Your complete guide on getting from Arusha/Moshi to Nairobi: Overland

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Eastern Africa is fast becoming a backpacker haven. Sparkling beaches line the coast and the rolling savannahs attract tourists from all over the world. High on everyone’s list are Tanzania and Kenya. The two neighbouring countries boast rich culture and stunning landscapes, while also sharing over 700 km of a border. 

In an effort to save money and cut down on flying, my recent trip included a border crossing between Moshi, Tanzania and Nairobi, Kenya. Below is the complete guide on what to expect, and how to do it yourself.

Where to start?:

Moshi or Arusha:

The two towns of Moshi and Arusha could not be better located. They are about 80 km from one another. Their prime location owes to being at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro, and acting as a gateway to the Serengeti. Whichever you wind up in you’ll be well set up for visiting Northern Tanzania’s rich landscape. 

After spending a few days in Moshi and running down to my last few shillings, it was time to take the bus to Kenya.

Buses:

There are a few options on how to get over the border but the “shuttle” style buses are the most convenient for the 6-8 hour journey.  You can book in advance which is ideal if you are needing proof of exit when entering Tanzania. The shuttles also offer pick up service from where you’re staying in Moshi or Arusha. 

The company I went with was Riverside Shuttle. Contacting them in advance and arranging the journey is easily done. One of the agents- Chris was extremely helpful in the process, even helping us organize the tickets to be visa ready. 

The tickets at time of writing were $35 USD per person. The journey began at our hostel in Moshi- they picked us up around 5 am. And we arrived in Nairobi around 4:30 pm.

This shuttle service runs three times a day from Arusha. One of those times ( the first 6 am departure) begins in Moshi. Therefore whether your staying in Moshi or Arusha you have plenty of options. 

Other companies include Impala Shuttle or Dar Express.

Border Crossing:

The border crossing is fairly standard. The Namanga border station is a one stop shop. Both Tanzanian and Kenyan immigration are housed in the same building. 

When you arrive, you offload yourself and your baggage. From there you queue up, fill in an immigration form and wait to be processed. Your luggage will be sent through security and piled together with the rest of the bus. It is a fairly organized experience but there are a few notes:

• Ensure your vaccinations are up to standard with what the country requires at that time. For us that meant having proof of our Yellow Fever Vaccines . 
• Kenya requires a visa for most travellers, this can be applied for online. However it is time saving if you have it printed off before you arrive at border control. If not there is a pay-print service located in the terminal. 
• At the time of writing there was no ATM in the terminal. However there is a money exchangers, and the bus will make another stop for lunch where you can change money. 

Once you’re processed you can head back to the bus on the other side of the building. Normally there will be time for a bathroom and snack break. Although the bus does make a lunch break pretty soon after. 

Arrival in Nairobi

Crossing into Kenya, you have about 3 more hours till you hit Nairobi. When you arrive, normally you’ll be dropped off downtown- unless you have made other arrangements. Downtown Nairobi is maybe not the most fun/safe place to be hanging out but it is excellently located to set yourself up. 

Within 5 minutes walking from the bus drop off there is an Airtel store to get a Kenyan SIM card. There is also a KCB ATM nearby- just ask the bus driver/ attendant to direct you. 

In Nairobi there are some great places to stay here are my recommendations:

Khweza Bed and Breakfast: a cute budget B&B with a great terrace and location.

Classic Guest House :  Located in the Kileleshwa neighborhood, this spot is great for couples. 

Final Notes:

This border crossing is pain-free if a bit time consuming. It allows you to enjoy the beautiful landscapes between the two countries and save money that can be put toward a safari or any number of great activities these countries have to offer.