Visitors intending to reach the official website should visit kaa.go.ke
Kenatco Taxis is the official and most reliable taxi service operating out of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi. Established in 1966, Kenatco has become synonymous with trust, safety, and efficiency, especially for passengers arriving at JKIA. This guide provides a comprehensive look at Kenatco’s services, benefits, and practical tips for travelers.
1. Why Choose Kenatco?
Kenatco is widely regarded as the safest and most professional taxi service at JKIA, and for good reason. Here’s why you should choose Kenatco over independent or freelance taxi operators:
- Official Partnership with JKIA: As the designated airport taxi service, Kenatco operates under stringent guidelines set by the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), ensuring a high standard of service.
- Fixed Rates: Unlike independent drivers who may inflate prices, Kenatco offers fixed and transparent rates for all its routes. Whether you’re heading to Nairobi’s city center, nearby hotels, or even further destinations, the pricing is clear and fair.
- Safety and Reliability: With well-maintained vehicles, vetted drivers, and a customer service system in place, Kenatco ensures you are in safe hands. Their drivers undergo regular background checks, and the company has stringent safety protocols.
- Professionalism: Kenatco drivers are courteous, well-trained, and knowledgeable about Nairobi. They are also familiar with all major hotels, attractions, and business districts, making them excellent guides for first-time visitors.
- 24/7 Availability: Kenatco operates round the clock, ensuring that no matter your flight schedule, you’ll always have access to a trusted taxi service.
2. How to Access Kenatco Taxis at JKIA
Kenatco taxis can be found at clearly marked stands within the arrivals area at JKIA. Follow the signage in the terminal that leads you to the taxi services section. The Kenatco stand is easily identifiable by its branding, and uniformed Kenatco staff are present to assist with bookings.
Booking Process:
- Upon exiting customs and baggage claim, proceed to the Kenatco counter in the arrivals hall.
- You can either make an advance booking online via their website or mobile app or walk directly to the counter.
- Once at the counter, you’ll be assigned a vehicle, and your fare will be confirmed based on your destination.
3. Kenatco Fleet and Vehicle Options
Kenatco operates a fleet of well-maintained, modern vehicles that cater to different types of travelers. The fleet includes:
- Standard Sedans: Ideal for individuals or small groups looking for a comfortable ride into the city.
- SUVs and Executive Cars: For those seeking luxury and more space, Kenatco offers premium vehicle options that provide a higher level of comfort.
- Shuttle Buses and Minivans: For larger groups, Kenatco also provides shuttle services. These vehicles are perfect for families, groups of tourists, or corporate travelers.
All vehicles are equipped with air conditioning, GPS tracking, and safety features to ensure passenger comfort and security.
4. Popular Routes and Pricing
Kenatco offers fixed rates to various destinations around Nairobi and beyond. While prices may vary slightly depending on time of day and traffic, the following are general estimates for common routes:
- JKIA to Nairobi City Center: Approx. 2,000 to 2,500 KES (~$15 to $20 USD)
- JKIA to Westlands: Approx. 3,000 KES (~$25 USD)
- JKIA to Karen: Approx. 3,500 KES (~$30 USD)
- JKIA to Runda/Gigiri (UN Headquarters): Approx. 3,500 KES (~$30 USD)
Kenatco also accommodates long-distance transfers to destinations such as Nakuru, Naivasha, and Amboseli for passengers heading out on safaris or business trips.
5. Safety and Security Features
Kenatco is renowned for its commitment to safety, offering the following features to ensure peace of mind:
- Vetted Drivers: All Kenatco drivers undergo thorough background checks and training before employment. They are required to adhere to strict professional conduct standards.
- GPS Tracking: Every Kenatco taxi is equipped with a GPS system, enabling real-time tracking of your journey. This ensures that both the company and passengers can monitor the route taken for safety.
- Passenger Insurance: Kenatco provides insurance coverage for all passengers in the event of accidents or mishaps, giving travelers additional reassurance.
- Regular Vehicle Inspections: Vehicles undergo frequent maintenance checks to ensure they are in optimal condition. Cleanliness and hygiene are also prioritized, with regular interior cleaning and sanitation, especially in light of COVID-19 protocols.
6. Booking in Advance
For added convenience, Kenatco allows passengers to book their taxis in advance. You can either book online through the Kenatco website or call their customer service hotline. The advance booking feature is especially useful for travelers arriving at peak times or those with large groups needing special arrangements.
Advance booking advantages include:
- Guaranteed Pickup: Your taxi will be waiting for you as soon as you exit customs, minimizing any waiting time.
- Custom Requests: If you require a specific vehicle type or additional services (e.g., child seats, luggage assistance), you can arrange this ahead of time.
- No Surprises: Pre-arranged pricing means no haggling or unexpected surcharges.
7. Customer Service and Support
Kenatco prides itself on its excellent customer service, which is available 24/7. If you have any concerns, special requests, or need to modify your booking, their support team is readily available via phone, email, or in-person at their counters in JKIA and other locations.
In the event of a lost item in one of their vehicles, Kenatco’s team is responsive and has systems in place to help passengers retrieve their belongings as quickly as possible.
8. Conclusion: Why Kenatco is the Smart Choice for JKIA Transfers
For travelers arriving or departing from JKIA, Kenatco offers an unmatched blend of reliability, safety, and professionalism. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, the peace of mind that comes with choosing Kenatco as your transportation partner is invaluable. With transparent pricing, a well-maintained fleet, and a dedication to customer service, Kenatco remains the go-to taxi service for passengers looking for a smooth and stress-free journey from JKIA.
Our very own Car Hire with Driver rivaling Kenatco
JKIAirport.com has recently introduced a new car hire service at JKIA that provides a competitive alternative to Kenatco, specifically catering to travelers seeking long-distance transfers across Kenya. Unlike Kenatco’s focus on single-trip transfers, this service is tailored for those traveling to destinations over 100 kilometers from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
Popular destinations include Nakuru, the Masai Mara, Kisumu, Mombasa, and Narok, making it ideal for tourists, business travelers, and safari-goers who need reliable transportation beyond Nairobi’s metropolitan area.
A key feature that sets JKIAirport.com’s service apart is its multi-day booking option, allowing travelers to hire vehicles for extended trips. This flexibility offers a seamless solution for visitors planning to explore multiple destinations or those on extended safaris, without the need to rebook for each leg of their journey.
The service includes well-maintained 4×4 vehicles suitable for rougher terrains, ensuring comfort and reliability during long drives. This approach not only rivals Kenatco’s single-trip offerings but also enhances the convenience of traveling throughout Kenya with a dedicated vehicle at your disposal for multiple days.
Safe travels!