All Nairobi Matatu Routes and Stages in 2024 And Everything To Know
Navigate Nairobi easily with our comprehensive guide to Matatu routes and stages. Discover landmarks and become an expert on the city's unique public transport system.
Have you ever found yourself lost in the hustle and bustle of a thriving city? Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya, is a perfect representation of such an energetic metropolis. Being a melting pot of diverse cultures, businesses, and a dense population, navigating through its busy streets can be a daunting task, particularly for the uninitiated. What's more, the complex road network adds another layer of complexity to the city's transport system.
Among the intricate mesh of transportation in Nairobi, one form of transport stands out - the Matatus. These privately owned minibuses are the lifeblood of Nairobi's public transport system. They whizz through the city and its outskirts, ferrying residents to their respective destinations.
However, if you are new to the city, or simply seeking to understand the most effective way to traverse Nairobi, you'll need to acquaint yourself with Nairobi matatu routes and stages. This knowledge is not just essential for convenience, but it's also crucial for your safety and timely travel.
Over the years, the matatu industry has undergone a gradual transformation. Today, most matatu routes are identified by their respective Saccos (Savings and Credit Cooperative Organizations). This system provides a structured approach to public transportation in Nairobi, but it may pose a challenge to understand for newcomers.
In this comprehensive guide, we aim to demystify Nairobi's matatu routes and stages, providing you with all the essential details you need to navigate the city like a seasoned local. So, buckle up and enjoy the ride as we take you through the intricate web of Nairobi's matatu transportation.
Complete List of All Nairobi's Matatu Routes and Stages
Navigating the intricate network of Nairobi's matatu system may seem daunting at first. However, with the right knowledge and a bit of practice, it can quickly become second nature. Let's dive into the specifics of Nairobi's matatu routes and stages.
A matatu route is essentially the path that a particular matatu follows to ferry passengers from one point to another. Each route is typically identified by a number, and they often lead to similar destinations or share common stages. A stage, on the other hand, is a designated place where matatus stop to pick up or drop off passengers.
Let's explore some of the most common matatu routes and stages in Nairobi:
| Matatu Route Number | Destination/ Bus-Stops | Bus pickup point in Nairobi |
|---|---|---|
| Matatu Route Number 1 | Ngong Road, Citam/NPC Valley road, The Junction Mall, Dagoretti | General Post Office/ GPO |
| Matatu Route Number 2 | Ngong Road, Citam/NPC Valley Rd, The junction Mall, Dagoretti Kikuyu | GPO or KBS stage |
| Matatu Route Number 3 | Ngong Road, Adam;s Arcade, Dagoretti corner | GPO |
| Matatu Route Number 6 | Eastleigh Area/ Pangani Girls/ Pangani Shopping Centre. Kariokor Market |
Board the Matatu from Accra Rd or Along Tom Mboya Street. They are usually mini-buses and they use the kariokor market route. |
| Matatu Route Number 7C | Community, Upper hill Area, Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi Hospital, Doctors Plaza Silver Springs hotel, NTSA, Equity Center, TSC, German Center | Board the Citi Hoppa or KBS buses at Kencom House opp Hilton Hotel or beside KCB Bank along Moi avenue |
| Matatu Route Number 8 | Ngong road, Kibera Slums/Kibra, Adams Arcade, Toi Market | Board the matatu from Railways bus station. |
Matatu Route Number 9 |
Eastleigh Area. Ngara Civil Servants Housing Scheme, K.I.E, Pangani Roundabout. Fig Tree Trade Center Ngara |
Board the matatu at Tom Mboya Street or opposite Nairobi County Fire Station. These matatus use the Ngara Route |
| Matatu Route Number 11 | South B, Bellevue | Board the matatu from Railways Bus station |
| Matatu Route Number 15 | Nyayo Stadium, Nairobi west &Madaraka (near the road), Tuskys T-mall, Wilson Airport, Carnivore Simba Sallon, Uhuru Gardens, Langata Shopping Centre, Otiende, Barracks, Langata Cemetry (on the lower side), Nairobi Safari walk and Nairobi National Park, Nairobi Animal Orphanage | Board the matatu from Bus Station main stage or further from the main stage at waiting matatus opp afya center. (the 2nd option is not always available and depends on absence of county askaris) |
