Everything you need to know for your visit to Nairobi, Kenya during the COMESA Investment Forum 2026
Nairobi, Kenya's capital city, is a vibrant metropolis and the economic hub of East Africa. Known as the "Green City in the Sun," it offers a unique blend of modern urban life and natural beauty, with Nairobi National Park just minutes from the city center.
The city serves as the headquarters for many international organizations and is a major business center for the African continent, making it the perfect venue for the COMESA Investment Forum.
Late March marks the beginning of Kenya's long rainy season. Expect warm days with occasional afternoon showers. The weather is generally pleasant for business activities.
25-28°C
77-82°F
14-16°C
57-61°F
Rainfall
~5 rainy days expected, ~112mm total
Humidity
Around 65% - comfortable
What to Pack
Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)
As of January 2024, Kenya has introduced a visa-free policy. All foreign visitors (except EAC member state citizens) must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before travel.
$35
Single Entry ETA
3-7
Processing Days
90
Days Max Stay
Online
100% Digital
JKIA is located approximately 15km from the city center. Travel time varies from 30 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on traffic.
Official Airport Taxi
KES 1,500 - 2,500 to CBD (~$12-20 USD)
Fixed rates, agree price before departure
Uber / Bolt / Little Cab
Competitive pricing via app
Pickup at Car Park 1 (opposite Terminal 1)
Airport Bus (Route 34)
KES 50-100 (~$0.50-1 USD)
Runs 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM every 30-45 min
Hotel Shuttle
Many hotels offer complimentary pickup
Arrange in advance with your hotel
Recommended: Ride-Hailing Apps
Uber, Bolt, and Little Cab are safe, reliable, and affordable for getting around the city.
Taxi Services
Available throughout the city
Always agree on fare before starting
Car Rental
Available at airport and city locations
KES 4,000-15,000/day (~$30-115 USD)
Traffic Note
Nairobi experiences heavy traffic during peak hours (7-9 AM, 5-8 PM). Plan extra time for travel during these periods.
The COMESA Investment Forum 2026 will be held at Radisson Blu Hotel, Upper Hill. Staying at the venue hotel offers maximum convenience for attendees.
Upper Hill Road, Upper Hill, Nairobi, Kenya
Below are recommended hotels near the Radisson Blu Upper Hill venue. Early booking is advised as March is a busy period.
Modern luxury hotel in Upper Hill with swimming pool, fitness center, and The Dispatch Grill restaurant.
Historic hotel with lush gardens, outdoor pool, and multiple dining options in Upper Hill.
Modern business hotel with outdoor pool, fitness centre, and garden. Walking distance to venue.
Well-established hotel with panoramic city views and excellent conference facilities.
Contemporary hotel offering comfortable rooms and business amenities in Upper Hill district.
Budget-friendly option with garden, shared lounge, terrace, and bar in Upper Hill area.
• Currency: Kenyan Shilling (KES)
• 1 USD ≈ 130 KES (check current rates)
• Credit/debit cards widely accepted
• ATMs available throughout the city
• Mobile money (M-Pesa) is common
• WiFi available at hotels and venues
• Local SIM cards available at airport
• Major carriers: Safaricom, Airtel
• 4G/LTE coverage in the city
• Plug type: UK 3-pin (Type G)
• Diverse international cuisine available
• Try local dishes: Nyama Choma, Ugali
• Vegetarian options widely available
• Tap water: drink bottled water
• Tipping: 10% is customary
• Yellow fever vaccine (if from endemic area)
• Malaria prophylaxis recommended
• Travel insurance strongly advised
• Keep valuables secure
• Use reputable transport services
• Banks: Mon-Fri 9AM-3PM, Sat 9AM-12PM
• Shops: Mon-Sat 9AM-6PM
• Malls: Daily 9AM-9PM
• Restaurants: Generally 7AM-11PM
• Supermarkets: Often 24 hours
• Nairobi National Park
• Giraffe Centre
• Karen Blixen Museum
• David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
• Maasai Market (Tuesdays)