- The best travel insurance for Kenya
- Is it currently safe to travel to Kenya?
- Is travel insurance required for a visa to Kenya?
- The importance of travel insurance for Kenya
- What should travel insurance for Kenya cover?
- The cost of travel insurance for Kenya
- How can you pay less for your travel insurance to Kenya?
- Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Kenya?
- FAQ
Travel insurance for Kenya: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Kenya covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and other unforeseen travel disruptions.
2. Warning: The U.S. State Department advises increased caution and avoiding certain areas due to potential risks.
3. Key protection: Insurance is not mandatory for entry, but it is highly recommended for financial protection abroad.
4. Healthcare cost: Private healthcare in Kenya is costly; a hospital night can exceed $500 for foreign visitors.
5. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for Kenya typically costs between $30 and $60.
6. Good to know: Ensure your policy covers safari activities and includes medical evacuation from remote national parks.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analyzing 41 travel insurance policies available in the US, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Kenya.
The best travel insurance for Kenya
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | $1.08M | Our top pick for safe travel to Kenya. - high medical limit - emergency repatriation - broad coverage |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | $1.08M | A robust choice for Kenya, especially for medical backup. - 24/7 medical helpline - cancellation cover - no deductible |
| Tourist Card | $544k | Good core coverage for leisure travel. - reliable medical cover - emergency assistance - attractive pricing |
| Travel Pass Monde | $762k | Strong all-around policy for regional travel. - repatriation included - hospital costs covered - multi-country scope |
| Globe Partner | $326k | Suitable for longer international stays. - essential medical cover - repatriation - civil liability |
| Globe Traveller | $544k | Affordable and efficient for short visits. - essential covers - fast claims - solid support for emergencies |
- high medical limit
- emergency repatriation
- broad coverage
- 24/7 medical helpline
- cancellation cover
- no deductible
- reliable medical cover
- emergency assistance
- attractive pricing
- repatriation included
- hospital costs covered
- multi-country scope
- essential medical cover
- repatriation
- civil liability
- essential covers
- fast claims
- solid support for emergencies
Is it currently safe to travel to Kenya?
As of June 2025, the US Department of State advises travelers to Kenya to exercise increased caution. This alert is based on ongoing security concerns in certain regions, the risk of violent crime, and limitations in medical infrastructure.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: crime such as armed robbery, kidnapping, and carjackings is significant, especially in Nairobi's Eastleigh and Kibera neighborhoods, as well as in areas near the Kenya-Somalia border. Travelers should avoid these regions and not travel after dark due to poor road safety and heightened risk.
- Health risks: outside major cities like Nairobi, medical facilities are limited and emergency evacuation may be necessary for serious illnesses or injuries. Diseases such as malaria, cholera, and dengue are prevalent, and yellow fever vaccination is required if arriving from endemic countries.
- Legal constraints: visitors must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before arrival, and carry proof of yellow fever vaccination if applicable. Kenyan police may require identification at any time, so travelers should carry copies of their passport and entry stamp.
- Environmental considerations: flash flooding and seasonal weather events can disrupt transport, particularly in rural or coastal areas. Travelers should regularly consult local media and be prepared to adjust plans quickly.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by the US Department of State, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Kenya.
Is travel insurance required for a visa to Kenya?
No, travel insurance is not mandatory for U.S. travelers applying for a visa to Kenya.
Nonetheless, it is strongly recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance before traveling to Kenya. The country has limited access to advanced medical care outside major cities, and private hospitals will require payment in advance. Insurance can protect against high medical or evacuation costs and provide essential support in emergencies.
According to our data, 80% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to Kenya. This high rate reflects concerns about expensive private healthcare and the need for reliable medical services in case of illness or accident.
The importance of travel insurance for Kenya
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Kenya.
In Kenya, public hospitals are often overcrowded and under-resourced, especially outside Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu. Foreigners are directed to private clinics such as Aga Khan University Hospital in Nairobi, where costs are significantly higher. Payment is required upfront, making emergencies expensive for uninsured travelers.
Travel insurance covers medical fees, hospitalization, medication, ambulance transport, and emergency repatriation to the US in case of a serious incident.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Kenya.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at Aga Khan University Hospital Nairobi | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | 320,000 KES (about $2,040) | up to $100,000 |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | 95,000 KES (about $600) | up to $100,000 |
| I need to be repatriated | 1,600,000 KES (about $10,200) | up to actual costs (per contract) |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | 420,000 KES (about $2,680) | up to $100,000 |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
What should travel insurance for Kenya cover?
