Frequently Asked Questions – Nairobi Bus Hire
(Everything You Need to Know About Shuttles, Private Transfers, and Cross-Border Travel)
Whether you’re traveling from Nairobi to Arusha, JKIA to Moshi, or planning a private safari transfer, our FAQ page covers every question you might have. This guide is designed to help you plan your journey with confidence, avoid surprises, and enjoy a smooth travel experience.
1. What shuttle and transfer services does Nairobi Bus Hire offer?
We provide a variety of ground transportation services between Kenya and Tanzania, including:
- Corporate transport solutions for business travel.
- Special event transport for weddings, conferences, and delegations.
- Daily shared shuttle buses between Nairobi, Arusha, Moshi, and Marangu.
- Private car transfers for individuals, families, and groups.
- Airport pickups from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and Wilson Airport.
- Safari and tour transfers to popular destinations like Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Amboseli.
Our most popular route: Nairobi → Namanga Border → Arusha → Moshi.
2. What are the travel options from Nairobi to Arusha?
You have three main travel options:
- Cost: $35–$40 USD per person
- Travel Time: 5–6 hours
- Departure Times: 8:00 AM and 2:00 PM daily
- Pickup Points: Parkside Hotel (25 Monrovia Street) and selected Nairobi hotels.
- Drop-off Points: Central Arusha hotels, Arusha bus station.
b) Private Car Transfer
- Cost: $200–$350 USD per vehicle (1–6 passengers)
- Travel Time: 4–5 hours
- Benefits: Door-to-door service, flexible departure, optional sightseeing stops.
c) Flights
- Cost: From $150 USD one-way (excluding baggage fees)
- Travel Time: 1 hour flight time + airport transfers
- Airlines: Precision Air, Air Tanzania, and charter flights.
3. How much is the Nairobi to Moshi shuttle bus?
- Fare: $40–$45 USD per person for shared shuttle.
- Private Transfer: From $250 USD per vehicle.
- Duration: 7–8 hours including Arusha stop.
- Schedule: Departs Nairobi at 8:00 AM and 2:00 PM, with arrival in Moshi late afternoon or evening.
Pro Tip: If traveling to Moshi for Kilimanjaro trekking, aim for the morning shuttle to allow more rest time before your climb.
4.How do I book a shuttle or private transfer?
You can book your seat or vehicle by:
- Online booking form on our website.
- WhatsApp: +254 710 354 845 (fastest for confirmations).
- Phone: Call our Nairobi office directly.
To secure your seat, we recommend booking at least 48 hours in advance, especially during high season (July–September and December holidays).
5. What is the Nairobi to Arusha shuttle schedule?
Shuttle Bus Departures:
- Morning: 8:00 AM
- Afternoon: 2:00 PM
Pickup locations in Nairobi:
- Parkside Hotel, Monrovia Street
- Major central hotels by prior arrangement
Arrival times in Arusha:
- Morning shuttle: 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM
- Afternoon shuttle: 7:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Note: Times can vary due to traffic and border delays.
6.What documents do I need for the Kenya–Tanzania border?
When crossing at Namanga Border Post, you’ll need:
- Valid passport (6+ months validity)
- Tanzania visa (apply online for eVisa or pay at border: $50 USD standard fee for most nationalities)
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate (required for travelers from certain countries, including Kenya)
- Proof of onward travel (bus ticket or itinerary)
Tip: Have printed copies of your documents for faster processing.
7.How long does the border crossing take?
On average:
- 30–60 minutes during off-peak hours.
- Up to 90 minutes during peak season (July–September).
Factors affecting delay:
- Public holidays
- School vacation periods
- Large group travel
8. Do I need a COVID-19 test to travel?
As of 2025, Kenya and Tanzania do not require COVID-19 test results or proof of vaccination for most travelers. However, travel requirements can change, so we recommend checking official government websites before your trip.
9. What is the luggage allowance for shuttles?
- Shuttle bus passengers: 1 large suitcase + 1 small carry-on bag.
- Private transfers: Flexible — usually fits up to 5–6 suitcases.
Extra or oversized luggage (e.g., bicycles, surfboards) must be arranged in advance and may incur a small fee.
10. Can you arrange airport pickup from JKIA or Wilson Airport?
Yes. We offer:
- Direct airport pickups to join the shuttle.
- Private transfers from the airport to your destination in Kenya or Tanzania.
If your flight lands after the shuttle departure time, we can arrange a private car to connect you to Arusha or Moshi.
11. What is the best time to travel from Nairobi to Arusha?
While shuttles operate year-round, the best travel periods are:
- Dry seasons: June–October and January–February (smooth roads, great for safaris).
- Avoid: April–May (long rains may slow travel).
12. How safe is the Nairobi–Arusha route?
- Roads are generally in good condition.
- Our vehicles are regularly serviced and equipped with safety features.
- Professional drivers with cross-border experience.
- Daytime travel reduces risk — all shuttles depart in daylight hours.
- Daytime travel reduces risk — all shuttles depart in daylight hours.
13. What happens if my flight is delayed?
If you miss your shuttle:
- We can rebook you on the next available departure.
- Alternatively, we can arrange a private transfer for same-day travel.
14. Can I customize my private transfer?
Yes. With a private car, you can:
- Choose your departure time.
- Add sightseeing stops (Amboseli National Park, Arusha Cultural Heritage Centre, etc.).
- Request specific drop-off points (hotel, safari lodge, etc.).
15. Are there group discounts?
Yes. For groups of 5+ passengers, we offer:
- Reduced per-person rates.
- Options for minibuses and tour vans
16. What payment methods do you accept?
- Mobile money (M-Pesa)
- Bank transfer
- Credit/debit card (Visa, MasterCard)
- Cash (USD, KES, TZS)
17. What should I pack for a shuttle trip?
We recommend bringing:
- Passport and travel documents
- Light sweater or jacket (mornings can be cool)
- Snacks and bottled water
- Power bank for devices
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
18. Can you transport safari gear or bicycles?
Yes, but please notify us in advance to ensure vehicle space and compliance with border regulations.
19. Do you provide child seats?
Yes — available upon request for both shuttles and private cars.
20. Do you offer return trips?
Yes. You can book:
- One-way
- Round-trip (often at a discounted rate)
We can also arrange multi-city travel, e.g., Nairobi → Arusha → Moshi → Nairobi.
21. Which shuttle operators do you work with?
We partner with:
All are licensed and experienced cross-border operators.
22. Can you help with visa applications?
We can guide you through:
- Online eVisa application for Tanzania
- Required documentation
- Payment process
23. What if I need to cancel my booking?
- Shuttle tickets: Cancel up to 24 hours before departure for partial refund.
- Private transfers: Cancel up to 48 hours before for refund (minus booking fees).
24. Do you offer tours as well?
Yes. We can combine your transfer with:
- Safari packages to Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Amboseli
- Day tours in Arusha or Moshi
- Kilimanjaro trekking transfers
25. How do I contact Nairobi Bus Hire?
- Phone/WhatsApp: +254 710 354 845 / +254727377771 / +254707945599
- Email: [email protected]
- Office: Parkside Hotel, Monrovia St. Nairobi, Kenya