Northern Bypass Nairobi: Best Routes, Exits, Landmarks & Traffic Tips (2025 Guide)
- BeyondForest
- Dec 21, 2024
- 12 min read
Updated: 4 days ago
The Northern Bypass is a significant infrastructure project in Kenya, designed to enhance connectivity and reduce traffic congestion in Nairobi and its surrounding areas. It forms part of a network of bypass roads that aim to ease the flow of traffic in the capital by diverting vehicles from the Central Business District (CBD).
Northern Bypass major junctions, entry/exit points, and shortcuts include Ruaka ,Red Hill Link ,Fourways Junction,Garden Estate, Thome Stream Drive, Marurui Juakali, Mirema, Kahawa Kamiti Road turnoff ,Kahawa west
The Northern Bypass stretches approximately 21 kilometers, connecting Ruiru (Thika Superhighway) in the east to Ruaka (Limuru Road) in the west. The Northern Bypass was conceptualized as part of Kenya's Vision 2030 initiative to modernize infrastructure and improve urban mobility in Nairobi.
Northern Bypass connects Ruiru, Ruaka, Kiambu, Limuru Road, Red Hill
The project was initiated to decongest Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) by creating alternative routes around the city. Initial feasibility studies and designs were completed in the early 2000s. Construction of the bypass began in the mid-2000s, with funding from the Kenyan government and international partners such as the African Development Bank.
Major Areas with police road bocks along Northern bypass include Windsor Roundabout , Marurui, St gabriel Catholic Church and Kenyatta Referral Hospitals
The project faced delays due to challenges in land acquisition and compensation disputes. The bypass was officially opened in phases, with major sections completed by 2015. Subsequent expansions and improvements, including the upgrade to dual carriageways in some sections, have continued to enhance its functionality.
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Image of an Individual along Northern Bypass ferrying plastics used in recycling
Since its completion, the Northern Bypass has significantly reduced travel times and contributed to the economic development of areas along its route. It has also spurred real estate growth and attracted new businesses to previously underdeveloped regions.
Major Churches along Northern Bypass Include St gabriel Catholic Church, PCEA gateway ,Ruach Tabernacle Assembly (A Ministry of Ruach Assemblies) and Nairobi grace chapel
If you’re unsure, just ask the conductor to alert you when approaching Fourways Junction or Northern Bypass turnoff.
Board a Matatu to Kiambu Road From the Nairobi CBD, head to the Koja or Odeon matatu stages and board a matatu or bus that’s heading toward Kiambu or Ridgeways.
Join Thika Road, Then Exit at Muthaiga The matatu will briefly use Thika Superhighway, then exit at Muthaiga Interchange, where it connects to Kiambu Road.
Proceed Along Kiambu Road From Muthaiga, the route continues along the scenic Kiambu Road, passing a series of key landmarks such as Karura Forest Kenya Forest Service Headquarters DCI Headquarters Ridgeways Mall
Just a few minutes past Runda Mall, you’ll arrive at the key junction known as Fourways Junction
Reach the Northern Bypass at Fourways Junction This is a major intersection where straight ahead leads to Kiambu Town left continues toward Ruaka and Limuru Road Right turn connects to the Northern Bypass heading toward Ruiru
How to Get to the Northern Bypass from Thika Town (Step-by-Step Directions)
Board a Matatu or Bus Heading Toward Nairobi From Thika Town, take a matatu or bus that passes through Ruiru along Thika Superhighway.
Alight at Ruiru Bypass Junction Ask the conductor to drop you at the Ruiru Bypass stage, a common stop along the highway just before reaching Kahawa Sukari.
Take a Tuk-tuk to Kahawa West From Ruiru Bypass, take a tuk-tuk (usually around Ksh 50) heading to Kahawa West. This short ride connects you directly to a segment of the Northern Bypass. Decide Your Final Direction Along the Bypass Once you're at Kahawa West, you’re now on the Northern Bypass. Depending on your destination
If you're heading toward Ruaka, cross the road and board a matatu heading west. Common operators include Matara, Transomic, or Wakandeba.
If you're heading toward Kamiti Road, Githurai, or Kiambu, take a matatu in the opposite direction.
Image of street vendors along Windsor Roundabout
How to Access the Northern Bypass from Githurai, Kahawa Sukari, Clayworks, or Roysambu Without Passing Through Ruiru
Board a Matatu and Alight at Roasters/Mountain Mall From Githurai, Kahawa Sukari, Clayworks, or Roysambu, board a matatu heading toward Muthaiga and request to alight at Roasters stage or Mountain Mall along Thika Superhighway.