Here is a summary table of the main coverages you should look for in a travel insurance policy for Kenya.
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| ? Medical expenses | Medical care in Kenya can be expensive, especially in private clinics or during emergencies. Hospitals require payment upfront. We recommend a reimbursement limit of at least $100,000. |
| ? Medical evacuation | Covers transportation to a facility with adequate care or repatriation to the US. Evacuation can cost tens of thousands. Minimum recommended limit: $250,000. |
| ? Hospitalization | Pays for stays in hospitals due to illness or injury. Private facilities often require evidence of insurance for admission. Suggested minimum coverage: $50,000. |
| ? Repatriation of remains | Covers the cost of returning remains to the US in case of death abroad. This process can be very costly. Recommended coverage: $25,000. |
| ? Baggage loss/theft | Compensates for stolen or lost personal items, which is a frequent risk in Kenyan cities and airports. Recommended limit: $2,000 minimum. |
| ✈️ Trip cancellation | Refunds non-refundable costs if you must cancel your trip for reasons like illness or severe events. Suggested coverage: at least $2,000. |
| ? Personal liability | Protects you if you accidentally cause injury to others or damage property. Local liability claims can be expensive. Recommended: $100,000. |
| ?⚕️ Assistance service | Access to 24-hour support services for emergencies, local advice, and language barriers. Essential for emergency situations. Recommended: Included in all policies. |
We recommend a reimbursement limit of at least $100,000.
Minimum recommended limit: $250,000.
Suggested minimum coverage: $50,000.
Recommended coverage: $25,000.
Recommended limit: $2,000 minimum.
Suggested coverage: at least $2,000.
Recommended: $100,000.
Recommended: Included in all policies.
Important information
To obtain a short-term tourist visa for Kenya, proof of travel insurance is required. The policy must cover medical expenses, hospitalization, and repatriation with a minimum reimbursement limit of $50,000, be valid for the entire stay, and provide an English-language certificate of coverage.
Insurance coverage from local providers or bank cards is often limited and includes low reimbursement limits with many exclusions. For a safer trip to Kenya, choose a trusted insurer offering complete coverage. Use HelloSafe to easily compare the best options and subscribe online to receive your certificate immediately.
The cost of travel insurance for Kenya
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | $38 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | $51 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | $77 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | $169 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The price of your travel insurance depends on several key elements: your age, the length of your trip, your destination, and any optional add-ons like cancellation coverage. Keep these factors in mind when comparing policies to ensure you get the right coverage for your needs and budget.
? It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
? Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow can you pay less for your travel insurance to Kenya?
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Kenya while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| ??? Number of travelers | Group or family plans can sometimes offer a better price per person, especially for families with children. | Choose family or group policies if traveling together to benefit from shared discounts instead of buying individual policies. |
| ? Trip duration | Premiums usually increase with the length of your stay. Limiting your stay to what is essential can help reduce costs. | Match your policy to your travel dates and avoid overestimating trip length for best pricing. |
| ? Travel itinerary | Some areas in Kenya are riskier than others and may affect your rate, especially near “Do Not Travel” zones. | Avoid high-risk regions like the Kenya-Somalia border to keep your insurance cost reasonable and manageable. |
| ? Level of coverage | Medical evacuation is important in Kenya due to limited care outside cities, but extra coverages can increase costs. | Opt for essential health and evacuation coverage specific to Kenya instead of choosing high coverage limits for less relevant risks. |
| ? Activities planned | Adventure sports, safaris, or hiking can increase your premium due to the higher risk of injury or incident. | Only add adventure or safari coverage if these activities are planned, and compare costs of specific activity add-ons. |
| ? Traveler’s age | Age is a major factor for insurance pricing, as older travelers are seen as higher risk by many insurers. | For those 62+, consider providers such as Heymondo which do not increase prices for older travelers in their standard policy offering. |
| ? Payment options | Some credit cards include travel insurance, which can complement or reduce the need for separate plans. | Check your credit card benefits before purchasing, and use only to supplement insufficient medical or evacuation coverage. |
Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Kenya?
