Is it safe to walk between business buildings?

In the CBD, stay alert and keep your phone tucked away. In Upper Hill and Westlands, walking long distances is discouraged; take a short ride-share hop instead.

Can I use public transport (matatus)?

Not recommended for first-time visitors or those on a tight business schedule. They are unpredictable and difficult to navigate without local knowledge.

Navigating Nairobi's Business Districts: A Practical Guide

Use Uber or Bolt for all movements between districts to ensure safety and price transparency. Avoid public matatus if you are unfamiliar with the city's traffic flow, and always aim to be at your destination by 8:00 AM to beat the intense morning gridlock.

Choose your transport. Download Uber, Bolt, and Little Cab. Use these apps exclusively for travel between Westlands, Upper Hill, and the CBD. Do not hail random street taxis.
Master the timing. Nairobi traffic is severe. Budget 60 minutes for a 5-kilometer commute during rush hours (7:00 AM–9:30 AM and 4:30 PM–7:00 PM). Schedule meetings outside these windows whenever possible.
Use landmark navigation. Street addresses are often unreliable. Use building names or nearby well-known hotels as your primary navigation markers for drivers.
Stay connected. Purchase a local Safaricom SIM card at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport immediately upon arrival. This ensures your ride-share apps and maps remain functional during transit.

Is it safe to walk between business buildings?: In the CBD, stay alert and keep your phone tucked away. In Upper Hill and Westlands, walking long distances is discouraged; take a short ride-share hop instead.
Can I use public transport (matatus)?: Not recommended for first-time visitors or those on a tight business schedule. They are unpredictable and difficult to navigate without local knowledge.