How to Get to Nairobi. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Airport Options

Jomo Kenyatta International NBO

This is the main international gateway for Nairobi and Kenya. Situated about 15 kilometers (9 miles) to the southeast of downtown, NBO handles the vast majority of international flights and major domestic routes.

NBO Features

International & Major Domestic Hub, serving as the hub for Kenya Airways.
Located ~15km southeast of the central area.
Extensive network across Africa, flights straight to Europe, and connections to Asia.

Wilson Airport WIL

Situated closer to city center, about 6 kilometers (4 miles) south, Wilson Airport mainly caters to domestic flights, charter flights for safaris, and private aviation within Kenya and East Africa.

WIL Features

Mainly Domestic, Charter, Private Aviation within Kenya and East Africa.
Located ~6km south of the central area.
Safari Connections: Your connection might depart from Wilson if you plan an expedition to see wildlife immediately.

International Carriers

Many major global airlines serve NBO, including British Airways, Emirates, Qatar Airways, The National flag carrier airline of the turkish republic, Ethiopian Airlines, From South africa Airways, KLM, Lufthansa, France's National airline, and RwandAir.

Domestic Connections

Safarilink and AirKenya Express (from WIL) connect to popular safari circuit destinations. Jambojet, a low-cost carrier, operates from NBO to other major Kenyan cities.

Global Reach

Direct flights are available from major European cities (London, Amsterdam, Paris), Middle East (Dubai, Doha, Abu Dhabi), and Asia (Mumbai, Guangzhou). Travelers from North America typically connect through European or West Asian hubs.

Flight Price & Airport Transfers

Seasonal Price Changes

High Season (June-October, December-January): Higher demand due to dry weather for safaris and holiday travel. Expect increased prices for flights; book 3-6 months ahead.
Low Season (April-May): Prices are generally lower during the long rainy season. Find cheaper prices on airfare in these months.
Shoulder Season (March, early November): Travel during shoulder seasons balances good weather and more reasonable prices.
Utilize flight deal aggregators like Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner for price comparisons.

Airport Transfer Options

Ride-sharing Apps (Uber, Bolt, Little Cab): Widely available and recommended. Fares to the central area typically range from KSh 1,500-2,500 (US$10-18) from NBO.
Hotel Shuttles: Lots of accommodations have pre-arranged airport transfers, which might be complimentary or incur a fee.
Public Buses: Not generally recommended for tourists, especially with luggage, due to crowded conditions and complex routes.
Wilson (WIL) Transfers: Ride-sharing apps and taxis are readily available. Fares to the central area are shorter and cheaper than from NBO due to proximity.

Airport Facilities

NBO International Terminal

NBO features Terminal 1A/B/C for international flights. It has duty-free shops, a variety of restaurants and cafes, ATMs, currency exchange bureaus, and several airline and pay-per-use lounges.

NBO Services

The airport provides baggage services, a clinic, prayer rooms, and car rental desks. Free Wi-Fi is available, though sometimes limited. Several airport hotels are located nearby for convenient staying overnight.

WIL Domestic Terminal

Wilson Airport (WIL) is smaller and has more fundamental facilities, focusing on passenger processing for domestic and charter flights. You find cafes and waiting areas for travelers.

Land Journeys

Train Travel: Madaraka Express

This modern railway connects Nairobi to Mombasa, offering a comfortable and scenic alternative to road travel.

SGR Insights

Route: The Nairobi terminus, Syokimau, is located near Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. The Mombasa terminus is Miritini.
Passenger Services: The SGR offers both "Economy" and "First Class" options. First Class provides more spacious seating and complimentary refreshments.
Schedule & Booking: Two daily passenger trains operate in each direction. Advance booking is highly recommended via the Kenya Railways web page or M-Pesa.

Long-Distance Buses

Numerous bus companies operate from Nairobi, providing connections to other major urban areas within Kenya and to neighboring countries.

