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How to Get to Eldoret

How to Get to Eldoret

Eldoret Uasin Gishu County, Kenya Travel Guide

Air Travel to Eldoret

Airport & Domestic Connections

Eldoret International Airport (EAT) serves the city and Uasin Gishu County. It handles domestic flights and some regional cargo. Domestic airlines offer routes mainly to Nairobi.

Flight Details

  • Major airport: Eldoret International Airport (EAT).
  • Domestic airlines: Kenya Airways, Jambojet, Fly540.
  • Main route: EAT to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO), Nairobi.

International Access & Seasonal Variations

EAT does not feature direct international flights from major global hubs. International travelers typically connect using Nairobi (NBO).

Booking Insights

  • International connections are via Nairobi (NBO). Clear immigration at NBO.
  • Higher domestic flight prices and busy flights during peak seasons (December holidays, school breaks).
  • Booking flights in advance is recommended for better rates and availability. (Dollar Flight Club, Skyscanner)

Taxis from EAT

Taxis are readily available outside the airport terminal. Negotiate fare or use ride-sharing apps like Bolt.

Hotel Shuttles

Some hotels offer pre-arranged transfers. Inquire about this when you reserve your accommodation.

Matatus from EAT

Matatus are available outside the airport grounds. This budget-friendly option is less convenient with much luggage.

Airport Facilities & Services

Available Facilities

  • Eldoret International Airport (EAT) possesses basic shops.
  • A restaurant or cafe is available.
  • Car rental desks are on-site.
  • Immigration and customs services are present.

Expectations

  • Do not anticipate extensive duty-free shopping.
  • A wide range of dining options is not available.
  • Facilities are functional but not extensive, reflecting a smaller international airport.
  • Transfer options to city are varied (taxis, Bolt, hotel shuttles, matatus).

Affiliate Flight Search

Dollar Flight Club

Find flight deals and monitor price drops for your trip to Kenya: Dollarflightclub.com

Skyscanner

Compare flight prices from various airlines to find the best options for Eldoret: Skyscanner.com

DiscoverCars.com

If planning to rent a car, compare rates and book ahead for your self-drive adventure: Discovercars.com

Land Travel & Self-Driving

Bus Travel to Eldoret

An extensive bus network connects Eldoret to Nairobi and other major villages in Kenya. This is a popular and economical travel option.

Bus Information

  • Major companies: Easy Coach, Modern Coast, Eldoret Express.
  • How long it takes to get from Nairobi: approximately 6-8 hours.
  • Purchase tickets in advance, especially during peak times.

Self-Driving & Road Conditions

Self-driving offers independence but needs careful consideration of street conditions and safety. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is necessary.

Driving Guidelines

  • You need a valid national driving license and an IDP.
  • Main roads are generally paved. Secondary roads can be rough.
  • Avoid driving at night due to poor visibility and security risks.

Border Crossings

Kenya shares land borders with Tanzania, Uganda, South Sudan, Ethiopia, and Somalia. Overland travel from neighboring countries is possible.

Border Information

  • A current passport and visa are needed at major border posts.
  • Confirm your visa allows for land entry into Kenya.
  • Eldoret is inland, so plan additional travel from border points.

Train Services

Kenya Railways operates the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) between Nairobi and Mombasa. There is no SGR connection to Eldoret for passenger services.

Rail Travel Limitations

  • No SGR passenger services to Eldoret.
  • Older metre-gauge railway passenger services to Eldoret are irregular or non-existent for tourists.
  • For useful travel, rely on buses or flights for Eldoret.

Road Safety & Regulations

  • Be aware of reckless driving, livestock on roads, and poorly lit roads at night.
  • Always lock car doors and keep windows up within traffic, especially in urban areas.
  • Avoid driving at night outside of urban areas for safety.
  • Speed limits are enforced (urban 50 km/h, rural 100 km/h).
  • Main Nairobi-Eldoret highway can be busy with trucks.
  • Road accidents are common; stay vigilant.

Sea/River & Departure Information

Sea & River Travel Not Applicable

Eldoret is an inland city, far from any major body of water. Sea and river transportation options are not relevant for reaching Eldoret.

No Water Transport

  • No ferry services or cruise ports serve Eldoret.
  • Local rivers are not used for public transportation.
  • Immigration procedures at seaports are not applicable.

Departure Procedures

Prepare for your departure from Eldoret by understanding the relevant procedures and timing recommendations for a smooth exit.

Departure Guidelines

  • No specific exit fees for air travel from Kenya; costs are typically in your ticket.
  • For domestic flights from EAT, arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure.
  • For bus travel, arrive at the terminal at least 30 minutes before departure.

Efficient Check-in

Arrive early to allow ample time for check-in and security screening at the airport.

Luggage & Seats

Confirm your seat and baggage details for bus travel before departure.

Waiting Areas

EAT and bus stations have basic waiting areas and simple eateries.

General Travel Tips for Kenya

Connectivity & Communication

Staying connected in Kenya is simple with local SIM cards. WhatsApp is a communication tool.

Staying in Touch

  • Local SIM cards for phone compatibility (Safaricom, Airtel).
  • WhatsApp is widely used by locals for messaging.
  • Hotels and some cafes offer Wi-Fi access.

Cultural Etiquette

A warm welcome awaits you. Familiarity with local customs will enrich your interactions.

Local Interactions

  • A polite greeting (Jambo, Habari) is appreciated.
  • Respect local customs, especially concerning dress code in religious sites.
  • Ask permission before taking photos of people.

Practical General Advice

Hydration

Stay well-hydrated, especially with Eldoret's altitude.

Sun Protection

Use sunscreen, wear hats, and sunglasses due to strong equatorial sun.

Patience

Things may move at a more relaxed speed; embrace the local rhythm.

Final Thoughts for Your Trip

With careful planning and an open mind, your visit to Thedoret shall be rewarding. Enjoy the unique culture and natural beauty of this Kenyan gem.

How to Get to Eldoret. Flights, Transportation, Airlines