Jomo Kenyatta International Airport

Below is the contact information you may need when planning your trip through Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.

• Official Website: www.kaa.go.ke (Jomo Kenyatta Airport section on the Kenya Airports Authority website).
• Helpline Phone: +254 709 333 000 (24-hour customer support service).
• Address: Airport North Road, Embakasi, Nairobi, Kenya.
• Email: talktous@kaa.go.ke (General email for the Kenya Airports Authority).
• Social Media: You can follow airport news on the official pages of the Kenya Airports Authority on X (formerly Twitter) — @KenyaAirports and on Facebook — Kenya Airports Authority.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your items were lost on board the aircraft, you should first contact your airline. If items were lost within the terminal building, contact the airport lost and found service by phone: +254 20 661 2415.
• Customer Support Contacts: For general inquiries and assistance, you can use the main helpline number: +254 709 333 000.

Getting to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) from the centre of Nairobi can be done in several ways, each with its own advantages depending on your budget, time, and preferences. The airport is located approximately 15-18 kilometres southeast of the central business district, and travel time depends heavily on traffic conditions.

Public Transport is the most budget-friendly option. City bus No. 34 runs between the city centre and the airport. This is an inexpensive method, but be prepared for buses to be crowded and schedules not always strictly followed. The trip takes from 60 to 90 minutes depending on traffic. There is also a train option: from Nairobi Central Railway Station, you can take a commuter train to Embakasi Village station, from where a free shuttle runs to the airport terminals. This method helps avoid the famous traffic jams of Nairobi.

Taxis and Online Services, such as Uber or Bolt, are the most convenient and popular choice among tourists. A taxi ride from the city centre to the airport will take from 30 minutes to 1.5 hours. The cost will be significantly higher than the bus, but the comfort and "door-to-door" service, especially with luggage, justify the expense. It is strongly recommended to use official taxi services or verified apps to avoid overcharging.

Car Rental is an excellent choice for those planning to travel around Kenya independently. Offices of many international and local rental companies operate at the airport and in the city. Having your own car gives you complete freedom of movement. However, note that driving in Nairobi can be stressful due to heavy traffic and the specific driving style of locals. Both short-term and long-term parking facilities are available at the airport if you decide to arrive in a private or rented car.

Main Tip: always leave for the airport with plenty of time to spare. Traffic in Nairobi is unpredictable, and a short trip can easily stretch into several hours, especially during morning and evening rush hours. For travellers on a limited budget, a combination of train and shuttle is the optimal option, while for those who value comfort, a taxi or pre-booked transfer is best.

If your destination is not the capital but other regions of the country, for example, national parks, it is worth considering flights to domestic airports. Not far from Nairobi is Wilson Airport, which serves mainly domestic flights. Other important regional airports include Nanyuki, Amboseli, as well as airstrips near the Masai Mara reserve, such as Masai Mara (Ol Seki) and Masai Mara (Olare).

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi consists of two main terminals — Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Despite the apparent complexity, navigation between them is quite simple. It is important to check in advance which terminal your flight departs from to avoid unnecessary hassle.

Terminal 1 is the main and largest terminal. It has a semi-circular shape and is divided into five concourses (halls), designated by letters: 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, and 1E.

• Concourse 1A — the most modern, serving mainly international departures and arrivals for Kenya Airways and its SkyTeam alliance partners.
• Concourses 1B and 1C are used for international departures of other airlines, while Concourse 1D serves domestic flights. These halls house check-in counters, security screening areas, and boarding gates.
• Concourse 1E specializes in international arrivals. This is where most passengers arrive after landing in Nairobi.

Terminal 2 is a more compact and simple building that serves primarily budget airlines and some regional flights. It is located slightly away from Terminal 1, but you can walk to it in 5-10 minutes. Signs will help you find your way, though the transfer may require going outside.

Departure and arrival zones are clearly separated. Upon arrival, you follow the signs to Hall 1E (for most international flights), go through passport control, collect your luggage, and pass through customs. For departure, you first find the necessary concourse (1A, 1B, 1C or 1D) or Terminal 2, check in for your flight, pass through security screening and passport control, after which you enter the waiting area with shops and cafes.

To avoid rushing, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 3 hours before an international flight and 1.5-2 hours before a domestic one. During peak hours, queues for check-in and screening can be longer. Always check the information on your ticket to know exactly which terminal and concourse you need, and follow the signs inside the airport — they are quite informative and will help you find your way easily.

The history of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport dates back to the colonial era. It was officially opened on March 9, 1958, and was originally called Nairobi Embakasi Airport, after the district where it was built. Its task was to replace the old Eastleigh Aerodrome, which could no longer cope with increased traffic and accommodate new jet aircraft such as the de Havilland Comet. At the time of its opening, it was one of the most modern airports on the continent.

A key moment in the airport's development occurred in independent Kenya. In 1978, shortly after the death of the country's first president, it was renamed Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. This event coincided with the opening of a new large passenger terminal located on the opposite side of the runway from the old building. This large-scale modernization allowed the airport in Nairobi to become a fully-fledged international hub and an important transport node in East Africa.

