Are you planning to drive around Nairobi and wondering how to pay for parking? Navigating the bustling streets of Kenya’s capital is undoubtedly easier with a vehicle. However, parking in Nairobi can be a bit of a challenge if you’re not familiar with the payment methods. Fortunately, this guide will walk you through the various options for paying for parking in Nairobi, ensuring you can park your vehicle with ease.
Paying for Parking in Nairobi
1. ParkEasy App
The ParkEasy app is a convenient and user-friendly way to pay for parking in Nairobi. Here’s how to use it:
- Download the App: Start by downloading the ParkEasy app from your device’s app store.
- Register: Create an account by providing the required information, including your vehicle details.
- Load Credit: Add credit to your ParkEasy wallet using M-PESA, a debit card, or other payment methods.
- Locate Parking Zone: Open the app, and it will automatically detect your location. If not, you can manually select your parking zone.
- Start Parking: Once parked, open the app, select the duration, and start your parking session. The app will deduct the parking fee from your wallet.
- Extend if Needed: If your parking session needs more time, you can extend it remotely through the app.
2. M-PESA
M-PESA, Kenya’s popular mobile money service, also allows you to pay for parking. Here’s how:
- Access M-PESA: Open your M-PESA menu on your mobile phone.
- Select Pay Bill: Choose the “Pay Bill” option from the M-PESA menu.
- Enter Business Number: Enter the Nairobi City County’s M-PESA business number, which is usually 913901 for parking fees.
- Enter Account Number: Use your vehicle’s registration number as the account number.
- Enter Amount: Input the parking fee amount based on the duration you plan to park.
- Confirm and Send: Review the details, confirm the transaction, and send the payment.
- Receive Confirmation: You will receive a confirmation SMS with your parking ticket details.
3. Traditional Methods
If you prefer to pay for parking in person, you can visit an authorized parking attendant or use the pay stations located within parking zones. Here’s what you should do:
- Locate an Attendant or Pay Station: Look for a parking attendant within the parking area or find a nearby pay station.
- Provide Vehicle Details: Share your vehicle’s registration number with the attendant or enter it into the pay station.
- Pay the Fee: Pay the parking fee using cash, credit/debit card, or mobile money (if available).
- Receive a Ticket: You’ll receive a parking ticket, which you should display on your dashboard.
Conclusion
Paying for parking in Nairobi is now more accessible than ever with digital solutions like the ParkEasy app and the convenience of M-PESA. You can also opt for the traditional methods if that suits you better. By following these simple steps, you’ll ensure a smooth parking experience as you explore the vibrant city of Nairobi.
