Getting Around Nairobi 2025
Navigate Nairobi like a local with our transportation guide.
Nairobi is Kenya's vibrant capital city and a major hub for East Africa, blending modern skyscrapers with abundant wildlife right at the city's edge. It is the only city in the world with a national park within its boundaries, where lions and giraffes roam against a backdrop of the urban skyline. Known as the 'Green City in the Sun,' Nairobi offers world-class dining, diverse culture, and serves as the gateway to Kenya's legendary safari destinations.
Transportation Overview
Quick comparison of transport options in Nairobi.
Public Transit
Matatu network covers the entire city but can be unsafe and unpredictable; BRT routes are newer and better regulated
Taxis
Available via Uber, Bolt and Little Cab apps; much cheaper and safer than street hailing
Car Rental
Car hire available from Hertz, Budget and local companies from $40-80/day; useful for day trips to parks
Walking
Westlands, Karen and Gigiri are walkable; CBD should only be walked during the day with valuables hidden
Getting There
How to arrive in Nairobi.
✈️ By Air
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport
East Africa's largest and busiest international airport serving all major international airlines. Terminal 1A handles international departures and Terminal 1B handles domestic and some regional flights.
Wilson Airport
Wilson Airport is Nairobi's secondary airport handling domestic routes, charter flights and light aircraft. Used for flights to Masai Mara, Amboseli, Lamu and other Kenyan destinations.
Airport Transfer Options
Complete Transportation Guide
Route guides, fare information, and transport app recommendations.
Local Transportation
Getting around within Nairobi.
Nairobi's traffic is notorious — journeys across the city can take 30 minutes to 2+ hours at peak times. Plan accordingly and use the early morning window (before 7 AM) for efficient travel.
Uber/Bolt (safest and most convenient)
Matatu (cheapest, some routes unsafe)
Taxi (reliable, negotiate fare first)
Walking (safe only in key areas like Westlands during the day)
🚌 Buses
Matatus (minibuses) cover all city routes for KES 30-100 ($0.30-1) per journey; BRT buses on main corridors are safer
🛺 Local Alternatives
Uber and Bolt are the recommended options; the Little Cab app is a Kenyan alternative to Uber
Intercity Travel
Getting between cities and regions.
The SGR train to Mombasa (Syokimau station) is by far the best intercity option — comfortable, reliable and scenic. Buses serve upcountry destinations. Domestic flights via Wilson Airport reach most Kenyan parks and coast towns.
Long-Distance Buses
Long-distance buses (Easy Coach, Modern Coast, Mash) from $5-15 to upcountry destinations
Shared Taxis/Minivans
Shared taxis (matatus) serve nearby towns like Thika, Machakos and Ngong from $1-5
Domestic Flights
Domestic flights via Wilson Airport from $80-200 one way to Masai Mara, Amboseli, Lamu
Private Car/Driver
Private car hire from $60/day for upcountry trips with a driver
Driving in Nairobi
Information for self-driving travelers.
Recommended?
Yes
Driving Side
left
License Required
International Driving Permit required alongside home country licence
Road Conditions
Roads in Karen and suburbs are good; CBD streets congested; upcountry roads may be potholed or unpaved
Driving Considerations
- Research local driving laws and road conditions before deciding to drive
- Consider hiring a driver instead - often affordable and less stressful
- Ensure comprehensive insurance if renting a vehicle
- Avoid driving at night in unfamiliar areas
- Keep copies of all documents (license, insurance, rental agreement)
Transportation Tips
Essential advice for getting around.
Download Uber, Bolt and Little Cab apps before arriving — essential for safe city navigation
Share your Uber/Bolt trip with a contact and track it on the map
Never hail unofficial taxis from the street, especially at night
Nairobi traffic is worst 7-9 AM and 4:30-7:30 PM — avoid these times if possible
The SGR train from Syokimau to Mombasa is the best way to travel to the coast
Wilson Airport is the gateway for most safari camp transfers by light aircraft
Matatus are colour-coded by route — but navigating them requires local knowledge
Download Google Maps offline for Nairobi before you arrive
Useful Apps
Uber
Most widely used ride-hailing app in Nairobi; reliable and GPS-tracked
Bolt
Often slightly cheaper than Uber; growing presence in Nairobi
Little Cab
Kenyan-owned ride app; good alternative with local driver knowledge
Google Maps
Best navigation app for Nairobi; download offline before arriving
Ma3Route
Nairobi-specific traffic and matatu information app
Navigate Nairobi Like a Local
Get our complete transport guide with route planners, fare guides, and essential travel phrases.
Download Transport Guide