countries I’ve Visited

🇰🇪 Kenya, 🇹🇿 Tanzania, 🇺🇬 Uganda

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Check the safest places in Kenya

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