How to get to Nakuru from Nairobi?
Nakuru, a city situated in Kenya´s Rift Valley, is the third-largest urban centre in the country and the administrative seat of Nakuru County. The distance between Nairobi and Nakuru is 162 km. The road distance is 160.5 km.
Traveling from Nairobi to Nakuru is easily accomplished with numerous transport choices available. There are two main avenues for getting there by bus, taxi, or car.
1. Bus/Matatu:
This option is frequently the most economical and common method. Numerous bus and matatu (minibus) companies offer daily travel between Nairobi and Nakuru. These departures can be found at various bus terminals within Nairobi. The journey usually takes somewhere between two and three hours, contingent upon traffic conditions. Websites like Tiketi.com can aid in finding ticket information.
Popular Bus Operators:
- Easy Coach
- Modern Coast
- 2NK Sacco
- Departure point: Nairobi CBD – main bus terminals (Accra Road, River Road)
- Fare: KES 400 – 1,000 (USD 3 – 8), depending on the bus type (ordinary vs. VIP)
2. Driving:
The cheapest way to get from Nairobi to Nakuru is to drive which takes 2h 19m. For those with a vehicle, driving provides a convenient option. The main route is along the Nairobi-Nakuru Highway (A104), a well-maintained paved road. The expected travel time is around two to three hours. However, heavy traffic in and around Nairobi is a consideration, particularly during peak periods.
3. Taxi/Private Car:
The fastest way to get from Nairobi to Nakuru is to drive which takes 2h 19m. Hiring a taxi or private car offers a more comfortable and personalised travel experience. This option incurs higher costs than public transport but provides greater flexibility.
4. Train
To get to Nakuru from Nairobi by train, you can take the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) from Nairobi Terminus to Naivasha Inland Container Depot (ICD), as there is currently no direct SGR service to Nakuru. From Naivasha, you’ll need to continue the journey by road — either by matatu (shared minibus), local bus, or taxi — for approximately 80 km to reach Nakuru.
While not the most direct route, it offers a scenic and comfortable alternative to road-only travel. Make sure to check the SGR schedule and book tickets in advance through the official Kenya Railways or online platforms like Madaraka Express or Buupass.
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