What are the best travel insurances for Kenya in 2025?

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A. Fruchard
A. Fruchard updated on July 15, 2025
Table of Contents
  • 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
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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.

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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 recommendMedical reimbursement limitOur view
HelloTravel Premium$1.08MOur top pick for safe travel to Kenya.
- high medical limit
- emergency repatriation
- broad coverage
Cap Assistance 24/24$1.08MA robust choice for Kenya, especially for medical backup.
- 24/7 medical helpline
- cancellation cover
- no deductible
Tourist Card$544kGood core coverage for leisure travel.
- reliable medical cover
- emergency assistance
- attractive pricing
Travel Pass Monde$762kStrong all-around policy for regional travel.
- repatriation included
- hospital costs covered
- multi-country scope
Globe Partner$326kSuitable for longer international stays.
- essential medical cover
- repatriation
- civil liability
Globe Traveller$544kAffordable and efficient for short visits.
- essential covers
- fast claims
- solid support for emergencies
HelloTravel Premium
Medical reimbursement limit
$1.08M
Our view
Our top pick for safe travel to Kenya.
- high medical limit
- emergency repatriation
- broad coverage
Cap Assistance 24/24
Medical reimbursement limit
$1.08M
Our view
A robust choice for Kenya, especially for medical backup.
- 24/7 medical helpline
- cancellation cover
- no deductible
Tourist Card
Medical reimbursement limit
$544k
Our view
Good core coverage for leisure travel.
- reliable medical cover
- emergency assistance
- attractive pricing
Travel Pass Monde
Medical reimbursement limit
$762k
Our view
Strong all-around policy for regional travel.
- repatriation included
- hospital costs covered
- multi-country scope
Globe Partner
Medical reimbursement limit
$326k
Our view
Suitable for longer international stays.
- essential medical cover
- repatriation
- civil liability
Globe Traveller
Medical reimbursement limit
$544k
Our view
Affordable and efficient for short visits.
- essential covers
- fast claims
- solid support for emergencies
? Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compare

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 treatmentCost at Aga Khan University Hospital NairobiCovered by travel insurance
I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection320,000 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 repatriated1,600,000 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
Examples of medical costs in Nairobi and travel insurance coverage.
I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection
Cost at Aga Khan University Hospital Nairobi
320,000 KES (about $2,040)
Covered by travel insurance
up to $100,000
I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental)
Cost at Aga Khan University Hospital Nairobi
95,000 KES (about $600)
Covered by travel insurance
up to $100,000
I need to be repatriated
Cost at Aga Khan University Hospital Nairobi
1,600,000 KES (about $10,200)
Covered by travel insurance
up to actual costs (per contract)
I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery)
Cost at Aga Khan University Hospital Nairobi
420,000 KES (about $2,680)
Covered by travel insurance
up to $100,000
Examples of medical costs in Nairobi and travel insurance coverage.

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 coveragesExplanations and recommendations
? Medical expensesMedical 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 evacuationCovers transportation to a facility with adequate care or repatriation to the US. Evacuation can cost tens of thousands.
Minimum recommended limit: $250,000.
? HospitalizationPays 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 remainsCovers 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/theftCompensates for stolen or lost personal items, which is a frequent risk in Kenyan cities and airports.
Recommended limit: $2,000 minimum.
✈️ Trip cancellationRefunds non-refundable costs if you must cancel your trip for reasons like illness or severe events.
Suggested coverage: at least $2,000.
? Personal liabilityProtects you if you accidentally cause injury to others or damage property. Local liability claims can be expensive.
Recommended: $100,000.
?‍⚕️ Assistance serviceAccess to 24-hour support services for emergencies, local advice, and language barriers. Essential for emergency situations.
Recommended: Included in all policies.
Summary of travel insurance coverages for Kenya.
? Medical expenses
Explanations and recommendations
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
Explanations and recommendations
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
Explanations and recommendations
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
Explanations and recommendations
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
Explanations and recommendations
Compensates for stolen or lost personal items, which is a frequent risk in Kenyan cities and airports.
Recommended limit: $2,000 minimum.
✈️ Trip cancellation
Explanations and recommendations
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
Explanations and recommendations
Protects you if you accidentally cause injury to others or damage property. Local liability claims can be expensive.
Recommended: $100,000.
?‍⚕️ Assistance service
Explanations and recommendations
Access to 24-hour support services for emergencies, local advice, and language barriers. Essential for emergency situations.
Recommended: Included in all policies.
Summary of travel insurance coverages for Kenya.
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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 durationTraveler’s ageIndicative price per person
1 week25 years old$38
2 weeks45 years old$51
1 month35 years old$77
1 month70 years old$169
1 week
Traveler’s age
25 years old
Indicative price per person
$38
2 weeks
Traveler’s age
45 years old
Indicative price per person
$51
1 month
Traveler’s age
35 years old
Indicative price per person
$77
1 month
Traveler’s age
70 years old
Indicative price per person
$169

These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.

