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.
Airport Wi-Fi
Free WiFi at Jomo Kenyatta Airport — connect to the airport network and register; sessions are time-limited but renewable.
Security and arrival
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.
Distance to city
18 km / 30–60 min by taxi (heavy traffic common)