There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Nairobi into a quick city adventure. From WIL, the Taxis / Ride-sharing can get you into town in around 70 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Important Details Before You Go
A few things to sort out before you leave WIL:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Kenya. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Nairobi takes about 70 minutes by Taxis / Ride-sharing. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is KES. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some KES in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
What’s Worth Seeing in Nairobi
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Nairobi, two standouts are:
- City Center Walk — No tickets or reservations needed — just explore at your own pace.
- Local Market — Great for picking up a quick snack or souvenir between flights.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at WIL, check out Airport Lounge or Duty Free Shopping to keep yourself occupied.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
The most straightforward way into Nairobi is the Taxis / Ride-sharing, which takes about 70 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 90 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Taxis / Ride-sharing is usually the smarter call.
Eating Well on a Nairobi Layover
- In the city: Local Restaurant and Popular Eatery are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Nairobi.
- At the airport: Airport Cafe and Terminal Restaurant will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Nairobi might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$6 USD
- A meal: ~$11 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$27 USD
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and WIL is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Nairobi and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Storing Your Luggage at Nairobi Wilson Airport
Luggage storage options at WIL can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Nairobi for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Taking a Break at WIL
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at WIL.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Nairobi is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Nairobi.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.