Getting Around Kenya

Getting Around Kenya By Air

Traveling around Kenya by air is an amazing experience, especially for spotting wildlife from above in national parks. Major airlines like SafariLink, Kenya Airways, and Jambojet fly to various destinations, including Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, and Eldoret, as well as coastal spots like Diani Beach and Lamu. Flights usually run daily, except during the low season when there may be fewer flights.

For budget travelers, city-to-city fares with airlines like Fly 540, Kenya Airways, and Jambojet are available. Alternatively, chartering a small plane is an option for a more personalized experience or group travel. Costs for charter flights vary depending on factors like aircraft size and fuel requirements. SafariLink and Mombasa Air Safari offer charter services and can provide quotes accordingly. Some high-end safari lodges also have private airstrips, using small planes operated by private air charter companies to transport guests from Nairobi or Mombasa.

Getting Around Kenya By Rail

The main railway line stretches from Mombasa on the coast to Nairobi and continues to Kisumu inland. The Madaraka Express, a modern passenger train, takes about 4.5 hours from Mombasa to Nairobi and 8 hours from Nairobi to Kisumu. The Madaraka Express makes stops at stations like Mariakani, Voi, Mtito Andei, and Athi River.

Getting Around Kenya By Road

• Renting a Car/Self-Driving: Travelers can rent cars to explore Kenya at their own pace. Many rental agencies in big cities and airports offer different types of cars for various budgets. You can use your regular driver's license from your home country or an international one to rent a car. Make sure to learn local driving habits and drive safely, especially on long trips or off-road. It's a good idea to choose a high-clearance 4WD car, especially in the rainy season, for easier driving on rough roads.
• Taxi Services: In Kenya, taxis are a handy choice for travelers looking for easy transportation. You can also hire a taxi with a driver/guide for longer trips, which adds reliability. Both traditional taxis and modern ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt are found in cities.
• Buses: For long-distance travel, buses provided by companies like Modern Coast, Easy Coach, and Mash Poa offer affordable fares and frequent departures between major cities and towns.
• Matatus: Matatus, which are minibuses or vans commonly used for transportation in Kenya, are ideal for short to medium-distance journeys within urban areas, despite potentially crowded conditions and erratic driving habits.