- The best travel insurance plans for Kenya
- Is it currently safe to travel to Kenya?
- Is travel insurance required by law to enter Kenya?
- Why take out travel insurance for Kenya?
- What should travel insurance for Kenya cover?
- The Cost of Travel Insurance for Kenya
- How to 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 costs, trip cancellation, and emergency assistance during your stay.
2. Warning: The Australian government advises against travel to some regions of Kenya due to security risks.
3. Key protection: Travel insurance is not mandatory but is crucial for covering potential high medical costs.
4. Healthcare cost: Private healthcare is recommended, with hospital stays potentially costing over AUD 500 per night.
5. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for Kenya typically costs between AUD 40 and AUD 80.
6. Good to know: All Australian visitors must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travelling.
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 Australia our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Kenya.
The best travel insurance plans for Kenya
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | 1.6M AUD | Our top choice for travel to Kenya. - high medical coverage - repatriation included - broad medical guarantees |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | 1.6M AUD | Good for short stays and emergencies. - medical hotline 24/7 - trip cancellation covered - no excess fees |
| Tourist Card | 800k AUD | Practical plan for tourism in Kenya. - solid medical cover - emergency assistance - competitive premium |
| Travel Pass Monde | 1.1M AUD | Balanced for adventure and remote travel. - repatriation cover - hospital fees included - extensive territorial scope |
| Globe Partner | 480k AUD | Value option for long stays and essential cover. - medical abroad - repatriation - liability included |
| Globe Traveller | 800k AUD | Affordable solution for short/low-risk journeys. - key medical guarantees - straightforward claims - capped benefit ceiling |
- high medical coverage
- repatriation included
- broad medical guarantees
- medical hotline 24/7
- trip cancellation covered
- no excess fees
- solid medical cover
- emergency assistance
- competitive premium
- repatriation cover
- hospital fees included
- extensive territorial scope
- medical abroad
- repatriation
- liability included
- key medical guarantees
- straightforward claims
- capped benefit ceiling
Is it currently safe to travel to Kenya?
As of June 2025, the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade advises travellers to exercise a high degree of caution when visiting Kenya, due to the risk of terrorism and violent crime. Certain regions, notably the border areas with Somalia, are strictly advised against owing to ongoing security threats.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: the threat of terrorist attacks remains significant, especially in public places such as shopping centres or hotels. The coastal region near Somalia, including Lamu County, is particularly affected by violence and kidnappings.
- Health risks: malaria is widespread except at high altitude and mpox outbreaks have been reported. Emergency medical care can be costly and availability in rural areas is limited.
- Legal formalities: all travellers must obtain an approved electronic travel authorisation before entry. Failure to present the required documents at the airport can result in denied boarding or entry.
- Cultural awareness: large demonstrations are common and can quickly become violent. Avoid protests and be mindful that photographing military or police sites is prohibited.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Kenya.
Is travel insurance required by law to enter Kenya?
No, travel insurance is not legally mandatory for travellers from Australia to enter Kenya.
Travel insurance is still strongly recommended by both the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and Kenyan authorities because of the risk of medical emergencies, expensive hospital care, limited access to treatment in remote areas, and the need for possible evacuation or repatriation.
According to our data, 80% of travellers purchase travel insurance before going to Kenya. This high rate reflects the increased health and security risks as well as the potential cost of private healthcare in the country.
Why take out travel insurance for Kenya?
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Kenya.
In Kenya, private hospitals such as Aga Khan University Hospital in Nairobi or Nairobi Hospital are commonly used by foreigners due to their higher standards. However, treatment is expensive and requires upfront payment. Public hospitals often face shortages of supplies and staff, meaning urgent care or advanced procedures can only be accessed privately, significantly increasing costs.
Travel insurance covers medical fees, hospitalisation, medication, ambulance transport and emergency repatriation to Australia in the event of a serious incident.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Kenya.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at Aga Khan University Hospital | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | 120,000 KES (1,350 AUD) | up to 1.6M AUD |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | 70,000 KES (790 AUD) | up to 1.6M AUD |
| I need to be repatriated | 5,000,000 KES (56,500 AUD) | up to 1.6M AUD |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | 300,000 KES (3,400 AUD) | up to 1.6M AUD |
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?