Find Matatus Behind Mountain Mall Heading to Marurui Walk to the back of Mountain Mall where you’ll find matatus operated by Meruit and Thomat Sacco.These matatus head to Marurui Juakali stage and typically charge no more than Ksh 30.
Arrive at Marurui and you’re Now on Northern Bypass Once you alight at Marurui Juakali, you are already along the Northern Bypass.
If your destination is Ruaka, cross the road and board a matatu on the opposite side (usually heading west).
If you’re heading to Ruiru, take a matatu from the same side you alighted, just near the Rubis Petrol Station.
Estates Linking Northern Bypass
Runda Estate
Runda Estate initially developed in the 1970s to host diplomatic missions, has since evolved into a symbol of affluence and exclusivity. Runda Estate is one of Nairobi's most prestigious and upscale residential neighborhoods, located in the northern part of the city near the United Nations headquarters in Gigiri.
Known for its serene environment, tree-lined avenues, and spacious, architecturally elegant homes, Runda attracts diplomats, expatriates, high-net-worth individuals, and government officials.
Runda estate boasts tight security, excellent infrastructure, and a strict zoning policy that ensures low-density housing and well-maintained landscapes. Runda is strategically positioned near major amenities such as shopping malls (Village Market, Rosslyn Riviera), international schools (International School of Kenya, German School), embassies, and hospitals, making it highly desirable for families seeking convenience and a high quality of life.
Fourways Estate
Fourways Estate is a modern, gated residential community located along Kiambu Road in Nairobi, Kenya. Known for its peaceful ambiance and well-planned layout, it offers a blend of comfort, security, and convenience.
The estate features spacious maisonettes and townhouses, landscaped gardens, and paved driveways, making it ideal for families and professionals. Residents enjoy 24/7 security, ample parking, reliable water supply, and a strong sense of community. Its proximity to amenities such as Ridgeways Mall, QuickMart, schools, hospitals, and recreational areas like Paradise Lost and Windsor Golf Club makes it highly attractive.
Ridgeways Estate
Ridgeways Estate is an affluent and rapidly developing residential area located along Kiambu Road, just a few kilometers from Nairobi’s Central Business District. Known for its quiet environment and lush greenery, Ridgeways offers a perfect blend of suburban serenity and urban convenience.
The estate features a mix of modern townhouses, standalone homes, and gated communities, attracting middle- to high-income families. It enjoys proximity to key amenities such as Ridgeways Mall, QuickMart, Garden City Mall, top schools, hospitals, and recreational facilities like Windsor Golf Club.
Windsor Estate
Windsor is a prestigious area located along the Northern Bypass in Nairobi, best known for hosting the luxurious Windsor Golf Hotel and Country Club. The area is characterized by expansive green landscapes, high-end residences, and a serene environment that appeals to Nairobi’s elite. Its strategic location near Garden Estate, Ridgeways, and Kiambu Road makes it highly accessible while maintaining exclusivity.
Windsor is a hub for golf enthusiasts, with the 18-hole championship course attracting both local and international visitors. The area also benefits from tight security, proximity to shopping malls, international schools, and recreational facilities, making it ideal for upscale living.
Garden Estate
Garden Estate is a well-established, leafy suburb located off Thika Road in Nairobi, near the Northern Bypass and Kiambu Road. Known for its serene atmosphere, spacious homes, and mature trees, it is a preferred residential area for professionals, diplomats, and middle- to high-income families.
The estate features a mix of standalone houses and gated communities, offering privacy and a secure living environment. Its proximity to key amenities like Garden City Mall, Thika Road Mall (TRM), quality schools, and healthcare facilities enhances its appeal. Garden Estate also enjoys easy access to Nairobi CBD, making it ideal for daily commuters seeking tranquility.
Thome Estate
Thome Estate is a secure and rapidly developing residential neighborhood located off Thika Road in Nairobi, near the junction with the Northern Bypass. Known for its spacious homes, gated communities, and quiet environment, Thome attracts middle- to upper-income families seeking suburban comfort within city limits. The estate features a mix of bungalows, maisonettes, and modern townhouses, often with private gardens and ample parking.
Marurui Estate
Marurui Estate is a residential neighborhood located along Kiambu Road in Nairobi, near Garden Estate and close to the Northern Bypass. Known for its calm atmosphere and affordability compared to nearby estates like Ridgeways and Runda, Marurui offers a mix of middle-income housing, including standalone homes, rental apartments, and gated developments.
Image of Juakali stage in Marurui
The estate is popular among families and professionals due to its proximity to schools, supermarkets, places of worship, and shopping centers like Garden City Mall and Ridgeways Mall. Marurui also benefits from good road connectivity, reliable public transport, and growing infrastructure, making it a convenient and comfortable place to live.
