Transportation in Nairobi
Founded along the Kampala Railway in the late-19th century, Nairobi has grown to become East Africa's largest city, sprawling amorphously from its original centre for miles in every direction.The modern city centre, a grid-like triangle running westward from the original railway station, is compact and easy to get around on foot, even for first-time visitors.The most important thoroughfare in the centre is Moi Avenue. Most tourist hotels and business facilities lie to the south-west of this road; the sleazier River Road area to its north-east is relatively edgy and best avoided until visitors have their bearings. Nairobi's more popular attractions lie outside the city centre, in the leafy southern suburbs of Langata and Karen, or the north-westerly residential suburb of Westlands, and are best visited in a taxi or on an organised tour.
Read more about transport from and to the airport
Taxi
Taxis are the safest and easiest way to get around Nairobi. Bulky grey cabs similar to their black London counterparts are most reliable but charge relatively high fixed fares and are not metered. Other taxis come in various shapes, sizes and states of repair, and fares are negotiable. Either way, they are not expensive by international standards, and drivers are usually very companionable.
Bus
A good bus network covers most conceivable routes around town, supplemented by a broader-ranging system of shared minibuses known locally as matatus. Both tend to be overcrowded, however, and matatus are also driven with spectacular disregard for safety, while buses have a reputation for pickpockets. Both are best avoided by tourists.
Foot
Walking is the easiest way to get around the compact city centre by day, but is unsafe after dark. Outside of the centre, distances are too great for walking to be a realistic option.
Rent your car
There are car hire companies in Nairobi but with its congestion, aggressive driving, hooting horns and fines, driving can be a nail-biting affair. Navigating your way is something else, and the most secure parking is at major hotels.
Special Transportation
Safaris and day tours
Most of the city's sightseeing highlights lie some distance from the city centre and are most easily covered by booking an organised tour. Nairobi National Park can only be visited on an organised safari or in a private rental car. Any hotel can set up day tours or safaris at short notice.
