Do you need to get from Nairobi to Kilimanjaro? Are you starting a hike on Kilimanjaro? Maybe you need to get to the Kilimanjaro Airport? If so, let me help you out with that!
In all the time that I have spent working as a tour guide in Africa, this is one route I have taken the most. I have travelled from Nairobi to Kilimanjaro at least once every couple of months. However, I know that as a first timer to Africa, this might not seem as straightforward. Here is the short answer, quickly followed by a more detailed account on how you can take a bus from Nairobi to Kilimanjaro.
Quick Answer: Taking a Bus from Nairobi to Kilimanjaro
- Book a pickup at Hotel Boulevard for the Nairobi to Kilimanjaro Shuttle
- Take a matatu or taxi to Hotel Boulevard.
- This bus will take you to Arusha, Tanzania.
- Change buses in Arusha and get off in the town of Moshi/Kilimanjaro
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How to get to from Nairobi to Kilimanjaro
Step 1 – Book the Nairobi Kilimanjaro Shuttle
Taking a bus from Nairobi to Kilimanjaro is very straightforward. However, you will need a ticket for the Nairobi Kilimanjaro Shuttle. You can book your ticket with either Impala Shuttles or Riverside Shuttles. I suggest Impala and request that they collect you at a hotel. Hotel Boulevard is a comfortable place to wait. This shuttle will usually stop in Arusha, Tanzania. From here, you will need to change buses and travel to the next town, Moshi.
By the way, do you already have your travel insurance booked for Kilimanjaro? I always use World Nomads for my big outdoor adventures and suggest you at least know the cost by getting a quote for your climb on the link below. It takes just a few seconds…
Step 2 – Take a Matatu or Taxi to City Centre Hotel
Sometimes this shuttle can do pickups at the Wildebeest Camp in Karen. However, you are best to select a pick up for Hotel Boulevard. My suggestion is that you stay over the night before and save yourself the stress of getting through Nairobi traffic.
Step 4 – Travel from Nairobi to Arusha
This journey is usually split into two separate trips. You will travel from Nairobi to the Namanga border. The driver will usually help you and the other passengers with directions at the border. In fact, the drivers are fantastic and come inside to make sure everything is going okay. They are well used to solo travelers on their way to Kilimanjaro, Serengeti etc. When you reach Arusha, you will change bus and again, the driver will help with this part of the journey.
Step 5 – Arrive in Moshi/Kilimanjaro
Next you will arrive at the town of Moshi. This town is located right next to Mt. Kilimanjaro and not far from Kilimanjaro Airport. It is likely your tour company will collect you here.
About the Bus Route from Nairobi to Kilimanjaro
The standard of comfort on the Nairobi Kilimanjaro shuttle is pretty good but try to manage your expectations. The journey involves just a half-day of traveling and the drivers are very helpful. In short, the bus from Nairobi to Kilimanjaro is a straightforward process and cheap, too!
Is there a Train from Nairobi to Kilimanjaro?
No. You can take the SGR Madaraka Express train to Kibwezi but even if you took a local matatu to the border, this takes you to Kilimanjaro NP and there is no border crossing. Just stick with the bus!
Is there Any Other Way from Nairobi to Kilimanjaro?
Yes, you can take matatus all the way but it takes forever !
And if you have yet to book with a climbing operator, I highly recommend you consider joining the adventure below. This climb takes in the Machame Route on Kilimanjaro and I know G Adventures use experienced guides and high quality tents, equipment etc…
