Nairobi Airport (JKIA) - JKIA Airport

Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) is Kenya’s primary airport and one of East Africa’s busiest air travel hubs. Located 15 km (9 miles) southeast of Nairobi’s city center, NBO connects Kenya to the world, serving millions of travelers annually. This guide covers everything you need to know about Nairobi Airport, from facilities and terminals to transportation and insider tips.

1. Overview of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport

Airport Code: NBO
Location: Embakasi, Nairobi, Kenya.
Opened: 1958 (originally named Embakasi Airport).
Role: Gateway to Kenya and East Africa, a hub for Kenya Airways, and a key transit point for tourists visiting Kenya’s national parks and reserves.

2. Terminals at NBO

NBO has four operational terminals (T1A, T1B, T1C, and T2) and a cargo terminal, all located within the same general area.

Terminal	Key Features	Airlines
T1A	Dedicated to international departures and arrivals.	Kenya Airways, SkyTeam Alliance airlines, and other international carriers.
T1B	Handles regional and international departures.	Airlines such as Ethiopian Airlines and RwandAir.
T1C	Shared between international and domestic departures.	Emirates, Qatar Airways, and British Airways.
T2	Handles domestic and low-cost carrier flights.	Jambojet, Fly540, and Safarilink.
Cargo Terminal	A specialized terminal for freight and cargo operations.	Cargo airlines such as DHL and Kenya Airways Cargo.

3. Airlines Operating at NBO

NBO hosts a wide range of airlines, offering connections to destinations across Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and Asia.

Kenya Airways: NBO is the hub for Kenya Airways, offering extensive connections across Africa and long-haul flights to Europe, Asia, and the US.
International Airlines: Emirates, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, British Airways, Lufthansa, and KLM.
Regional Airlines: Ethiopian Airlines, RwandAir, Air Tanzania.
Domestic Airlines: Jambojet, Fly540, Safarilink, and AirKenya.

4. Key Facilities at NBO

NBO is equipped with a variety of facilities to make your travel experience seamless and comfortable.

a. Check-In and Security

Multiple check-in counters in each terminal with efficient electronic check-in kiosks for major airlines.
Security screening is thorough, with separate lanes for domestic and international travelers.

b. Lounges

NBO offers several lounges for travelers to relax before their flight:

Pride Lounge (Kenya Airways): Premium lounge for SkyTeam passengers and business-class travelers.
Turkish Airlines Lounge: Open to Star Alliance members.
Aspire Lounge: Open to all travelers for a fee, with food, drinks, and comfortable seating.
Safari Comfort Lounge: Affordable option for economy travelers.

c. Shopping and Duty-Free

Duty-free shops are located in international departure areas, offering items such as liquor, electronics, Kenyan coffee, tea, and souvenirs.
Local vendors sell Maasai beadwork, wooden carvings, and African textiles.

d. Dining

A variety of restaurants and cafes are available, offering international and Kenyan cuisines.
- Java House: Known for its coffee and snacks.
- Kilimanjaro Restaurant: Serves African and continental dishes.
- Safari Coffee Shop: Quick bites and drinks.

e. Wi-Fi and Charging Stations

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminals, though it can sometimes be slow during peak hours.
Charging stations are conveniently located in departure areas.

f. Other Services

Currency exchange bureaus and ATMs for major currencies.
Medical clinics and a pharmacy.
Prayer rooms for travelers of various faiths.
Car rental services at the arrivals area.

5. Transportation to and from NBO

a. Taxis and Ride-Sharing

Kenatco Taxis: The official airport taxi service, known for reliability and fixed rates.
Ride-Sharing Apps: Bolt and Uber are widely available and often more affordable.

b. Airport Shuttles

Many hotels offer free or paid airport shuttles for guests.
Safari companies often include airport transfers in their packages.

c. Public Transport

Matatus (shared minivans) are available outside the airport but are not recommended for first-time visitors due to their lack of reliability.

d. Car Rentals

Car rental desks are available in the arrivals area, with options ranging from sedans to 4WD vehicles for safari transfers.

6. Parking at NBO

Short-Term Parking: Located near all terminals, ideal for drop-offs and pickups.
Long-Term Parking: Affordable rates for extended stays.
Payment can be made via cash, M-Pesa, or card.

7. Key Services for Transit Passengers

NBO is a popular transit hub for travelers connecting to other African destinations or onward international flights.

Layover Facilities: Day rooms and lounges are available for long layovers.
Quick Transit Tours: Some operators offer city tours for passengers with layovers exceeding 8 hours.

8. Insider Tips for Visiting NBO

Arrive Early: For international flights, arrive 3 hours early; for domestic, 2 hours.
Know Your Terminal: Check your terminal in advance, as they are not connected internally.
Plan for Traffic: Nairobi traffic can be unpredictable; plan extra travel time to the airport.
Currency: Have some Kenyan Shillings on hand for small purchases.
Stay Safe: Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps and keep your belongings secure.

9. Nearby Hotels and Accommodation

Hotel Name	Distance from NBO	Features
Four Points by Sheraton	Within the airport	Modern rooms, rooftop pool, and free airport shuttle.
Crowne Plaza Nairobi	Within the airport	Luxurious amenities, spa, and business facilities.
Hilton Garden Inn	2 km	Affordable, family-friendly, and offers free shuttle service.
Eka Hotel Nairobi	5 km	Mid-range option with a pool and restaurant.

10. Safari Connections from NBO

NBO is the gateway to Kenya’s famous safari destinations:

Masai Mara: Direct flights to Mara airstrips; a 5-6 hour drive for those using a 4WD.
Amboseli: 40-minute flights or a 4-hour drive.
Samburu: Flights from Wilson Airport (near NBO).
Tsavo National Parks: Accessible via domestic flights or road transfers.

Pro Tip: Rent a 4WD Safari Vehicle from MasaiMara.ke for reliable and comfortable travel to your safari destinations.

11. FAQs About Nairobi Airport

Is NBO safe?: Yes, NBO has stringent security protocols. Use licensed taxis and secure your belongings.
Can I sleep at the airport?: Limited sleeping facilities are available. Nearby hotels are recommended for overnight layovers.
What currency is accepted?: Kenyan Shillings and major foreign currencies (USD, EUR, GBP) are accepted at most outlets.
Are there facilities for children?: Yes, baby care rooms and family-friendly lounges are available.

Flight Arrivals at NBO

Upon landing at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO), passengers proceed through immigration. Ensure you have your visa (eVisa preferred) and any health documentation ready. Baggage claim is efficient, with clear signage directing you to carousels. Customs clearance follows, with green and red channels for declarations. Flight status updates, including delays or gate changes, are displayed on monitors. For connecting domestic flights, proceed to Terminal 2 after clearing arrivals formalities.

Flight Departures at NBO

For departing flights, arrive 3 hours early for international flights and 2 hours for domestic flights. Security checks are thorough at the terminal entrance before reaching check-in counters or kiosks. Passengers proceed through immigration and final security screenings. Flight departure details, including boarding gates and status updates, are displayed prominently. While waiting for your flight, enjoy duty-free shopping, grab a quick meal, or unwind in lounges like Pride Lounge or Aspire Lounge.

Conclusion

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) is a vital gateway for travelers exploring Kenya and beyond. With modern facilities, efficient services, and its proximity to Nairobi’s city center, NBO ensures a comfortable and convenient travel experience. Let jkiaairport.com assist you in planning your safari adventure, including 4WD vehicle rentals and expert tips for seamless travel. Safe travels!