What if one of us has a different passport nationality?

You'll likely be processed separately at immigration since visa requirements vary by nationality. Meet after immigration at baggage claim. The person with stricter requirements should prepare extra documentation.

Is it safe to take phones out at JKIA?

Yes, JKIA is generally safe for using phones and devices. Airport wifi is available but spotty. Download offline maps and have transport apps ready before you land.

How much should we tip at the airport?

Trolley porters expect 100-200 KES. Baggage handlers who help load taxis get 200-500 KES depending on luggage amount. Tips are optional but appreciated.

What if our luggage doesn't arrive?

Report missing baggage immediately at the airline desk before leaving baggage claim. Get a reference number and contact details. Most delayed bags arrive within 24-48 hours in Nairobi.

How to navigate Nairobi airport arrival as a couple

Stick together through immigration, have both passports ready, and use official airport taxis or ride-sharing apps. The process takes 30-45 minutes if you're prepared with documents and know where you're going.

Prepare documents before landing. Each person needs their own passport, printed or digital visa confirmation, yellow fever certificate (if required), and return ticket details. Keep documents in easily accessible pockets—you'll need them quickly.
Stay together through immigration. Join the visitors/non-residents line together. Some officers process couples simultaneously, others require separate processing. Have your accommodation address written down—they often ask where you're staying.
Collect baggage efficiently. One person can watch for bags while the other grabs a trolley. JKIA baggage claim can be chaotic—keep your claim tickets and stay alert for your carousel number on the screens.
Navigate customs together. Use the green 'Nothing to Declare' channel unless you have items to declare. Customs officers may ask to see inside your bags—this is routine. Answer questions honestly and briefly.
Exit safely with transport arranged. Book airport transfer in advance or use the official taxi desk in arrivals. Uber and Bolt work well from JKIA. Avoid unofficial taxi touts—they'll approach you immediately but stick to official options.

What if one of us has a different passport nationality?: You'll likely be processed separately at immigration since visa requirements vary by nationality. Meet after immigration at baggage claim. The person with stricter requirements should prepare extra documentation.
Is it safe to take phones out at JKIA?: Yes, JKIA is generally safe for using phones and devices. Airport wifi is available but spotty. Download offline maps and have transport apps ready before you land.
How much should we tip at the airport?: Trolley porters expect 100-200 KES. Baggage handlers who help load taxis get 200-500 KES depending on luggage amount. Tips are optional but appreciated.
What if our luggage doesn't arrive?: Report missing baggage immediately at the airline desk before leaving baggage claim. Get a reference number and contact details. Most delayed bags arrive within 24-48 hours in Nairobi.