How to get around Kenya
Navigating Kenya is straightforward with a variety of public and private transport options. Here's what you need to know about getting between and within its cities and towns.
Inter-City Travel
For traveling between cities in Kenya, you have options ranging from affordable buses and trains to more expensive domestic flights and private car hires. Buses are generally the cheapest, with fares typically between KSh 3-5 per kilometer, going up to KSh 7 per kilometer for deluxe services. A long journey like Nairobi to Kisumu, approximately 345 km, could cost around KSh 1400, or KSh 2400 for a deluxe bus.
The Madaraka Express train offers a scenic and affordable option between Nairobi and Mombasa, taking about five to six hours. First-class train tickets from Nairobi to Mombasa are around KSh 3000, while economy class costs about KSh 1000.
Domestic flights are the quickest way to travel long distances, often costing between $100-$250 (USD) for a one-way trip. For example, a flight from Nairobi to Mombasa can be as low as $55, and Nairobi to Eldoret from $82.
Private car hire with a driver offers the most flexibility but is considerably more expensive, starting from about $70 per day within city limits, including fuel and a driver-guide. Prices for intercity bus tickets for common routes like Mombasa to Nairobi can range from KSh 600 to KSh 2000 for better services.
Travel Within Cities
Within Kenyan cities, particularly Nairobi, public transport options vary in cost and comfort. Matatus, which are shared minibuses, are the most affordable and widely used option, with fares starting around KSh 20 ($0.15 USD) for short city trips. However, they can be crowded and their driving can be chaotic.
City buses offer a slightly safer and equally affordable alternative to matatus, with routes converging in city centers. Taxi services are more convenient but also more expensive. Before ride-hailing apps, fares were often negotiated, with a short trip within the city center costing around KSh 500.
Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt are popular, providing transparent pricing and generally being cheaper than traditional taxis; a ride within central Nairobi typically costs between $2 and $10 (USD). Motorcycle taxis, known as 'boda-bodas', are useful for navigating traffic and short distances, and are often more affordable than taxis. Tuk-tuks are available in some towns, with fares approximately half the price of a regular taxi.
