Transportation of Kenya

You can travel around Kenya using city public transport, trains, taxis, ferries, charter planes or simply renting a car you like. Let's consider in detail all types of transport in Kenya, so that during the trip you can easily navigate and choose the right one.

Public transport

Only in Mombasa and Nairobi there is a fairly developed bus service. The ticket is purchased directly at the bus salon by the conductor, and such tickets are valid only for one trip. Unfortunately, buses do not go so often, so if you need to get there quickly to a certain point, then it's better to use the minibuses, which here are called matata. They have many directions, and the time of work is from 6 am to midnight.

The only thing you want to warn about: be extremely careful on roads and in transport. Because of the large flow of people, public transport is often overcrowded, and the matatu is sometimes moving at great speed, which is very unsafe.

Railway transport

This type of transport in Kenya has taught recognition as early as the beginning of the last century. In 1901 the Ugandan Railway was built and put into operation. In 2011, it was announced that the construction of a railway line, which would unite the five East African states - Kenya, Uganda, Burundi, Tanzania and Rwanda - was launched.

Speaking of Kenya railway transport these days, it is worth noting that the trains are very comfortable, the wagons are clean and comfortable, often equipped with bars and restaurants. In the train there are 3 classes of cars. The first class distinguishes the maximum level of comfort and two-seater coupe, the second and third class in terms of amenities are similar to the usual for us compartment and reserved seats cars. Tickets are best booked and purchased in advance. Children under 3 years old are not required to travel, they go free of charge, and for children from 3 to 15 years old parents pay 50% of the cost.

Trains usually run once a day, depart late at night and arrive at their destination in the morning. Kenya's railway network unites the main resorts of the country - Mombasa, Nairobi, Kisumu , Malindi , Lamu , and also passes through the national parks Amboseli , Masai Mara and Samburu .

Aviation and Water Transport

There is regular ferry service between Mombasa, Malindi and Lam. In these ports you can rent a traditional sailing boat "dhow". Do not forget to stock up on food and drinking water on the road.

With regard to air transport, Kenya has two international airports - Jomo Kenyatta (located 13 km from Nairobi) and Moi International Airport (13 km from Mombasa). Other airports are focused on servicing domestic flights. Among the airlines are AirKenya, Jambojet, Tropic Air, 748 Air Services, African Express Airways and others. Charter flights serve the popular destinations for safaris.

Taxi and car rental

Taxis in Kenya can belong to large companies, for example, Kenatco, Dial a Cab and Jatco, or small private companies and carriers. To catch a car on the road is not worth it, there is a risk of deception. It is best to order by phone from the hotel , airport, store. Payment must be agreed with the driver in advance, often in excess of the fare you can ask for 10% of the tip. For a small surcharge many taxi drivers will gladly become guides or guards for you.

You can also rent a car, making it more convenient at the international airports of Kenya or at the offices of local rental companies. Most often for the rental of four-wheel drive vehicles that will help you cope with Kenyan roads, which are asphalted only 10-15%. Consider renting a car with a driver, since it is not much more expensive, but it will save you many problems and help you enjoy the rest from the car window. For self-driving, you will need an international driver's license.