Nairobi serves as a significant transport hub in East Africa, featuring Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) as its primary international air gateway. For rail travel, the Nairobi Terminus accommodates the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), while various bus terminals handle both domestic and international road networks. The city is also developing the Nairobi Railway City Central Station, which aims to become a state-of-the-art multi-modal transport hub.
By Air (Jomo Kenyatta International Airport - JKIA)
Located approximately 18 kilometers southwest of Nairobi's city center.
Taxi/Private Transfer: A taxi ride to the city center typically takes about 30 minutes, with costs ranging from KES 3,000 (€22) to $45. Opting for the Nairobi Expressway can shorten the journey to around 25 minutes, with an additional toll fee of approximately KES 240. Pre-booked private transfers are also available.
Ride-hailing Apps (Uber, Bolt, Little Cab): Services like Uber and Bolt are readily available. Fares are based on distance, time, and demand, with base fares around KES 100 and per-kilometer rates between KES 50-60. Drivers might set airport pick-up/drop-off fares, typically ranging from KES 1,000 to KES 5,000.
Public Bus (Line 34J): The local bus provides a cost-effective option, taking about 45-49 minutes to the city center and costing $1-2 (approximately KES 50). This service generally operates from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
By Train (Standard Gauge Railway - SGR Madaraka Express)
The Nairobi Terminus, situated in Syokimau, is about 18.8 kilometers from Nairobi CBD. A connecting commuter train can take you from Syokimau to the city center in about 40 minutes.
Nairobi to Mombasa: The express service to Mombasa takes approximately 5 hours. As of January 1, 2024, an economy class ticket costs KES 1,500, while a first-class ticket is KES 4,500. Children aged 3-11 pay half price, and those under 3 travel free.
By Bus (Long-distance & International)
Nairobi hosts several bus terminals for travel within Kenya and to neighboring countries.
Domestic Routes: For instance, a bus journey from Nairobi to Mombasa averages between KES 1,500 and KES 3,000. Reputable companies such as ENA Coach, Easy Coach, Dreamline, and Modern Coast operate various routes.
International Routes: A new luxury bus service connects Nairobi to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, costing KES 7,500 (approximately $50) for a one-way trip. This journey includes an overnight stop in Moyale for immigration procedures.
Car Rental
Rental agencies such as Avis, Hertz, and Europcar operate at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). Daily rental costs in Nairobi average around $93. Drivers generally need to be at least 25 years old, and an International Driving Permit may be required if your license is not in a Roman alphabet.
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