Nairobi - Transport

Exploring the city is fairly straightforward. During the day people tend to walk, whilst remaining wary of notorious hotspots. At night they catch a taxi. There is also a wide range of public transport on Nairobi's roads. Nairobi is the only Kenyan city with a metro bus service and is also over-run with matatus (minibuses).

Buses and matatus have a bad reputation for safety and accidents. Government regulations introduced in 2003 are designed to change this, but aren't always adhered to. Drivers now usually wear uniforms and badges, but often seatbelts aren't fitted and speed regulators designed to cap the vehicles top speed often don't work. Official numbers of passengers allowed onboard are often flouted and loud music, banned by the government, is still integral to many journeys.

Local buses are run by Citi Hoppa and the government outfit KBS (tel: (020) 229 707), whose main stations are in the River Road district between Ronald Ngala, Mfango and Uyoma Streets. KBS also have a downtown booking office on Muindi Mbingu Street (tel: (020) 341 250). Buses are numbered according to their route, although bus stops aren't.

Matatus in town are often white Nissan minibuses. In the countryside they tend to be rickety pick-ups with wooden benches beneath a canvas roof. Despite the risks, they are cheap and often convenient ways to travel. Stations are scattered along River Road. Rates are fairly standardised and there is no additional charge for luggage unless you have a particularly heavy load.

Grey, London-style cabs are run by the Kenya Taxi Cabs Association (tel: (020) 222 953). These are reliable and have mostly predetermined prices. Another good taxi outfit is Kenatco, who have branches in town (tel: (020) 225 123) and at the airport (tel: (020) 824 248). All licensed taxis have a yellow stripe. Peugeot share taxis are faster and will go where you ask, but usually don't set off until full. Haggle hard for fares and always agree a price before starting the journey. Look for them around Accra Road, River Road or Ronald Ngala Street.

Tuk-tuks, three-wheeled motorcycle rickshaws more commonly associated with Asia, have also started to be used for short trips.

Bicycles can be hired from Kenya Cycle Mart on Butere Road, who also carry spare parts and fix bikes.