A Visitor's Guide to Nairobi Transit: Apps, Taxis, and Essential Tips for Getting Around

Welcome to Nairobi, a city known for its incredible energy, vibrant culture, and unfortunately, its complex traffic. For any visitor—whether you are here to see the magnificent wildlife or close a major business deal—mastering local transit is key to a successful, stress-free trip.

As your local hosts at Apartments on Demand, we've put together the definitive guide to getting around safely, quickly, and affordably.

I. The Modern and Essential Options (The Tourist and Executive Choice)

For most visitors, especially first-timers and business travelers, ride-sharing apps are the recommended mode of transport due to their safety, convenience, and transparent pricing.

1. Ride-Sharing Apps (Uber and Bolt)

• Convenience: Uber and Bolt are ubiquitous, reliable, and easy to use. Payment is handled through the app, eliminating the need for cash negotiation.

• Safety Tip: Always confirm the license plate and the driver's name on your app before getting into the car. Never accept a ride from a driver who claims to be your booking but has not officially started the trip on the app.

• Need Wi-Fi? Ensure you have a local SIM card (Safaricom or Airtel) or reliable Wi-Fi (like the complimentary service at your Apartments on Demand residence) to book your rides.

2. Private Taxis and Pre-Arranged Transfers

• Value: These are best for high-value trips, such as airport pick-ups or very late-night travel, as the driver is dedicated to you.

• Airport Transfers: We highly recommend arranging a trusted, pre-booked driver for your transfer from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) directly to your apartment.

Apartments on Demand Service: To ensure your absolute comfort and security from the moment you land, we can arrange trusted, vetted private transfers from JKIA directly to your residence in Kilimani or Westlands. Chat with us to arrange your transfer!

II. Budget and Local Transit (For the Brave Explorer)

If you are a long-term visitor or adventurous tourist looking for a local experience, these options are available:

1. Matatus (Public Minibuses)

• What they are: Matatus are the colorful, privately-owned minibuses that form the backbone of Nairobi’s public transport.

• The Experience: They are the cheapest way to travel but are often crowded, confusing to navigate (routes are shouted out by "conductors"), and can be very slow in traffic.

• Recommendation: While authentic, we advise first-time visitors to use ride-sharing apps for their main travel needs.

2. Boda Bodas (Motorcycle Taxis)

• The Pro: When traffic is gridlocked, a Boda Boda can weave through cars and get you to your destination faster than any vehicle.

• The Con: They carry higher risk. Always use a reputable ride-share app (like Bolt Boda or Uber Boda) to book them. The app tracks the journey and ensures you have a helmet, significantly enhancing safety.

III. Solving the Biggest Pain Point: The JKIA Transfer

Your journey from the airport to your home base is crucial.

• Travel Time: The trip from JKIA to your accommodation in central neighborhoods like Kilimani or Westlands typically takes 45 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending entirely on Nairobi's notorious traffic.

• Avoid Peak Hours: If possible, try to avoid arriving or traveling during peak traffic times (7:00 AM–9:00 AM and 4:30 PM–7:00 PM on weekdays).

IV. Final Travel Security Tips

• Connectivity is Key: Always keep your phone charged. Having access to your ride-share app and a map is your most important tool.

• Secure Location: Remember that all Apartments on Demand residences are located in secure, well-lit, and easily accessible neighborhoods that are highly serviced by ride-sharing apps.

• Be Aware: As in any large city, remain aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.

🔑 Your Seamless Nairobi Stay Starts Here

We want your focus to be on your mission; whether it’s business or pleasure not on logistics. Let us handle the details.

• Book with us now to secure your luxury apartment, knowing you'll be centrally located and easily connected to all of Nairobi.

• Chat with us directly for assistance with pre-arranging your reliable airport transfer!