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Transportation
Bus
Buses offer transportation throughout Kenya, with the exception of parks and reserves.
Private vehicles known as matatus also serve as bus services in many areas.
Prices are cheap, but that’s where the advantages end.
They tend to be overcrowded, and are not known for their safety.Taxis
Taxis are available in Mombasa and Nairobi.
Prices are usually reasonable, but ask about the fare to your destination first. Car Rentals
Car rentals are available in Mombasa, Nairobi, and at some hotels and lodges.
A listing is available in the directory section.
If your are staying on the main roads or in the cities you can get by with a two wheel drive vehicle.
Many of the roads in Kenya are very rough, particularly in the rainy season.
If you are planning to do any off road driving or travel in the parks, rent a four wheel drive vehicle.
Make sure the vehicle is in good condition before leaving.
You don’t want to break down once outside of the cities.
Its a good idea to have a tow rope, jacking equipment, and spare cans of fuel.
Don’t drive alone. Safety comes in numbers.
The poor state of many roads precludes driving at night.
In the parks, stay in your vehicle.
In some places, leaving your vehicle is not allowed since the wild animals can be very dangerous.
Always take out collision damage insurance. Driving
Driving in Kenya is on the left, giving way to traffic from the right at intersections.
National drivers licenses are valid for 90 days. International drivers licenses are recommended.
Once you get out of the cities and off the major highways, be prepared for roads in poor conditions.
Upgrades to roads can be many years apart, and the rainy seasons have a tendency to wash out large sections.
Be prepared for drives to be slow and tiring when you hit these bad sections.Trains
Train service is available to most parts of the country on Kenya Railways.
The night trip offers private compartments and quality meals.
Tickets can be purchased at the train stations.
The main railway line runs from Mombasa to Malaba via Voi, Nairobi, Nakuru, and Eldoret.
Branch lines run to other areas.
The rail network is fairly large with about 1700 miles of track and 137 stations.
First class offers two berth compartments with a washbasin, drinking water, a wardrobe and drinks service.
Second class consists of four berth compartments with a wash basin and drinking water.
Third class is seats only. In first and second classes sexes are separated unless you book the whole compartment.
Most trains have a dining car which serves dinner and two sittings of breakfast.
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