Is it safe to ride a matatu?

Yes, during daylight hours. Stick to reputable, well-maintained matatus rather than older, beat-up ones, and keep your phone off your lap near open windows.

How do I pay with M-Pesa?

Ask the conductor for their Till Number. Use your mobile phone's SIM toolkit or the Safaricom app to 'Lipa na M-Pesa', enter the number, and show the confirmation SMS to the conductor.

Are matatus dangerous drivers?

Matatu drivers are known for aggressive driving. If you feel unsafe, choose a matatu that appears to be driven more conservatively or opt for a ride-hailing app like Uber for your first few days.

Navigating Nairobi's Matatu System Like a Local

Navigating matatus involves identifying your route number, flagging down the vehicle at a designated stage, and paying the exact fare to the conductor. Always travel light and keep your valuables tucked away from windows while in transit.

Find your stage. Don't try to hail a matatu from anywhere. Go to a designated 'stage' (bus stop). In the CBD, these are centralized, like the Khoja, Ambassadeur, or Railways stations. Ask locals 'Where is the stage for [your destination]?'
Identify the route. Matatus have route numbers painted on their sides. Check the number against a reliable app like 'Digital Matatus' or ask the 'touts' (conductors) shouting destinations near the vehicles.
Boarding and seating. When the matatu arrives, hop in quickly. Try to get a seat near the middle if possible. If you are sitting in the back, be prepared to pass money forward for other passengers and pass change back.
Paying the fare. Wait for the conductor to come to you. Fares are usually paid in cash or M-Pesa. Always carry small denominations (50s, 100s, 200s); conductors rarely have change for large notes.
Signaling your stop. Tell the conductor your stop as soon as you board. When you are approaching it, press the buzzer if available, or call out 'Shuka hapa!' (Get off here) clearly so the driver can pull over.

Is it safe to ride a matatu?: Yes, during daylight hours. Stick to reputable, well-maintained matatus rather than older, beat-up ones, and keep your phone off your lap near open windows.
How do I pay with M-Pesa?: Ask the conductor for their Till Number. Use your mobile phone's SIM toolkit or the Safaricom app to 'Lipa na M-Pesa', enter the number, and show the confirmation SMS to the conductor.
Are matatus dangerous drivers?: Matatu drivers are known for aggressive driving. If you feel unsafe, choose a matatu that appears to be driven more conservatively or opt for a ride-hailing app like Uber for your first few days.