Getting around in Kenya is straightforward once you know which transport works best for your route, budget, and time. Navigating Kenya requires understanding the different modes of transport that connect major cities, national parks, and coastal areas. The best way to get around depends on your itinerary and budget.
For safari circuits and national parks, a private driver-guide in a 4×4 is the most reliable and time-efficient option. This approach minimizes transit time and ensures safe, logistical travel within the parks.
For longer intercity trips, domestic flights or the SGR Madaraka Express between Nairobi and Mombasa provide efficiency. Within cities, licensed airport taxis or ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt are readily available. Our guides to Kenyan transport carriers and train bookings provide more details on these options.
When to Pick Each Mode of Transport
The choice of transport mode depends on distance, road conditions, and how much luggage you are carrying. This table summarizes the most practical options for different travel scenarios.
| Transport Mode | Distance / Time | Road Conditions | Luggage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4x4 Safari Vehicle | Short (e.g., within parks) to Medium (up to 6 hours) | Rough, unpaved tracks | Medium capacity |
| SGR Madaraka Express | Long (e.g., Nairobi to Mombasa, approx. 5 hours) | Smooth tracks | High capacity |
| Domestic Flights | Long (e.g., Nairobi to Masai Mara, 40-60 min) | Airborne | Strict limits (usually 15-20 kg soft bags) |
For more flexible travel planning, consider self-drive options, though these are typically only recommended for certain areas. A private vehicle and guide manage the logistics efficiently and safely. Official advisories often recommend avoiding night driving in remote areas.
How Transport in Kenya Works (An Overview of Your Options)
Kenya offers a range of transportation options, each suited for different distances, budgets, and destinations. Understanding how each mode works is key to planning an efficient and safe itinerary. The main choices for travelers include domestic flights for speed, the SGR train for the Nairobi-Mombasa route, and a variety of road transport options.
Domestic Flights
For long distances and reaching remote safari destinations, domestic flights are the fastest and most efficient method. Most safari flights depart from Wilson Airport (WIL) in Nairobi, a smaller hub dedicated to light aircraft. Airlines like Safarilink and AirKenya operate daily scheduled services to airstrips in major parks, including the Masai Mara, Amboseli, and Samburu. A typical flight from Nairobi to the Mara takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes, saving a full day of driving.
SGR Madaraka Express Train
The Madaraka Express is a modern train service that provides a reliable and comfortable connection between Nairobi and Mombasa. There are several services per day, including an express train that takes just under five hours. Seats must be booked in advance through the official online portal, and it is a popular choice for both residents and visitors.
Intercity Coaches and Shuttles
For budget-friendly travel between major towns like Nairobi, Kisumu, and Eldoret, intercity coaches are a common option. Reputable companies like Easy Coach offer comfortable seating and have a good safety record. Tickets for these services can often be booked online through platforms that aggregate different bus companies.
Ride-Hailing and Licensed Taxis
Within cities like Nairobi and Mombasa, ride-hailing apps such as Uber, Bolt, and Little are widely used, safe, and reliable. At Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) endorses the use of official, licensed airport taxis, which can be found at designated pickup zones. This provides a secure option for your arrival transfer.
Self-Drive and Car Hire
Renting a vehicle for a self-drive tour can be a practical option for experienced travelers sticking to well-paved highways, such as the route between Mombasa and Diani. However, self-driving into remote national parks is generally not recommended due to challenging road conditions and the difficulty of navigating without a guide. Official advisories also warn against driving at night in many areas.
Motorcycle Taxis (Boda Bodas)
Boda bodas are a common form of transport for short distances within towns and cities. They are a quick way to get around, but they carry a higher safety risk than other forms of transport. The law requires both the rider and passenger to wear a helmet. If you choose to use one, it is best to use a formal, app-based operator where possible.
Best Transfer Between JKIA and Nairobi City in Kenya
The journey between Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and Nairobi's city center or major hotel areas like Westlands can be affected by heavy traffic. Choosing the right transport method is key to a smooth and safe arrival.
Best Way to Travel
The most reliable and efficient way to travel from JKIA to the city is by using a licensed airport taxi or a pre-booked ride-hailing service like Uber or Bolt. These services use the Nairobi Expressway, a toll road that significantly reduces travel time by bypassing the most congested roads. The journey to areas like Westlands or the Central Business District (CBD) can take as little as 20-30 minutes using this route.
