Planning a trip to Diani Beach? Whether you’re heading for a holiday, honeymoon, or business retreat, understanding how to get there from Nairobi can save you time and money. This guide breaks down every major travel option—by air, rail, road, or private car—plus a detailed cost analysis to help you make the right decision.
Flight from Nairobi to Ukunda (Diani)
Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Diani. Flights operate from Wilson Airport and Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) directly to Ukunda Airstrip.
Airlines Operating the Route:
– Jambojet
– Skyward Express
– Safarilink
Estimated Flight Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Transfer to your hotel: 10–20 minutes via taxi or tuk-tuk
Cost Breakdown:
- Flight ticket: KES 8,000 – 26,000 (USD 60–200)
- Transfer from Ukunda Airport: KES 500 – 1,500 (USD 5–15)
Total per person: KES 10,000 – 30,000
Pros: Fast, skips ferry delays
Cons: Higher cost, flights can sell out quickly
SGR Train from Nairobi to Mombasa + Road to Diani
This option balances affordability with comfort. Travel via the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) from Nairobi to Mombasa, then take a road transfer to Diani.
Departure: Nairobi Terminus (Syokimau)
Arrival: Mombasa Terminus (Miritini)
Estimated Travel Time:
- SGR: 5 – 6 hours
- Road + ferry transfer: 1 – 2 hours
Cost Breakdown:
- SGR Economy: KES 1,000 (USD 10)
- SGR First Class: KES 3,000 (USD 30)
- Matatu from Mombasa to Diani: KES 200 – 400
- Taxi alternative: KES 4,000 – 5,000
Total: KES 1,200 – 8,000 per person
Pros: Affordable, scenic journey
Cons: Transfers required, possible ferry delays
Bus from Nairobi to to Diani via Dongo Kundu
Taking a long-distance bus is the most budget-friendly travel option, though the slowest.
Popular Bus Companies:
– Modern Coast
– Dreamline Express
– Coast Bus
Estimated Travel Time:
- Nairobi to Mombasa: 9 – 10 hours
Cost Breakdown:
- Bus fare: KES 1,400 – 3,800 (USD 10–27)
- Matatu to Diani: KES 200 – 400
- Optional taxi: KES 4,000
Total per person: KES 1,600 – 8,000
Pros: Cheapest option, Dongo Kundu Bypass Option .
Cons: Long, less comfortable
Self-Drive or Private Car Hire
Driving gives you full control and allows for sightseeing stops along the way.
Distance: Approximately 520 km
Estimated Time: 7 – 9 hours
Cost Breakdown:
- Fuel: KES 12,000 – 15,000 (round trip)
- Tolls & misc: KES 1,000 – 2,000
- Ferry fee for vehicle: ~KES 120 one-way
- Car rental (if needed): KES 8,000 – 12,000/day
Total for 2–4 people: KES 15,000 – 30,000+
Pros: Flexible, scenic, Dongo Kundu Bypass Option .
Cons: Fatiguing,
Comparison Table
| Option | Time | Cost (Per Person) | Convenience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flight to Ukunda | 1.5 hours | KES 10,000 – 30,000 | High |
| SGR + Matatu/Taxi | 6 – 7 hours | KES 1,200 – 8,000 | Moderate |
| Bus + Ferry | 10 – 12 hours | KES 1,600 – 8,000 | Low |
| Self-Drive | 7 – 9 hours | KES 15,000 – 30,000+ | High |
Why Visit Diani?
Diani Beach is one of Kenya’s top coastal destinations, offering white sands, turquoise waters, and incredible hospitality. Whether you’re in for a vacation, investment tour, or a mix of both—Diani delivers unforgettable experiences.
Explore Beach Plots with Pazurina Holiday Homes
If you’re looking to invest while enjoying your stay, consider visiting Pazurina Holiday Homes. We offer prime beach plots and holiday developments in Diani, including our signature projects like Pazurina Golf Resort Annex and Vista Upperhill.
Our plots come with:
- Ready title deeds
- Proximity to the beach and key infrastructure
- Financing partnerships with leading banks like NCBA
Schedule a Site Visit in Diani
Already in Diani or planning to visit soon? Contact us to book a free site visit to our beach plots. Our friendly team will guide you through available options, answer all your questions, and show you why Diani is the future of coastal real estate in Kenya.
Contact Pazurina Holiday Homes:
Phone: 0712 110 110
Email: info@pazurina.co.ke
Website: www.pazurina.co.ke