Safari Park Estate
Safari Park Estate is a well-planned, gated residential community located off Thika Road in Nairobi, adjacent to Safari Park Hotel and near the USIU-Africa University. Known for its quiet ambiance, security, and spacious homes, the estate attracts professionals, diplomats, and upper-middle-class families.
It features modern maisonettes and townhouses with landscaped gardens, paved driveways, and ample parking. Safari Park Estate offers easy access to key amenities such as Thika Road Mall (TRM), Garden City Mall, top schools, and medical centers. With excellent road connectivity via the Thika Superhighway and proximity to key institutions, it provides a serene yet convenient urban lifestyle.
Ngomongo Estate
Ngomongo Estate is a modest residential area located off Kiambu Road in Nairobi, near prominent neighborhoods like Marurui and Garden Estate. It primarily consists of low- to middle-income housing, including rental apartments and single-family homes. Ngomongo is known for its close-knit community, affordable living, and proximity to essential amenities such as local shops, schools, churches, and public transport. Though not as developed as nearby estates, it offers convenient access to major roads like the Northern Bypass and Thika Road. Its strategic location near growing commercial hubs makes it attractive for commuters and families seeking budget-friendly housing within Nairobi’s expanding suburbs.
Mirema Estate |
Githurai 44 Estate |
Jacaranda Estate |
Kahawa West Estate |
Membley Estate |
More recent government sources note a length of around 20.2 km as plans are underway to dual the corridor
Image of Cars at Northern Bypass along Marurui by Nairobi News
Where does the Northern Bypass start and end?
The Northern Bypass in Nairobi starts at Ruaka Limuru road and ends at Ruiru Membley roundabout . It forms a major part of the Nairobi Ring Road, linking eastern suburbs like Kahawa West and Githurai to western zones such as Ridgeways, Red Hill, and Ruaka, bypassing Thika Roa Super Highway .
Two Rivers Mall, Ridgeways Mall, Quickmart Ruaka, Quick mart Thome , Runda Mall and Windsor Golf Club
Northern bypass marurui
Northern Bypass passes near Marurui, offering quick access to estates like Garden Estate and Thome, plus proximity to Quickmart Thome and Ridgeways Mall.
How do I avoid traffic on the Northern Bypass?
Use early morning or late-night windows. Avoid peak hours near Marurui, Fourways Junction and Windsor roundabout.
Image of Trucks parked outside Ponty Prid a logistics company along Northern Bypass
The Nairobi Northern Bypass runs approximately 21 km from Ruaka on Limuru Road in the west to Ruiru on the Thika Road/Eastern Bypass in the northeast
It connects Thika Road (Githurai) to Limuru Road (Ruaka), touching areas like Kahawa West, Kamiti, Ridgeways, and Red Hill.
Nairobi currently has four major bypass highways forming part of its ring-road network around the city
Northern Bypass – connects Ruaka (Limuru Road) to Ruiru (Thika Road/Eastern Bypass)
Eastern Bypass – runs from Mombasa Road (near Embakasi/Airport North) to Ruiru‑Kamiti Road junction
Southern Bypass – stretches from Mombasa Road & Likoni Road (southeast Nairobi) to Gitaru (Kikuyu)
Western Bypass – runs between Gitaru (Kikuyu) and Ruaka, linking to the Northern Bypass
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Along the Northern Bypass from Ruaka to Ruiru, several local nurseries and landscapers operate even though they aren't listed on Google Maps Near Membley Roundabout (Ruiru side), a nursery advertises wide plant varieties and offers delivery throughout Kenya.Between Windsor Roundabout and Fourways Junction (Kahawa West), another seller lists Petrea and indoor plants with nationwide delivery Just off the bypass near Kiambu Road Junction, similar landscaping services operate, delivering across the country
Fibre glass vase Point
Fiberglass also referred to as glass fiber is a reinforced plastic material composed of a woven material embedded with glass fiber randomly laid across each other and held together with a binding substance.
This material commonly known as Fiberglass can be sold as a raw material or used in manufacturing to produce molded products which are subjected to pultrusion or hot press manufacturing thus having a very clear finished vase.
Image of tall bluegums just beside Fibre glass vase point
Located just 1 minute walk or drive from Windsor roundabout you will find Fiber glass vases.
