KeNHA Reveals Alternative Routes to Beat the Nairobi-Nakuru Traffic Jam This Christmas
Motorists heading to Nakuru and beyond face massive delays on the busy Nairobi-Nakuru highway as Christmas travel reaches its peak, prompting the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) to announce a list of alternative routes on Wednesday, December 24, 2025.
The authority warned of severe congestion along the key Rironi-Nakuru-Mau Summit (A8) Road and the Rironi-Mai Mahiu-Naivasha (A8 South) Road, with traffic volumes surging due to the holiday exodus.
“KeNHA has noted a surge in traffic volumes along the Rironi-Nakuru-Mau Summit (A8) Road and the Rironi-Mai Mahiu-Naivasha (A8 South) Road,” the authority stated in its official announcement.
KeNHA urged drivers to exercise extreme caution, strictly observe lane discipline, and adhere to all traffic rules to help alleviate the gridlock and reduce the risk of accidents.
“KeNHA, in collaboration with the National Police Service, continues to manage traffic along these routes. However, cooperation and responsible conduct of all road users remain critical to ensuring safe and timely journeys,” the statement added.
The gridlock, which has persisted for several days, has led to both lanes of the single-carriageway sections being effectively shut down in places, forcing some passengers and drivers to spend nights stranded on the road.
Experts and officials attribute the worsening situation to a combination of factors: minor accidents, ongoing road maintenance works, poor lane discipline by some motorists, and a dramatic increase in vehicle volumes during the festive season.
Alternative Routes to Ease the Congestion
To help travellers avoid the worst of the delays, KeNHA has provided several viable detour options:
- Thika-Magumu-Njabini-Olkalou-Dundori-Lanet-Nakuru
- Flyover-Njabini-Olkalou-Dundori-Lanet-Nakuru
- Naivasha-Njabini-Olkalou-Dundori-Lanet-Nakuru
- Gilgil-Olkalou-Dundori-Lanet-Nakuru
Additional longer alternatives include:
- Ngong-Suswa-Narok-Mau Narok-Nakuru
- Nakuru-Kampi ya Moto-Eldama Ravine-Makutano
- Nakuru-Njoro-Mau Summit
These routes are designed to distribute traffic more evenly and offer safer, potentially faster journeys for those heading to Nakuru, the Rift Valley, Western Kenya, or beyond.
The advisory comes amid heightened travel demand as families reunite for Christmas celebrations. KeNHA continues to work hand-in-hand with the National Police Service to monitor and control traffic flow on all affected corridors.
Motorists are strongly encouraged to plan their trips in advance, allow extra time, and stay updated via KeNHA’s official channels for the latest developments on this critical transport artery. Safe travels this festive season!
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KeNHA Reveals Alternative Routes to Beat the Nairobi-Nakuru Traffic Jam This Christmas