Other Options to Get Around
- Commuter Rail: Kenya Railways operates a commuter train service from a station near the airport to the Nairobi Central Station. This involves a short bus shuttle from the airport terminal to the train station. You should check the current schedule before your trip, as the service times may not align with your flight's arrival.
What to Avoid
- Informal Touts: You will likely be approached by unofficial taxi drivers in the arrivals hall. It is best to avoid these, as their vehicles may not be properly licensed or insured, and you risk being overcharged. The Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) recommends using only official, registered taxis.
- Unmetered Vehicles: Do not get into a taxi without first agreeing on the fare or ensuring the meter is running.
Typical Time and Cost
Travel time without the Expressway can be anywhere from 60 to 90 minutes. A standard ride-hailing fare from JKIA to Westlands typically ranges from 1,500 to 2,500 KES, depending on demand and time of day. The Nairobi Expressway toll is an additional cost, usually paid by the driver and added to your final fare.
Booking Tips
When using a ride-hailing app, make sure to meet your driver at the designated pickup zone at the airport. Always confirm the vehicle's license plate and the driver's name against the details in your app before getting in. It is also a good practice to share your trip details with a contact person.
How Kenya Peaks Adventures Helps
We provide pre-booked, private airport transfers as part of our safari packages. Our professional driver will meet you in the arrivals hall with a name board, assist with your luggage, and take you directly to your hotel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. We use the Expressway during peak hours to ensure a quick and efficient transfer.
Best Way to Travel Between Nairobi and Mombasa (Including Diani) as a Tourist
The journey between Nairobi and the coastal city of Mombasa is a popular travel route. The best method depends on your priorities, whether it is speed, cost, or the travel experience itself.
Best Way to Travel
For the best combination of value, comfort, and reliability, the SGR Madaraka Express train is the recommended option. The express service takes approximately five hours between the Nairobi and Mombasa termini. From the Mombasa terminus, a pre-arranged private transfer is the most efficient way to reach your hotel in Diani, which takes about 90 minutes.
Other Options
- Domestic Flights: For travelers on a tight schedule, a one-hour flight from either Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) or Wilson Airport (WIL) is the fastest way to the coast. You can fly directly into Moi International Airport (MBA) in Mombasa or, for Diani, the smaller Ukunda Airstrip (UKA).
- Intercity Coaches: Reputable bus companies like Coast Bus or Dreamline Express offer a budget-friendly but much longer (9-10 hour) road journey.
What to Avoid
- Overnight Road Travel: Official government travel advisories generally recommend against long-distance road travel at night due to safety concerns. We advise choosing a daytime bus or the train for road journeys.
Typical Time and Cost
The SGR train offers Economy and First Class seats, with one-way fares starting from around 1,500 KES. Domestic flight prices vary but are typically between $50 and $150 one way. It is important to note that airlines operating safari routes often have stricter baggage limits (usually 15kg in soft bags) than the larger commercial flights.
Booking Tips
SGR train tickets can be booked up to 60 days in advance on the official Kenya Railways portal and often sell out, especially during holidays. Booking the morning express train from Nairobi is a good strategy to arrive in Mombasa with enough time to complete your transfer to a Diani beach hotel in the afternoon.
How Kenya Peaks Adventures Helps
As part of our safari and beach packages, we manage the entire logistical chain. We book your SGR or flight tickets in advance and coordinate a seamless private transfer, ensuring a driver is waiting for you at the Mombasa terminus or airport to take you directly to your beach hotel without any delays.
Best Way to Travel Between Nairobi and Masai Mara
The Masai Mara National Reserve is the most famous safari destination in Kenya. The journey from Nairobi can be a long one by road, so choosing the right mode of transport is key to maximizing your time on safari.
Best Way to Travel
The most efficient and comfortable way to get to the Masai Mara is by taking a domestic flight from Wilson Airport (WIL) in Nairobi. The flight takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes, which avoids a 5-6 hour road journey that includes sections of rough, bumpy roads. This allows you to arrive at your camp refreshed and with time for a game drive on the same day.
Other Options
- 4x4 Road Transfer: For travelers on a tighter budget or those who want to see the scenery of the Great Rift Valley, a road transfer in a 4x4 safari vehicle is a good option. The journey provides a chance to stop at scenic viewpoints along the way.
What to Avoid
- Night Driving: Driving into the reserve after dark is generally not permitted and is advised against for safety reasons. All road transfers should be planned to ensure you arrive at your camp or lodge well before dusk.
