Kenya has some of the strictest plastic rules in Africa. If you are planning a safari or a beach stay, a little preparation makes the rules easy to follow.
The 2017 plastic bag ban
Kenya introduced a nationwide ban on single-use plastic bags in 2017. The United Nations Environment Programme has described the law as one of the most effective of its kind in the world. Pack a reusable cloth bag for shopping and souvenirs.
The 2020 ban in protected areas
On 5 June 2020, World Environment Day, Kenya banned single-use plastics in its national parks, beaches, forests and conservation areas. Visitors may not bring single-use plastic items such as water bottles, cups, plates, cutlery and straws into these places. The directive had been announced by the president a year earlier.
What this means for your safari
- Bring a refillable bottle. Our safari vehicles carry drinking water, so you can top up during the day.
- Avoid packing single-use cups, cutlery and straws. Take a reusable set if you want your own.
- Wrap toiletries and snacks in cloth or paper where you can, and bring any plastic rubbish out with you.
On the coast
The ban covers beaches too, so the same rules apply on your beach extension.
Why it matters
Plastic harms wildlife and the places you have come to see. Read our guide to responsible safaris and the Kenya safari checklist.
How the 2017 ban began
The ban came into force on 28 August 2017. At the time the government said violators could face a fine of up to about US$38,000 or a four-year jail term, with minimum penalties of about US$19,000 or one year in prison. Reports describe the ban as covering the use, manufacture and importation of plastic bags, and manufacturers of bags for industrial use were exempted. Penalties and enforcement can change, so treat these as the position when the ban began.
Making it easy
- Pack a cloth bag for shopping and souvenirs.
- Bring a reusable bottle, and refill it from the drinking water on your vehicle.
- Carry rubbish out of parks, beaches and forests with you.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a plastic bag ban in Kenya?
Yes. Kenya banned single-use plastic bags nationwide in 2017.
Can I bring a plastic water bottle into a national park?
Single-use plastic items such as water bottles have been banned in Kenya’s national parks, beaches, forests and conservation areas since June 2020. Bring a refillable bottle.
Will I have drinking water on safari?
Yes. Our safari vehicles carry drinking water.
Does the ban apply on beaches?
Yes. Beaches are covered by the 2020 ban on single-use plastics.
When did Kenya’s plastic bag ban start?
On 28 August 2017.
How strict was the 2017 ban?
At the start the government said violators could face a fine of up to about US$38,000 or a four-year jail term. Check the current position before you travel.
Want help planning? Talk to our team and tell us your dates, who is travelling and what you would like to see.
Facts checked on 5 November 2026 from the United Nations Environment Programme’s report, Kenya bans single-use plastics in protected areas, and an Al Jazeera report of 28 August 2017. Enforcement details can change, so ask us if you are unsure.
