SHUTTLE BUS SERVICE BETWEEN NAIROBI AND ARUSHA

The most economical way to travel between Nairobi and Arusha and on to Moshi (for Mount Kilimanjaro climbing) is by the daily shuttle bus service.

THE TRIP
Shuttles leave from both Arusha and Nairobi at 08.00 hours and 14.00 hours each day. Though the trip on the Tanzania side of the border is shorter at 110 kilometres, the poorer state of the road makes travel time about the same as the 150 kilometre drive on the Kenya side. Generally it is about two hours on each side of the border. The time spent at Namanga can depend on the number of people on the bus and how strict customs and immigration officials are. Also, if a few fellow passenger are without visas things might go slower. You will also stop on the Kenya side, not too far from the border. This rest stop gives you a chance to answer the call of nature, buy a cool drink and look at some last minute (or first minute) gifts.

THE BUS
There are several companies, among them Davanu, Riverside, and Impala. The bus may be anything from a mini-van to a large coach. Most often, they are twenty-five seat buses with a fold down seat in the aisle to make four across seating.

WHAT YOU PASS
The route between Arusha and Nairobi has some interesting villages along the way. There is a possibility of seeing some wild animals; even perhaps giraffe as you travel.

STOPS
The shuttle buses no longer depart Nairobi from the Stanley Hotel. They have been relocated to a bus stand near the Parkside Hotel. The buses will also stop at Nairobi's Jomo Kenyatta International Airport on advance request (when buying the ticket). In Arusha, the buses stop at the Mount Meru Hotel and, by arrangment, other hotels.

MAKING YOUR TRIP MORE COMFORTABLE
The trip can have its boring stretches and it is best if you have a good book to pass the time. You should also bring your water bottle and a snack. Remember, to buy soft drinks, you often have to have an empty bottle or drink it there.

Temperatures can start out chilly in either town, and can end cool as well. Namanga, however, is often quite warm. You should dress in layers to be able to reduce clothing as you get warmer.

THE PRICE OF THE TRIP
The trip usually costs no more than US $25.00 each way.

LUGGAGE
You are generally allowed two pieces of luggage and a carry on bag. Total luggage weight is often limited to 22 kilogrammes.