Kenya · tool
How much does Nairobi cost?
Daily budget breakdown across three tiers — so you can realistically plan your Nairobi trip before you book anything.
Photo by Murad Swaleh on Unsplash
Nairobi, Kenya travel budget
Realistic daily cost per person across three spending tiers. All figures in USD.
Budget
$35–$60
per day
Hostels, street food, public transit
Accommodation
$10–$20
Hostel dorm bed or a very basic guesthouse room.
Food
$10–$15
Street food, local 'kibanda' eateries, and basic market purchases.
Transport
$5–$10
Matatus (minibuses) and occasional shared taxis.
Activities
$5–$10
Visiting local markets, walking tours, or affordable cultural centers.
Misc
$5–$5
Small souvenirs, bottled water, and personal items.
Mid-range
$90–$180
per day
3-star hotels, mix of restaurants, some taxis
Accommodation
$40–$80
Comfortable 3-star hotel or a well-located Airbnb apartment.
Food
$25–$45
Mix of casual restaurants, cafes, and mid-range eateries.
Transport
$10–$20
Regular use of ride-sharing apps (Uber, Bolt) or private taxis for shorter distances.
Activities
$15–$35
Entry fees to national parks (e.g., Nairobi National Park), museums, and guided tours.
Misc
$0–$0
Buffer for shopping, drinks, or unexpected expenses.
Luxury
$250–$500
per day
4-5 star hotels, premium dining, private transfers
Accommodation
$150–$300
High-end hotels, boutique lodges, or luxury serviced apartments.
Food
$50–$100
Fine dining restaurants, hotel restaurants, and premium bars.
Transport
$30–$60
Private car hire with driver, airport transfers, and premium ride services.
Activities
$20–$40
Exclusive guided tours, private safaris, hot air ballooning (can be much higher), or premium cultural experiences.
Misc
$0–$0
Shopping for high-end crafts, spa treatments, or discretionary spending.
Destination-specific money tips
- •Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Bolt are significantly cheaper and more reliable than flagging down random taxis.
- •Matatu fares are very cheap but can be chaotic; ensure you have small denominations of KES for payment.
- •While ATMs are common, some smaller banks may charge higher fees for international withdrawals. Check with your bank beforehand.
- •Many tourist-focused restaurants and hotels will accept USD or EUR, but the exchange rate offered might not be favorable. It's best to pay in KES.
- •Bargaining is expected in markets, but less so in established shops and restaurants. Don't over-haggle for small amounts.
Plan the rest of your Nairobi trip
Trip budgets elsewhere