Kenya, with its breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich culture, is one of the most sought-after destinations for an African safari. Whether you’re planning to explore the Maasai Mara, venture into the heart of Amboseli National Park, or discover the hidden gems of Tsavo, getting to Kenya is the first step in embarking on an unforgettable adventure. But how do you book your flights, and what should you consider when flying to Kenya for a safari?
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about booking flights to Kenya and ensuring a seamless start to your safari adventure.
Why Kenya for Safari?
Kenya is home to some of the world’s most iconic safari destinations. The Maasai Mara, known for the annual migration of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles, is just one example of the country’s incredible wildlife-rich areas. From the elephants of Amboseli, with the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro as a backdrop, to the rainforests of the Aberdare Mountains, Kenya offers a variety of safari experiences that attract travelers from all over the world.
For those eager to witness the Big Five (lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos) in their natural habitats, Kenya’s well-managed national parks and conservancies provide the perfect backdrop for your dream safari.
Major Airports in Kenya
Kenya has several international airports, with Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi being the primary international gateway. Other airports, such as Moi International Airport (MBA) in Mombasa and Wilson Airport (WIL) in Nairobi, are also crucial for domestic flights and connecting visitors to the country’s safari destinations.
1. Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO)
Located just outside Nairobi, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) is Kenya’s largest and busiest airport, handling flights from all over the world. Whether you’re flying from Europe, the Middle East, or the Americas, chances are you’ll arrive at NBO. This airport is well-equipped to handle the influx of travelers coming to Kenya for safaris, with convenient immigration processes and services designed to cater to international visitors.
Once you arrive at NBO, it’s easy to connect to your safari destination, whether through a short domestic flight or a scenic road transfer to various national parks and reserves.
2. Moi International Airport (MBA)
If your safari plans include the Kenyan coast, Moi International Airport (MBA) in Mombasa is the ideal arrival point. This airport is commonly used by travelers heading to coastal destinations such as Diani Beach, Watamu, and Malindi, and it also serves as a hub for those interested in combining a beach holiday with a safari.
Mombasa is a great gateway for travelers combining a coastal retreat with a safari in places like Tsavo National Park or Shimba Hills National Reserve.
3. Wilson Airport (WIL)
For domestic flights to safari destinations, Wilson Airport (WIL) in Nairobi is the key hub. This smaller airport handles several scheduled flights to popular safari destinations such as Maasai Mara, Amboseli, Laikipia, and Nakuru. If you’re planning to take a charter flight to your safari lodge or camp, Wilson Airport is where you’ll board these small aircraft.
Airlines Flying to Kenya
Several major airlines offer flights to Kenya from cities across the world. Whether you’re flying from Europe, North America, the Middle East, or Asia, you’ll find a range of options for flights into Nairobi and beyond.
1. Kenya Airways
As the national carrier of Kenya, Kenya Airways offers direct flights from various destinations worldwide, including London, New York, Dubai, Paris, and more. Known for its excellent service, the airline connects travelers to Nairobi with ease and comfort. Once in Nairobi, Kenya Airways also offers domestic flights to popular safari destinations like Maasai Mara, Amboseli, and Mombasa.
2. British Airways
British Airways operates direct flights to Nairobi from London Heathrow, providing a seamless connection for UK-based travelers looking to start their safari in Kenya. With premium service options, including first-class and business class, British Airways is a popular choice for luxury safari-goers.
3. Emirates
Emirates, known for its excellent service, offers flights to Nairobi from Dubai and other major cities. Many travelers from the Middle East and Asia choose Emirates for its comfort, connectivity, and amenities during the flight. Emirates also connects Nairobi with several other African cities, providing convenient domestic connections to safari destinations.
4. Qatar Airways
For those traveling from Doha, Qatar Airways provides direct flights to Nairobi. Known for luxury and high service standards, Qatar Airways is a popular option for travelers looking for a smooth journey into Kenya.
5. Air France
Flying in from Paris, Air France offers direct flights to Nairobi, making it a prime choice for travelers from Europe. Air France provides excellent in-flight services and easy connections to Kenyan safari destinations.
6. Delta Air Lines
Delta Air Lines offers direct flights from New York (JFK) to Nairobi, providing American travelers with a comfortable and reliable option for reaching Kenya. With excellent connectivity, Delta makes it easy to connect to domestic flights for further safari adventures.
Domestic Flights for Safari Destinations
Kenya’s safari regions are well-served by domestic flights, making it convenient for travelers to explore multiple locations within the country. These flights are typically short and provide an efficient way to access remote safari areas that might be difficult to reach by road.
Popular Domestic Flight Routes:
- Nairobi to Maasai Mara: Several airlines, including Safarilink and Airkenya, operate scheduled flights from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Maasai Mara. The flight takes about 45 minutes and offers spectacular views of the Great Rift Valley.
- Nairobi to Amboseli: The flight to Amboseli National Park, home to iconic views of Mount Kilimanjaro, takes about 45 minutes from Nairobi.
- Nairobi to Tsavo: Flights to Tsavo National Park, one of Kenya’s largest parks, are available from Wilson Airport to Voi or Taita Hills airstrips.
- Nairobi to Laikipia: For a more off-the-beaten-path safari experience, flights to Laikipia, home to private conservancies and wildlife, are also available.