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

On a more positive note, Kenya has eased COVID-19 restrictions, allowing for the reopening of bars, restaurants, religious services, schools, and domestic flights. 

However, the Kenyan government has suspended flights to and from India, starting from May 2nd, 2021, as a response to the ongoing COVID-19 situation. if you plan to explore various regions within Kenya, it's important to note that you'll require a Kenyan visa to facilitate your travel and ensure a smooth journey.

International Entry Restrictions

To enter Kenya, all passengers must possess a valid COVID-19 vaccination certificate and a negative PCR test result. Upon arrival, they must self-isolate for 7 days. 

Foreign citizens and residents entering Kenya with a valid PCR test but without a vaccination certificate will face up to 14 days of mandatory quarantine at their expense. 

Travellers under 18 years old only need a negative PCR test certificate for entry. Additionally, travellers must complete a COVID-19 Travellers Health Surveillance Form.

• List of Designated Quarantine Facilities

Kenya has designated several facilities for quarantine, including the Royal Tulip Hotel, Hilton Garden Inn, Ngong Hills Hotel, Swiss Lenana Mount Hotel, Waridi Paradise Hotel & Suites, Ufungamano Guest House, Covent Intl. Hotel, Trademark Hotel, Jacaranda Hotel, Double-Tree Hilton Hotel, Glam Hotel in Nairobi, and the Reef Hotel Mombasa in Mombasa.

• Testing and Quarantine Requirements

PCR tests are mandatory; travellers with negative rapid tests may still face mandatory or voluntary quarantine, depending on Kenyan authorities' assessment. Kenyan citizens need a negative PCR test upon arrival.

Those under 18 years old only require a negative PCR test certificate. Tests must have been taken within 96 hours of flying and be digitally verified through the Trusted Travel Initiative. 

• Screening and Symptomatic Cases

All travellers will undergo screening upon arrival. Those displaying COVID-19 symptoms must quarantine in their accommodation for the first 14 days and follow Kenyan Government protocols. Passengers in the two rows around symptomatic individuals will also be traced and required to quarantine for 14 days.

Data Collection for Travelers

All travellers entering Kenya, including those in transit, are required to complete a COVID-19 Travellers Health Surveillance Form before arrival. This online registration form can be accessed through the official platform. 

Once the form is submitted, travellers will receive a QR code that must be presented to port health officials to proceed to arrival immigration. Arrivals must self-monitor and report daily on the same platform during their first 14 days in Kenya.

Internal Travel Restrictions

The Kenyan Government advises passengers leaving the airport during curfew to keep their boarding passes as proof of arrival time, facilitating movement to their accommodations. Similarly, evidence of air passengers arriving during curfew allows access for drivers picking up passengers during these hours. COVID-19 negative test results are not required for domestic flights within Kenya.

In addition to public transportation, the Kenyan Government has implemented social distancing rules with capacity restrictions for private vehicles, including taxis. For instance, five-seater vehicles can carry only two passengers in addition to the driver, while seven-seater vehicles are limited to four passengers in addition to the driver.

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

The Kenyan Government has made it mandatory for individuals to wear face masks in public places, with specific exemptions for situations like dining or when maintaining social distance in settings such as hotels, gardens, or beaches. This measure is aimed at reducing the spread of COVID-19 and protecting the health of both residents and visitors.

• Operation of Public Places and Services

These protocols encompass various safety measures, with a key focus on maintaining a 1.5-meter social distance between individuals. Furthermore, establishments must comply with the local curfew, which starts at 10 pm (local time).

• Reopening of Restaurants and Bars

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

However, this reopening comes with stringent conditions, including the requirement to adhere 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

Kenya has implemented restrictions on the maximum number of individuals permitted to attend meetings or events. Currently, gatherings are capped at 15 people, while funerals are limited to 50 attendees, and weddings can have a maximum of 30 participants. It is essential for all attendees to adhere to the Ministry of Health's prescribed safety protocols.

• Suspension of Political Gatherings

In response to the ongoing health crisis, the Kenyan Government has taken the precautionary step of suspending political gatherings until further notice. This measure is in line with the broader effort to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission in crowded settings and prioritise public health.

• Remote Work and Avoidance of Crowded Places

As part of its strategy to combat the spread of the virus, the Kenyan Government has advised its citizens to work remotely whenever possible. Additionally, individuals are encouraged to avoid crowded places, where close contact can increase the risk of viral transmission. These measures are intended to safeguard the health and well-being of Kenyan residents and visitors alike.

FAQS

What are the current international entry requirements for travellers visiting Kenya in 2023?

Travellers entering Kenya in 2023 are required to present a valid COVID-19 vaccination certificate, a negative PCR test result, and complete a COVID-19 Travellers Health Surveillance Form before their arrival.

Is there a curfew in effect in Kenya in 2023, and how does it impact travel?

Yes, a curfew is enforced in Kenya from 10 pm to 4 am (local time). Travellers should stay indoors during curfew hours, except for essential service workers. Passengers departing or arriving at the airport during curfew hours should retain boarding passes for proof of travel time.

Can travellers take domestic flights within Kenya without a COVID-19 negative test result in 2023?

Yes, travellers can board domestic flights within Kenya without requiring a COVID-19 negative test result.

Are face masks mandatory in public places in Kenya in 2023, and are there any exceptions?

Yes, face masks are mandatory in public places in Kenya. Exceptions include when dining and when adhering to social distancing in hotels, gardens, or on beaches.

What are the restrictions on gatherings, weddings, and funerals in Kenya in 2023?

In 2023, gatherings are limited to 15 individuals, funerals can have up to 50 attendees, and weddings can host a maximum of 30 participants, all of whom must follow Ministry of Health protocols.

Can you provide details on the reopening of restaurants and bars in Kenya in 2023?

Restaurants and eateries in specific counties, including Nairobi, Machakos, Kajiado, Kiambu, and Nakuru, have reopened with strict adherence to public health protocols, including maintaining social distancing and observing the 10 pm (local) curfew. Bars in these counties also resumed operations on May 2, 2023, with the requirement to close at 7 pm (local time).