Do you want express travel from Nairobi, Kenya to the majestic Kilimanjaro in Tanzania? If so, you have come to the perfect place. Whether you have a thrilling hiking adventure planned on Kilimanjaro or have your sights set on reaching the prestigious Kilimanjaro Airport, fret not, for I am here to extend my helping hand! Drawing upon my extensive knowledge and expertise as a highly seasoned tour guide in the mesmerizing continent of Africa, I can assure you that this particular route is one I have traversed countless times, immersing myself in its wonders. Undertaking the awe-inspiring journey from Nairobi to Kilimanjaro has become an integral part of my life, as I embark on it at least once every couple of months. Having said that, I am acutely aware that for individuals venturing into the enchanting lands of Africa for the first time, the process of embarking on this bus journey may appear somewhat intricate and complex. After all, the websites of bus operators in Africa can be exceptionally bewildering, presenting you with an intricate maze of information. Nevertheless, I graciously offer you the succinct answer to your transportation quandary, promptly followed by a comprehensive and elaborate explanation of the step-by-step process through which you can seamlessly embark on an unforgettable bus journey from the vibrant city of Nairobi to the remarkable expanse of Kilimanjaro.
If you’re planning to travel from Nairobi to Kilimanjaro, whether it’s for a hike on the mountain or to reach Kilimanjaro Airport, I can certainly help guide you through the process.
To make the journey, you can follow these steps:
- Book the Nairobi to Kilimanjaro Shuttle: Look for shuttle services that operate between Nairobi and Kilimanjaro. These shuttles typically depart from designated pickup points in Nairobi mostly from around the Jevanjee Gardens, only a sone throw away from the Nairobi Central Police Station where the offices are located.
- Travel to Pickup Point: Take a matatu (public minibus) or local taxi to either the Silver Springs Hotel or the Heron Portico Hotel in Nairobi, where the shuttle services are likely to depart from.
- Board the Shuttle to Arusha: Once at the pickup point, board the shuttle bound for Arusha, Tanzania. Arusha is a major city in Tanzania and a common transit point for travellers heading to Kilimanjaro.
- Transfer in Arusha: Upon arrival in Arusha, you’ll need to change buses. Look for a connecting bus or transportation service to take you to the town of Moshi. Moshi is situated near the base of Mount Kilimanjaro and serves as a gateway for climbers and visitors.
- Final Leg to Kilimanjaro: Once you reach Moshi, take a local taxi or transportation to reach your final destination in Kilimanjaro. This could be Kilimanjaro Airport if you’re flying out or your accommodation if you’re beginning your hike on the mountain.
HOW TO GET TO FROM NAIROBI TO KILIMANJARO
STEP 1 – BOOK THE NAIROBI KILIMANJARO SHUTTLE
Travelling by shuttle from Nairobi to Kilimanjaro is a hassle-free experience. To embark on this journey, it is essential to acquire a ticket specifically for the Nairobi Kilimanjaro Shuttle located at the Jevanjee Gardens. Luckily, there are two reliable options to choose from: Impala Shuttles and Riverside Shuttles. My personal recommendation would be Impala Shuttles, and I would also suggest arranging for them to pick you up directly from your hotel. It is worth noting that this shuttle typically makes a stop in Arusha, Tanzania. Upon arrival in Arusha, you will need to switch buses and continue your journey to the neighboring town of Moshi.
Some shuttle services that operate between Nairobi and Kilimanjaro include:
- Impala Shuttle: Offers daily shuttles between Nairobi and Arusha, with connections to Moshi and Kilimanjaro.
- Riverside Shuttle: Provides reliable shuttle services between Nairobi and Arusha, with onward connections to Moshi and Kilimanjaro.
- Rainbow Shuttle: Offers comfortable shuttles from Nairobi to Arusha, with options for transfers to Moshi and Kilimanjaro.
- Riverside Shuttle: Provides daily shuttle services between Nairobi and Arusha, with convenient transfers to Moshi and Kilimanjaro.
- Marangu Shuttle: Offers affordable shuttle services from Nairobi to Arusha, with onward connections to Moshi and Kilimanjaro.
These are just a few examples of shuttle services available for travelers making the journey from Nairobi to Kilimanjaro. It’s advisable to book your shuttle in advance to secure your seat and ensure a smooth journey.
STEP 2 – TAKE A MATATU OR TAXI TO CITY CENTRE HOTEL
On certain occasions, this shuttle is able to provide transportation services at the Wildebeest Camp located in Karen. Nevertheless, it is highly recommended to opt for a pickup from either Silversprings Hotel or the Heron Portico. It is advisable to spend the night at this particular location in order to avoid the hassle of navigating through the extremely congested Nairobi traffic.
