Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO)

Nairobi, Kenya

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.

Terminals

Terminal 1 (international — 1A and 1B), Terminal 2 (domestic regional). All Kenyan Airways flights use Terminal 1. Easy transit between areas.

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.

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.

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.

Related guides