One of the most serious challenges in the airport's history occurred on August 7, 2013, when a massive fire almost completely destroyed the international arrivals hall. This event led to the temporary closure of the airport and caused serious disruptions in air traffic. However, this crisis became a catalyst for large-scale reconstruction and the construction of new terminals. Temporary structures were erected in record time, followed by modern terminals such as Terminal 1A, which significantly increased capacity and comfort for passengers.

Among interesting facts, it is worth noting that the old Embakasi terminal, built in 1958, was not demolished. Today it is used as a cargo terminal and a base for the Kenya Air Force. Jomo Kenyatta Airport consistently ranks among the top ten busiest airports in Africa, handling both passenger and significant cargo flows, including the export of famous Kenyan flowers and fresh produce around the world.

Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) offers passengers a full range of modern services to make their stay as comfortable as possible. In the departure and arrival areas, you will find numerous restaurants and cafes where you can have a snack before your flight, ranging from fast food establishments to places offering local and international cuisine. For those wishing to shop, there are Duty Free stores, souvenir shops with Kenyan crafts, as well as outlets selling books, electronics, and travel goods.

For comfortable waiting, passengers can use the services of several business lounges. Access to them is usually provided to First and Business Class passengers, holders of airline alliance loyalty cards, or for a separate fee. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and numerous power outlets and USB ports located in waiting halls and at boarding gates are provided for charging electronic devices.

Financial matters can be easily resolved at the airport: bank branches, 24-hour currency exchange points, and numerous ATMs are at your service. In case of illness or injury, a medical centre operates in the terminal to provide first aid. Travellers with children will appreciate the availability of mother and child rooms equipped with changing tables and everything necessary for baby care.

The airport is well-equipped for passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps, elevators, and specially adapted restrooms. It is recommended to notify the airline in advance if special assistance is required. For those who need to rest between flights, hotels such as Crowne Plaza and Four Points by Sheraton are located right on the airport grounds or in the immediate vicinity. Business travellers can utilize business centres and conference rooms available in some hotels and lounges.

At Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, you will easily find a place to grab a snack or have a full meal while waiting for your flight. The airport offers various dining options capable of satisfying any taste and budget, from quick-service establishments to à la carte restaurants.

Most cafes and restaurants are concentrated in the departure zones of the international terminals (1A, 1B, 1C), after passing passport control and security screening (airside). Here, food courts with well-known international fast-food chains are located, where you can order burgers, pizza, or fried chicken. This is an excellent choice for those looking for familiar tastes and wanting to eat quickly and relatively inexpensively.

To experience local flavour, be sure to visit one of the Java House cafes — this is a highly popular Kenyan coffee house chain. They serve excellent local coffee, tea, fresh pastries, sandwiches, and full hot meals, including Kenyan specialities. It is a wonderful place for both a quick snack and a leisurely lunch in a pleasant atmosphere. Java House branches are found in several terminals.

If you are short on time, look out for small kiosks and coffee shops offering sandwiches, salads, pastries, and takeaway drinks. For a more substantial meal, it is better to choose one of the restaurants in the departure zone, where you can sit comfortably and order international or Pan-African dishes. Some establishments also offer a menu with a wide selection of beverages.

Passengers with special dietary needs need not worry. Many establishments offer vegetarian dishes, such as vegetable curries, salads, or sandwiches. Halal options are also available, though it is recommended to confirm this directly with the cafe staff. Finding gluten-free or vegan dishes may be more challenging, but fresh fruits and salads are available at most points.

Food prices at the airport are generally higher than in the city but are quite comparable to other major international airports. A quick snack will cost less than a full meal in a restaurant. Most establishments in the international terminals operate 24/7 or are aligned with flight schedules, so you won't go hungry even during a night transfer.

To ensure your journey through Jomo Kenyatta International Airport goes smoothly, make use of our tips. This busy transport hub has its own characteristics, and knowing a few nuances will help save time and reduce stress.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For international flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 3-4 hours before departure. Queues for check-in and security control can be long, especially during peak hours. To save time, complete online check-in if your airline provides this option. Keep your passport, visa, and boarding pass handy, as they may be checked at several stages.

Security Checks and Hand Luggage. Be prepared for multiple security checks. Standard rules for hand luggage apply here as well: liquids up to 100 ml must be packed in a transparent bag. Sharp objects and other dangerous items are prohibited. If you are bringing souvenirs from Kenya, such as coffee or tea, ensure their packaging complies with airline requirements. When choosing a seat on the plane, consider that window seats offer the best views during takeoff and landing, while aisle seats are more convenient for exiting.

Transfer Passengers and Customs. If you have a connecting flight in Nairobi, check in advance whether you need to collect your luggage and pass through customs control. The airport transit zone offers shops, cafes, and lounges. When passing customs upon arrival, be prepared to declare large amounts of cash or valuable goods. The process usually goes quickly, but having a completed migration card will speed it up.

Savings and Unforeseen Situations. To save money, bring an empty water bottle that can be filled after passing security control. Prices for food and drinks at the airport can be high. in case of flight delays, first contact your airline's counter for information on the new departure time and possible compensation (e.g., meal vouchers). The airport has Wi-Fi to help you stay connected.