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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 compare

How 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:

CriteriaWhy it mattersExpert tip
?‍?‍? Number of travelersGroup 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 durationPremiums 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 itinerarySome 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 coverageMedical 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 plannedAdventure 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 ageAge 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 optionsSome 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.
?‍?‍? Number of travelers
Why it matters
Group or family plans can sometimes offer a better price per person, especially for families with children.
Expert tip
Choose family or group policies if traveling together to benefit from shared discounts instead of buying individual policies.
? Trip duration
Why it matters
Premiums usually increase with the length of your stay. Limiting your stay to what is essential can help reduce costs.
Expert tip
Match your policy to your travel dates and avoid overestimating trip length for best pricing.
? Travel itinerary
Why it matters
Some areas in Kenya are riskier than others and may affect your rate, especially near “Do Not Travel” zones.
Expert tip
Avoid high-risk regions like the Kenya-Somalia border to keep your insurance cost reasonable and manageable.
? Level of coverage
Why it matters
Medical evacuation is important in Kenya due to limited care outside cities, but extra coverages can increase costs.
Expert tip
Opt for essential health and evacuation coverage specific to Kenya instead of choosing high coverage limits for less relevant risks.
? Activities planned
Why it matters
Adventure sports, safaris, or hiking can increase your premium due to the higher risk of injury or incident.
Expert tip
Only add adventure or safari coverage if these activities are planned, and compare costs of specific activity add-ons.
? Traveler’s age
Why it matters
Age is a major factor for insurance pricing, as older travelers are seen as higher risk by many insurers.
Expert tip
For those 62+, consider providers such as Heymondo which do not increase prices for older travelers in their standard policy offering.
? Payment options
Why it matters
Some credit cards include travel insurance, which can complement or reduce the need for separate plans.
Expert tip
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 insuranceValid in Kenya?What it coversWhy Travel Insurance is better
Public health insurance (Medicare, Medicaid)No, neverNo 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, partlyEmergency 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, partlyMedical 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, partlyMedical 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.
A comparison of different types of insurance, their validity in Kenya, what they cover, and why travel insurance is a better option.
Public health insurance (Medicare, Medicaid)
Valid in Kenya?
No, never
What it covers
No coverage outside the United States. No repatriation or overseas evacuation.
Why Travel Insurance is better
Travel insurance covers $100,000+ for health care and repatriation.
Private health insurance (Blue Cross, Aetna, UnitedHealthcare)
Valid in Kenya?
Yes, partly
What it covers
Emergency only, max $10,000-$50,000 abroad, repatriation rarely included.
Why Travel Insurance is better
Travel insurance can cover $100,000+ with local hospital care and 24/7 support.
Classic credit card (Visa Classic, Mastercard Standard, Amex Green)
Valid in Kenya?
Yes, partly
What it covers
Medical costs abroad to $5,000-$10,000, often excludes evacuation or trip cancellation.
Why Travel Insurance is better
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)
Valid in Kenya?
Yes, partly
What it covers
Medical costs up to $50,000-$100,000, limited baggage/trip delay coverage.
Why Travel Insurance is better
Travel insurance adds baggage/mobile coverage, real assistance on the ground, and no small print exclusions.
A comparison of different types of insurance, their validity in Kenya, what they cover, and why travel insurance is a better option.
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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.

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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.

A. Fruchard
A. Fruchard
Insurance expert
HelloSafe
Co-founder of HelloSafe and an experienced entrepreneur in the insurance and personal finance sector, Antoine uses his experience and in-depth knowledge of the market to help Internet users make the right choices. With an MBA in economics, he is a committed expert whose mission is to make personal finance and insurance issues simple and understandable. With a rich career marked by the creation of innovative companies, Antoine's ambition has always been to bring transparency to complex issues and to give power back to consumers. With HelloSafe, he continues to translate this vision by providing accurate advice, impartial comparisons and detailed explanations of travel insurance. He has analysed hundreds of contracts to reveal the best options available on the market.

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