Flying to Kenya for a Safari: Tips & Routes

Flying to Kenya for a Safari: Tips & Routes

Flying to Kenya is the first step in your safari adventure. Here’s what you need to know:

Tips for Flying to Kenya:

  • Book Flights Early: Especially during peak seasons (dry season: June-October, January-February) and the Great Migration (July-October), book your flights 2-3 months in advance for better prices.
  • Consider Direct Flights: Kenya Airways offers direct flights from New York (JFK) to Nairobi. This can save significant travel time. Other airlines like British Airways (from London), Qatar Airways (via Doha), Emirates (via Dubai), Ethiopian Airlines (via Addis Ababa), Turkish Airlines (via Istanbul), and Lufthansa (via Frankfurt) offer connections.
  • Pack Smart and Light: Safari vehicles and domestic flights often have strict luggage restrictions (around 15-20kg in soft-sided bags). Laundry services are usually available at lodges.
  • Wear Layers: Temperatures can vary significantly between day and night, and even during a single game drive.
  • Choose Neutral Colors: Khaki, beige, and brown are recommended to blend in with the environment. Avoid white (gets dusty), black and blue (attract tsetse flies), and camouflage (illegal in some African countries).
  • Portable Charger: Access to power can be limited, especially during game drives.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drink only bottled or treated water to avoid illness.
  • Malaria Precautions: Consult your doctor about necessary vaccinations and malaria prevention. Pack and use insect repellent (with DEET).
  • Travel Insurance: Essential for covering unexpected events, medical emergencies, and cancellations.
  • Visa Requirements: Check visa requirements for your nationality well in advance. You may need to apply for an e-visa online before departure.
  • Currency: Bring some USD as a backup, although the local currency (Kenyan Shilling – KES) is widely used. Credit cards are accepted in larger establishments, but smaller places might prefer cash. Mobile money transfer (M-Pesa) is also common.
  • Tipping: While not mandatory, tipping for good service is customary (e.g., to guides, drivers, and lodge staff).

Popular Safari Routes in Kenya:

Most international flights arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi. From there, you can embark on various safari circuits:

  • Classic Kenya Safari (Southwestern Circuit): This is the most popular route, especially for first-timers, and typically includes:
    • Nairobi National Park: For a quick wildlife experience near the city.
    • Masai Mara National Reserve: Famous for the Great Migration and abundant wildlife. Often accessed by a scenic 5-6 hour drive or a shorter flight to one of the airstrips within or bordering the Mara.
    • Lake Nakuru National Park: Known for its flamingos and rhino sanctuary (2-3 hour drive from Naivasha).
    • Lake Naivasha & Hell’s Gate National Park: Offers boat trips, birdwatching, and walking/cycling safaris (approx. 1-2 hour drive from Nakuru).
    • Amboseli National Park: Renowned for its large elephant herds and views of Mount Kilimanjaro (4-5 hour drive from Nairobi).
  • Southeastern Safari Circuit: Focuses on the vast Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks, offering diverse landscapes and wildlife, and is relatively accessible from Nairobi and the coast (Mombasa).
  • Central & Northern Safari Circuit: Explores the regions north of Nairobi, including:
    • Laikipia Plateau: Home to numerous private conservancies like Lewa and Ol Pejeta, known for rhino conservation and diverse wildlife. Often accessed by domestic flights.
    • Samburu, Buffalo Springs, and Shaba National Reserves: Offer unique dry-country species like Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, and Somali ostrich. Accessible by road (approx. 5-6 hours from Nairobi) or by flight.
    • Aberdare National Park: Known for its unique montane vegetation and “tree hotels” offering wildlife viewing at waterholes.
  • Combination Routes: Many itineraries combine elements of these circuits, depending on your time and interests. For example, you might combine the Masai Mara with a visit to Lake Nakuru or Amboseli. Flying between parks can save considerable travel time and allow you to see more diverse locations within a shorter trip. Domestic carriers like Safarilink and AirKenya are good options for flying directly into safari destinations.