Mombasa to Nairobi tickets

About the ride from Mombasa to Nairobi

Mombasa is a port city every traveler remembers. From tree-lined streets and white sand beaches to vibrant urban sprawl, this iconic coastal stop has something for everyone, especially those interested in history or wildlife.

But it's time to keep the adventure going! From Kenya's second largest city to its capital — Nairobi.

Nairobi is unlike any other city you've visited. It's home to jaw-dropping landscapes, a vibrant metropolis, safaris, world-class museums, and, most importantly, plenty of delicious food. Spend a few days in town here, and you won't regret it. 

The journey from Mombasa to Nairobi is approximately 482 km (299 miles) and takes one to nine hours, depending on your transportation. Your options include bus, flight, or train. 

Whether you plan to meet a giraffe in person or admire the bustling markets, keep reading. You'll be a pro at this route in minutes.

Five things to do in Nairobi

Want to see incredible animals? Discover Kenya's rich history? Or are you in the market for some beautiful souvenirs? 

Nairobi has you covered. 

Here are some of the must-see attractions and activities:

1. Visit the Nairobi Giraffe Center. It was established in 1979 to save endangered giraffes. Today, over 50 gentle giants roam the center's protected grounds freely.
   
   

2. Take a hike. If you visit the Giraffe Center, make sure you hike the trails across the street. They are short (1.5km/0.9 miles) and give excellent views of the Ngong Hills and the Gogo River.
   
   

3. Shop at the Maasai Market. Also known as the City Market, it's the main place to pick up gorgeous crafts and souvenirs. There are also plenty of food stalls, so visit at lunchtime for an authentic culinary experience.
   
   

4. Learn it all at the National Museum of Kenya. Whether you want to travel back in time and discover the country's history or want to learn about the local animals, this museum is always a great idea.
   
   

5. Visit the Westlands neighborhood. Nairobi has a few major neighborhoods, but if you want great food and drinks, check out Westlands. You'll find plenty of cocktail bars, rooftop terraces, and a few nightclubs here.
   
   

How to get from Mombasa to Nairobi

If you're traveling this route, you'll need to decide whether to go by bus, plane, or train. Here's the lowdown on each:

By bus

Buses from Mombasa to Nairobi are the slowest option, but they make up for the time by being more affordable. The journey takes eight to nine hours, and tickets start at $31 per passenger. 

Most buses depart several times daily, so selecting a time that works for you is easy. No early morning starts are necessary unless you want to catch the worm!

Most buses depart from Tahmeed Coach Mombasa, Mombasa - Nairobi Bus Stage, or Coast Bus Mombasa. You'll likely arrive at Tahmeed Coach Nairobi, Impala Shuttle Nairobi, or Coast Bus Nairobi.

Buses to Nairobi have different amenities depending on which you book. Most will offer large luggage storage, A/C, and individual seats. Some also have WiFi, TV screens, WCs, and chargers.

By plane

Flights are the fastest way to get to Nairobi — you'll get to the capital in only one hour. However, flights are the most expensive way, and tickets start at $56 per passenger. 

All flights leave from Mombasa Airport and arrive at Jomo Kenyatta or Wilson Airports.

Amenities on flights include WCs, A/C, and individual seats. Food isn't guaranteed. Grab a few airport snacks before you fly.

By train

Trains from Mombasa to Nairobi are a fantastic middle option. They're not as expensive as flights, but not as slow as buses. 

The average train time is 5 hours and 20 minutes and departs three times a day. 

Train tickets can be divided into two options: economy and comfort.

Economy tickets start at $24 per person and include A/C, seats, and one large piece of luggage allowance. 

Comfort tickets start around $56 per person and include A/C, more spacious seats, one large piece of luggage per person, and the option to purchase water and food onboard. 

All trains leave from Mombasa SGR Terminus and arrive at Nairobi SGR Terminus.

About the trip from Mombasa to Nairobi

The ride from Mombasa to Nairobi takes you 482 km (299 miles) northwest from Kenya's coastline into the center of the country. 

This journey passes by multiple national parks, including the Chyulu Hills National Park and Tsavo East National Park. Depending on your ride, your visibility may be limited, but you'll still get to see Kenya's lush countryside as you head towards the capital city.

Transport between these two cities is safe for travelers of all ages, genders, and nationalities.

As with any international travel, keep your valuables secure and be vigilant in busy bus or train stations. 

Is Nairobi safe to visit?

Yes, it's safe to visit Nairobi as a tourist. However, you should exercise caution and always keep your valuables hidden. Bag snatching occurs, so avoid exploring the city with your passport or large amounts of cash. 

Tourists should avoid certain neighborhoods such as Eastleigh, Central Business District, Mathare, and Kibera. Check your government's travel advice for more information before planning your trip.

The best time to travel from Mombasa to Nairobi

Since the weather is mostly warm and stable throughout the year, it's always a good time to travel from Mombasa to Nairobi. Expect average temperatures of 25 to 28°C (77 to 83°F).

However, April, May, and June are considered the worst months to visit, as these have more rain than the others. They usually experience around 15 days of rain each. Remember to pack your umbrella or waterproof jacket. 

The rest of the year gets little rain. If you want to limit the chances of precipitation, visit during January and February, when there are only around four days of rain per month. 

Even if you visit in the wet season, the rain only lasts for a few hours. 

Where to visit after Nairobi?

If you have ample time left after Nairobi, consider traveling to Arusha. This big city in Tanzania is located at the base of the Mt. Meru volcano. It's a great base for safaris and the base town for Kilimanjaro climbing expeditions. This is a border crossing route, so you'll need your passport and visa documents (if needed). Nairobi to Arusha takes four to eight hours, depending on the ride.