If you’re planning a trip to Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya, one aspect you’ll want to be prepared for is the parking situation. With heavy traffic and limited parking spaces, navigating this essential part of city life can be a bit tricky, but with the right information, it can be a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Paying for On-Street Parking
One of the most convenient ways to pay for daily on-street parking in Nairobi is through mobile money options like M-PESA. The city has implemented a system called the Internal Revenue Management System (IRMS), which allows you to pay for parking using your mobile phone.
Here’s how it works:
- Dial a designated USSD code (*647#) on your phone.
- Follow the prompts to select the “Daily Parking” option.
- Enter your vehicle’s license plate number. (without space)
- Select the parking zone you’re in.
- Choose the category of your vehicle (e.g., private car).
- Confirm the payment amount displayed.
- Enter your mobile money PIN to complete the payment.
You’ll receive a confirmation SMS with your payment details once the transaction is successful.
Alternatively, you can also pay for on-street parking through a web portal. Simply log in, enter your vehicle information, and follow the prompts to make the payment using your mobile money account.
Off-Street Parking
For off-street parking facilities, you can typically pay at the exit using the same convenient mobile money methods. Follow the same steps as for on-street parking, but select the “Off-Street Parking” option instead.
Seasonal Parking
If you’ll be staying in Nairobi for an extended period, you might consider purchasing a seasonal parking permit. This can be done through the city’s web portal by selecting the “Seasonal Parking” option, entering your vehicle information and paying using your preferred method.
Penalties and Fines
In case you receive a parking penalty or fine, you can easily pay it using the same mobile money methods. Simply follow the on-street parking payment process, but select the “Penalties” option instead.
With these user-friendly payment methods, navigating the parking scene in Nairobi has become much more convenient for visitors. By familiarizing yourself with the process ahead of time, you can focus on enjoying all that this vibrant city has to offer without worrying about parking hassles.
Remember, parking regulations and payment methods may change over time, so it’s always a good idea to double-check for any updates before your trip.