What Plug Does Kenya Use?
View CountryKenya uses the BS 1363 Type G plug with three rectangular, earthed pins, and the country supplies 240 V at 50 Hz. The most useful takeaway is to bring a Type G adapter; travellers from the US, Canada and Japan should also check whether their devices are rated for 240 V.
Plug Types
Do I Need a Travel Adapter for Kenya?
Most sockets in Kenya use the British BS 1363 Type G plug. Visitors from the UK and Ireland do not need an adapter. Travellers from the US and Canada, Europe, Australia and New Zealand, India and Japan will need a Type G adapter to fit Kenyan sockets. Buy a quality Type G adapter that accepts your region's plug and provides a secure earth connection; a multi-region travel adapter that includes Type G is handy if you travel to multiple countries.
| Travelling from | Your plugs | Plug adapter | Voltage converter |
|---|---|---|---|
| US & Canada | Type A/B | Needed | Check your devices |
| UK & Ireland | Type G | Not needed | Not needed |
| Europe | Type C/F/E | Needed | Not needed |
| Australia & NZ | Type I | Needed | Not needed |
| India | Type D/C | Needed | Not needed |
| Japan | Type A/B | Needed | Check your devices |
Do I Need a Voltage Converter in Kenya?
Kenya uses 240 V at 50 Hz. Many modern phone, tablet and laptop chargers are dual-voltage (100-240 V) and will work without a converter, so check the label on each power brick. Travellers from the UK, Europe, Australia, New Zealand and India generally do not need a converter. Visitors from the US, Canada and Japan should check devices, since some small appliances may be single-voltage and require a converter or a dual-voltage replacement.
Kenya Plugs and Sockets Explained
Type G (BS 1363) is the primary plug in Kenya. It has three rectangular pins arranged in a triangular pattern, including a longer earth pin, so it is earthed and designed for a secure connection. Sockets accept only Type G plugs without an adapter. Type G is common across former British-influence countries, so adapters that convert other plug types to Type G are what you will need if your plug differs.
Tips for Charging Your Devices in Kenya
- Check each charger label for 100-240 V to avoid needing a converter
- Bring a fused Type G adapter, or a multi-region adapter that includes Type G
- Pack a compact travel power strip with a Type G plug if you have several devices
- For hair dryers or straighteners, use a dual-voltage model or buy a converter if they are single-voltage
- Keep spare USB charging cables and a USB wall charger for phones and tablets