Can I use ride-sharing apps in Nairobi?

Yes, Uber and Bolt are widely used and safer/easier for business travelers than haggling with local taxi drivers.

Will my corporate card work everywhere?

Yes, major hotels and business centers in Nairobi accept Visa and Mastercard. Carry a small amount of Kenyan Shillings (KES) for incidental tips.

Booking a Business Trip to Kenya: Flights, Hotels, and Miles Strategy

Book your international flights on Star Alliance or SkyTeam partners to maximize status credits and earn triple miles on corporate rates. For hotels in Nairobi, prioritize properties in Westlands or Upper Hill that are part of global loyalty programs like Marriott Bonvoy or Hilton Honors to ensure your business expenses translate into meaningful rewards.

Select your airline alliance. Kenya Airways is a SkyTeam member. If you prioritize status, book through KLM or Air France to earn Delta Medallion Qualification Dollars (MQDs) on the entire journey. If you prefer Star Alliance, book via Ethiopian Airlines or Lufthansa to accrue United Premier Qualifying Points (PQPs).
Utilize corporate booking portals. Always book through your company’s designated travel management tool (like Navan or Concur) but link your personal frequent flyer number before checkout. If you must book independently, ensure the fare class is eligible for 100% mile accrual; avoid 'Basic Economy' as these often earn zero miles.
Choose chain hotels for points parity. Stick to global chains like Radisson Blu, Marriott, or Hilton in Nairobi. They have standardized business-class Wi-Fi and airport shuttle services, and you can stack points by paying with a co-branded credit card (e.g., Chase Marriott Bonvoy or Amex Hilton).
Optimize for business expenses. Use a business-specific rewards credit card to pay for the invoice. You will earn miles from the airline, points from the hotel loyalty program, and credit card points on the transaction—this 'triple dip' is the only way to make business travel profitable.

Can I use ride-sharing apps in Nairobi?: Yes, Uber and Bolt are widely used and safer/easier for business travelers than haggling with local taxi drivers.
Will my corporate card work everywhere?: Yes, major hotels and business centers in Nairobi accept Visa and Mastercard. Carry a small amount of Kenyan Shillings (KES) for incidental tips.