Getting around Kenya
Given Kenya's size and the long distances between some regions, flying can save considerable time compared with road travel, especially when itineraries are short.
Nairobi is the main domestic aviation hub, with most internal flights departing from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) and the nearby Wilson Airport (WIL). Wilson Airport is especially important for safari travel, handling frequent scheduled and charter flights to national parks and conservancies such as the Maasai Mara, Amboseli, Samburu, and Tsavo.
Kenya's national carrier, Kenya Airways, operates domestic routes linking Nairobi with major cities including Mombasa, Kisumu, and Eldoret. Several regional and safari-focused airlines also operate extensive networks, offering flights to coastal resorts, game reserves, and remote airstrips used by lodges and camps.
Domestic flights are generally reliable, though schedules can change seasonally and weather may affect operations, particularly in smaller airstrips. Luggage allowances on light aircraft used for safari flights are often restricted, so travellers should check limits in advance.
Travelling by road is one of the most common ways to get around Kenya and offers flexibility, particularly for reaching national parks, rural areas, and smaller towns. The road network links major centres such as Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, and Eldoret, and is widely used by private vehicles, buses, and shared transport. Road travel allows visitors to experience everyday life and varied landscapes, but journey times can be long due to traffic, road conditions, and security checkpoints.
Fuel stations are common along major routes and in towns, though they can be sparse in remote areas. Fuel prices fluctuate and are set nationally. Road signs are generally in English, but navigation apps may be unreliable outside cities, so planning ahead is advisable.
Road quality in Kenya varies considerably. Major highways between cities are generally paved and in reasonable condition, with ongoing upgrades improving some key corridors. However, congestion is common in urban areas, particularly around Nairobi.
Secondary roads and rural routes can be narrow, potholed, or unpaved, especially during or after the rainy seasons. In safari regions, roads are often rough and dusty, and a high-clearance or four-wheel-drive vehicle may be necessary.
Kenya's road network is formally classified into several categories based on function and importance. Class A roads are international trunk roads that link Kenya with neighbouring countries and major border crossings, and they carry a high volume of long-distance and cross-border traffic.
Class B roads are national trunk roads connecting major cities, ports, and economic centres within the country. These routes form the backbone of domestic road travel and include key corridors linking Nairobi with Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, and other major towns.
Class C roads are primary roads that connect towns and important local centres to the national road network. They are generally paved but may be narrower and slower than Class A and B routes.
Below these are Class D roads, which serve as secondary routes linking smaller towns and rural areas, and Class E roads, which are minor access roads. Class D and E roads are more likely to be gravel or unpaved, particularly in remote regions, and conditions can vary significantly depending on weather and maintenance.
Car hire is widely available in Kenya, particularly in Nairobi, Mombasa, and at international airports. Both international and local rental companies operate, offering everything from small cars to four-wheel-drive vehicles. For travel to national parks or remote areas, a 4WD is strongly recommended.
Self-drive safaris are possible, but many visitors opt to hire a car with a driver, which can reduce stress and improve safety. Insurance terms should be checked carefully, especially regarding off-road use.
Taxis are widely available in cities, though they do not always use meters and fares are often negotiated in advance. Ride-hailing apps such as Uber, Bolt, and local equivalents operate in Nairobi and other major towns, offering a safer, more transparent, and upfront-pricing alternative.
Cycling is not widely used as a means of long-distance travel in Kenya, and road conditions and traffic make it challenging in many areas. In cities, cycling infrastructure is limited. Recreational cycling is possible in certain rural or scenic areas, but it requires careful planning, good visibility, and awareness of local conditions.
Long-distance coaches are a popular and affordable way to travel between cities and major towns. Several private companies operate services on main routes such as Nairobi–Mombasa, Nairobi–Kisumu, and Nairobi–Nakuru. Comfort and reliability vary by operator, with newer coaches offering assigned seating and air conditioning.
Minibuses, known locally as matatus, operate on both urban and intercity routes. They are inexpensive and frequent but can be crowded and unpredictable. Safety standards vary, so visitors should choose reputable operators where possible.
Driving is on the left-hand side of the road. Speed limits are generally 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas, 80 km/h (50 mph) on rural roads, and up to 100 km/h (62 mph) on highways, though enforcement varies. Speed cameras and police checks are common.
Drink driving laws are strict, with low tolerance and heavy penalties. Seat belts are compulsory, and mobile phone use while driving is prohibited unless hands-free.
Kenya has a nationwide motoring organisation, the Automobile Association of Kenya (AA Kenya), which provides roadside assistance and recovery services, particularly along major highways and in urban areas. Coverage can be limited in remote regions, and most visitors rely on car hire companies or tour operators for breakdown support. Travellers driving long distances are advised to carry water, emergency supplies, and a charged mobile phone.
Foreign drivers must carry a valid driving licence from their home country. An International Driving Permit is recommended and may be required by some car hire companies or during police checks. Drivers should also carry their passport, visa, and vehicle rental documents. Cross-border drivers need valid regional insurance, commonly a COMESA Yellow Card.
Getting around cities in Kenya relies on a mix of private cars, minibuses, buses, taxis, and ride-hailing services. Public transport exists in most urban areas, but it is largely geared towards local use rather than visitors, with limited route information and variable comfort levels. As a result, taxis and app-based services are often the easiest and most convenient options for travellers.
In Nairobi, traffic congestion is a major factor in daily life and can significantly affect journey times, particularly during morning and evening rush hours. The city is spread out, and walking between neighbourhoods is often impractical due to distance, traffic, and limited pavements. While matatus operate extensively across Nairobi and are inexpensive, they can be crowded and confusing for first-time visitors. City buses run on some routes, but schedules and stops are not always clearly marked.
Ride-hailing services (Uber, Bolt, Little Cab, inDrive and others) are widely used in Nairobi and other major cities. They are extensive, with fares agreed in advance through the app and cashless payment options available.
In other cities such as Mombasa, Kisumu, and Nakuru, transport options are similar but on a smaller scale. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are available, though coverage may be more limited than in Nairobi. Overall, visitors will find that combining ride-hailing services with occasional taxi use provides the most practical way to navigate Kenya's cities comfortably and efficiently.
Kenya has a limited but modern domestic passenger rail service centred on the Standard Gauge Railway. This line connects Nairobi with Mombasa and is the country's main long-distance rail route. Trains are comfortable, air-conditioned, and reliable, making rail travel a popular alternative to flying or driving between the capital and the coast.
The journey between Nairobi and Mombasa takes around four to five hours, depending on the service, and offers views of rural landscapes and wildlife corridors along the way. Tickets are affordable by international standards and can be booked in advance, though services often sell out during peak travel periods.
Domestic travel by water is limited. There are no internal ferry routes linking different regions of the country, but local ferry services operate in specific areas. The most notable is the Likoni Ferry in Mombasa, which carries vehicles and passengers across the harbour. Boat services also operate on Lake Victoria between nearby towns, but these are mainly used by locals and are subject to weather conditions.
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