2023 Travel Updates on Kenya's Evolving Travel Restrictions and Guidelines

On a positive note, Kenya has fully restored its vibrant social and economic landscape. All public venues, including bars, restaurants, religious centres, and educational institutions, are operating at full capacity, and domestic air travel continues to connect the country’s diverse regions seamlessly.

If you plan to explore various regions in Kenya, you'll need a Kenyan ETA to facilitate your travel and ensure a smooth journey.

International Entry Restrictions

Disclaimer: These guidelines reflect the protocols established directly following the conclusion of the global pandemic period.

To enter the Republic of Kenya, all arriving passengers must present valid health documentation, including a recognised immunisation certificate and a negative laboratory test result. Upon arrival, travellers are required to observe a 7-day self-isolation period to ensure the safety of the local community.

Foreign nationals and residents who arrive with a valid test result but lack an immunisation certificate will be required to undergo a mandatory stay at a government-approved facility for up to 14 days, with all associated costs covered by the traveller. Visitors under the age of 18 are exempt from the immunisation requirement. However, they must still provide a valid negative test certificate and complete the mandatory Health Surveillance digital form before boarding.

• List of Designated Quarantine Facilities
  For those required to stay in managed accommodations, the Kenyan government has authorised a variety of reputable hotels. In Nairobi, these include the Royal Tulip Hotel, Hilton Garden Inn, Ngong Hills Hotel, Swiss Lenana Mount Hotel, Waridi Paradise Hotel & Suites, Ufungamano Guest House, Covent International Hotel, Trademark Hotel, Jacaranda Hotel, Double-Tree by Hilton, and the Glam Hotel. In Mombasa, travellers are typically directed to the Reef Hotel.
• Testing and Quarantine Requirements
  Official health protocols mandate a PCR-based screening for entry. While rapid tests may be used in some contexts, Kenyan authorities reserve the right to require voluntary or mandatory isolation based on their health assessment. All certificates must be issued within 96 hours of departure and verified through the Trusted Travel digital framework.
• Screening and Symptomatic Cases
  Official health protocols mandate a PCR-based screening for entry. While rapid tests may be used in some contexts, Kenyan authorities reserve the right to require voluntary or mandatory isolation based on their health assessment. All certificates must be issued within 96 hours of departure and verified through the Trusted Travel digital framework.

Data Collection for Travelers

Every person entering or transiting through Kenya is required to register via the official Health Surveillance platform. After completing the online registration, you will receive a unique QR code. This code must be shown to health officials before you can proceed to the immigration counters. Following entry, travellers are expected to use the same platform to report their health status daily for the first two weeks of their stay.

Internal Travel Restrictions

Travellers moving through the country during evening hours are encouraged to keep their boarding passes or travel itineraries accessible. This documentation serves as proof of travel for both passengers and their drivers, ensuring unhindered movement to hotels and residences.

While domestic flights do not require health test results, travellers using taxis and public transit should be aware of capacity limits designed to maintain personal space. For example, standard five-seater vehicles are restricted to two passengers plus the driver to ensure comfort and safety.

Public Places and Services

In Kenya, public places and services operate with specific COVID-19 guidelines. These regulations include mandatory face masks, capacity restrictions, and curfew compliance, allowing businesses and establishments to function while prioritising public health and safety.

• Mandatory Face Masks in Public Places

  Public life in Kenya now follows standardised safety measures. While businesses are open, they operate under specific health guidelines that prioritise patrons' well-being. This includes the use of face coverings in particular settings and adherence to local operating hours to ensure public safety remains the top priority.

• Operation of Public Places and Services

  Dining establishments across central counties, including Nairobi, Machakos, Kajiado, Kiambu, and Nakuru, welcomed guests back to full service starting in mid-2021. These venues operate with a focus on hygiene and social distancing, ensuring that tables are spaced at least 1.5 meters apart.

• Reopening of Restaurants and Bars

  On May 2, 2021, the Kenyan Government announced the reopening of restaurants and eateries in the counties of Nairobi, Machakos, Kajiado, Kiambu, and Nakuru. 

  However, this reopening comes with stringent conditions, including adherence to public health protocols such as maintaining a 1.5-meter social distance and observing the 10 pm (local) curfew.

• Limits on Gatherings and Events

  To manage public density, the government maintains specific attendance caps for organised events. Currently, general meetings are limited to 15 participants, while more personal ceremonies, such as weddings, are capped at 30 guests and funerals at 50 attendees. Organisers are responsible for ensuring that all guests follow established safety protocols.

• Suspension of Political Gatherings

  To maintain a low-density environment in urban centres, the government continues to encourage remote work among professionals in the professional services sector. Additionally, residents and tourists alike are advised to avoid overcrowded areas and practice mindful distance in public to help sustain the country’s positive health trajectory.