Kenya public transport
Hi,I and my boyfriend will flight to Nairobi for two weeks for Christmas holidays. We would like to visit at least one national park, masai tribu and, if we have time, to do few days trekking in one mountain (eg: M. Kenya) but we have a small budget...
Do you know if is possible to move from one place to another by public transport (if yes which is better?) or if is better to rent a car with driver?
In addiotion, could you suggest us some nice 3 days trekking to do, in particular medium difficult level.
Thank a lot in advance
Elisa
1
It is straightforward to take public transport in Kenya. From central Nairobi there are small 7-seat matatus called "executive" that will get you to the Mt. Kenya staging points like Nanyuki and Chogoria just about as fast as a private driver. The 14-seat matatus can take somewhat longer as they may stop more often. The big buses are slower still and could add hours to your trip. Most of the matatus and buses leave from Accra Rd. in the middle of Nairobi.National parks are a bit more complicated. In some cases public transport literally passes the gates, but not in others. These vehicles don't enter the parks. If you are booking a safari, the company will likely arrange your transport from Nairobi anyway.
Car-and-driver rental by the day is expensive in East Africa. The cost would quickly exceed what you'd pay for a safari package, so I don't think just being driven around is a viable option for budget visitors. You should probably book one or two safari packages and fill in the remaining days with your own explorations by bus.
Re trekking, do you want to do that on the cheap, ie, not inside a park? I will try to look up some options for you.
2
Hi Elisa,Moving to Mt.Kenya on public vehicle will be easy as Christopher suggested.I recommend you explore Enchoro Wildlife Camp it's close to Masai Mara National Park where you will easily interact with Maasai community since you are interested in the community.I believe the camp can organize affordable trip to Mt.Kenya as well,just check it out online.
Cheers,
Lenin.
3
Been to Bantu Utamuni Lodge, its great for budget campers in mt kenya. And they have lots of activities including trekking, Dec is a rainy period, so be a little more careful around gorges in case of flash floods. I'm sure they (Bantu) can arrange transport to and from the park at a reasonable price. I dont know, but find out if their 'cultural village' includes a maasai full experience.Public transport here is cheap & efficient. Just note that most kenyans travel up-country during xmas period. So the bus and matatu stations will be quite busy. Be cautious and take a bus/matatu that looks new/in good shape, also fitted with safety belts. They fill up fairly quick, dont feel rushed, you can always wait for the the next best one in line :-) have fun
