How much time do I need between international arrival and domestic safari flight?

Minimum 3 hours, but 4-5 hours is safer. Immigration, baggage claim, and domestic check-in can take 2 hours, plus you need buffer time for delays.

Can I store luggage at Nairobi airport between flights?

Yes, left luggage service is available in the international terminal for 500 KES ($3.50) per bag per day. Useful if you have heavy bags that exceed safari flight limits.

What if my international flight is delayed and I miss my safari connection?

Contact your safari operator immediately. Most can rebook you on the next available flight (usually same day or early next morning) for a rebooking fee of 50-100 USD.

Do I need yellow fever vaccination for domestic connections?

No, yellow fever vaccination is only checked when entering Kenya from certain countries. Domestic flights within Kenya don't require any health checks.

How to Navigate Nairobi Airport for Safari Connections

Arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport 3 hours early for domestic safari connections. Use Terminal 1A for most safari operators, check in at the domestic departures counter, and expect 20-45 minute flights to Masai Mara, Amboseli, or other parks.

Land and clear immigration. After landing at JKIA, follow signs to immigration. Have your passport, visa (or eTA), and return ticket ready. Immigration typically takes 15-30 minutes depending on flight arrivals.
Collect luggage and find your safari operator. Grab your bags from carousel and exit through customs (green channel for nothing to declare). Your safari operator will have a sign with your name in the arrivals hall. If connecting same-day, they'll escort you to domestic departures.
Check in for domestic safari flight. Head to Terminal 1A for domestic departures. Check-in counters open 2 hours before departure. Weight limit is strictly 15kg in soft bags - they will weigh and redistribute if needed.
Go through domestic security. Security is standard but thorough. Remove electronics, liquids under 100ml allowed. No food restrictions for domestic flights. Allow 20 minutes for security during busy periods.
Board your safari flight. Most safari flights use small aircraft (6-12 passengers). Boarding is from the tarmac - you'll walk to the plane. Flight times: Masai Mara 45 minutes, Amboseli 40 minutes, Samburu 1 hour 15 minutes.

How much time do I need between international arrival and domestic safari flight?: Minimum 3 hours, but 4-5 hours is safer. Immigration, baggage claim, and domestic check-in can take 2 hours, plus you need buffer time for delays.
Can I store luggage at Nairobi airport between flights?: Yes, left luggage service is available in the international terminal for 500 KES ($3.50) per bag per day. Useful if you have heavy bags that exceed safari flight limits.
What if my international flight is delayed and I miss my safari connection?: Contact your safari operator immediately. Most can rebook you on the next available flight (usually same day or early next morning) for a rebooking fee of 50-100 USD.
Do I need yellow fever vaccination for domestic connections?: No, yellow fever vaccination is only checked when entering Kenya from certain countries. Domestic flights within Kenya don't require any health checks.