Is Nakuru Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

In general, Nakuru is moderately safe but solo female travelers should take standard precautions. Although the city is quite calm go for tourism, petty thefts and pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded areas, at night or in less touristy areas. Most locals are friendly and helpful, but as a solo female traveler, it’s prudent to avoid late-night walks. Plan your travel carefully, stay in groups whenever possible and follow local advice on areas to avoid.

Safety rating

Meet new people

Get the Travel Ladies app to meet new people, find travel buddies, share solo travel experiences and stay with locals through couch surfing.
Download from App StoreDownload from Google Play
Get the Travel Ladies App

How safe is Nakuru?

Safety at night:

Safety at night:Unsafe

Walking alone in Nakuru at night as a solo female traveler can be quite risky. Though there are safer pockets within the city, the general vibe can sometimes be unsettling, especially in less crowded areas, less lit streets and when venturing into neighborhoods away from the city center. Like many other places, predatory activities tend to spike during the nighttime. Always recommended to be cautious, accompany with a guide if needed or better avoid unnecessary strolling after dusk.
Public transportation:

Public transportation:Moderate

Public transportation in Nakuru can be a mixed experience. During the day, it is generally safe with matatus and taxis readily available. However, it may get chaotic due to the lack of formalised routes and timetables. It's recommended to be cautious and aware of your surroundings always, especially during the night or in less crowded areas. It would be best to use taxis from reliable sources when travelling late in the night.
Street harassment:

Street harassment:Low

Nakuru is generally a peaceful location with friendly locals. It's not common to face street harassment here as a solo female traveler. Most residents are respectful and helpful. However, it's advised to be cautious, especially at night, and to avoid deserted streets and secluded places.
Petty crimes:

Petty crimes:Moderate

Nakuru is quite average when it comes to risk of petty crimes. Most common of these include pickpocketing, bag snatching, and occasional scams. As a solo traveler, it's vital to stay aware of your surroundings especially in crowded places. However, with basic travel safety precautions, it's relatively manageable to navigate around the city.
Tap water:

Tap water:Unsafe

While tap water in Nakuru might be treated, it's recommended to still avoid drinking it directly due to potential exposure to bacteria, viruses, or parasites that could cause illnesses. It's advisable to consume bottled water and use tap water only for washing or bathing.

Is Nakuru safe to travel?

Is Nakuru safe right now?

Before your visit to Nakuru, it's essential to check travel advisories for Kenya, including your home country's official travel advisory. These advisories can provide up-to-date information on safety, health, and any specific considerations for travelers.
🇺🇸

United States Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The United States Government advises exercising increased caution in Kenya due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping. Some areas exhibit increased risk. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: July 31, 2023
🇨🇦

Canada's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Canadian Government advises exercising a high degree of caution in Kenya due to the threat of terrorism and a high crime rate. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: May 15, 2024
🇦🇺

Australia's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Australian Government advises to exercise a high degree of caution in Kenya overall due to the threat of terrorism and violent crime. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: May 3, 2024

Safety in Kenya