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers hospital, doctor, and surgery fees for injury or illness. Recommend a reimbursement limit of at least 1.6M AUD. |
| ✈️ Repatriation assistance | Covers emergency evacuation to Australia if required. Choose cover up to 1.6M AUD. |
| 💊 Pharmacy & outpatient care | Refunds prescribed medicines and outpatient care. Minimum 15k AUD recommended. |
| 🚑 Medical transport | Pays for ambulance and emergency transport in Kenya. Minimum 40k AUD. |
| 🧳 Luggage & personal effects | Protection if baggage is lost, stolen, or damaged. Minimum 3k AUD. |
| 🔒 Personal liability | Covers injury or damages you cause to others. Recommend cover of 1M AUD. |
| ❌ Trip cancellation | Refund if you must cancel your trip for valid reasons. Minimum 10k AUD. |
| ⏱️ Missed connection/flight | Compensates extra costs if connections are missed due to delays. Recommend cover of 2k AUD. |
Recommend a reimbursement limit of at least 1.6M AUD.
Choose cover up to 1.6M AUD.
Minimum 15k AUD recommended.
Minimum 40k AUD.
Minimum 3k AUD.
Recommend cover of 1M AUD.
Minimum 10k AUD.
Recommend cover of 2k AUD.
Travel insurance from local providers or bank cards often gives limited coverage, with low limits and many exclusions. It is safer to choose a trusted insurer with full coverage. Compare top options on HelloSafe and subscribe online for instant certification.
The Cost of Travel Insurance for Kenya
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | 55 AUD |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | 70 AUD |
| 1 month | 35 years old | 105 AUD |
| 1 month | 70 years old | 240 AUD |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The cost of your travel insurance policy will vary. Key factors include your age, the length of your trip, your destination, the level of cover you choose, and any pre-existing medical conditions. Considering these elements is crucial for finding a policy that suits your needs and budget, especially for higher-risk destinations like Kenya.
💡 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 compareHow to 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:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 📅 Trip duration | Shorter trips lower costs, which is crucial if only staying a brief time in Kenya. | Purchase insurance only for the exact days you are travelling to avoid extra cost. |
| 🚶♂ Traveller's age | Age can greatly affect premium, especially for older travellers due to higher risk. | Compare offers, as Heymondo does not increase its prices for people over 62. |
| 🧳 Level of coverage | Higher cover for medical and cancellation raises the price, but excessive options may be unnecessary. | Tailor your policy to your real needs, focusing on strong medical and repatriation cover. |
| 👨👩👦 Group policies | Family or group travel can increase costs if not optimised for size and age ranges. | Seek group discounts if travelling with family or friends, as some insurers offer savings. |
| 💳 Payment method | The way you pay may give access to benefits, especially through certain credit cards. | Check credit card perks and exclude overlapping coverages from your policy. |
| 🏕️ Activities planned | Risky activities (safari, trekking) increase your premium if not clearly declared in advance. | Declare only needed activities and avoid unnecessary adventure sports cover. |
| 🕒 Advance booking | Last-minute insurance is sometimes more expensive for Kenya-bound trips. | Book early online for a broader choice and sometimes lower rates. |
Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Kenya?