Typical Time and Cost
Airlines like Safarilink and AirKenya operate multiple scheduled flights per day from Wilson Airport to various airstrips inside and around the Masai Mara, such as Ol Kiombo, Keekorok, and Mara Serena. The cost for a one-way flight is typically between $200 and $400 per person. Luggage is usually restricted to 15 kg per person in soft-sided bags.
Booking Tips
When booking your flight, it is important to match your accommodation to its nearest airstrip. Choosing the correct airstrip will significantly reduce your road transfer time once you arrive in the Mara. Your camp or lodge will typically arrange for a vehicle to pick you up from the airstrip.
How Kenya Peaks Adventures Helps
As part of our Masai Mara safari packages, we handle all the transport logistics. We align your domestic flights with the correct airstrip for your chosen lodge and ensure that the camp's vehicle is scheduled to meet you upon arrival. We also manage the strict luggage allowances to ensure a smooth check-in process.
How to Get from Nairobi to Amboseli
The journey from Nairobi to Amboseli National Park can be done by either air or road. The best choice depends on your budget and how much time you want to dedicate to travel versus being in the park.
The Best Way: A Short Flight
The most efficient way to reach Amboseli is by taking a scheduled flight from Wilson Airport (WIL) in Nairobi. The flight itself is short, lasting approximately 40 minutes, and it provides incredible aerial views of the landscape. This option avoids a long road journey and maximizes your time for safari activities.
Other Options: The Scenic Road Transfer
A road transfer in a 4x4 safari vehicle is a more budget-friendly alternative. The drive takes between four and five hours and typically follows the route via Emali. It is a good option for travelers who want to see more of the Kenyan countryside along the way.
What to Avoid
It is best to avoid late afternoon road departures from Nairobi. This can lead to arriving at the park gate close to or after the official closing time. It also increases the risk of navigating the final stretches of road in the dark, which is generally not recommended.
Flight Timetables and Costs
Airlines like Safarilink operate daily flights to Amboseli Airstrip. The schedules are often seasonal, with more flights during the peak tourist months. A one-way flight typically costs between $180 and $250. It is important to book these flights well in advance, as they have limited seating.
Booking and Travel Tips
Booking a morning flight from Nairobi is the most effective strategy. This allows you to arrive at your lodge in Amboseli in time for lunch and a full afternoon game drive. When we plan these trips, we always coordinate the flight times with the lodge's schedule to ensure a seamless check-in and often arrange for a sundowner with views of Mount Kilimanjaro on that first evening.
How to Get Around Nairobi for Day Tours
Nairobi is a large and busy city with several key attractions located in different areas. For a day tour, efficient transport between these sites is essential to make the most of your time.
The Best Way: A Private Driver-Guide
The most effective way to see Nairobi's attractions, such as the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, the Giraffe Centre, and the Karen Blixen Museum, is with a private driver-guide. This approach provides door-to-door service, which is a significant advantage for safety and convenience. A local driver knows the city's traffic patterns and can use the Nairobi Expressway to make cross-town journeys, like from the Central Business District (CBD) to Karen, much faster.
Other Options
- Ride-Hailing Services: Using apps like Uber or Bolt is a practical option for moving between sites. However, you may experience delays waiting for a car, and costs can add up over multiple trips.
- Nairobi Commuter Rail: For travel between specific corridors, the commuter rail is an option. You should always check the current KRC timetables in advance, as the service routes are limited.
What to Avoid
- Public Matatus: For first-time visitors, navigating the public matatu (minibus) system is not recommended. The routes are complex, vehicle standards vary, and they can be overcrowded.
Practical Tips for a Day Tour
To have a successful day tour, it is best to start early in the morning to avoid the worst of Nairobi's traffic. Grouping your visits to attractions that are in the same neighborhood (for example, all the sites in the Karen area) is also an efficient strategy. Our Nairobi day tours are structured this way to minimize your travel time.
How to Travel from a Nairobi Hotel to the CBD
For short-distance travel within Nairobi, such as from a hotel in areas like Westlands or Upper Hill to the Central Business District (CBD), your primary concerns are safety and efficiency. The best options are those that provide door-to-door service and traceability.
The Best Way: Ride-Hailing or Hotel Taxis
The most reliable methods for this type of short journey are ride-hailing apps like Uber, Bolt, or Little, or a licensed taxi arranged by your hotel. These services offer a significant safety advantage because your trip is tracked, and the driver's details are registered. You should always set your pickup point directly at your hotel lobby and share your live trip details with a contact person through the app.
