Safety is a major concern in Nairobi, which local residents have taken to call "Nairobbery." Be on your guard at all times, and never carry large sums of cash, as the opportunities to lose it are plentiful. Beware of strangers in the street; they will try anything to scam you out of your money, including telling you all sorts of horror stories that can be solved with a little financial assistance. The best thing to do is to ignore any stranger who approaches you on the street or in your hotel, no matter how desperate they seem. They have perfected their technique on scores of tourists before you, and know how to elicit your compassion. Especially avoid anyone who say they can help you arrange for a hotel or other amenity. Be wary of any "advice" you receive, or even information from people like taxi drivers. They may tell you your hotel is full, and then take you to another, more expensive, hotel where they receive a cut of the room fee.

    While traveling in Nairobi and the rest of Kenya, count on somehow being scammed at least once. When this happens, don't worry, as it has happened to many, many people before you. The worst thing that could occur as a result is that you let it ruin your vacation. The best preventative measures you can take are to avoid troublesome areas; not to walk around alone, especially at night; not resisting thieves if you do happen to get mugged; and generally using common sense. Check out the US Deparment of Transportation's Kenyan Security page for more info.