How to Get Around Nairobi

How transport works in Nairobi

Uber + Bolt + Little Cab all reliable in Nairobi (KES500–1,500 per ride). Traffic notorious — allow 2× time 7–9am + 5–8pm. Matatus (minibuses) local + cheap KES50–100 but crowded — use only with local. Domestic safari flights (Safarilink, AirKenya, Jambo Jet) from Wilson Airport hop to Mara + Amboseli + Nanyuki + Diani in 45–75 min.

Your options compared

• Uber / Bolt / Little Cab

  All reliable — KES500–2,500 per ride; safer than street taxis.

• Matatu (minibus)

  KES50–100 local + cheap but crowded — use only with local guide.

• Domestic safari flights (Wilson)

  Safarilink + AirKenya + Jambo Jet to Mara + Amboseli + Diani 45–75 min.

• SGR train

  Nairobi ↔ Mombasa 4h30 KES1,500 first class — safe + scenic alternative to flying.

Passes and tickets

None for city; airport departure tax now included in ticket.

Local transport tips

Traffic notorious 7–9am + 5–8pm — allow 2× time. Never walk after dark anywhere. Hide phones in traffic (window smash-and-grab possible).

Arriving from the airport

• Jomo Kenyatta International (NBO)

  Uber/Bolt to Karen KES2,500 (45–75 min); Westlands KES2,000; hotel transfer US$40–60. Do NOT use unlicensed touts inside terminals.

• Wilson Airport (domestic safari) (WIL)

  Safarilink + AirKenya + Governor's flights to Mara + Amboseli + Nanyuki + Diani US$150–350 one-way.

Do you need a rental car?

Inside Nairobi a car is usually a liability — parking and traffic cost more than transit. A rental earns its keep for day trips and regional drives, so compare rates only for the days you actually leave the city.