Which airport should I fly into?

Jomo Kenyatta International (NBO) is Nairobi's main airport, 45 minutes from downtown. Wilson Airport (WIL) is for domestic and charter flights only.

Do I need vaccinations to fly to Kenya?

Yellow fever vaccination is required if coming from or transiting through yellow fever areas. Malaria prophylaxis recommended for most of Kenya. Check CDC requirements 6 weeks before travel.

How far ahead should I really book?

Sweet spot is 6-8 weeks for best prices. Earlier than 12 weeks and you'll pay premium pricing. Later than 3 weeks and seats get expensive fast.

Are there any direct flights to Nairobi?

No direct flights from North America. Ethiopian Airlines via Addis Ababa has the shortest routing at about 18-20 hours total. European cities like Amsterdam and Paris have some direct options.

How to Book Cheap Flights to Nairobi

Book flights to Nairobi 6-8 weeks ahead for best prices, typically $800-1200 from major US cities. Fly into Jomo Kenyatta International (NBO) via Ethiopian Airlines, Qatar Airways, or KLM with one connection. Tuesday-Thursday departures cost 15-20% less than weekends.

Start searching 8-10 weeks before travel. Set price alerts on Google Flights and Skyscanner for your dates. Prices typically drop 6-8 weeks out, then rise again closer to departure.
Target Tuesday-Thursday departures. Mid-week flights average $150-200 cheaper than weekend departures. Avoid Monday mornings and Friday afternoons when business travelers fly.
Book Ethiopian Airlines or Qatar Airways. Ethiopian Airlines offers the most direct routing via Addis Ababa (one stop). Qatar Airways via Doha runs close second. Both frequently have the lowest fares to NBO.
Consider nearby airports for departure. If flying from East Coast, check Baltimore (BWI) and Philadelphia (PHL) alongside major hubs. West Coast travelers should compare LAX, SFO, and Seattle prices.
Book directly with airlines for changes. Third-party sites save $50-100 but make changes expensive. Book direct if there's any chance you'll need to modify dates.
Use airline miles strategically. Ethiopian Airlines is part of Star Alliance. If you have United, Lufthansa, or Avianca miles, awards typically cost 75,000-90,000 points roundtrip.

Which airport should I fly into?: Jomo Kenyatta International (NBO) is Nairobi's main airport, 45 minutes from downtown. Wilson Airport (WIL) is for domestic and charter flights only.
Do I need vaccinations to fly to Kenya?: Yellow fever vaccination is required if coming from or transiting through yellow fever areas. Malaria prophylaxis recommended for most of Kenya. Check CDC requirements 6 weeks before travel.
How far ahead should I really book?: Sweet spot is 6-8 weeks for best prices. Earlier than 12 weeks and you'll pay premium pricing. Later than 3 weeks and seats get expensive fast.
Are there any direct flights to Nairobi?: No direct flights from North America. Ethiopian Airlines via Addis Ababa has the shortest routing at about 18-20 hours total. European cities like Amsterdam and Paris have some direct options.