Getting Around Nairobi, Kenya: A Complete Guide To Public Transportation : Although the capital city of Kenya, Nairobi, is relatively small and has a lot to offer tourists from abroad, it is not always safe for visitors to explore on foot. In addition, a large number of Nairobi’s top tourist destinations are found in the outlying suburbs of Karen and Langata. Although there may be some safety concerns related to overcrowding and vehicle maintenance, using public transportation can offer a rewarding insight into the local way of life. In this article, we examine all available options, including matatus and buses, as well as cabs on demand and ride-sharing websites.
PUBLIC MINIBUSES (MATATUS)
The most common mode of public transportation for locals in Nairobi and throughout Kenya is the shared minibus taxi known as a matatu. Although matatus are typically only permitted to carry up to 14 passengers, this number is frequently exceeded. The fact that the matatus are not always well maintained and that some drivers disregard speed limits and other traffic laws can result in a congested and uncomfortable environment. Due to the risk of pickpockets and the crowded nature of matatus, tourists are frequently discouraged from using them.
The Following are some things to bear in mind if you decide to travel by matatu.
- The minibuses, which adhere to predetermined routes and compete with one another for passengers, connect the majority of locations in and around Nairobi.
- Matatus typically runs as an express service with a single pick-up and drop-off location during peak hours. Other times, they frequently stop several times along the way.
- You can board at any designated stop and pay the conductor in cash as you do so. Prices vary depending on the driver, the environment, and the flow of traffic; costs significantly rise during inclement weather or rush hour.
In an effort to reduce congestion, the Kenyan government recently declared its intention to prohibit matatus from the Nairobi Central Business District (CBD). However, given that millions of Kenyans depend on matatus to get to and from work every day, this attempt is unlikely to be any more successful than previous ones in the city.
RIDING THE BUS
Buses provide a more secure option than matatus at a comparable cost. Kenya Bus Service (KBS), a government-run company, runs official city buses; however, private companies like City Hoppa and Double M also travel on the same routes as the matatus. The buses depart from the central terminal along predetermined routes for the suburbs and can accommodate between 25 and 50 passengers.
You must pay the fare directly to the conductor in order to receive a seat, as standing is no longer permitted. The availability, however, decreases as you get farther from the central bus terminal, and it may be impossible to find a seat when it’s raining or when there are a lot of people traveling at once. Often, it’s not even worth trying to board the bus if you have luggage.
TRAVELING BY PRIVATE TAXI
Due to their comfort and privacy, taxis are one of the most popular ways for tourists to travel around Nairobi. Nairobi’s authorized taxis are identified by a yellow stripe. The majority of the city’s street corners are where you can find them, but they also frequently wait outside well-known tourist destinations and upscale hotels. The only option after dark is to take a taxi (or ride-share), and they frequently gather in front of eateries, bars, and nightclubs.
Be aware that, despite being more convenient than buses and safer than matatus, taxis can be expensive and poorly maintained. Few have functional meters, so be sure to negotiate a fare before boarding the vehicle. There will likely be haggling, and the final price for a trip within the city center should be around 500 Kenyan shillings, and from the CBD to Karen or Langata should be about 1,200 Kenyan shillings. Privately run taxis, like those run by Kenatco, are typically in better shape than privately owned ones and can be reserved online for added convenience.
RIDE-SHARE APPS
Although they are still a relatively new phenomenon in Nairobi, ride-sharing apps like Uber and Bolt have quickly established themselves as one of the best ways for tourists to get around the city. They typically charge less than traditional taxis and give tourists greater peace of mind. First of all, ride-share drivers are subject to background checks and are required to keep their cars in a certain condition. Drivers are further motivated to maintain vehicles in good working order, abide by traffic laws, and treat passengers with courtesy and respect because customers review their service. Another aspect of safety for your experience is the capability to update friends and family on your whereabouts and advancement. Finally, rather than having to flag down a cab on the street, you can order a ride using your smartphone.
RENTING A CAR
Another practical choice is to rent a car if you intend to stay in Nairobi for more than a day or two and feel at ease navigating the city’s congested streets. From the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, a number of reputable international car rental companies (such as Europcar and Avis) operate. Drivers must be between the ages of 23 and 25 and possess a valid credit card in their own name, depending on the rental agency. Consider getting a GPS to help you navigate the city since there aren’t many road signs there, and keep in mind that Kenyans drive on the left. There are different levels of road maintenance in Nairobi, with more potholes in the suburbs than in the city center.
TIPS FOR GETTING AROUND NAIROBI
Since Nairobi’s public transportation options are all based on the road, peak traffic times affect each and every one of them. To avoid being stuck in traffic for several hours, try to avoid traveling during the morning or afternoon commute.
Make sure to bring small bills with you if you decide to take a bus or matatu. If you don’t have the correct fare, you risk paying more than necessary because change is frequently unavailable.
Be mindful of your possessions at all times when taking a matatu or bus to prevent pickpockets and thieves.
It is frequently less expensive to hire a driver for the day than to pay for each trip separately if you choose to take a taxi and want to make several trips in one day. This should be something that your hotel can set up for you.
If you decide to rent a car, be sure to keep your doors locked and your windows down while driving through the city, especially at night. Also, never leave valuables on display when you park.
Stick to the main streets and avoid carrying bulky cameras or wearing flashy jewelry if you decide to explore Nairobi on foot. In Nairobi, we advise against taking a nighttime solo stroll.
Taking a guided tour that includes transfers to and from your hotel is an alternative to using any of the above-mentioned modes of transportation to visit attractions.