| Matatu Route Number 14 | Langata road upto T-Mall, Strathmore University, Nairobi West | Board Matatu at BS behind Afya Centre |
| Matatu Route Number 17B | Thika road, Thika super highway, Roysambu, Kasarani, Santon, Mwiki, St Francis Hospital, | Board the matatu from inside Kenya Bus Station or from outside BS near the St Peter Claviers Catholic Church. For Kasarani, you can also board MSL matatus at Imenti House (along Tom Mboya road) |
| Matatu Route Number 23 | Kangemi, Westlands, Uhuru Highway, Kangemi, ABC place, Safaricom House, and Uhuru highway. | Board the Matatu at Odeon cinema / Latema Road off tom Mboya street |
| Matatu Route Number 24 | Karen Shopping Centre, Hardy, all Langata road routes, Bogani, Bomas of Kenya, Galleria Shopping Mall, Catholic University, Kenya School of Law, Nairobi Academy, Hill Crest International School, Animal protection, Co-op bank training centre, Giraffe Center, Karen C school. | Kenya Bus Station /BS, Mfangano street, or main buses at Kencom House Moi Avenue |
| Matatu Route Number 25 | Baba Ndogo, Thika Road upto GSU flyover. | Board the matau from Timboroa Lane |
| Matatu Route Number 33 | Ngumo Estate, KNH, Mbagathi, Masai Market | Board the matatu from opp St Peter Claviers Catholic church or near OTC /Salvation Army areas |
| Matatu Route Number 33 | Embakasi route, through Jogoo road, donholm, City Stadium, Pipeline, Tumaini Estate and Fedha Estate, Avenue Estate | Board the matatu at Muthurwa market or along tom mboya street opp National Archives |
| Matatu Route Number 34 | Langata Area through Mbagathi road, KNH, T-mall, Wilson Airport, Carnivore, Langata shopping Centre. | Board the Matatu from behind St Peters Clavers Church or Opposite OTC |
| Matatu Route Number 34 (buses) | JKIA, Jogoo Road, Embakasi, Fedha, Donholm, Pipeline, Utawala, (Sometimes Mombasa Road) | Board the bus from Kencom or Ambassador stage |
| Matatu Routes Number 35/60 | Umoja Innercore, Umoja I and Umoja II | Board bus at Ronald Ngala Street Mfangano street intersect opp Naivas Supermarket |
| Matatu Route Number 44 | Kahawa West, Kamiti Maximum Prison, Zimmerman, Githurai 44 Roysambu, USIU, Farmers Choice, Northern Bypass | Board bus from opposite Posta Ronald Ngala or matatus from Tuskys Beba beba (formerly) |
| Matatu Route Number 45 | Thika Road, Thika Superhighway, Githurai 45 | Board the buses from Nakumatt Ronald Ngala street (formerly) or opp Posta R/ngala |
| Matatu Route Number 58 | Buru buru | Board at Tom Mboya Street opp National Archives |
| Matatu Number 100 | Kiambu town, kiambu road, Sharks Palace Kiambu road, CID center, Ridgeways, Rock city kiambu road, Muthaiga roundabout | Pick the matatu along Ronald Ngala Street all the way to Ring-road Ngara or opp St. peters Claviers Catholic Church |
| Matatu Number 102 | Kikuyu Township, Dagoretii, Ngong road, The junction mall etc | Board from BS or Kencom |
| Matatu Number 105 | Kikuyu via Uhuru highway, Westlands, Kangemi, Uthiru, Kinoo | Board the matatu along tom Mboya Street near National Archives or from Railways bus station |
| Matatu Number 106 | Banana, Muchatha, village Market | Koja Mosque stage |
| Matatu Number 110 | Kitengela, mlolongo, Athi river | Board from Railways station at the entrance near the railways bus station. Use Metro or Rembo shuttle. |
| Matatu Number 111 | Ngong, Ngong road, Dagaoretti corner, (sometimes kiserian,) | Board from Kencom or Railways bus station. |
| Matatu Number 125/126 | Ongata Rongai, Kiserian, Bomas of Kenya, Nazarene University, Catholic University, Multimedia University, Nairobi National Park/ orphanage, Safari walk, Langata Barracks, Galleria, Brookhouse International School, Langata hospital, Langata Police Station, Langata Cemetry | Board from Railways bus station |
| Matatu Number 146 | Ruiru, Thika Road, Kahawa Wendani, Kahawa Barracks, Kahawa Sukari, Kenyatta University/ KU, Ruiru Bypass | Board from Mumbi Lane off Ronald Ngala Street |
| Matatu Number 237 | Thika town, all routes on Thika Road, Kahawa Ruiru |
Are Matatus safe?
