Getting around Nairobi

Downtown Nairobi is fairly easy to explore on foot, at least by day, but many of the attractions are out in the suburbs. Fortunately, the city is well stocked with taxis, and buses and matatus (minibuses) run regularly to most parts of Nairobi. Be cautious walking around near the bus station and in the area east of Moi Road. Muggers and prostitutes stalk the streets by night and walking after dark is not recommended – do what locals do and take a taxi.

Local buses are operated by government bus company KBS (tel: (020) 229 707) and dozens of private companies, including City Hoppa and Double M. Fares are paid directly to the conductor and buses follow numbered routes, with many services starting from Uyoma Street. However, bus stops are frequently unmarked and buses are fearfully overcrowded.

Matatus are white minibuses (normally Nissans), that travel on the same routes as the buses. Matatu stands are scattered around the centre - useful routes include No 23 from Moi Avenue (or Latema Road) to Westlands and No 125 or No 126 from the train station to Langata. Fares depend on the route and distance – foreigners usually pay more than locals, but a ride around town will rarely cost more than Ksh50.

Buses and matatus have a poor reputation for safety, and crashes are common – if you do use this form of transport, never sit in the so-called ‘death seat’, up front next to the driver. Locals claim that the safest place to sit is in the middle, towards the back. Drivers usually wear uniforms and badges, but seatbelts are rare and speed regulators designed to cap the vehicles’ top speed often don't work. Loud music and overcrowding are an integral part of the Nairobi public transport experience.