Taxis in Nairobi

Taxis can be dangerous in Nairobi for many reasons.

1. The Driver
a. Good chance he will be drunk
b. Might be out to rob you
c. Might charge you way too much (different than being robbed)

2. The Taxi
a. Taxis are targets. There has to be money in a taxi
b. The actual vehicle might be a piece of crap and breakdown at anytime. Not ideal in some areas.

So then, what are the rules for taking a taxi?

1. Know the driver. Fortunately, Wendy, my host, knows and trusts James. She has a good relationship with him. I always call James first, if he is not busy, there is a good chance he will be able to pick me up wherever. Paul is a trusted driver that is based in the city center. If either is busy then they have friends they trust and will call them. It is not in their interest to lose a loyal customer, so they really will send someone they trust. The other day I waited 30 minutes for Paul in front of the Hilton where I was surrounded by at least a dozen other taxis. I waited.
2. Not smart to ride in a taxi that is labeled as a taxi. Don’t get in a car that has a big yellow stripe. This equals money. In slow traffic, which there is a lot of, you run the risk of being robbed or car jacked.
3. Always ride in the front seat. Many taxis are unmarked but, if the driver is up front and the only passenger is in the back, it becomes obvious to the passerby that the vehicle is a taxi.
4. When you exchange money, keep it below window level. Don’t let people see you give money to the driver.
5. When you are in traffic, keep your window at least 80% rolled up and your door locked. It does not matter that it is 90 degrees, humid and the car is filled with exhaust from all the traffic.

Other than that, kick back and enjoy the ride. These are tips from drivers and passengers.