metro.ad / Nairobi
🇰🇪 Kenya
2 transit systems in Nairobi, with service running since 2020 — 1 operational and 1 under construction or planned.
🚆 Commuter rail · Diesel commuter rail
A five-line commuter network modernised and relaunched in 2020; a China-built Riruta–Ngong line is under construction.
Length
5 lines
Stations
22
Opened
modernised 2020
🚌 Bus rapid transit · BRT · 5 gazetted corridors
Five BRT corridors are gazetted; the Thika Superhighway line (Line 2 / SIMBA) is furthest along.
Length
27 km (Line 2)
Stations
—
Target
under construction
Whether you’re visiting Nairobi for the first time or getting around every day, Met Road makes the city easy to move through. The Nairobi Commuter Rail (NCR) is Kenya Railways' suburban network — five lines and 22 stations fanning out from Nairobi Central, with feeder buses linking the CBD, Upperhill and Westlands.
The easiest way in from the airport is usually a ride-hailing app (Uber, Bolt or a local equivalent) — fixed prices, no haggling, and ideal with luggage. Licensed airport taxis are also available; always agree the fare before you set off.
Commuter fares are low — from around KSh 50, rising with distance. Kenya Railways sets and periodically reviews the rates, so confirm the current fare for your line.
Trains focus on the morning and evening commute rather than all-day service, and times vary by line; complementary Kenya Railways buses run roughly 06:00–20:00. Check the current Kenya Railways timetable.
Buy at station ticket offices, with the service moving toward automated ticketing. Upgraded stations add 'Park & Ride' facilities and CCTV.
Modernised and relaunched in 2020 with refurbished diesel units; lines reach Embakasi, Syokimau, JKIA, Kikuyu and Ruiru. A new Riruta–Ngong line is under construction, and the 425-acre Nairobi Railway City will turn the central station into a multimodal hub. The SGR Madaraka Express to Mombasa leaves the separate Nairobi Terminus in Syokimau.
Fares and times change — always confirm with Kenya Railways before travelling. Last verified July 2026.
Does Nairobi have public rail or rapid transit?
Yes. Nairobi has 1 operational system: Nairobi Commuter Rail. A further 1 is under construction or in planning.
How many transit systems does Nairobi have?
2 in total — Nairobi Commuter Rail (operational) and Nairobi BRT (NaMATA) (under construction).
When will Nairobi BRT (NaMATA) open?
It is under construction.
How big is Nairobi Commuter Rail?
Nairobi Commuter Rail covers 5 lines, with 22 stations, modernised 2020. Technology: Diesel commuter rail.