It is completely legitimate to wonder whether your existing coverage—such as credit card insurance or your public health system—can protect you during a trip to Kenya. Unfortunately, this coverage is often limited or insufficient for travel outside Australia. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of insurance | Valid in Kenya? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance | Never | No coverage for medical expenses or evacuation abroad. | Travel insurance covers up to 1.6M AUD in medical fees, repatriation and 24/7 support for emergencies. |
| Private health insurance | Limited coverage | Some policies cover short-term overseas medical emergencies, up to 100k AUD. No repatriation. | Travel insurance offers higher limits (up to 1.6M AUD), repatriation, cancellation, and lost baggage cover. |
| Classic credit card (Visa, NAB, ANZ) | Limited coverage | Delay and lost luggage, accident cover often up to 10k AUD. High excess, exclusions for risky sports. | Travel insurance reimburses up to 1.6M AUD, no exclusions for most activities and better baggage coverage. |
| Premium credit card (Amex, Platinum, Westpac Black) | Limited coverage | May provide medical emergencies up to 500k AUD, some cancellation cover. Pre-existing conditions excluded. | Travel insurance provides full coverage up to 1.6M AUD, even for pre-existing conditions and repatriation. |
Example
On a Kenyan safari, Ben contracted severe malaria. The air ambulance and intensive care in Nairobi cost AU$45,000. His CommBank card’s complimentary insurance had a low limit, and his Australian health fund provided no cover overseas. Without proper travel insurance, he was left with a massive, unexpected bill.
Expert advice
Your bank card or health insurance often won't cover trip interruptions for a relative’s illness or death. Always read the fine print of your existing policies to avoid nasty surprises overseas. In all cases, it is safer and more reassuring to take out dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Kenya?
Yes, Australians need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to visit Kenya. You must apply online before your trip. Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your arrival date and have at least two blank pages. Check ETA requirements well in advance of your departure.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Kenya?
You should start by comparing different travel insurance plans using the HelloSafe comparison tool. Review the details for coverage and exclusions relevant to Kenya, especially for medical and repatriation benefits. Once you find a suitable plan, you can buy it online and instantly receive your insurance certificate.
Is travel insurance mandatory for Australian travellers visiting Kenya?
No, travel insurance is strongly recommended but not legally required for entry to Kenya. Nonetheless, both Australian and Kenyan authorities advise comprehensive coverage, especially given the high cost of private healthcare and the risk of medical evacuation.
What should I consider when choosing travel insurance for Kenya?
Focus on emergency medical and evacuation coverage of at least 1.6M AUD, protection for trip cancellation and interruption, and high limits for baggage and valuables. It is important to include benefits for personal liability and review all exclusions, especially for adventure sports and pre-existing conditions.
Can I buy travel insurance after leaving Australia for Kenya?
Most insurers require you to purchase travel insurance before your departure from Australia. Some specialised providers may allow you to buy a policy while already abroad, but options may be limited and pre-existing conditions often excluded.
Does Australia’s public health system cover medical costs in Kenya?
No, Medicare and most Australian private health funds do not cover healthcare or medical evacuation costs outside Australia. You are personally responsible for all related expenses if you do not have valid travel insurance while in Kenya.
Do I need a visa to travel to Kenya?
Yes, Australians need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to visit Kenya. You must apply online before your trip. Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your arrival date and have at least two blank pages. Check ETA requirements well in advance of your departure.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Kenya?
You should start by comparing different travel insurance plans using the HelloSafe comparison tool. Review the details for coverage and exclusions relevant to Kenya, especially for medical and repatriation benefits. Once you find a suitable plan, you can buy it online and instantly receive your insurance certificate.
Is travel insurance mandatory for Australian travellers visiting Kenya?
No, travel insurance is strongly recommended but not legally required for entry to Kenya. Nonetheless, both Australian and Kenyan authorities advise comprehensive coverage, especially given the high cost of private healthcare and the risk of medical evacuation.
What should I consider when choosing travel insurance for Kenya?
Focus on emergency medical and evacuation coverage of at least 1.6M AUD, protection for trip cancellation and interruption, and high limits for baggage and valuables. It is important to include benefits for personal liability and review all exclusions, especially for adventure sports and pre-existing conditions.
Can I buy travel insurance after leaving Australia for Kenya?
Most insurers require you to purchase travel insurance before your departure from Australia. Some specialised providers may allow you to buy a policy while already abroad, but options may be limited and pre-existing conditions often excluded.
Does Australia’s public health system cover medical costs in Kenya?
No, Medicare and most Australian private health funds do not cover healthcare or medical evacuation costs outside Australia. You are personally responsible for all related expenses if you do not have valid travel insurance while in Kenya.
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