The UK has updated its travel advisory for Kenya, warning British citizens against traveling to several parts of the country due to terrorism threats, armed attacks, banditry and insecurity along border regions.
Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) advised against all travel to parts of north-eastern Kenya and sections of the coast, citing the risk of attacks by groups based in Somalia, particularly Al-Shabaab.
The advisory follows an earlier warning by Canada about risks of terrorism, kidnapping and armed attacks in select regions.
UK Warns Against Travel to Mandera, Wajir, Garissa and Lamu Areas
In its latest guidance, the UK government advised against all travel to Mandera County, which borders Somalia, due to the risk of terrorism.
The advisory also listed parts of Wajir County, including Tarbaj and Wajir East constituencies, among areas British citizens should avoid, although the warning excludes Wajir Town.
Also Read: Sony, Universal and Warner Music to Set Up Operations in Nairobi
FCDO further advised against traveling to parts of Wajir County located within 60 kilometers of the Kenya-Somalia border.
In Garissa County, the UK advised against all travel except for Garissa Town, Lagdera Constituency, and areas of Balambala Constituency. These include areas north and west of the main road running from Saka on the Tana River to the intersection with the C81 Road.
The advisory also warned against travel to Lamu County, except Lamu Island and Manda Island, because of terrorism concerns affecting parts of the northern coastal region.
According to the FCDO, north-eastern Kenya has experienced frequent attacks, with many of them attributed to Al-Shabaab, an extremist group operating from Somalia.
“Attacks have killed members of the Kenyan security forces as well as civilians. The Kenyan security forces have increased their presence in the affected areas. Armed militia groups operate within the Boni National Reserve and along the border with Somalia,” read part of the advisory.
The UK also warned that armed militia groups continue to operate within the Boni National Reserve and along the Kenya-Somalia border.
Garissa Town, Tana River and Coastal Areas Placed Under Travel Restrictions
While some regions were placed under an “avoid all travel” category, the UK issued an “all but essential travel” warning for other areas.
The advisory placed Garissa Town under this category, meaning British nationals are advised to only travel there when necessary.
The same warning applies to Tana River County north of the Tana River up to Saka town, as well as areas within 15 kilometers of the coastline between the Tana River and the Galana (Athi-Galana-Sabaki) River.
The FCDO also provided guidance for movement between Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and Nairobi City, recommending travelers use Mombasa Road or the Nairobi Expressway.
UK Highlights Banditry Risks in Northern Kenya and Border Regions
Beyond terrorism threats, the updated advisory highlighted insecurity caused by banditry, cattle rustling and ethnic clashes in parts of northern and western Kenya.
The UK warned travelers visiting Turkana, West Pokot, Elgeyo-Marakwet, Baringo, Samburu, Laikipia, Meru and Isiolo counties to exercise caution due to ongoing security operations.
The advisory also raised concerns along the Kenya-Ethiopia border, particularly around Moyale, where attacks involving landmines have previously been reported.
Travelers crossing the border were advised to remain on the main A2 road and avoid stopping at the Sololo rest house, instead traveling directly to Marsabit before taking a break.
Also Read: Grief Hits as Kenyan Family Mourns Death of 33-Year-Old Man in Australia
In western Kenya, the UK highlighted security concerns in Mount Elgon, where a significant security presence remains due to armed clashes.
Canada Warns Against Travel to Border Counties
On July 13, 2026, Canada advised its citizens to avoid traveling to Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, and Lamu counties bordering Somalia due to the risk of terrorist attacks. For Lamu Island and Manda Island, travelers were advised to exercise high caution.
Canada also advised against travel to parts of Turkana and Marsabit counties within 110 kilometers of the borders with South Sudan and Ethiopia.
“Avoid all travel to Mandera, Wajir, Garissa and Lamu counties bordering Somalia, due to a risk of terrorist attacks, kidnapping and armed attacks. This advisory excludes Lamu Island and Manda Island where you should exercise a high degree of caution,” read part of the advisory.
Follow our WhatsApp Channel and X Account for real-time news updates.
