JKIA: Practical Guide to Nairobi's Jomo Kenyatta International Airport
JKIA is Kenya’s main international gateway. Whether you’re arriving, departing or transiting, this guide gives clear, useful tips to make your time at the airport smoother. Read these steps before you travel and save time, money and stress.
Before you go, check your flight status on the airline app. Flight times change and gates move fast. Print nothing you don’t need but have digital copies of tickets and ID. Confirm visa and passport rules for your nationality. Many travellers need an e‑visa or preclearance. Missing documents cause long delays and denied boarding.
Arrival and departure basics
Plan to arrive at least three hours for international flights and two hours for domestic hops. Allow extra time if you need special assistance, oversized baggage or family check‑in. At check‑in, use the airline kiosk if available to skip queues. Keep liquids and electronics ready for security checks. Follow staff instructions: avoiding delays helps everyone.
On arrival, follow immigration signs and have your passport open to the photo page. Be ready for baggage claim and customs. If your bag is missing, report it immediately at the airline desk. For onward travel, factor in time for immigration and collecting luggage before boarding a domestic connection.
Transport, money and services
Official taxis, ride‑hailing apps and airport shuttles operate at JKIA. Use the marked pickup zones and prefer app bookings for transparent fares. Avoid unlicensed offers in the arrivals area. ATMs and currency exchange booths are available, but rates vary. Withdraw local currency from a machine rather than using cash exchange for better value.
The terminals have lounges, charging stations, restaurants and basic shops. If you need fast Wi‑Fi or extra power, head to the departure hall early to secure a seat near an outlet. For longer waits, airport lounges offer quieter spaces for a fee or membership access. Medical and customer service desks can help with health issues or lost items.
Security and customs rules matter. Do not pack restricted items in carry‑on bags. Declare high‑value goods when required to avoid fines. If you carry medication, keep prescriptions handy. For fragile or oversized items, label bags clearly and arrive early for special handling.
Finally, expect busy periods during holiday seasons and major events. Check local weather and transport news before travel. If your flight is delayed or cancelled, contact your airline first for rebooking options. A little planning prevents big headaches at JKIA.
If you are transiting through JKIA, check whether you need to clear immigration or if your bags transfer automatically. Allow extra time for customs checks and boarding passes when changing terminals. Ask your airline about baggage fees and weight limits to avoid surprise charges at check‑in. Keep a photocopy or photo of important documents in a separate bag. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep valuables secured, and use airport lockers or hotel storage when available. For complaints or feedback, contact the customer service desk or file a report online through the website.
