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?

Safety at night:

Safety at night:Unsafe

Nairobi can be challenging to navigate at night. It is not especially safe for solo female travelers to walk alone after dark due to instances of petty crime and muggings. Though some well-lit, populated areas like shopping centers and hotels may offer some safety, it is generally recommended to use a reliable taxi service or public transit when commuting at night. Always be vigilant of your surroundings, avoid isolated areas, and keep your personal belongings out of sight.
Public transportation:

Public transportation:Moderate

When it comes to the safety of public transportation in Nairobi, many travelers find it to be quite average. Matatus (privately owned minibuses) and buses are the most popular modes of transportation. While they are frequent and affordable, they can be crowded and sometimes have reckless drivers. Theft can also be a problem, particularly in crowded situations, so it is crucial to keep an eye on your belongings at all times. However, many locals use public transportation daily without issues. It's best to be cautious, particularly during night time travel.
Street harassment:

Street harassment:Moderate

Though there may be a chance of stares, comments, whistles or unwarranted attention, typically, the locals in Nairobi tend to be friendly and helpful. However, be alert and maintain an air of confidence. If necessary, feel free to firmly decline any persistent persuasions or approaches. Always remember to respect local customs and dress modestly. Try to avoid walking alone at night and always be keen on your surroundings.
Petty crimes:

Petty crimes:High

Nairobi has a significant incidence of petty crimes like theft, pickpocketing, and snatch-and-run incidents, especially in crowded places, popular tourists spots, and public transportation. Be extra vigilant with your belongings, avoid displaying valuable possessions, and take precautionary measures like hiding your money in different places on your person.

Is Nairobi worth visiting?

Is Nairobi safe for women?

Safety index

3.2 /5

Based on 7 local experiences

Crime index

2.4 /5

Based on 7 local experiences

Angelina

Angelina

I take the usual safety precautions when In nairobi. I don't go out at night alone, leave valuables at home, etc. I've been here a couple of months now and only have had enjoyable reactions with locals

Posted: December 25, 2024
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Nairobi is a safe space to travel however it’s all based on the location, my rating is based on how I think it is and from my experiences in the city but also from what I’ve read online from other women’s experiences. Choosing an expensive location means more safety even walking at night while the cheaper side you may consider your safety more.

Posted: December 25, 2024
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Meet locals in Nairobi

Ava

Ava

About Me

Excited about this space, as a future aspiring traveller and hope to help others

Speaking

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Flora

Flora

About Me

I'm flora I love making friends and Interacting with them. I love camping, beach basking, snorkeling, zipling,trying new restaurant, game drives, and much more

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Stay with locals in Nairobi

Flora

Flora

Nairobi

Can host for:

7 days

About me

I'm flora I love making friends and Interacting with them. I love camping, beach basking, snorkeling, zipling,trying new restaurant, game drives, and much more

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Hellene

Hellene

Nairobi

Can host for:

7 days

About me

My name is hellene Aluoch am social to all kinds of human,full of life and advatures,I love cooking, watching movies and traveling,a mother to all and a good listener to every situation.

Speaking

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sylvia

sylvia

Nairobi

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hey there, globetrotters! I'm your fellow adventurer, always with a passport in hand and wanderlust in my heart. New places make my soul sing, and meeting fresh faces fuels my fire. From bustling cities to hidden corners, I'm down for any escapade that promises unique stories and unexpected laughs. Come tag along as I chase sunsets in 2024 and see where the wind takes us next! Buckle up, it's gonna be a wild ride! So far🇰🇪🇹🇿🇺🇬🇿🇦

Speaking

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Tabitha

Tabitha

Nairobi

Can host for:

3 days

About me

I am 35 year d mother of one and a wife, currently an MBA student at USIU. I love playing golf, travelling, meeting new people, swimming and reading.

Speaking

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Queen

Queen

Nairobi

Can host for:

3 days

About me

I'm just a girl who loves to travel

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Gloria

Gloria

Nairobi

Can host for:

7 days

About me

20 years old from Kenya Starting my adventure as a backpackers this December

Speaking

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LEA

LEA

Nairobi

Can host for:

3 days

About me

I'm a caring, open minded, independent and an intelligent woman. I value honesty and like to surround myself with inspiring and empathetic people. I consider myself an activist and strongly believe in the importance of being a part of a social change for the better. I run an NGO that I founded which helps abused and neglected children in rural Kenya. That's my passion, my life and my motivation. Also a vegan and a feminist. ❤

Speaking

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Jane

Jane

Nairobi

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hey I’m Jane from Kenya,Nairobi. I love hiking,baking,photography and cooking. I love to exchange cultures and try out different things If you in Nairobi feel free to holla

Speaking

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Amy

Amy

Nairobi

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Amy Rita is my name, I recently did my first solo trip of 26 days and it was the best decision I made. I’m open to support solo travelers who visit Kenya in different ways as I know how it feels when one’s travel is fully dependent on online info.

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Upcoming visitors to Nairobi

Pernille

Pernille

About Me

Lives and works in Oslo, Norway (small country in the north of Europe). My job is within research and government administration in the area of education and skills (for Life). Sociologist by education. Feminist obviously!! Experienced solo traveller. Open and curious about people. Vegetarian. And a work in progress.

Speaking

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Pernille

Pernille

About Me

Lives and works in Oslo, Norway (small country in the north of Europe). My job is within research and government administration in the area of education and skills (for Life). Sociologist by education. Feminist obviously!! Experienced solo traveller. Open and curious about people. Vegetarian. And a work in progress.

Speaking

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Safety in Kenya