Nairobi Nairobi County, Kenya Travel Guide
This is the main international gateway for Nairobi and Kenya. Located approximately 15 kilometers (9 miles) to the southeast of downtown, NBO handles the vast majority of international flights and major domestic routes.
Situated nearer to the 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.
Many major global airlines serve NBO, including Ba, Emirates, Qatar Airways, The National flag carrier airline of turkey, Ethiopian Airlines, From South africa Airways, KLM, Lufthansa, France's National airline, and RwandAir.
Safarilink and AirKenya Express (from WIL) connect to popular safari circuit destinations. Jambojet, a low-cost carrier, runs from NBO to other major Kenyan cities.
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 Middle Eastern hubs.
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.
The airport provides baggage services, a clinic, prayer rooms, and car rental desks. Free Wi-Fi is available, though sometimes limited. Several airport accommodations are located nearby for convenient staying overnight.
Wilson Airport (WIL) is smaller and features additional fundamental facilities, focusing on passenger processing for domestic and charter flights. You find cafes and waiting areas for travelers.
This modern railway connects Nairobi to Mombasa, offering a comfortable and scenic alternative to traveling by road.
Numerous bus companies operate from Nairobi, providing connections to other major towns and cities within Kenya and to neighboring countries.
Renting a car and steering yourself offers flexibility but includes challenges in Nairobi. For comparing options, visit DiscoverCars.com.
Nairobi is a landlocked city, so direct sea or river arrivals are not relevant for reaching the capital.
Kenya's main port and cruise ship destination is Mombasa, positioned on the Indian Ocean coast.
Travelers from Mombasa can take a domestic flight to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) for a quick connection.
Alternatively, the Madaraka Express (SGR train) or long-distance buses connect Mombasa to Nairobi.
Departure from Nairobi is generally straightforward with proper planning.
Arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Be at the AIRPORT 2.5 to 3 hours before your scheduled departure time for international flights.
For domestic flights, arrive earlier to ensure a relaxed process, especially if flying from NBO.
Departure taxes for international flights from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) are typically covered via your airfare. You usually do not need to pay an additional fee at the airport.
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.
The Syokimau SGR Terminus provides comfortable waiting areas, snack stands, and small shops for last-quick purchases. If departing by train, arrive at least 1 hour before departure for check-in and security.
Always confirm your flight status and terminal information before heading to the airport. Account for Nairobi's traffic jams when planning your travel time.