Other Options
Walking is a practical option for very short distances during the day, for example, if your hotel is located adjacent to the CBD. It allows you to see the city at a slower pace. However, this is only recommended for routes you are familiar with in well-trafficked areas.
What to Avoid
Official travel advisories recommend against walking after dark in many parts of the city due to safety concerns. It is also advisable to avoid displaying expensive valuables like cameras or phones openly while walking. For transport, avoid hailing unmarked taxis from the street; always use a registered and vetted service.
Our Approach to City Transfers
When our clients require transfers for dinner or meetings in the city, we pre-arrange these short trips with our own vetted drivers or coordinate directly with the hotel's trusted taxi service. This ensures reliability and eliminates any uncertainty for our guests. We also provide direct pickups from your hotel in Nairobi if that is your first day of safari tour with us.
Best Way to Travel Between Kenya and Tanzania as a Tourist
The most common route for travelers combining a safari in both Kenya and Tanzania is between Nairobi and the northern Tanzanian towns of Arusha or Moshi. These towns serve as the primary gateways to the Serengeti and Mount Kilimanjaro. The best way to make this journey is by road, using a scheduled shuttle service.
The Best Way: A Cross-Border Shuttle
Several established shuttle companies, such as The Riverside Shuttle and Impala Shuttles, operate daily services between Nairobi and Arusha. These shuttles typically run twice a day, in the morning and afternoon. They offer convenient pickup options from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) or from hotels in the city center. The journey to Arusha, including the border crossing at Namanga, takes approximately 5 to 6 hours.
Other Options
- Flights: For those on a tighter schedule, there are daily flights between Nairobi (NBO) and Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). Airlines like Kenya Airways and Precision Air operate this route, and the flight time is about one hour.
What to Avoid
- Night Border Crossings: For safety and administrative reasons, it is highly recommended to plan your journey so that you cross the Namanga border during daylight hours. The border is open 24/7, but daytime crossings are more straightforward.
Booking and Travel Tips
You should book your shuttle seat in advance, especially during the peak tourist season. When planning a combined safari, it is important to align your shuttle's arrival time in Arusha with your onward travel plans, such as a scheduled flight into the Serengeti. When we arrange these cross-border transfers for our clients, we coordinate the entire schedule to ensure a smooth and timely connection between the Kenyan and Tanzanian portions of their safari.
How to Travel Between Kenya and Uganda for a Safari
For travelers looking to combine a Kenyan safari with gorilla trekking in Uganda, the journey between Nairobi and the main Ugandan hubs of Kampala or Entebbe is a key logistical step. The most efficient method of travel is by air, though a budget-friendly road option is also available.
The Best Way: A Direct Flight
The fastest and most comfortable way to travel between the two countries is by taking a direct flight from Nairobi (NBO) to Entebbe (EBB). Airlines like Kenya Airways and Uganda Airlines operate multiple daily flights on this route. The flight duration is approximately one hour and fifteen minutes, making it possible to have breakfast in Nairobi and lunch in Kampala on the same day.
Other Options
- Intercity Coaches: For travelers on a strict budget, several reputable coach companies operate daily services between Nairobi and Kampala. The journey is long, typically taking 12 to 14 hours, and involves a border crossing at either Malaba or Busia. Tickets for these services can be booked online in advance.
What to Avoid
- Unscheduled Night Travel: While the coach services are scheduled, it is generally advisable to avoid unscheduled or informal road travel at night on this route for safety reasons. Always choose a well-known and reputable bus operator.
Practical Planning
When planning a combined Kenya and Uganda itinerary, a direct flight is the most practical choice as it maximizes your time on the ground for activities. When we build these multi-country safaris, we always recommend the flight option and coordinate the airport transfers on both sides to ensure a seamless connection between your Kenyan safari and your onward journey to see the gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
How to Get Around the Kenyan Coast (Mombasa, Diani, Watamu, Lamu)
Moving between the main coastal destinations of Mombasa, Diani, Watamu, and Lamu requires a mix of transport methods. The best option depends on the distance and the specific location.
The Best Way: A Mix of Short Flights and Taxis
For longer distances, such as traveling from Diani to Lamu, the most efficient method is to take a short domestic flight. Airlines like Safarilink operate daily services connecting the coastal airstrips at Ukunda (for Diani), Malindi (for Watamu), and Lamu with each other and with Nairobi's Wilson Airport. For local travel within a single town like Mombasa or Diani, licensed hotel taxis or ride-hailing services are the safest and most reliable options.
