How to Get Around on Your Kenya Safari Holiday

Once you’ve arrived in Nairobi after your long-haul flight, getting around during your Kenya safari holiday offers several options, each with its own advantages. Your choice of transport will depend on factors like time, cost, and convenience, ensuring you have the best experience possible.

Flying Around Kenya

Domestic air travel is arguably the most comfortable, efficient, and time-saving way to get around during your Kenya safari. For safaris that cover vast distances or remote regions, flying can drastically reduce travel time, allowing you to spend more time on your adventure and less time on the road.

Flights within Kenya are typically operated by smaller aircraft, often Cessna planes, which are well-suited to the rugged terrain. These flights are usually serviced from Nairobi’s domestic airport, which is about a 90-minute drive from the international airport—an important detail if you’re hoping to connect flights on the same day.

A fly-in safari provides a fantastic aerial view of Kenya’s diverse landscapes, including its national parks, lakes, and wildlife reserves. This mode of transport not only saves time but also offers a scenic and exhilarating way to see the country’s most iconic attractions while bypassing the discomforts of long, bumpy road journeys.

By Road

While flying offers convenience, some safaris are best experienced by road, particularly if you’re looking to immerse yourself in the landscape and wildlife along the way. Road travel gives you the flexibility to explore various destinations at your own pace, with plenty of opportunities for game viewing on the journey itself.

For road safaris, your journey will typically be in a 4×4 safari vehicle, which allows for easy access to remote areas. These vehicles are often used by safari companies and come with a guide who will provide expert insights on the wildlife and surroundings.

Combination of Both

Many travelers choose a combination of flying and driving during their Kenya safari. This approach offers the best of both worlds: the speed and convenience of flying for longer distances, paired with the immersive experience of road travel when exploring local parks and reserves. This allows you to enjoy both the wildlife from the air and up-close encounters on the ground.

Whether you opt for the efficiency of domestic flights or the adventure of a road safari, getting around Kenya is part of the experience. The way you travel can shape your safari adventure, so consider your preferences, time constraints, and the type of experience you’re looking for when planning your trip.