Current safety updates
Kenya Ministry of Tourism - 3 October 2011Following an incident on Manda Island, off Lamu, on Sat 01 Oct, in which a French national was apparently taken hostage, the Kenyan government announced in a statement (dated 02 Oct 2011) that it is working closely with international authorities to ensure that the effects of the civil unrest which has affected Somalia for so long, do not further encroach into Kenya. This follows last month's incident in which a British couple were kidnapped (and one killed) at Cheli & Peacock's Kiwayu Safari Resort close to the border with Somalia. These incidents involving Somalian nationals occurred hundreds of kilometres from Kenya's most popular beach and safari destinations, and - with the exception of the northernmost coast - do not affect any these, despite the travel advisories issued by some countries. The statement emphasized the government’s intent, due to the importance of tourism to Kenya's economy, to ensure that visitors can enjoy their stay in Kenya without apprehension. FCO travel advice has been adjusted to the following: "We advise against all but essential travel to coastal areas within 150 kilometres of the Somali border, following two attacks by armed gangs in small boats against beach resorts in the Lamu area on 11 September and 1 October 2011. This advice will be kept under review. Both attacks were on beach-front properties, with two Westerners kidnapped and one murdered. Beach-front accommodation in that area and boats off the coast are vulnerable." Wildlife Worldwide does not currently offer programmes that feature this area. |
Japan Earthquake and Tsunami - 11 March 2011An earthquake and Tsunami has hit the north of Japan and resulted in Tsunami warnings being issued throughout much of the Pacific Rim. After contacting our local ground teams where our clients were visiting, we can report these areas have now stepped down their Tsunami warnings and no major incidents were reported. Our local suppliers continue to monitor the situation and any changes will be notified here. Our thoughts are now with those less fortunate in Japan who have been affected by this catastrophic event. |