Getting Around Nairobi: A Practical Guide for Visitors
Nairobi, Kenya's capital and largest city, offers several transportation options for visitors navigating the urban area. Traffic can be heavy, so planning your journey in advance and using local knowledge or a guide will help you move around the city more effectively.
Arriving at the Airport
Most international visitors arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), located about 15 kilometers southeast of the city center. Several options exist for reaching your accommodation.
- Ride-hailing apps: Uber and Bolt operate at the airport and offer affordable rides to the city center, starting from around Ksh 900.
- Taxis: Taxis are available outside the terminals. An official KAA taxi desk located just after customs offers fixed-price vouchers to ensure fair rates—expect to pay approximately Ksh 2,000 to the city center, with higher fares for areas further west or north. Use only reputable taxis and avoid accepting unsolicited recommendations for accommodation.
- Airport Bus #34: A budget option running from 6:00 to 20:00, costing Ksh 100. You can board from the road between the international terminal and cargo terminal, or from in front of the Ambassador Hotel on Moi Avenue in the city center. Travel time can exceed two hours during heavy traffic, making this option inconvenient if you have large luggage.
Wilson Airport, located 11 kilometers south of the city center, handles mostly domestic flights and general aviation. Taxis are available at the curb, though there is no official taxi desk.
Rail and Commuter Train Services
Nairobi's rail network has expanded significantly, offering visitors several options for both arriving in the city and traveling within it.
Standard Gauge Railway (SGR): The SGR connects Nairobi to Mombasa and operates express, night, and slower intercity services under the Madaraka Express brand. The journey takes 5 to 6 hours, and multiple trains run daily. Tickets cost Ksh 1,000 for second class and Ksh 3,000 for first class; the main difference between classes is seat size. Trains arrive at Nairobi Terminus (Syokimau railway station), approximately 10 kilometers southeast of the city center. A connecting commuter train links Nairobi Terminus to the central railway station in the heart of the city, allowing easy access to central areas. Due to the railway's popularity, booking tickets several days in advance is recommended.
Commuter Rail: Nairobi central railway station serves as the hub for local commuter train services, providing connections from Nairobi Terminus and access to other areas of the city.
Additional Train Routes: As of June 2026, twice-weekly train service operates from Nairobi to Nanyuki via Nyeri, departing from the old central railway station at 09:30 on Tuesdays and Fridays, with a journey time of six hours. Fares are Ksh 200 in third class and Ksh 1,000 in first class. Weekly service also runs to Kisumu on Fridays.
Buses and Minibuses
Several bus and minibus options connect Nairobi to other parts of the country, and many companies also operate within the city.
Long-Distance Buses: Reliable bus companies operate from Nairobi to destinations across Kenya and neighboring countries. Major routes include services to Mombasa, Arusha in Tanzania, Kisumu, Eldoret, Kitale, Kericho, and Kampala in Uganda.
Matatus: These 11- to 18-seater minibuses and smaller 6-seater shuttles are the primary public transport for reaching towns and tourist destinations in the Rift Valley and Central Highlands, including Naivasha, Nyeri, Nanyuki, Isiolo, and Thika. Matatus depart from the River Road area, though this location warrants caution due to petty theft concerns. To use matatus safely, arrange for a taxi to drop you directly at your matatu's boarding point and to collect you from your destination—inform your taxi driver of your final destination so they take you to the correct matatu operator. Your ticket will show the operator's name, which you can provide when being collected. It is best to arrange these taxis through your hotel.
Taxis and Ride-Hailing Services
Taxis are widely available throughout Nairobi and offer flexible point-to-point transportation. Modern ride-hailing apps such as Uber and Bolt operate in the city and provide an alternative to traditional taxis, often with transparent pricing through the app.
Car Hire
Renting a car allows you to explore Nairobi at your own pace, with most rental companies offering both self-drive and chauffeured options. The majority of available rental vehicles are Japanese makes—Toyota, Nissan, or Mitsubishi—and all are right-hand drive. Both automatic and manual transmission vehicles are available.
Hiring a vehicle with a driver is advisable given local driving standards, road conditions, and the cost-effectiveness of avoiding the deposit required for self-drive rentals. Some car rental companies require that you hire a driver when taking larger 4x4 or 4WD vehicles.
Rental rates typically depend on the number of days and estimated daily mileage. Weekly, monthly, and lease rates are often cheaper. Most rental packages include unlimited mileage, comprehensive insurance covering theft and damage, and PSV coverage. Fuel and driver costs are usually charged separately.
When renting a car, photograph the vehicle before departing or carefully document any existing dents or scratches. Read the rental contract carefully to understand insurance liabilities in case of accident or theft. Several reliable car hire companies operate in Nairobi and at major airports.
Walking
The source material provided does not include specific information about walkability in Nairobi's neighborhoods or which areas are safe and pleasant for pedestrian exploration. It is advisable to consult current local resources or your hotel staff regarding which districts are suitable for walking and which areas to avoid.
General Travel Advice
Traffic congestion is a significant feature of traveling in Nairobi. When using any form of transportation, exercise common sense and consider using a local guide or arranging transportation through your accommodation. This approach will help you navigate the city more safely and efficiently.