Kenya Local Laws

Currency greater than US$10,000 or its equivalent must be declared at customs upon arrival in Kenya.

It’s illegal to deface or destroy Kenyan currency.

Foreign travelers are required to bring a valid passport and a valid visa to enter Kenya. The only exceptions for Kenyan entry visas involve those who are:

• Citizens of East African Community member countries, including Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, and South Sudan; these citizens are recommended to carry a valid national identification card or passport for identification purposes.
• Citizens of the African Union, whose visa is issued at the port of entry upon presentation of a valid passport
• Diplomatic and official passport holders of certain countries, including Brazil, China, Cuba, India, and Turkey
• Passport holders who are citizens of countries including the Bahamas, Botswana, Cyprus, Dominica, Ethiopia, Fiji, Ghana, Grenada, Kiribati, Lesotho, Malaysia, Maldives, Namibia, Saint Lucia, Seychelles, Singapore, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Vanuatu, Zambia, and Zimbabwe

However, it’s important to note that immigration officers can deny entry if there are concerns involving security operations, travel history, or other relevant factors. When traveling to Kenya, it’s advised to meet all requirements and carry essential supporting documents.

In general, you should carry your passport and visa on your person at all times while in Kenya. Your passport serves as a primary form of identification and proof of nationality, while your visa is the official document permitting entry and stay in Kenya for a specific period. You may need to present both when going through immigration and security or checking into a hotel, guesthouse, or other type of accommodation.

In some cases, law enforcement officers might request to see your passport and visa with little or no warning; it is advised to cooperate and show them upon request.

Kenya banned single-use plastics in 2017, so don’t bring any plastic water bottles or grocery or Ziploc bags. Pack toiletries in a clear waterproof bag instead.

You can bring personal items, such as clothing, toiletries, personal electronics, and other goods for personal use, for your stay in Kenya. Prescription medications must be accompanied by a valid prescription or supporting documentation.

It’s advised to carry medications in their original packaging and have a copy of the prescription or a doctor’s letter explaining the need for the medication.

There are areas in Kenya where photography and/or video recording is limited or banned under local law. They include:

The Official Secrets Act, Cap 187, prohibits taking photographs or making sketches of specified areas, such as military installations, government buildings, and other sensitive areas. This law is intended to protect national security and prevent the disclosure of state secrets.

The Protected Areas and Wildlife Conservation Act, Cap 376, prohibits the use of photography in certain protected areas, such as Kenya’s national parks and wildlife reserves, without a permit.

The Antiquities and Monuments Act, Cap 215, prohibits taking photographs or filming in certain archaeological sites, monuments, and heritage buildings without a permit.

The Children Act, 2001, prohibits the taking of photographs or filming of children in certain situations without the consent of their parent or guardian.

The Photography and Film Regulations, 2019, require photographers and filmmakers to obtain permits before taking photographs or filming in public spaces, such as streets, parks, and beaches. They also list restrictions on the use of drones for photography and film.

If you do seek to take images or videos, it’s crucial to obtain permission first.

Visitors can meet and interact with the Massai, a noble tribe linked to Kenya, through tour bookings. Look for tour companies that practice responsible and ethical tourism standards.

Before visiting Indigenous sites or religious areas, research and learn about their specific communities, history, traditions, and cultural practices. Whenever possible, engage a local tour operator who has knowledge of the Indigenous site and the community. They not only can provide valuable insights but also ensure that you navigate the site with cultural sensitivity.

The legal drinking age in Kenya is 18. Alcohol consumption in Kenya is primarily expected within licensed establishments, such as bars, restaurants, clubs, and hotels. There are areas in Kenya where it is banned, including all public beaches.

It is illegal and widely frowned upon to be publicly intoxicated or cause public disturbances due to excessive alcohol consumption. Public intoxication can lead to an intervention by the local authorities and legal consequences.

Under the Tobacco Control Act, smoking is prohibited in all public places throughout Kenya, including government buildings, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, restaurants, bars, public transport vehicles, and enclosed workplaces. There may be designated smoking areas, but confirm first before lighting up.

Kenya carries heavy penalties for smoking, ranging from KSh50,000 to 3 million (Kenya shillings; KES) in fines to imprisonment for six months to three years.

Cannabis laws in Kenya are strict. Possession, use, and sale are all illegal. If found guilty of possession of cannabis for personal use, you could face a jail term of up to ten years or a fine of KSh250,000—or both.

The law in Kenya categorizes various substances as prohibited drugs, including cocaine, narcotics (such as heroin), and synthetic drugs, like methamphetamines. The possession, use, sale, and trafficking of these substances are strictly prohibited. Penalties can range from fines to imprisonment.

Motorists in Kenya drive on the left side of the road and must have a valid driver’s license and vehicle insurance whenever on the road.

Those found guilty of drunk driving run the risk of a fine up to KSh100,000, a two-year prison term, or both.

Kenya has enacted laws to provide women with legal rights and protections under various laws and regulations, in an aim to promote gender equality, ensure women’s empowerment, and address discrimination and property and inheritance rights.

Among others, the Protection Against Domestic Violence Act criminalizes acts of domestic violence and provides restraining orders and other legal remedies for victims.

Travelers within the LGBTQ+ community should be aware that LGBTQ-related rights in Kenya are a complex and sensitive topic, especially in terms of the law involving same-sex relationships. Same-sex sexual activity is criminalized in Kenya, and same-sex marriages or civil unions are not legally recognized.

Despite these legal and social challenges, however, there are local LGBTQ+ community rights organizations and activists in Kenya working to promote equality and advocacy.

Kenya’s Wildlife Conservation and Management Act governs wildlife protection and conservation efforts, with updates added in January 2014 to strengthen its efforts and make them sustainable. Among other factors, the law prohibits activities that harm wildlife or their habitats, such as hunting, capturing, killing, or trading wildlife without appropriate permits.

The experience of sitting around a campfire in Kenya is offered at safari camps. To ensure safety for both guests and the surrounding environment, these campfires are typically supervised by trained guides or staff members who maintain a safe distance from wildlife. Campfires are usually contained within designated areas, and precautions are taken to prevent any risks.

Public displays of affection between couples, especially those belonging to the LGBTQ+ community, are frowned upon in most areas of Kenya.

The general rule for what to wear in Kenya is conservative clothing, especially within predominantly Muslim communities and when you visit religious areas. Particularly away from tourist resorts, it’s best to dress modestly to avoid offending local sensitivities and religious beliefs. Put on long, loose-fitting attire that covers your shoulders, knees, midriff, chest, and back.

Avoid any articles of clothing that looks like a military uniform, such as camouflage, as it’s against the law. White clothing and shoes run the risk of getting stained from dust.