Planning Your Nairobi Arrival for Big 5 Construct Kenya

A smooth arrival sets up the whole trip. If you are flying in for Big 5 Construct Kenya (21–23 October 2026, Sarit Expo Centre), here is how to plan the days before you land and your first hours on the ground.

Before you fly: the Kenya eTA

Most international visitors need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA), applied for online at the official portal, etakenya.go.ke. According to the portal:

• apply at least two weeks before travel;
• standard processing takes about three working days, and an urgent service exists;
• you will need a passport valid for at least six months, a photo, contact details, a travel itinerary and accommodation confirmation, plus any documents for your purpose of travel, such as an invitation letter;
• citizens of East African Community countries and many African states are exempt, for varying lengths of stay.

Because accommodation confirmation is requested, secure your hotel booking before applying. Rules can change, so check the official site rather than relying on third-party summaries.

Choose your arrival day

• Exhibitors building a stand often arrive on Monday 19 or Tuesday 20 October. Confirm build-up times with the organiser before booking flights.
• Visitors can arrive on Tuesday 20 October and start fresh on opening day.
• Remember that 20 October is Mashujaa Day, a Kenyan public holiday. Roads can be quieter, but many offices and some services close.
• If you land on a long-haul overnight flight, allow a rest window before any meetings.

Which airport?

International flights arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). Domestic and many regional or safari flights use Wilson Airport, about 13–15 minutes from Karen Plains Hotel. The drive from JKIA to Karen usually takes 45–75 minutes depending on traffic. For a detailed walkthrough, see our JKIA arrival guide and airport-to-bed timeline.

Getting from the airport

• Pre-booked private transfer: the simplest option after a long flight. Karen Plains Hotel offers private JKIA transfers in a sedan (from US$55) or a 4x4 Land Cruiser (from US$95), priced per vehicle. Share your flight number when booking so pickups can adjust for delays.
• Ride-hailing: Uber and Bolt operate at JKIA and work well if you have mobile data on arrival.
• Airport taxis: available outside arrivals. Agree the fare before you set off.

We compare these in JKIA to Karen Plains Hotel: Your Transfer Options Compared.

Check-in and early arrivals

Check-in at Karen Plains Hotel is from 12:00 and check-out is by 10:00. If your flight lands early in the morning, tell us your flight time when you book. Early check-in depends on availability and may carry a charge. Otherwise we can store your luggage while you have breakfast or head out. Our Nairobi Arrival Package combines a JKIA pickup, one night's stay and breakfast.

Your first evening checklist

• Set up mobile data: a local SIM or eSIM makes ride-hailing and maps easy.
• Confirm your registration and download your badge details from the official registration page.
• Check tomorrow's traffic and plan your departure time using our daily journey guide.
• Charge laptops, phones and power banks. The hotel has backup power, but a full battery is still wise.
• Eat early, sleep well and ask the front desk for anything you need for the morning.

Useful to know

• Card payments are widely accepted in Nairobi, and M-PESA mobile money is everywhere.
• Travel insurance is strongly recommended. See our Kenya travel insurance guide.
• Keep the hotel's number, +254 796 989 928 (phone or WhatsApp), handy in case your flight changes.

Planning your Big 5 stay? Check live availability and book direct, or send your dates and team size to info@karenplainshotel.com or WhatsApp +254 796 989 928. Our front desk is open 24/7.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a visa to attend Big 5 Construct Kenya?

Most visitors need a Kenya eTA, applied for online at etakenya.go.ke at least two weeks before travel. EAC citizens and many African nationals are exempt. Check the official portal for your nationality.

How long is the drive from JKIA to Karen?

Usually 45–75 minutes, depending on traffic.

What time is check-in at Karen Plains Hotel?

From 12:00. Check-out is by 10:00. Early check-in is subject to availability.

Is 20 October a public holiday in Kenya?

Yes. 20 October is Mashujaa Day, a national public holiday, the day before Big 5 Construct Kenya opens.