Image of Fiber glass vases
Grace Gituku
To contact Grace Gituku call 0722994725
Caren Muthoni
To Contact Caren Muthoni call 0710228109
Landscapper Maggie
To Contact Landscapper Maggie call 0721742552
Carnations Landscape
To Contact Carnations Landscape call 0719829881
Benard Kabiti
To Contact Benard Kabiti call 0720570257
Windsor Golf Club
Windsor Golf Hotel & Country Club is a prestigious championship 18‑hole golf resort nestled just off the Northern Bypass in the Ridgeways area of Nairobi. Spread across serene parkland and former coffee plantations, it features lush fairways, water hazards, and a full driving range—designed by Tom Macauley and consistently ranked among Kenya’s top courses
Tucasa Gardens
Tucasa Gardens is a charming garden restaurant and event venue located along Nairobi’s Northern Bypass in Thome Estate . Ideal for family outings, business meetings, and social functions, it offers a serene outdoor seating area, VIP lounges, a children’s play zone, and ample parking
Ashaki Garden and Grill
Ashaki Garden & Grill is a popular family-friendly outdoor bar & grill on Nairobi’s Northern Bypass at Thome/Marurui. The venue offers a relaxed garden setting, a kids’ play area, live music, a car wash, and conference-friendly amenities . Known for its flavorful grilled meats and hearty platters, it’s a go-to for commuters and locals seeking a convenient stop-off along the bypass .
Sanet Hotel is a 3‑star business-friendly hotel located directly on the Northern Bypassjust past Windsor,opposite St Gabriel Catholic Church situated between Marurui and Windsor Estate .Sanet Hotel offers 12 en‑suite rooms, all with smart TVs, free Wi‑Fi, and rainfall showers. Guests enjoy amenities like on‑site parking, a snack bar/lobby lounge and a restaurant serving breakfast
Eden Bliss
Eden Bliss Gardens is a tranquil garden event venue and boutique hotel located along the Northern Bypass corridor at Thome Estate . Nestled in lush grounds, it offers a charming outdoor setting with beautifully manicured lawns, ideal for small weddings, business meetings, and social gatherings.
Sahara West Park Hotel
Sahara West Park Hotel is a tranquil, mid-sized hotel nestled directly on the Northern Bypass near Ruaka, just before Runda town. Set on spacious grounds with lush landscaping, it features 29 comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, two bars, a restaurant, and a conference hall ideal for business meetings or leisure stays . The hotel offers free parking, reliable Wi‑Fi, and continental breakfast, with quick access (just a 10‑minute drive) to popular destinations like Two Rivers Mall and the United Nations offices
Elysian Resort
Elysian Resort is a serene and upscale 4-star resort located at the junction of Kiambu Road and the Northern Bypass, in the leafy Runda area . Nestled on five acres, it offers 42 rooms with garden views, an outdoor swimming pool, sauna, fitness center, and children’s playground perfect for families and business travelers alike . The resort features a coffee shop, poolside bar, three on-site restaurants, and seven conference rooms, making it ideal for meetings and events
Habanos Lounge Nairobi
Habanos Lounge Nairobi is a popular nightlife and entertainment spot located along Kiambu Road/Northern Bypass, near the affluent Ridgeways and Runda neighborhoods. Known for its spacious layout, live DJ performances, and large screens for music or sports, it offers both indoor seating and a unique drive-in experience serving drinks, food, and shisha directly to your vehicle .
Bar Next Door Kiambu Road
Bar Next Door is a lively bar and grill nestled along Kiambu Road off the Northern Bypass, near the Runda and Ridgeways area. It’s known for its vibrant ambiance, spacious industrial-chic décor, and a mix of indoor and outdoor seating .Open daily from around 11 AM to late night, it regularly hosts themed events and live sets—enhancing its reputation as a top spot for social gatherings along Northern bypass
Blue place Lounge
Blue Place Lounge is a stylish, locally-loved hangout located opposite Thome Mukuyu Estate on the Northern Bypass. It’s known for a relaxed vibe with well-designed indoor seating and an outdoor patio—perfect for drinks or casual meetups. The lounge offers a modest menu of cocktails, beers, and light bites, and often features music or social events in the evenings.
Maple inn Hotel
Maple Inn Hotel is a 3-star lodging situated directly on Northern Bypass Road in Ruiru, just off the bypass corridor. It offers comfortable, allergy‑friendly rooms with private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and on-site parking. Guests enjoy amenities such as a restaurant/bar, fitness center, spa services, and business facilities
Membley View Gardens
Membley View Gardens is a gated events and leisure venue located along the Northern Bypass corridor in the Membley/Muthaiga estate area of Ruiru, Kiambu County. Nestled just off the bypass, it offers scenic landscaped grounds ideal for weddings, private functions, and company gatherings
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