Planning a safari in Kenya? There’s an important travel requirement international visitors should be aware of before their trip.
Kenya has introduced a mandatory inbound travel insurance requirement for international travellers staying in the country for less than 12 months. The new requirement is designed to ensure visitors have adequate insurance protection throughout their stay.
If you’re planning a Kenya safari, here’s what you need to know.
What Does the New Kenya Travel Insurance Requirement Mean?
International visitors travelling to Kenya for less than 12 months will be required to have a valid travel insurance policy from their country of origin.
The policy must provide a minimum cumulative benefit of USD 50,000 and cover several specified areas, including medical care, emergency transportation and repatriation.
The required benefits include:
- Medical Expenses: USD 20,000
- Emergency Medical Transportation: USD 25,000
- Prescribed Medicines: USD 300
- Mental Illness: USD 1,000
- Repatriation of Mortal Remains: USD 5,000
These requirements mean that simply having a standard travel insurance policy may not be enough. Travellers should check their policy carefully to ensure that the required benefits and limits are clearly included.
Will Travel Insurance Be Required for the Kenya ETA?
Yes. The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) application system is expected to be updated to require travellers to upload proof of their travel insurance when applying.
Until the updated ETA system is fully implemented, travellers should still make sure they have their insurance documentation readily available.
We recommend carrying a digital and/or printed copy of your insurance certificate when travelling to Kenya.
What If You Arrive in Kenya Without Suitable Insurance?
Travellers who arrive without the required insurance cover will still have the option to purchase an approved policy on arrival.
The policy must be obtained through a provider licensed under Kenya’s Insurance Act.
However, arranging appropriate insurance before departure is the best way to avoid unnecessary delays or complications when you arrive.
What Should You Do Before Your Kenya Safari?
If you're travelling to Kenya with Curated Tours, we recommend taking a few simple steps before your departure:
1. Check your existing travel insurance policy.
Confirm that your policy meets the required benefit limits and covers the areas specified by the Kenyan authorities.
2. Make sure your certificate is accessible.
Keep a copy of your insurance certificate on your phone and, ideally, carry a printed copy as well.
3. Check the latest ETA requirements before applying.
As the ETA system is updated, additional documentation requirements may be incorporated into the application process.
4. Ask your travel provider if you're unsure.
If you're not certain whether your insurance meets the requirements, speak to your travel advisor before travelling.
Planning a Kenya Safari?
A safari should be about looking forward to incredible wildlife, beautiful landscapes and new experiences—not worrying about whether you've met the latest entry requirements.
At Curated Tours, we’ll continue monitoring the implementation of Kenya’s travel insurance requirement and share important updates with our guests and safari partners.
If you're planning a safari to Kenya and have questions about the new insurance requirement or other entry requirements, our team is happy to guide you through what you need to know before your trip.
Planning your Kenya adventure? Get in touch with Curated Tours and let us help you prepare for your journey.
