Nairobi Expressway 2023: What Is It, How To Register, Charges, Payments, Interchanges, and More
Discover the Nairobi Expressway, a game-changer in Kenyan transportation. Learn about its key features, toll charges, and how to navigate this revolutionary toll road.

Welcome to the Nairobi Expressway, a game-changer in Kenyan transportation! This comprehensive guide will explore the Nairobi Expressway, its key features, how to register, toll charges, payment options, interchanges, and everything you need to know for a seamless journey. Let's dive in!
Key Takeaways
- The Nairobi Expressway is a 27-kilometre toll road designed to ease traffic in Nairobi.
- It has 11 strategically placed interchanges for smooth travel.
- Users can choose between Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) and Manual Toll Collection (MTC) systems.
- Toll charges range from Kes. 100 to Kes. 360, depending on the distance and Tollbooth.
- Cash payments are accepted, but electronic payments are recommended for faster service.
- The expressway has strict rules and fines for violations.
What Is Nairobi Expressway?
The Nairobi Expressway is a 27-kilometre toll road that revolutionizes travel in Nairobi, thanks to a public-private partnership between the Kenyan government and China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC). Stretching from Mlolongo through JKIA and Nairobi's CBD to the James Gichuru junction along Waiyaki Way, this expressway promises to alleviate traffic congestion and provide effortless access to the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and its surroundings.
Key Features of Nairobi Expressway
Interchanges Along the Expressway
To ensure smooth entry and exit for travellers, the Nairobi Expressway boasts 11 strategically located interchanges. These interchanges include:
- Mlolongo Interchange
- SGR Interchange
- JKIA Interchange (Jomo Kenyatta International Airport)
- Eastern Bypass Interchange
- Southern Bypass Interchange
- Capital Center Interchange
- Haile Selassie Interchange
- Tika Road Interchange
- Westland Interchange
- James Gichuru Interchange
Speed Limit
Safety is paramount on the Nairobi Expressway; therefore, a strict speed limit of 80km/hr is enforced. Exceeding this limit can result in traffic penalties, so always adhere to the rules.
How to Register for Nairobi Expressway
Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) System Users
The ETC system, short for Electronic Toll Collection, offers a hassle-free experience. Here's how it works:
- During registration, an On-Board Unit (OBU) device is installed in your vehicle.
- As you approach a Toll station, the system detects your car via the OBU device, and the barrier is automatically lifted, allowing passage.
- Toll fees are deducted automatically from your prepaid account.
Manual Toll Collection (MTC) System Users
For those using the MTC system, the process is as follows:
- Stop at the entry Toll point, where an automatic voucher is issued.
- Keep the voucher safe.
- At the exit point, the toll collector scans your voucher and collects the toll fee in cash or using an MTC card.
How to Register for Nairobi Expressway
Registering as an ETC Account Holder
To register for an ETC account, visit the Nairobi Expressway Plaza along Mombasa Road with the following documents:
- Your car's original logbook.
- A copy of your National ID and the original ID card.
Top-up your ETC account on the Nairobi Expressway website or at the Moja Expressway company location along Mombasa Road.
Registering as an MTC User
MTC users need to visit the Nairobi Expressway Plaza with their original ID and a copy of the same ID. You will then be issued an MTC card, which you must load with funds to use.
How to Use the Nairobi Expressway
Whether you're an ETC or MTC user, here's how to use the expressway efficiently:
For ETC Users:
- Approach the Toll Point at a speed below 20km/hr.
- Your OBU will be detected automatically, and the barrier will lift.
- Toll payments will be deducted automatically.
For MTC Users:
- Approach the Toll Point and reduce speed to 5km/hr in the MTC lane.
- Stop near the Automatic Voucher issuing machine and collect your voucher receipt.
- Continue when the barrier lifts.
- At the exit, present your voucher to the toll collector for payment.
Nairobi Expressway Toll Charges
Using the Nairobi Expressway is not free, and toll charges apply. The costs vary between Kes. 100 and Kes. 360, depending on the Tollbooth and distance covered. However, certain vehicles, such as ambulances, police vehicles, fire engine trucks, and military vehicles, are exempt from toll charges.
Here is a breakdown of Toll rates from various Toll stations:
From \ To | Mlolongo | SGR | JKIA | Eastern Bypass | Southern Bypass | Capital Centre | Haile Selassie | Museum Hill | Westlands | Nairobi West |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Nairobi East | N/A | N/A | N/A | 180 | 240 | 300 | N/A | 360 | 360 | 360 |
Mlolongo | N/A | 120 | N/A | 180 | 240 | 240 | N/A | 300 | 360 | 360 |
SGR | N/A | N/A | N/A | 120 | 180 | 240 | N/A | 300 | 300 | 300 |
JKIA | N/A | N/A | N/A | 120 | 180 | 180 | N/A | 240 | 300 | 300 |
Eastern Bypass | 180 | 120 | 120 | N/A | 120 | 180 | N/A | 240 | 240 | 300 |
Southern Bypass | 240 | 180 | 180 | 120 | N/A | 120 | N/A | 180 | 180 | 240 |
Capital Centre | 240 | 240 | 180 | 180 | 120 | N/A | N/A | 120 | 180 | 180 |
Haile Selassie | N/A | N/A | 240 | 240 | 120 | 120 | N/A | 120 | 180 | 180 |
Museum Hill | 300 | 300 | 240 | 240 | 180 | 120 | 120 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Westlands | 360 | 360 | 300 | 240 | 180 | 180 | 180 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Nairobi West | 360 | 360 | 300 | 240 | 240 | 180 | 180 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Nairobi Expressway Contact Information
For any inquiries or assistance regarding the Nairobi Expressway, you can reach out to the following contact details:
- Physical Location: Nairobi Expressway Plaza, City Cabanas Mombasa Rd
- Service Hotline Number: 0111039777
- Rescue Hotline: 0111039888
- Email Address: [email protected]
READ ALSO: Nairobi Expressway Charges: Here Are The New Charges, How To Register And More
Final Thoughts
The Nairobi Expressway is a significant step towards easing traffic congestion and improving connectivity in Nairobi. By understanding how it works, how to register, and the toll charges, you can make your journeys more efficient and convenient. Enjoy your travels on this modern expressway!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is there a speed limit on the Nairobi Expressway?
- Yes, the speed limit on the Nairobi Expressway is 80km/hr.
What vehicles are not allowed on the expressway?
- Pedestrians, skaters, tuk-tuks, handcarts, trolleys, motorbikes (Boda Bodas), bicycles, and wheelbarrows are prohibited on the expressway.
How can I register for an ETC or MTC account?
- Follow the registration process mentioned in this article based on whether you prefer the Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) or Manual Toll Collection (MTC) system.
What are the toll charges for the Nairobi Expressway?
- Toll charges vary depending on the Tollbooth and distance covered, ranging from Kes. 100 to Kes. 360.
Can I pay toll charges in cash?
- Cash payments are accepted, but electronic toll payment methods are recommended for quicker service.
What is the contact information for Nairobi Expressway inquiries?
- You can contact the Nairobi Expressway Plaza or use the provided hotline and email address for assistance.
Is the Nairobi Expressway open to the public?
- Yes, the Nairobi Expressway is open to the general public since May 14, 2022.
Are there discounts available for toll payments?
- Yes, discounts are available for Electronic Toll Cards and manual toll cards when loaded with specific amounts.
By following these guidelines, you'll easily navigate the Nairobi Expressway and enjoy a more efficient and convenient travel experience. Safe travels!