Is it safe to walk in Nairobi?

Walking is generally safe in upscale neighborhoods like Westlands and Karen during daylight, but avoid walking anywhere after dark or in downtown areas with valuables. Most tourists stick to vehicles for all transportation.

How much should I tip taxi drivers?

Tipping isn't expected for ride-hailing apps, but 10% is appreciated for good service. For airport taxis and private drivers, 200-500 KES is standard depending on distance and service quality.

What if my phone dies and I can't call an Uber?

Have your hotel's business card with you. Ask at any hotel or restaurant to call a taxi for you, or use their WiFi to charge your phone briefly. Many places will help tourists in this situation.

Are motorcycle taxis (boda bodas) safe?

Boda bodas are cheap but not recommended for tourists. No helmets, chaotic traffic, and higher accident rates make them risky. Stick to four-wheeled vehicles for safety.

How to Get Around Nairobi Safely as a Tourist

Use Uber or Bolt for most trips, stick to registered taxis for airport transfers, and avoid matatus unless with a local guide. Keep valuables hidden, travel during daylight when possible, and always carry small bills for tips and parking fees.

Download ride-hailing apps before you arrive. Install Uber and Bolt on your phone while you still have reliable WiFi. Both work well in Nairobi and are safer than street taxis. Uber is more expensive but has better customer service. Bolt is cheaper and equally reliable for most trips.
Use registered airport taxis for arrival. Book through the official taxi desk inside JKIA terminal or use Kenya Association of Tour Operators (KATO) registered vehicles. Expect to pay 2,000-3,000 KES to city center. Avoid touts outside the terminal who will overcharge and may not be licensed.
Keep cash in small denominations. Carry 100, 200, and 500 KES notes for tips, parking fees, and situations where card payment isn't accepted. Keep larger bills (1,000 KES) separate. Many parking attendants and security guards expect small tips of 20-50 KES.
Plan your routes during daylight. Schedule important trips between 6 AM and 7 PM when possible. Traffic is heavy 7-9 AM and 5-7 PM, so allow extra time. After dark, stick to main roads and avoid walking anywhere, even short distances.
Recognize safe vs risky areas. Stay in Westlands, Karen, Lavington, or city center business district during the day. Avoid Eastleigh, Kibera, and downtown after 6 PM. If unsure about a neighborhood, ask your hotel or use Google Street View to check the area first.
Know matatu basics but use sparingly. Matatus (shared minibuses) cost 30-100 KES but can be chaotic and unsafe for tourists. Only use them with a local guide who knows the routes. They're an experience but not practical for tourists with luggage or tight schedules.

Is it safe to walk in Nairobi?: Walking is generally safe in upscale neighborhoods like Westlands and Karen during daylight, but avoid walking anywhere after dark or in downtown areas with valuables. Most tourists stick to vehicles for all transportation.
How much should I tip taxi drivers?: Tipping isn't expected for ride-hailing apps, but 10% is appreciated for good service. For airport taxis and private drivers, 200-500 KES is standard depending on distance and service quality.
What if my phone dies and I can't call an Uber?: Have your hotel's business card with you. Ask at any hotel or restaurant to call a taxi for you, or use their WiFi to charge your phone briefly. Many places will help tourists in this situation.
Are motorcycle taxis (boda bodas) safe?: Boda bodas are cheap but not recommended for tourists. No helmets, chaotic traffic, and higher accident rates make them risky. Stick to four-wheeled vehicles for safety.