It is completely legitimate to wonder whether your current coverage—like public health insurance, private plans, or card insurances—will cover your trip to Kenya. Unfortunately, this protection is often limited or insufficient outside the United States. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in Kenya? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Medicare, Medicaid) | No, never | No coverage outside the United States. No repatriation or overseas evacuation. | Travel insurance covers $100,000+ for health care and repatriation. |
| Private health insurance (Blue Cross, Aetna, UnitedHealthcare) | Yes, partly | Emergency only, max $10,000-$50,000 abroad, repatriation rarely included. | Travel insurance can cover $100,000+ with local hospital care and 24/7 support. |
| Classic credit card (Visa Classic, Mastercard Standard, Amex Green) | Yes, partly | Medical costs abroad to $5,000-$10,000, often excludes evacuation or trip cancellation. | Travel insurance offers up to $100,000+ medical + trip cancellation, luggage, and evacuation support. |
| Premium credit card (Chase Sapphire Preferred, Amex Platinum, Capital One Venture X) | Yes, partly | Medical costs up to $50,000-$100,000, limited baggage/trip delay coverage. | Travel insurance adds baggage/mobile coverage, real assistance on the ground, and no small print exclusions. |
Example
While on safari in Kenya, Mark contracted severe malaria. The private hospital stay in Nairobi cost $15,000. His Chase Sapphire card's travel insurance only covered $2,000, and his US health plan deemed the foreign hospital out-of-network. He faced a shocking $13,000 bill for a common, yet life-threatening, illness.
Expert advice
Always check the terms, exclusions, and limits of your existing insurance. Essential situations, like trip interruption due to a relative’s illness, might be excluded. Read the conditions carefully to avoid unpleasant surprises abroad. In all cases, it is safer and more reassuring to subscribe a dedicated travel insurance tailored to the trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Kenya?
Yes, US travelers need a visa, now processed through Kenya’s electronic travel authorization (eTA) system, for tourist visits. You will need a valid US passport with at least six months remaining and two blank pages. Always complete the eTA application prior to boarding your flight.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Kenya?
First, compare offers using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Second, check the benefits and exclusions, particularly for risks specific to Kenya such as medical evacuation, theft, and health coverage. Next, complete your policy purchase online. Lastly, you will promptly receive your insurance certificate by email.
What should my Kenya travel insurance cover?
Your policy should include emergency medical care, evacuation and repatriation, personal liability, and coverage for luggage theft or loss. Due to limited medical care outside major cities, strong coverage is essential. Look for 24/7 assistance and verify exclusions for high-risk activities or travel to restricted zones.
Are there specific vaccination requirements for entry to Kenya?
Yes, you must show proof of yellow fever vaccination if arriving from an endemic country. Although not mandatory from the US, routine vaccinations like hepatitis A and B, typhoid, cholera, and rabies are highly recommended. Consult your doctor at least 4–6 weeks prior to your trip.
Is medical evacuation included in most Kenya travel insurance plans?
Not all basic plans include it, so always confirm this when choosing your policy. Medical evacuation from Kenya to another country can cost over $50,000. Comprehensive travel insurance should always feature evacuation and repatriation, especially since advance payment is often required before treatment in local hospitals.
Do I need a visa to travel to Kenya?
Yes, US travelers need a visa, now processed through Kenya’s electronic travel authorization (eTA) system, for tourist visits. You will need a valid US passport with at least six months remaining and two blank pages. Always complete the eTA application prior to boarding your flight.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Kenya?
First, compare offers using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Second, check the benefits and exclusions, particularly for risks specific to Kenya such as medical evacuation, theft, and health coverage. Next, complete your policy purchase online. Lastly, you will promptly receive your insurance certificate by email.
What should my Kenya travel insurance cover?
Your policy should include emergency medical care, evacuation and repatriation, personal liability, and coverage for luggage theft or loss. Due to limited medical care outside major cities, strong coverage is essential. Look for 24/7 assistance and verify exclusions for high-risk activities or travel to restricted zones.
Are there specific vaccination requirements for entry to Kenya?
Yes, you must show proof of yellow fever vaccination if arriving from an endemic country. Although not mandatory from the US, routine vaccinations like hepatitis A and B, typhoid, cholera, and rabies are highly recommended. Consult your doctor at least 4–6 weeks prior to your trip.
Is medical evacuation included in most Kenya travel insurance plans?
Not all basic plans include it, so always confirm this when choosing your policy. Medical evacuation from Kenya to another country can cost over $50,000. Comprehensive travel insurance should always feature evacuation and repatriation, especially since advance payment is often required before treatment in local hospitals.
