Stephen MusunguMotorists heading upcountry during the festive travel rush are being urged to use a series of alternative routes to avoid prolonged congestion along the Nairobi‑Nakuru Highway, as heavy traffic continues to build up on one of Kenya’s busiest travel corridors.
The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has identified several detours that drivers can use to bypass major bottlenecks—particularly around the Mai Mahiu escarpment, the Salgaa‑Mau Summit section, and other traffic‑prone points that have seen vehicles crawl for hours amid heavy festive travel.
KeNHA says the aim is to ease delays, improve safety, and help stranded motorists reach their destinations with less stress.Among the recommended alternative routes, travellers heading to Western Kenya and Nyanza are encouraged to use the Suswa–Narok road, which skirts the congested stretch and provides a smoother link westwards.
Those bound for Central Kenya or Nakuru are advised to try the Nyeri–Nyahururu route, which, although slightly longer, offers a less congested path and reduces the risk of being stuck in standstill traffic.KeNHA also highlighted circuitous options that connect through towns and secondary highways, allowing drivers to avoid the worst gridlocks on the main A104 corridor.
Road planners say these detours can significantly cut down idle time for motorists willing to take them, especially during peak hours when traffic volumes spike.The authority has also reminded all road users to maintain strict lane discipline and avoid overlapping and reckless overtaking—behaviors that have been blamed for worsening delays on the Nairobi‑Nakuru stretch.
Drivers are further urged to plan journeys well in advance, travel during off‑peak hours where possible, and ensure vehicles are road‑worthy before departure.Public Service Vehicle operators have been given specific instructions to adhere to passenger limits and use designated pick‑up and drop‑off points to minimize disruption, while all motorists are encouraged to obey traffic signs, posted speed limits, and instructions from traffic officers and marshals on the ground.
The advisory comes as festive traffic continues to surge with thousands of travelers leaving major urban centers to return to their hometowns, a pattern that has traditionally led to long delays on national highways.
Officials say embracing the alternative routes and practicing road discipline will not only ease the flow of vehicles but also reduce accidents and frustration on the roads as families make their way for seasonal celebrations.
