A long layover in Wajir is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Wajir Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 60 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Important Details Before You Go
A few things to sort out before you leave WJR:
- 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 Wajir takes about 60 minutes by Taxi / Matatu. 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.
Getting from WJR to Wajir
You have two main options for getting from Wajir Airport into town:
- Taxi / Matatu: About 60 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 80 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Exploring Wajir on a Layover
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Wajir, two standouts are:
- Wajir Museum — Worth a stop if you have at least an hour to spare.
- Wajir Fort — History buffs will appreciate this, and it doesn’t take long to explore the grounds.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside WJR — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Main Terminal Waiting Area
- Local Craft & Souvenir Kiosk
Where to Eat
- In the city: Wajir Palace Hotel Restaurant and Sahara Restaurant are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Wajir.
- At the airport: Airport Cafeteria and Snack & Beverage Stand will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
What to Budget for Your Wajir Side Trip
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Wajir, budget roughly $21 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $6 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $5 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Wajir, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Luggage storage options at WJR 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 Wajir for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
WiFi at WJR should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Kenya and you’re good to go.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
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 WJR.
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
Whether you spend your layover in Wajir exploring the streets or relaxing at WJR, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.