The Kenyan eTA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) process can take several days and some applicants report delays with payment processing. We strongly recommend applying immediately — do not wait until the week before travel. The conference opens on 26 August 2026.
Visa & eTA Information
Kenya eTA (Most visitors)
Kenya now requires most foreign nationals to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) before arrival. This replaces the traditional visa-on-arrival system.
- Cost: USD 34.29 per person
- Processing time: Typically 3–5 business days (allow up to 2 weeks)
- Valid for single or multiple entry
- Apply online — credit/debit card required
Visa-Free Countries
Citizens of several countries do not require a visa or eTA to enter Kenya, including all African Union member states under the AU visa-free protocol.
- East African Community members: Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, DRC
- Many other AU member states
- Check the official list for your country
Flights & Airport Transfers
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO)
Nairobi is served by Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (IATA: NBO), approximately 18 km from the city centre and about 25–35 minutes from Strathmore University by road (longer during peak hours).
Major Airlines Serving NBO
- Kenya Airways (KQ) — hub
- Ethiopian Airlines
- RwandAir
- Emirates, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines
- British Airways, KLM, Lufthansa
- South African Airways
From Airport to Venue
- Taxi/Bolt/Uber: KES 1,500–2,500 (~25–40 min)
- Ride-hailing: Bolt and Little Cabs are widely available at NBO
- SGR (Rail) + taxi: Train to Nairobi CBD, then taxi to Strathmore
- Hotel shuttle: Many hotels offer airport transfers (book in advance)
Recommended Accommodation
Strathmore University is located along Ole Sangale Road, Madaraka. The following hotels are within convenient reach of the venue. Booking early is strongly advised as conference season fills up quickly.
Strathmore University Guesthouse
On-campus accommodation available for conference delegates. Contact the organising team for booking assistance.
Boma Nairobi
A popular 4-star hotel near the venue with conference facilities. Well-reviewed by business travellers.
Nairobi Serena Hotel
Landmark 5-star hotel in the city centre. Excellent for attendees combining the conference with other Nairobi meetings.
Airbnb / Short-Stay Apartments
Serviced apartments in South C, Langata, and Kilimani offer good value. Search on Airbnb or Booking.com.
The Norfolk Hotel
Historic Nairobi landmark in the city centre with colonial character and modern amenities.
Hilton Garden Inn Nairobi
Contemporary hotel with reliable WiFi, meeting facilities, and good city connectivity.
Things to Do Around Nairobi
Nairobi National Park
The world's only national park within a capital city. See lions, rhinos, and giraffe with the city skyline as a backdrop.
Giraffe Centre
Hand-feed endangered Rothschild giraffes at this conservation centre in the leafy Karen suburb — very close to the conference venue.
Karen Blixen Museum
Visit the farm that inspired "Out of Africa" and the nearby Kazuri Beads fair-trade workshop.
Nairobi CBD & Markets
Explore Maasai Market, City Market, and the vibrant street food scene across the city.
Day Trip: Mount Kenya
About 3 hours from Nairobi — Mount Kenya National Park offers stunning highland scenery and trekking for those extending their stay.
Food & Nightlife
Nairobi has a thriving food scene — Westlands, Kilimani, and Karen suburbs offer everything from Nyama Choma to world-class restaurants.
Useful Travel Tips
Currency & Payments
- Currency: Kenyan Shilling (KES)
- USD, GBP, EUR widely accepted in hotels
- M-Pesa mobile money is ubiquitous
- ATMs available at airport and throughout Nairobi
- ~1 USD ≈ 130 KES; 1 GBP ≈ 165 KES
Health & Safety
- Yellow fever cert required if arriving from endemic countries
- Malaria prophylaxis recommended — consult your GP
- Nairobi is at 1,795 m altitude
- Drink bottled or filtered water
- Emergency: 999 (Police), 911 (General)
Connectivity
- SIM cards at the airport (Safaricom recommended)
- 4G LTE coverage is excellent throughout Nairobi
- Conference WiFi available at Strathmore
- Power sockets: Type G (British 3-pin)
Getting Around
- Bolt & Little Cabs: Most reliable ride-hailing apps
- Uber: Available but often pricier than Bolt
- Matatus: Affordable local minibuses
- Allow extra time during peak hours (7–9am, 5–7pm)
Ready to Join Us in Nairobi?
Late registration is open until 21 August 2026. Secure your place at Africa's premier battery conference.