Other Options
- Tuk-tuks: For very short trips within a beach town, such as from your hotel to a nearby restaurant in Diani, a tuk-tuk is a convenient and affordable option. Always agree on the fare before you begin your journey.
- Ferry and Boat Transfers: To get to Lamu Island from the mainland airstrip at Manda, a short boat ride is necessary. In Mombasa, the Likoni Ferry connects the island to the south coast, though a private transfer that bypasses the ferry is often more efficient for tourists heading to Diani.
What to Avoid
- Walking on Unlit Roads at Night: For your safety, it is not recommended to walk along unlit beach roads or main roads after dark. Always arrange for a taxi or tuk-tuk for your return journey to your hotel in the evening.
Planning Your Coastal Itinerary
A well-planned coastal trip often involves flying into one destination (e.g., Mombasa) and out of another (e.g., Malindi or Ukunda) to avoid backtracking. When we design our safari and beach combination packages, we carefully plan the logistics, using short flights to connect the different coastal points and pre-arranging all necessary road and boat transfers.
Getting Around in Kenya with a Family as a Tourist
Family travel in Kenya involves specific logistical considerations for transport, luggage, and pacing. Planning these elements in advance is the key to a comfortable and successful trip for both parents and children.
Car Seats and Road Safety
Car seats are not standard in most vehicles in Kenya, including many taxis and transfer vans. For families traveling with young children, ensuring their safety on the road is a primary concern. When we arrange private family transfers, such as from the airport to a hotel, we ensure that age-appropriate car seats are fitted in the vehicle before your arrival. This is a detail that must be requested and confirmed during the booking process.
Luggage on Safari Flights
The small aircraft used for flights to safari destinations like the Masai Mara have strict luggage restrictions. The standard allowance is typically 15 kg (33 lbs) per person, and this luggage must be in soft-sided bags or duffels, not hard-shell suitcases. This is because soft bags are easier to fit into the small cargo holds of the planes. We provide all our clients with clear packing guidelines and can arrange for the secure storage of any excess or hard-sided luggage at a hotel in Nairobi while you are on safari.
Pacing Your Itinerary
Long travel days can be tiring for children. A well-paced itinerary is essential. We design our family safari packages to minimize long drives where possible and include scheduled downtime. This often means planning for a mid-day rest at the lodge between the morning and afternoon game drives, allowing time for swimming or relaxation.
Train Travel with Children
The Madaraka Express train is a comfortable option for families traveling between Nairobi and Mombasa. When booking for a family, it is important to request adjoining seats to ensure the group can sit together. This is a detail we handle when we book SGR tickets for our clients as part of their itinerary.
Best Way to Get Around in Kenya as a Solo Traveler
Kenya is a rewarding destination for solo travelers, but moving around requires a focus on safety, budget, and connectivity. With the right planning, a solo trip can be a smooth and highly personal experience.
Safety and Transport Choices
For city-based travel, ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt are a reliable option for solo travelers. They offer a significant safety advantage because the trip is tracked, and the driver's details are registered. The in-app "share your trip" feature is a practical tool for keeping a contact person informed of your whereabouts. For longer intercity journeys, it is best to travel during the day, whether you are using a scheduled coach or a domestic flight.
Managing Your Budget
A private safari is most expensive for a solo traveler, as you bear the full cost of the vehicle and guide. The most cost-effective way to experience the national parks is by joining a scheduled small-group safari. This allows you to share the primary transport costs with a few other travelers. Our group safari packages are designed for this purpose, providing a safe and sociable option for individuals.
Connectivity and Payments
Staying connected is important for safety and logistics. It is highly recommended to get a local Safaricom SIM card upon arrival in Kenya. This gives you access to a reliable data network and, more importantly, to the M-Pesa mobile money system. M-Pesa is the dominant payment method in Kenya for everything from tipping your guide to paying for a meal at a local restaurant. While credit cards are accepted at major hotels, M-Pesa is far more widely used and is essential for day-to-day transactions.
Is It Safe to Travel at Night in Kenya?
This is one of the most common questions we receive from travelers, and the answer depends entirely on the context. There is a significant difference between long-distance travel between cities and short-distance travel within a major city like Nairobi. Official government travel advisories and our own on-the-ground experience lead to one clear recommendation: plan all your long-distance road journeys to be completed by dusk.
