Nairobi to Malindi

The flight from Nairobi to Malindi covers a distance of approximately 430 kilometers (267 miles). The duration of the flight is about 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it the fastest and most convenient way to travel between the two cities.

Flights & Airlines
Regular flights to Malindi are available from both Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) and Wilson Airport (WIL) in Nairobi. Safarilink, Fly540, and Jambojet are the major airlines operating on this route, offering frequent daily flights.

Flight Frequency
Flights between Nairobi and Malindi operate multiple times per day, ensuring flexibility and convenience for travelers. Safarilink and Jambojet, for example, offer morning and afternoon flights, so you can choose the timing that best suits your schedule.

Ticket Costs
The cost of a one-way economy class ticket typically ranges from KES 8,000 to KES 15,000 (approximately $40 to $85 USD) if booked early. Ticket prices vary based on the airline, the time of booking, and the season, with early bookings and midweek flights often offering more affordable rates.

Distance & Duration: The road distance between Nairobi and Malindi is approximately 560 kilometers, and the bus journey typically takes 9 to 11 hours, depending on road conditions, traffic, and stops along the way. Matatus make frequent stops to pick up and drop off passengers along the way hence take a longer duration than buses.

Route
Buses & Matatus follow the A109 highway from Nairobi to Mombasa, and then take the B8 highway from Mombasa to Malindi. Major stops along the way include Voi, Mariakani, and Mombasa.

Cost

• Bus fares typically range from KES 1,200 to KES 2,500, depending on the bus company and the level of service (economy or VIP).
• Fares for matatus are generally lower than buses, ranging from KES 800 to KES 1,500, depending on the operator, seat class, and demand.

Operators & Frequency:

• Matatus are a common and affordable mode of transport in Kenya, with services running frequently, especially during peak hours. Several matatus ply the route from Nairobi to Mombasa and then onward to Malindi.
• Some popular bus companies operating on this route include Modern Coast, Dreamline, and Mash Poa. Buses usually depart from various bus terminals in Nairobi, including River Road and Railways Bus Station, with departures throughout the day.

Boarding Points: In Nairobi, buses & matatus generally depart from central bus terminals like River Road, Tea Room, or the company's designated offices. In Malindi, they arrive at central bus stops or their specific offices.

Popular car rental services in Nairobi include Avis, Hertz, Europcar, and local providers such as Roadtrip Kenya and Tempo Car Hire. These companies offer a variety of vehicles to suit different budgets and travel needs.

Cost: The cost of renting a standard sedan for self-drive ranges from KES 4,000 to KES 6,500 per day, while renting a 4x4 may cost between KES 8,000 and KES 15,000 per day. Fuel costs for the entire trip can range from KES 5,000 to KES 7,000, depending on the vehicle’s fuel efficiency.

Route & Road Conditions: The primary route is via the A109 highway from Nairobi to Mombasa, followed by the B8 highway from Mombasa to Malindi. The roads are generally in good condition, but be cautious of traffic near major towns and cities like Mombasa.