Bus Travel Details

Major Companies: Reputable companies include Modern Coast, Easy Coach, Mash East Africa, Buscar, and Dreamline Express.
Terminals: Most long-distance buses depart from specific company terminals or designated areas, often around Accra Road or River Road in the Central part Business District.
Comfort & Safety: The level of comfort varies. Some provide luxury coaches with air conditioning and reclinable seats. Book tickets with reputable companies.

Self-Driving Guidance

Renting a car and being behind the wheel yourself offers flexibility but comes with challenges in Nairobi. For comparing options, visit DiscoverCars.com.

Driving Requirements

Requirements: You must carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside your valid national driving license. The minimum age for rental is typically 23-25.
Road Conditions: Major highways connecting cities are generally well-maintained. However, secondary roads can be poorly maintained.
Safety & Recommendation: Carjacking and petty theft from vehicles can occur. For first-time visitors, self-driving in Nairobi is generally not recommended. Hiring a car with a local driver often proves a more protected and less stressful option.

Road Conditions & Safety

Local Driving Environment

City Roads: Nairobi's roads experience severe congestion, especially during peak hours. Potholes are common. Driving the culture in Kenya can appear aggressive.
Rural Roads: Outside major towns, many roads can be unpaved, dusty, or muddy during the rainy seasons, making navigation difficult.
Night Driving: Avoid driving outside major urban areas at night. Poor lighting, unlit vehicles, and security risks make night driving hazardous.

Neighboring Country Travel

Kenya shares land borders with Tanzania, Uganda, South Sudan, Ethiopia, and Somalia.
Tanzania: Popular crossings include Namanga (direct route to Arusha) and Isebania/Sirari.
Uganda: The most popular crossings are Malaba and Busia.

Visa: Visa requirements apply for crossing borders. Ensure you possess the correct visa for your destination country.
Road Conditions: Vary greatly across borders; plan accordingly for overland travel.
Required Documents: A passport that is not expired and visa for all overland travel.

Waterway Access

Nairobi is a landlocked city, so direct sea or river arrivals are not relevant for reaching the capital.

Sea Entry Point

Kenya's main port and cruise ship destination is Mombasa, located on the Indian Ocean coast.

Mombasa to Nairobi by Air

Travelers from Mombasa could require a domestic flight to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) for a quick connection.

Mombasa to Nairobi by Land

Alternatively, the Madaraka Express (SGR train) or long-cross-country buses connect Mombasa to Nairobi.

Departure Protocol

Departure from Nairobi is generally straightforward with proper planning.

International Flight Departures NBO

Arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Be at the AIRPORT 2.5 to 3 hours before your scheduled departure time for international flights.

NBO Departure Checklist

Timing: Arrive 2.5 to 3 hours before your international flight.
Check-in: This allows ample time for check-in, bag check, and several security checks.
Documents: Have your passport and boarding pass ready for security checks.

Domestic Flight Departures NBO & WIL

For domestic flights, arrive earlier to ensure a relaxed process, especially if flying from NBO.

Domestic Departure Times

NBO Domestic: Arrive 1.5 to 2 hours before departure for domestic flights from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
Wilson (WIL) Domestic: Arrive 1 to 1.5 hours before your domestic flight from Wilson Airport (smaller, quicker processing).
Security: Expect multiple security checks, including at the airport entrance and again before getting on your flight.

Terminal Services & Taxes

Exit Taxes

Departure taxes for international flights from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) are typically covered by your airfare. You usually do not need to pay an additional fee at the airport.

NBO Facilities

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport offers various facilities for departing travelers, including duty-free shops, a selection of restaurants and cafes, lounges, and currency exchange services.

SGR Terminus

The Syokimau SGR Terminus provides comfortable waiting areas, snack bars, and little stores for last-minute purchases. If departing by train, show up at LEAST 1 hour before departure for check-in and security.

Pre-Departure Verification

Always confirm your flight status and terminal information before heading to the airport. Account for Nairobi's traffic congestion when organizing your travel time.

How to Get to Nairobi