How to get from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to Nairobi city centre
Medium confidenceChecked May 2026General guidance
Use Uber or Bolt from the designated zone — both are widely used in Nairobi and avoid haggling.
Best options
Best overall
Uber or Bolt from the designated zone.
Cheapest safe
Bolt is often cheapest; Little Cab is a local alternative.
Best at night
App-based ride or pre-booked transfer — airport taxis are bolder on price after dark.
With luggage / kids
Uber / Bolt larger tier.
Taxi fare
Airport taxi rank quotes often KES 2,500–4,000 to central Nairobi. App fares typically lower; fares vary heavily with traffic.
Ride-hailing
Uber, Bolt and Little Cab operate.
available
Public transport
Matatus run to the city but are not recommended with luggage.
Compare your options — NBO → Nairobi city centre
Distance ~17 km, typical journey 30–90 min (traffic).
| Option | Typical fare | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Public transport | Matatus run to the city but are not recommended with luggage. | Cheapest safe option |
| Official taxi | Airport taxi rank quotes often KES 2,500–4,000 to central Nairobi. App fares typically lower; fares vary heavily with traffic. | Late arrivals, heavy luggage |
| Ride-hailing | Uber, Bolt and Little Cab operate. | available |
After landing — step by step
- 1Exit arrivals, follow signs to the ride-hailing zone
- 2Compare app price against the official rank before agreeing
Scam warnings
Inflated 'airport taxi' rank quotes
Currency confusion at drop-off
Avoid this
- • Curbside private offers
Frequently asked
Q.How much is a taxi from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to Nairobi city centre?
Airport taxi rank quotes often KES 2,500–4,000 to central Nairobi. App fares typically lower; fares vary heavily with traffic.. Always confirm the fare or that the meter is on before pulling away. Watch for: Inflated 'airport taxi' rank quotes.
Q.What is the cheapest safe way from NBO to Nairobi city centre?
Bolt is often cheapest; Little Cab is a local alternative.
Q.Does Uber or ride-hailing work at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport?
Uber, Bolt and Little Cab operate.
Q.What's the best way from NBO to Nairobi city centre at night?
App-based ride or pre-booked transfer — airport taxis are bolder on price after dark.
Q.What scams should I watch for going from NBO to Nairobi city centre?
Top reported: Inflated 'airport taxi' rank quotes; Currency confusion at drop-off. Use the official taxi rank, never accept a fare from someone approaching you in arrivals.