Why Intercity Night Travel is Not Recommended
The advice to avoid driving between towns and parks at night is based on two practical concerns: road safety and security. Many rural highways are not well-lit, and hazards such as deep potholes or wildlife and domestic animals wandering onto the road are common. Driving in these conditions is significantly more dangerous after dark.
In certain remote areas, there can also be a security risk. For these reasons, all of our professional safari itineraries are structured to ensure you arrive at your lodge or camp well before the sun sets, typically by 6:00 PM. This is a standard safety protocol followed by all reputable tour operators in Kenya.
How to Travel Safely Within a City at Night
The rule against night travel does not mean you must stay in your hotel after 6:00 PM. Traveling for dinner or social events within Nairobi or Mombasa is a normal activity, but you must use the right mode of transport. The key is to use vetted, traceable, and reliable services.
- For Solo Travelers: Ride-hailing apps like Uber or Bolt are the best option. They provide a record of your trip, the driver's details, and a GPS-tracked route. Always use the in-app "share your trip" feature to let a contact know your whereabouts.
- For Families and Couples: A pre-booked private taxi, either arranged through your hotel or as part of a service like ours, is the most reliable option. This removes any uncertainty about finding a safe ride late at night.
Are Transport Costs Higher at Night?
Yes, you should expect to pay more for transport in the evening. Ride-hailing apps implement surge pricing during peak evening hours and after dark, which can significantly increase the fare. Private drivers and taxis also typically charge a higher rate for night-time services. This is a standard practice and should be factored into your budget if you plan to go out for dinner.
Getting Around Kibera Safely as a Tourist
Kibera is one of Africa's largest urban informal settlements, located in Nairobi. For many travelers, a visit offers a way to understand a different side of the city's social fabric. However, a tour of this area requires a specific approach that prioritizes the respect, safety, and dignity of the residents.
The Best Way: A Community-Based Guided Tour
The only responsible and safe way to visit Kibera is on a guided tour led by a resident of the community. Several reputable, community-based organizations and local guides offer these tours. A tour led by a resident provides genuine insight into daily life, challenges, and the many positive community initiatives that are active within the settlement. The guide can navigate the area safely and facilitate respectful interactions.
What to Avoid
It is strongly advised to **avoid visiting Kibera independently**. An unguided visit is not only a significant safety risk but is also considered intrusive by the residents. Walking into a community as a tourist without a local host is inappropriate and can lead to negative encounters. Reputable operators do not support unguided visits.
Booking and Vetting Tips
When choosing a tour operator for a visit to Kibera, it is important to confirm their credentials. A responsible operator will be transparent about their connection to the community and how the tour fees benefit the residents, often by supporting a local school, arts project, or social enterprise. When we arrange these tours for our clients, we work exclusively with vetted, community-based partners to ensure the visit is both ethical and insightful.
Photography and Etiquette
The most important rule is to show respect. Always ask for permission before taking photographs of people, especially children. Your guide will help you understand the local norms and will let you know when it is appropriate to take pictures. The goal of a visit is to learn and observe, not to treat the community as a spectacle.
Paying for Transport in Kenya
Kenya has a diverse payment system where mobile money, cash, and cards all have a specific role. Understanding which to use for different types of transport is key to moving around efficiently.
M-Pesa: The Dominant Payment Method
The most widely used payment method in Kenya is the M-Pesa mobile money system. It is essential for most forms of local transport. You will use M-Pesa to pay for ride-hailing services like Uber and Bolt, for many intercity coaches booked online, and for boda-boda rides. To use M-Pesa, you need a local Safaricom SIM card, which we recommend getting upon arrival at the airport.
Cash (Kenyan Shillings)
Carrying a reasonable amount of cash in small denominations is necessary for certain transport situations. You will need Kenyan Shillings (KES) to pay for short-distance public matatus, tuk-tuks, and to tip your private driver or taxi operator. While some taxi drivers accept M-Pesa, cash is often more convenient for these smaller transactions.
Credit and Debit Cards
Credit and debit cards (primarily Visa) are accepted for larger, formal transport bookings. You can use your card to pay for domestic flights with airlines like Safarilink, to book your SGR Madaraka Express tickets at the main termini, and to pay for car rentals from major international companies. However, cards are not a practical option for day-to-day local transport.