Matatus are generally safe for travel. However, like all forms of public transport, it is essential to remain vigilant about personal safety and belongings. Matatus have faced criticism for reckless driving, but measures have been implemented to improve safety standards.
Learning the Matatu culture and understanding the unique Matatu system of Nairobi can provide a fascinating insight into the city's rhythm and lifestyle. The Matatu network is more than just a transport mode- it reflects Nairobi's vibrant and dynamic spirit. So, here is to mastering the Matatu maze and discovering the city's essence along the way!
Tips for Choosing the Right Matatu Route
You should keep a few things in mind when choosing a matatu route.
- Your destination: The first thing you need to consider is your destination. Where are you going? Once you know your destination, you can start to look for matatu routes that go there.
- The time of day: The time of day can also affect your decision. If you travel during rush hour, choose a less crowded matatu route.
- The amount of luggage you have: If you have luggage, choose a matatu route with more luggage space.
- Your budget: Matatu fares vary depending on the route and the time of day. Choose a less expensive matatu route if you are on a tight budget.
Safety Tips for Riding Matatus in Nairobi
Here are some safety tips for riding matatus in Nairobi:
- Be aware of your surroundings. When you are riding a matatu, be aware of your surroundings and be on the lookout for anything suspicious. If you see something that makes you feel unsafe, speak up to the driver or other passengers.
- Keep your valuables close to you. Leave your valuables at the right place, especially on crowded matatus. Keep your money, phone, and other valuables in a secure pocket or bag that you can keep close to you.
- Avoid eye contact with strangers. Matatus can be crowded and chaotic, and avoiding eye contact with strangers is essential. This can help to deter potential thieves or muggers.
- Not ride matatus late at night. Matatus are generally safe during the day but more dangerous at night. If you must ride a matatu at night, take extra precautions, such as riding with a friend or family member.
- Report any suspicious activity to the driver or other passengers. If you see something suspicious, such as someone acting suspiciously or trying to steal from someone else, report it to the driver or other passengers.
READ ALSO: List of all sub-counties in Nairobi county and their wards
Conclusion
The Matatu system in Nairobi, as complex as it may seem, is a well-oiled machine. It sustains the city's public transport and adds color and vibrancy to Nairobi's streets. This guide to the Matatu routes and stages seeks to unravel the complexity and guide you through the city's bustling network of roads. So whether you are a long-time resident or a new arrival, strap in and enjoy the ride!
FAQs
What is a Matatu?
A Matatu is a privately-owned minibus used as a mode of public transport in Kenya, especially in Nairobi.
What are Matatu Saccos?
Matatu Saccos are cooperative societies that manage and operate different Matatu routes in Nairobi.
Where can I board a Matatu in Nairobi?
Matatus can be boarded from various stages in the city, including the General Post Office (GPO), Kenya Bus Station (KBS), and many others depending on the route number.
Do Matatus operate at night?
Yes, matatus do operate at night, albeit with less frequency. Some routes may have limited service or not operate at all during the night, so it is advisable to confirm the schedule if planning to travel late.
What should I be aware of when using Matatus?
When using matatus, be aware of the following:
- Rush Hours: Nairobi's rush hours can lead to crowded matatus and traffic congestion. Plan your travel accordingly.
- Pickpocketing: Like any public transport worldwide, be mindful of your belongings.
- Fares: Matatu fares can fluctuate based on the time of day, weather, and traffic. Always ask for the fare before boarding.
