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Shuttles leave from both Arusha and Nairobi at 08h00 hours and 14h00 hours each day.
There are several companies operating between Tanzania and Kenya, Riverside is the longest serving shuttle service, Impala Shuttle has also serviced this route for a number of years. Rainbow Shuttle and Jamii Shuttle are the newest of the four operators.
Nairobi, Kenya departure/arrival point for the Impala Shuttle is from Silver Spring Hotel and all other services departure/arrival point is outside the Parkside Hotel in the very centre of the city. Cost one way, as of March 2012, is US$25
Arusha Tanzania departure/arrival point for the Imapala Shuttle is from the Impala Hotel all other services depart/arrive from Mezaluna Ground. Cost one way, as of March 2012, is US$25
The vehicles used are usually 25 seat busses although I have known the companies to also use 12 seat mini-buses. It is possible for passengers to be dropped off at most city center hotels - however it is always best to make/confirm these arrangements with the driver before you set off.
Nairobi Airport: The shuttle bus will pick up and drop off tourists at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport - but again arrange this well in advance if at all possible.
Road conditions. Since 2009 the road both sides of Namaga border has been improved. The road has made the journey easier for all concerned. It takes, usually, six hours to travel from Nairobi to Arusha including negotiating passport control at the Namanga Border Post.
The route between Arusha and Nairobi has some interesting villages along the way. There is a possibility of seeing some wild animals. If there has been rain then the green lush African bush is interesting to watch and adds a sense of adventure, if it is dry everything tends to be a bit brown and beige and very dusty indeed.
You cross from Kenya to Tanzania at the Namanga Border. Remember you are in a foreign country and it is important to be polite, relax and do not become irritated if you are delayed - enjoy the experience. As with all Government Officials they are not paid to be friendly their jobs are pressurized and as a result they are not always friendly. However, I must add that I have never has a bad experience with immigration at Namanga and have always found everyone to be helpful on both sides of the border. The key is patience. Your Shuttle driver will explain what to do and where to go; follow other passengers who probably have done the crossing many times before.
Three month visa: - Visas can be obtainable at all border posts including airports. Remember to have the correct money ready in US Dollars (cash!). The cost of a visa depends on the origin of your passport. The Tanzania Tourist board has details on visa requirements.
After obtaining your visa stamp check it to ensure the correct dates are entered to ensure the number of days/weeks on your passport cover the time you expect to be in Tanzania / Kenya.
You might not enjoy this shuttle transfer, but experience is an education and so dink in all you can and let it all become a part of your African adventure.