If your safari includes a flight, you will meet a rule that surprises many first-time visitors: a small baggage allowance and a request for soft bags. It is simple once you know it, and it can save you a stressful moment at check-in.
The short version
On Safarilink, one of the main safari airlines, the standard allowance on most routes is 15 kg per person, in soft bags. That figure includes your hand baggage and cameras. Some routes, including Zanzibar, Kisumu, Diani, Lamu, Malindi, Entebbe and Mombasa, allow 20 kg. Other airlines set their own limits, so check the one on your ticket.
Why soft bags
Safari aircraft have small, irregular luggage holds. Safarilink says large rigid suitcases may be moved to a later flight, which is a poor start to a trip. Soft duffel bags squeeze in far more easily. Its terms also list bag dimensions of 60 x 45 x 30 cm.
What happens if you go over
- Staff may allow up to about 2 kg extra at their discretion, but you should not count on it.
- Extra baggage can be bought in 10, 20 or 30 kg bundles, and booking at least 48 hours before departure is better than paying at the airport.
- At check-in, extra baggage is subject to space on the aircraft.
- Safarilink also offers a freight seat for large amounts of equipment, at its discretion.
Where the flights leave from
Safarilink’s terms refer to check-in at Wilson Airport in Nairobi, which is the airport for domestic safari flights, not the main international airport. Check-in closes 60 minutes before departure at Wilson and 30 minutes before at most other airports, so plan your road transfer with time to spare. See our Maasai Mara airstrips and flights guide and Nairobi to the Maasai Mara by road or air for how this fits into a trip.
How to pack for 15 kg
- Pack in a soft duffel, not a rigid case.
- Count your camera gear in the weight, because it is part of the allowance.
- Wear your heaviest shoes and jacket on the plane, where permitted.
- Choose light, neutral clothes that dry fast. See what to wear on safari and our travel checklist.
- Ask whether you can leave a bag in Nairobi during the safari, if you will return there.
Children
Safarilink accepts children under 12 only if they are with an adult, and unaccompanied minors cannot be booked.
Frequently asked questions
What is the baggage limit on Kenya safari flights?
On Safarilink, 15 kg per person on most routes, including hand baggage, in soft bags. Some routes allow 20 kg. Other airlines set their own limits.
Can I bring a hard suitcase?
It is better not to. Soft bags are requested because the aircraft holds are small, and rigid cases may be moved to a later flight.
Do cameras count in the weight?
On Safarilink, the 15 kg allowance includes hand baggage and cameras.
Which airport do safari flights leave from in Nairobi?
Safarilink check-in is at Wilson Airport, not the main international airport.
Can I pay for extra baggage?
Yes, in bundles, subject to space. Booking ahead is safer than paying at check-in.
Want help planning? Talk to our team and tell us your dates, who is travelling and what you would like to see.
Baggage and check-in rules checked on 5 November 2026 on the Safarilink baggage allowance and terms pages. Other airlines have different rules, and rules can change, so confirm before you fly.