Practical Factors That Affect Transportation in Kenya as a Tourist
Travel times in Kenya are influenced by more than just distance. Traffic, seasonal weather, and luggage rules are practical factors that can have a significant impact on your itinerary and your choice of transport.
City Traffic and Travel Time
Nairobi is known for its heavy traffic congestion, particularly during morning and evening rush hours. A journey that might take 20 minutes on a clear road can easily take over an hour in heavy traffic. It is essential to build buffer time into any road transfer schedule within the city.
The Nairobi Expressway is a toll road that has significantly improved travel times between Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and key areas like Westlands and the Central Business District (CBD). Using the Expressway is a practical way to bypass the most congested routes and is a standard part of our airport transfer service.
Seasonal Weather and Road Conditions
The two rainy seasons (from March to May and in November) can directly affect road travel. While paved highways remain accessible, the unpaved tracks inside national parks and reserves can become extremely muddy and, in some cases, impassable for vehicles. During these months, choosing to fly into a safari destination like the Masai Mara is often a more reliable option than driving. Heavy storms can also occasionally cause delays for domestic flights.
Luggage Restrictions on Safari Flights
The small aircraft that fly to safari airstrips have strict luggage restrictions. The standard allowance is typically 15 kg (33 lbs) per person, and this must be packed in a soft-sided duffel bag, not a hard-shell suitcase. This is a firm rule that is enforced at check-in at Wilson Airport.
This is a critical logistical point for international travelers who arrive with larger suitcases. We always coordinate with our clients to arrange for the secure storage of their excess or hard-sided luggage at their hotel in Nairobi while they are on safari.
Booking Tools & Official Resources
For direct bookings and the most accurate, up-to-date information, it is always best to use the official sources. Here are the primary resources for the main transport services in Kenya.
- SGR Madaraka Express Train: All official schedules and online bookings are handled through the Kenya Railways portal at metickets.krc.co.ke.
- Airport Taxis and Pickups (JKIA): The Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) provides official guidance on licensed taxis. For ride-hailing, the Uber app has a dedicated guide for pickups at JKIA's designated zones.
- Cross-Border Shuttles to Tanzania: The most reputable operators have their own websites for schedules and booking, including The Riverside Shuttle and Impala Shuttles.
- Domestic Safari Flights: The two main airlines operating flights from Wilson Airport are Safarilink and AirKenya. Their websites provide the most accurate information on flight schedules, destinations, and luggage policies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the SGR train better than flying between Nairobi and Mombasa?
This depends on your priorities. The SGR train is more affordable, offers generous luggage space, and provides a scenic journey. Flying is significantly faster (a one-hour flight versus a five-hour train ride) but is more expensive and has stricter luggage limits. For a balance of comfort and value, the SGR is an excellent choice.
Can Uber pick me up at JKIA airport?
Yes, Uber and other ride-hailing services are permitted to pick up passengers at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). There are designated pickup zones in the main parking area, and the app will guide you to the correct location to meet your driver.
How long is the flight from Nairobi to the Masai Mara or Amboseli?
A standard flight from Wilson Airport in Nairobi to an airstrip in either the Masai Mara or Amboseli National Park is very short, typically lasting between 45 and 60 minutes.
Is it safe to get around at night in Kenya?
It is not recommended to travel long distances on the road between cities or towns after dark. However, for short trips within a major city like Nairobi, using a pre-booked licensed taxi or a ride-hailing app like Uber is a common and safe practice for an evening out.
Do I need cash, or will M-Pesa and credit cards work for transport?
You will need a mix. M-Pesa is essential for ride-hailing apps and many local services. Cash (Kenyan Shillings) is necessary for tips and smaller rides like tuk-tuks. Credit cards are useful for booking flights and paying at major hotels but are not used for most day-to-day ground transport.
How Kenya Peaks Adventures Manages Your Transport
Coordinating transport is one of the most important services we provide. Our process is designed to ensure that every part of your journey is safe, efficient, and seamlessly connected.
We handle all the logistical details. This includes booking the correct domestic flights that align with your camp's nearest airstrip, purchasing your SGR train tickets in advance, and arranging for private, air-conditioned vehicles with professional drivers for all your road transfers.
For families, we ensure that age-appropriate car seats are fitted in the vehicles. For airport arrivals, we provide a meet-and-greet service to ensure a smooth transition from the airport to your hotel. This end-to-end management removes the stress and uncertainty of navigating Kenya's transport systems on your own.