Tens of thousands of fans are expected in Nairobi for AFCON 2027. This guide is for anyone coming from abroad - or from elsewhere in Kenya - to follow their team. For the tournament itself, see AFCON 2027 in Nairobi.

Before you travel

Visas and entry

  • Kenya: most visitors apply online for an eTA before flying, for US$ 30. Most African nationals do not need one, and East African Community citizens travel freely. See Applying for an eTA.
  • Uganda has announced a visa-fee waiver for visitors from about a month before kickoff to a month after the final.
  • A single visa for Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania during the tournament has been discussed by the three governments but not confirmed.
  • Tanzania has its own e-visa for most nationalities.

Check the official sites for your passport, and keep an eye on the AFCON hub for any AFCON-specific arrangements or Fan ID.

Health

  • Yellow fever vaccination may be required, depending on where you travel from.
  • Malaria is not a significant risk in Nairobi, which is high and cool, but is present at the coast, around Lake Victoria and in many other areas - including parts of the other host countries. Ask a travel clinic.
  • Travel insurance with medical cover is essential.

Book early

Rooms will be in demand, especially for Kenya matches and the knockout rounds. Book refundable accommodation now and firm up once the draw sets the fixtures.

Where to stay

Choose by stadium - Nairobi traffic makes cross-town trips slow.

  • For Raila Odinga International Stadium (Ngong Road): Kilimani, Kileleshwa, Lavington, Karen and Lang’ata. See Living in Kilimani.
  • For Kasarani (Thika Road): Roysambu, Kasarani and along Thika Road, or Gigiri and Runda for more comfort. See Ruaka and Thika Road.
  • For Nyayo (by the CBD): the CBD, Upper Hill, South B, South C and Madaraka. See South B and South C.
  • Westlands is the most popular all-round base, with the most hotels, bars and restaurants, and the Expressway towards Nyayo and the airport.

See Where to stay in Nairobi and Serviced apartments.

Arriving

Money

The currency is the Kenyan shilling. Cards work in malls, hotels and many restaurants; everything else is M-Pesa or cash. See Changing money in Nairobi. Budget the trip with the AFCON trip budget.

Getting around

  • Ride-hailing (Uber, Bolt, Little) is the easiest way to get around.
  • Matatus are cheap and go everywhere.
  • Avoid driving yourself on matchdays.

Plan stadium trips with the matchday planner. See Getting around Nairobi.

Weather

June and July are Nairobi’s coolest, driest months: mild, often cloudy days and cold evenings, sometimes down to around 12°C. Bring a warm layer for evening matches. See Weather in Nairobi.

Staying safe

Nairobi welcomes visitors, and most trips are trouble-free. Big events attract pickpockets and scammers, so:

  • Keep your phone out of sight in crowds and near car windows.
  • Use ride-hailing at night.
  • Buy tickets only from official channels.
  • Save the emergency numbers: 999 or 112.

See Is Nairobi safe for tourists?.

Between matches

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