Nairobi is the hub for travel around Kenya. Almost every trip starts here, by plane, train, bus or car.
Flying
- From JKIA - Kenya Airways and its low-cost sister airline Jambojet fly to Mombasa, Kisumu, Eldoret, Malindi, Ukunda (Diani) and other towns.
- From Wilson Airport - smaller airlines such as Safarilink and AirKenya fly light aircraft to the safari airstrips, the Maasai Mara and the coast.
Luggage limits on light aircraft are strict and often soft bags only. Book early for holidays.
The SGR train
The Madaraka Express runs between the Nairobi Terminus near Syokimau and Mombasa, in about five to six hours. It is comfortable and cheap, and sells out at holidays. Book on Kenya Railways’ website with the ID you will travel with. See Getting around Nairobi.
Long-distance buses and shuttles
Coach companies such as Easy Coach and Modern Coast run to towns across Kenya and to Kampala. Shared shuttles run to towns in the highlands and Rift Valley. Buses are the cheapest option; travel by day where you can.
Driving
Driving gives the most freedom, especially for the parks. The main highways are busy with lorries, so allow time and avoid driving at night. See Driving in Nairobi. Car hire, with or without a driver, is widely available.
National parks and reserves
- Parks run by the Kenya Wildlife Service take entry fees online and by card or M-Pesa, not cash.
- The Maasai Mara and some other reserves and conservancies are run separately and charge their own fees.
- Book lodges and camps well ahead for July to October, the busiest season.
Health
Malaria is a risk at the coast, around Lake Victoria and in much of the lowlands, unlike in Nairobi. See a travel clinic before you go. See Healthcare in Nairobi.
Popular trips
- The coast - Mombasa, Diani, Watamu, Malindi and Lamu
- The Maasai Mara - for the wildlife, and the migration from about July to October
- Amboseli - elephants beneath Kilimanjaro
- Lake Naivasha and Hell’s Gate - see Day trips
- Mount Kenya and Nanyuki - hiking, and conservancies such as Ol Pejeta