Nairobi has two airports that matter to safari travellers, and confusing them is a common and expensive mistake. JKIA is where you arrive from abroad. Wilson Airport is where many bush flights depart. Here is how they work. Read on for a clear, practical look at JKIA and Wilson airport.
JKIA: Jomo Kenyatta International Airport
JKIA is in Embakasi, east of the city centre. It handles nearly all international flights and is the main hub of Kenya Airways. The airport has several terminals and sections, so check which one your airline uses. After landing, you will go through health screening if required, immigration, baggage claim and customs. Make sure your travel authorisation is approved before you board; see our entry requirements guide.
Getting from JKIA to your hotel
- Pre-arranged transfer. The easiest option. Your driver waits with a sign.
- Ride-hailing apps. Uber, Bolt and local apps work and show the price in advance.
- Licensed airport taxis. Agree the fare before you get in.
Travel time to the city can be anything from 30 minutes to over an hour depending on traffic. There is also an expressway that helps at some times of day. If you arrive late at night, a hotel pick-up is safest.
Airport tips
- Buy a local SIM at the airport or a shop; see the SIM guide.
- Exchange only a small amount of cash; use ATMs in town for better rates.
- Keep your passport and booking confirmations accessible.
- Plan to arrive about three hours before international departures.
Wilson Airport
Wilson is a smaller airport a few kilometres south-west of the city centre, near Langata. It is the base for many scheduled domestic and charter flights to the Maasai Mara, Amboseli, Samburu, Laikipia and the coast. Small planes carry limited luggage; soft bags are the norm, and weight limits are strict. Our flying safari guide explains the rules.
Connecting between the two
JKIA and Wilson are not next to each other, and traffic is unpredictable. Allow at least three to four hours between an international arrival and a bush flight, and more if you must collect and re-check luggage. If you arrive in the evening, sleeping in Nairobi and flying the next morning is stress-free. See the Nairobi stopover guide for what to do.
Departure day
For international departures, allow time for security checks and traffic. If you return from the Mara on an afternoon flight into Wilson, avoid booking an evening international departure on the same day. Our team plans these connections carefully so you do not have to.
Quick answers
Which airport do I fly into for a Kenya safari?
International flights land at JKIA. Many domestic bush flights depart from Wilson Airport.
How long between JKIA and Wilson?
Allow at least three to four hours between an international arrival and a bush flight because Nairobi traffic is unpredictable.
How do I get from JKIA to the city?
Pre-arranged transfers, ride-hailing apps and licensed taxis are the usual options, and travel time ranges from 30 minutes to over an hour.
Safaris that fit this guide
These Cherish Africa Safaris trips match what this guide covers. We can adjust any of them to your dates, group size and budget.
- 7 Days Classic Kenya Safari – Maasai Mara, Lake Nakuru, Naivasha
- 5 Days Mid Range Maasai Mara Migration, Lake Nakuru, Lake Naivasha Safari
- 8 Days Kenya Safari Tour – Stunning Wildlife and Scenic Lakes Experience
Not sure which trip suits you? Browse all our Kenya safari tours or send us an enquiry.
Plan it with people who live here
We are a Nairobi-based team and every trip starts from our own doorstep. If you would like help turning these ideas into a real itinerary, message us on WhatsApp (+254 794 588 242), write to info@cherishafricasafaris.com, or use our contact form. We usually reply the same day.
JKIA and Wilson airport: Key Takeaways
The main points on JKIA and Wilson airport are covered above. If you would like help applying them to your own dates and budget, our team can plan the trip with you. For more advice on JKIA and Wilson airport, or a quote tailored to your group, contact Cherish Africa Safaris and we will reply the same day.
