Kenya - Customs

Customs Rules for Yachts Arriving/Departing Kenya

Arriving by Yacht:

As soon as you have been cleared by Health, go and visit the Kenya Revenue Service - KRS (Customs). They will issue you with a Transire document, needed when travelling inter-port domestically within Kenya. You will need to give them a crew list.

The Transire is not a requirement when traveling within the same county jurisdiction (i.e between Watamu and Kilifi) as they are both in Kilifi county. Sailing from Lamu south without a Transire is an invitation for problems.

See Documents for more details.

Length of Stay:

Visiting yachts can stay for 364 days in 1 calendar year. Boats should not be left completely unattended as there have been several reports of theft.

Other Customs Information:

• Firearms must be declared on arrival. These will be impounded and released only on departure.
• The import of fruits, plants and seeds, and imitation firearms are prohibited, as are meat, meat products and any product from poultry, which must be declared and will be destroyed.
• The export of gold, diamonds and wildlife skins or game trophies not obtained through the authorized Kenyan government department is prohibited. If purchasing souvenirs in these categories, ensure all paperwork is completed accurately.

Importing Parts/Spares:

Visiting sailors can buy or have shipped equipment such as engines, instruments and sails. By using a clearing agent, who will provide a bond, it is possible to avoid paying local importation taxes. Proof of onward travel will be expected.

Last updated:  July 2024