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Giraffe among acacias with Nairobi's skyline in the distance

Practical

Arriving in Nairobi before your safari

Practical tips for arriving at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, where to stay, and how safari pick-ups work in Nairobi.

By the Economic Adventure Safaris team, Nairobi · Updated

Most of our safaris start in Nairobi. A smooth arrival sets the tone for the whole trip.

Airports

International flights arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO), about 15–20 km from the city centre. Scheduled safari flights to the Maasai Mara, Amboseli and Samburu leave from Wilson Airport.

Arrive the day before

Road safaris usually leave Nairobi between 7:00 and 8:30 am, so we recommend arriving the day before and staying a night in the city. It gives you a buffer if your flight is delayed and time to rest.

Pick-up

Our packages include pick-up from your Nairobi hotel or the airport. Your driver-guide will confirm the time the evening before.

If you have a spare day

  • Nairobi National Park, with the city skyline behind the wildlife.
  • The Giraffe Centre and the elephant orphanage in Karen and Langata.
  • The Karen Blixen Museum and the Nairobi National Museum.

Visiting our office

Our office is at St. Ellis House, 7th Floor, Wabera Street, opposite City Hall in central Nairobi. You are welcome to visit — let us know when you are coming.

Safaris mentioned in this guide

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