For those who make the trip between Nairobi and Kampala, try breaking your trip in Kisumu and booking your stay using the Jovago app. This way you won’t be as tired when you arrive. Here is everything you need to know about Kampala Nairobi travels.
1. Documents
The most important thing while travelling is your documents. Make sure your passport is valid. East African citizens can cross the border using just a national ID, thanks to new immigration policies within the EAC. East African Residents can cross into Kenya for free too. If you are not a from a COMESA state you should apply for your visa in advance using the online government portal. This way you avoid spending too much time at the border. You require Yellow Fever vaccination card to enter Kenya. If you do not have it the health office can administer the vaccine on the spot for $50.
2. Transport
There are so many buses that go between Kampala and Nairobi at all times of the day. However I prefer to use either EasyCoach or Modern Coast. This is because they are punctual, speed controlled and most importantly, they offer passengers cold drinking water while boarding. The ticket costs averagely $22 and the ride is about 14 hours. The duration changes depending on the traffic getting out of Kampala and the number of people at the border. Take the night bus when you can, this way you avoid standing in line for hours at the border post.
3. Border activities
Rule number one; Always carry a pen! You’ll need it to fill in the immigration forms. Most buses go through the Busia border point, 3hours from Kampala. The border post is under construction so be ready to jump over a few ditches and watch out for puddles; they tend to be deeper than they seem. There is sometimes confusion because of the ongoing construction, stay calm and smile at the police to avoid getting pulled aside.
4. Changing Money
The most reliable place to change money is in Kampala. If you are looking for a little adventure and enjoy putting your negotiating skills to the test, you can change money at the border. There are individuals in yellow jackets waiting to test your negotiating power. Be sure to count your money twice and double check calculations before handing over anything.
5. Dressing
The distance between Kampala and Kisumu is quite warm but do not let it deceive you. The distance between the next town-Kericho and Nairobi can be extremely cold, especially at night. Carry a heavy jacket and some thick socks for the trip. The Maasai shuka (desert blanket) is my favourite thing to carry because I can fold it and fit it into my handbag if I’m travelling light, also because it gives head to toe protection against the elements.
The buses go straight into Nairobi CBD but you have the option of dropping off at Westlands if the big bad city scares you like it does me. Don’t forget to have drinking water, light snacks and a good book to keep you going.
That’s everything you need to know about travelling between Kampala and Nairobi!
