Is Nairobi safe for solo female travelers?

As much as the city offers beautiful cultural experiences and wildlife attractions, Nairobi can be moderately safe for a solo female traveler. It's safe during daylight, especially in busy places, but it's essential to exercise caution in less crowded areas and after dark. Like many large cities, Nairobi experiences petty and sometimes serious crimes. Avoid showing off valuable items and always use reliable transportation. Local residents are generally extremely hospitable, and if you follow standard safety precautions, you will most likely have a positive experience.

Safety rating

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How safe is Nairobi for female travelers?

Solo travel

I felt very safe in Nairobi, unlike what people say. I could go out by myself, and it was easy to get around using Bolt. I visited the giraffe nursery, which was a nice experience, and you can get very close to the giraffes while feeding them.

Posted: December 31, 2024
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How safe is Nairobi for women?

Local safety index

3.7 /5

Based on 20 local experiences

Local crime index

2.5 /5

Based on 20 local experiences

Tabby

Tabby

Nairobi cbd isn't the best place for a woman but other regions of Nairobi are very safe,i particularly live in a very safe neighbourhood and I like it here I would very much like showing it to anyone new in Nairobi

Posted: September 13, 2025
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Nairobi is all about situational awareness. The city is HUGE and very diverse, so the neighborhoods vary greatly. If you are not Kenyan, also understand how you may be perceived and or exoticized by men.

Posted: August 31, 2025
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Lydia

Lydia

Nairobi is a safe city and we have police officers deployed in every town. Everyone is their brothers keeper, the government encourages its citizen to stay away from crime and protect their brothers..

Posted: August 25, 2025
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Moderate safe but don't walk at night as a lady alone .It might be unsafe and watch out for pickpocketers There is generally no gun violence or drug lord's hence no fear of mass shooting in public. Different parts of Nairobi have different security levels with the suburbs being more secure.

Posted: May 20, 2025
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Hanni

Hanni

Nairobi is a vibrant and lively city, but like many major cities, safety can vary a lot depending on where you are, what time it is, and how aware you are of your surroundings. Generally safe for: Daytime travel in areas like Westlands, Karen, Kilimani, or CBD. Uber, Bolt, and Little Cab (especially for short trips). Visiting malls (like Two Rivers, The Hub, Sarit Centre) and tourist sites (like Giraffe Centre or Nairobi National Park). Be cautious with: Walking alone at night, especially in the CBD or less busy streets. Showing valuables (phones, jewelry) openly in crowded places. Using unregistered taxis or unfamiliar matatus (public minibuses). Pickpocketing in places like downtown Nairobi, bus stations, or markets like Gikomba. Tips to stay safe: Stick to known neighborhoods and well-reviewed accommodations. Always use a trusted ride app or hotel transport. Keep a copy of your ID or passport (not the original .

Posted: April 13, 2025
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Safety in Kenya