Getting Around the City in Nairobi, Kenya

Nairobi, Kenya, Nairobi, Travel & Transportation, Getting Around the City

Getting Around the City in Nairobi, Kenya

1. Matatu Minibuses

Colorful minibuses that serve as the primary public transportation in Nairobi. They're a lively way to navigate the city.
  • Affordability: One of the cheapest ways to travel within the city
  • Flexibility: Routes can be adjusted based on demand, making them adaptable to changing traffic patterns
  • Vibrancy: Known for their lively and sometimes chaotic atmosphere

2. Nairobi Bus Service (NBS)

Modern bus service offering fixed routes across the city. A more comfortable and reliable alternative to matatus.
  • Comfort: Spacious interiors with air conditioning for a more comfortable ride
  • Reliability: Consistent routes and schedules
  • Cost-Effective: Priced competitively with matatus while offering a more comfortable ride

3. Uber & Bolt Taxis

Ride-hailing services that allow for on-demand transportation across the city. A convenient option for tourists.
  • Convenience: Book and pay via app, no need to carry cash
  • Safety: Drivers are screened, and you can share your trip details with friends or family
  • Availability: Wide availability across the city

4. Nairobi Bike Share

Self-service bicycle rental program that allows you to explore the city in an eco-friendly way.
  • Eco-Friendly: Reduce carbon footprint while getting around the city
  • Convenience: Stations are located throughout the city, making it easy to start and end your ride
  • Affordability: Rental fees are competitively priced

5. Nairobi River Taxi

Boat taxis that operate along the Nairobi River, offering a unique and scenic way to travel across certain parts of the city.
  • Uniqueness: A different perspective on the city, showcasing its riverfront areas
  • Efficiency: Can be faster than road traffic in congested areas
  • Scenic Beauty: Enjoy the natural beauty of the Nairobi River and its surroundings

6. City Sightseeing Bus Tour

Double-decker bus tour that allows you to see the city's major attractions in a single journey.
  • Convenience: Visit multiple attractions without having to plan individual trips
  • Informative: Guided tours provide insights into the city's history and culture
  • Flexibility: Hop on and hop off at various stops throughout the tour

7. Tuk-Tuks

Three-wheeled motorized rickshaws that offer a fun and quick way to navigate traffic-heavy areas in Nairobi.
  • Agility: Capable of weaving through congested city streets
  • Affordability: Competitively priced, making them an attractive option for short trips
  • Fun: A more exciting way to travel compared to traditional taxis

8. Nairobi National Park Shuttle

Shuttle service offering transportation to and from Nairobi National Park for tourists.
  • Safety: Guided by professional drivers who are familiar with the park's terrain
  • Convenience: Pick-ups and drop-offs at various locations around the city
  • Efficiency: Optimized routes to minimize travel time

9. City Taxis

Traditional taxis that can be hailed on the street or ordered by phone. Offer a reliable way to travel across the city.
  • Reliability: Consistent service, with taxis available day and night
  • Affordability: Competitively priced for short to medium-length trips
  • Local Experience: Drivers are knowledgeable about the city and its traffic patterns

10. City Walking Tours

Guided walking tours that allow you to explore Nairobi's neighborhoods and landmarks at your own pace.
  • Customizability: Tours can be tailored to focus on specific interests or themes
  • Local Knowledge: Guides provide insights into the city's culture, history, and people
  • Flexibility: Start and end your tour at various locations around the city

11. Nairobi Skyline Helicopter Tour

Helicopter tours offering a breathtaking view of Nairobi's skyline and surrounding areas.
  • Unforgettable Experience: A unique perspective on the city that can't be achieved by ground transportation
  • Time Efficient: Covers large areas quickly, allowing you to see more in less time
  • Photo Opportunities: Capture stunning images of the city and its landmarks from above

12. City Car Rental

Car rental services allowing you to explore Nairobi at your own pace. Ideal for long-term stays or road trips.
  • Freedom: Complete control over your travel itinerary and schedule
  • Convenience: Pick-up and drop-off locations throughout the city
  • Customizability: Choose from a variety of car sizes and models to suit your needs

13. Nairobi Hop-on Hop-off Tram

Trams that follow specific routes through Nairobi's main attractions. Allowing you to hop on and off at will.
  • Convenience: Visit multiple attractions without the need for individual transportation
  • Informative: Guides provide insights into the city's history and culture
  • Flexibility: Hop on and hop off at various stops throughout the tour

14. City Pedicabs

Traditional pedal-powered rickshaws that offer a unique and eco-friendly way to navigate the city.
  • Eco-Friendly: Reduce carbon footprint while getting around the city
  • Affordability: Competitively priced, making them an attractive option for short trips
  • Fun: A more enjoyable way to travel compared to traditional taxis or buses

15. City Trains

Modern trains offering comfortable and affordable transportation between Nairobi's suburbs.
  • Comfort: Spacious interiors with air conditioning for a more comfortable ride
  • Affordability: Priced competitively with buses and matatus
  • Efficiency: Optimized routes to minimize travel time