Getting to Nairobi: Airport and Transport Guide

TLDR

Getting to Nairobi is straightforward. This guide covers every transfer option — taxis, public transport, shared shuttles, and private transfers — with current prices and journey times.

You might also find these useful: Best Day Trips from Nairobi, Best Restaurants in Nairobi: Where to Eat, Best Time to Visit Nairobi: Month by Month Guide.

Arriving at JKIA: What to Expect

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is located approximately 15 kilometers southeast of Nairobi city centre. It is a large, modern terminal and the main international gateway to Kenya. The journey into the city is straightforward, but the right choice of transport depends on your budget, schedule, and comfort level.

One important note before you set off: use the Nairobi Expressway or Mombasa Road to travel into the city. Avoid the old Airport South Road and Jogoo Road, which have a higher risk of carjacking incidents. This is a standard precaution that most drivers will follow automatically.

Option 1: Official Taxis

Official metered taxis are available immediately outside the arrivals hall at JKIA. They are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, which makes them the most convenient option if you are arriving on a late flight. The journey to the CBD typically costs between KSh 2,500 and KSh 3,000 and takes 30 to 45 minutes in light traffic.

Always use the official taxi rank rather than accepting rides from touts who approach you inside the terminal. The official taxis are safer and the prices are more predictable. Confirm the fare before you get in to avoid any misunderstandings on arrival.

For travel to Westlands or other suburbs, the fare will be slightly higher than to the CBD. Westlands is typically KSh 2,800 to KSh 3,500. Ask your hotel in advance what the standard fare from the airport should be, and use that as your reference.

Option 2: Uber and Bolt

Uber and Bolt both operate in Nairobi and can be booked directly from JKIA. The pricing is competitive, often somewhat cheaper than the metered taxis, and you have the advantage of knowing the fare before you commit. Both apps work well in Nairobi, and most drivers are reliable.

To use Uber or Bolt, you will need a working data connection on your phone. Buy a local SIM card at the airport if you do not have roaming data set up. Little Cab is another Kenyan ride-hailing app worth knowing about, particularly popular with locals.

One practical tip: book your Uber or Bolt before you exit the arrivals hall, so your driver is already waiting when you come out. This avoids the need to stand near the taxi ranks, where touts can be persistent.

Option 3: KBS Airport Bus Route 34

The KBS Airport Bus Route 34 runs between JKIA and the Nairobi CBD. It is the most affordable option by far, with fares in the KSh 50 to KSh 100 range. The service runs approximately every 30 to 45 minutes between 6am and 9pm.

The bus is not ideal if you have large luggage, as the vehicles can be crowded and storage space is limited. However, if you are traveling light and are comfortable with public transport, it is a perfectly functional way to get into the city. The journey takes around 45 to 60 minutes.

Option 4: Matatus

Matatus are Nairobi’s shared minibuses, the primary form of public transport used by most Kenyans. They are very cheap, typically KSh 50 to KSh 100 for the airport route, but they are crowded, often move unpredictably, and are not well-suited for travelers with luggage.

If you are an experienced traveler in East Africa and are comfortable with local transport, matatus are fine. For first-time visitors to Nairobi, the taxi or ride-hailing option is a much more relaxed start to your trip.

Option 5: Hotel Shuttle

Many hotels in Nairobi offer complimentary or paid airport shuttles for guests. This is often the most stress-free option, as a driver will meet you at arrivals with a sign bearing your name. Contact your hotel before arrival to confirm whether this service is available and what it costs.

Hotel Ambassadeur Kenya is well-positioned for guests arriving at JKIA. Check directly with the hotel about their transfer options and any arrangements they can make for your arrival.

Safety Tips for the Airport Journey

Always keep your luggage with you in the arrivals hall and do not hand bags to anyone who offers to help carry them. Use official taxi ranks or pre-booked ride-hailing apps rather than accepting rides from strangers. Keep your phone out of sight while you are waiting.

Travel on the Nairobi Expressway rather than Mombasa Road if possible, especially at night. The expressway is toll-based but significantly safer and faster. Most taxi and Uber drivers will use it automatically.

If you are arriving late at night, the taxi or Uber option is the safest choice. Avoid public transport after dark, and have your accommodation address saved and ready to show the driver.

Book Your Nairobi Stay

Hotel Ambassadeur Kenya puts you right in the heart of Nairobi at great value. Check availability and book your room here.

Frequently Asked Questions