STEP 4 – TRAVEL FROM NAIROBI TO ARUSHA
This travel experience is typically divided into two distinct journeys. Consequently, you will embark on a trip from Nairobi to the Namanga border, where the helpful driver will guide you with directions. Remarkably, the drivers are exceptionally wonderful and may even accompany you inside to ensure that everything is proceeding smoothly. Upon reaching Arusha, there will be another bus transfer, but rest assured that the driver will offer assistance throughout this segment of the journey as well.
Bus services that operate between Nairobi and Kilimanjaro include:
- Shabiby: Provides daily bus services from Nairobi to Arusha, with connections to Moshi and Kilimanjaro.
- Sai Baba: Offers comfortable bus rides between Nairobi and Arusha, with onward connections to Moshi and Kilimanjaro.
- Kilimanjaro Express: Provides reliable bus transportation from Nairobi to Arusha, with options for transfers to Moshi and Kilimanjaro.
- Modern Coast: Offers affordable bus services between Nairobi and Arusha, with convenient connections to Moshi and Kilimanjaro.
- Tahmeed Coach: Provides luxury bus rides from Nairobi to Arusha, with onward transfers to Moshi and Kilimanjaro.
These bus services offer various departure times and ticket prices, catering to different traveller preferences. It’s advisable to check schedules and book tickets in advance to secure your seat and ensure a smooth journey.
STEP 5 – TAKE A LOCAL TAXI FROM MOSHI TO KILIMANJARO
Upon reaching the town of Moshi, you will find it situated in close proximity to the majestic Mt. Kilimanjaro, with Kilimanjaro Airport also conveniently nearby. If your destination is the airport, you have the option of taking another bus from Moshi, but it would be advisable to consider a local taxi instead. For those embarking on a Kilimanjaro climb, it is highly probable that you will be accommodated at a nearby hostel or hotel. Moreover, your tour operator is expected to collect you from there.
ABOUT THE BUS ROUTE FROM NAIROBI TO KILIMANJARO
The level of comfort provided on the Nairobi Kilimanjaro shuttle is quite satisfactory. However, it is advisable to keep your expectations in check. Regarding the duration of the journey, it may feel a bit lengthy due to the border crossing and the considerable distance involved, but this is to be anticipated. All things considered, traveling by bus from Nairobi to Kilimanjaro is a simple procedure, and the drivers are generally extremely amiable.
IS THERE A TRAIN FROM NAIROBI TO KILIMANJARO?
No, there is no railway line connecting Kenya and Tanzania, so it is not possible travelling by train from Nairobi to Tanzania.
IS THERE ANY OTHER WAY FROM NAIROBI TO KILIMANJARO?
Take Namanga matatus which are conveniently located near the junction of Ronald Ngala and River Road. Once you reach Namanga, make sure to cross over to the Tanzanian side and board a Noah, mini van to Arusha. When you reach in Arusha, you can head to the main bus station located in the CBD of Arusha and board a “coaster” mini bus to Moshi. Enjoy your journey!
Travelling from Nairobi to Dar es Salaam by bus
When traveling by bus from Nairobi to Arusha or Moshi, the journey typically takes about 6 to 8 hours. From Arusha or Moshi to Dar es Salaam, it can take approximately 10 to 12 hours, depending on road conditions and any delays.
One of the highlights of the journey is passing through the Usambara Mountains, which offers stunning scenery, especially during daylight hours while traveling along the Korogwe Highway.
During the journey, a typical schedule might include a breakfast stop just before the Namanga Border around 9 am, followed by a lunch and overnight stop in Arusha or Moshi around 12 pm to 2 pm. Travelers may have the option to stay or sleep in the bus overnight while it’s parked outside the ticket office.
After leaving Arusha or Moshi, the next lunch stop could be at a specially built rest area along the Korogwe Highway around 11 am. The bus might then arrive at Lumumba Street in Dar es Salaam around 4 pm, followed by arrival at Ubungo Bus Station in Dar around 5 pm.
Alternatively, travelers can opt for the SGR (Standard Gauge Railway) train from Nairobi to Mombasa, which takes about 5 hours. After staying overnight in Mombasa, they can take a bus, such as Tahmeed or Modern Coast, departing at 6 am to Dar es Salaam, which takes about 10 hours.
Along the SGR train and bus route, stops may include the border crossing, a restaurant near Tanga Bus station, a weighing bridge for safety checks, and a stop for restroom breaks. The bus would then arrive at Lumumba Street in Dar around 4 pm, followed by arrival at Ubungo Bus Station around 5 pm.
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