Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) Traveler Essentials

Terminals: Terminal 1 (international — 1A and 1B), Terminal 2 (domestic regional). All Kenyan Airways flights use Terminal 1. Easy transit between areas.
Distance to city: 18 km / 30–60 min by taxi (heavy traffic common)

Overview

JKIA (or NBO) is East Africa's busiest airport and regional hub, handling 9+ million passengers annually. A well-organized, functional airport connecting Nairobi to 55+ destinations. The recently renovated Terminal 1A handles most international flights and has improved significantly.

Transport to city center

Nairobi Expressway Shuttles (NPR) to Upper Hill and city centre (45–90 min, KES 1500). Bolt/Little Cab: KES 1500–2500 (30–75 min depending on traffic). Official airport taxis: KES 3000–4000. Never use unlicensed taxis. The Nairobi Expressway has dramatically reduced commute times.

Wi-Fi

Free WiFi at Jomo Kenyatta Airport — connect to the airport network and register; sessions are time-limited but renewable.

Lounges

Kenya Airways Pride Lounge (Priority Pass eligible), Swissport Executive Lounge, several airline lounges. The Pride Lounge offers authentic Kenyan cuisine and M-Pesa payment.

Security & customs

All visitors now need an electronic travel authorization (eTA) arranged online before arrival — have the approval ready. There's a security screening at the terminal entrance as well as the main checkpoint. Standard 100ml liquid rules apply; use only the official taxis from the rank and expect thorough bag checks.

Travel tips

Set up M-Pesa (Kenyan mobile money) at an airport counter immediately after arrival — it's essential for daily transactions. Bolt and Little Cab are the only safe taxi options — never accept a ride from someone approaching you in arrivals. Nairobi traffic can be severe — allow 2+ hours for morning airport trips.