Flight to East Africa
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Frequently Asked Questions .
What are the main international airports in Kenya, Tanzania, and Zanzibar?
- Kenya:
- Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) – Nairobi (main hub).
- Moi International Airport (MBA) – Mombasa.
- Tanzania:
- Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) – Dar es Salaam.
- Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) – Arusha/Moshi (gateway to Northern Circuit safaris and Mount Kilimanjaro).
- Zanzibar:
- Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) – Zanzibar City.
Which airlines fly to Kenya, Tanzania, and Zanzibar?
Several international and regional airlines serve these destinations:
- International Airlines:
- Qatar Airways, Emirates, Turkish Airlines, KLM, Ethiopian Airlines, British Airways, and Lufthansa.
- Regional Airlines:
- Kenya Airways, Precision Air, Air Tanzania, RwandAir, and Coastal Aviation (for smaller destinations).
- International Airlines:
Can I book direct flights to Zanzibar?
Yes, there are direct flights to Zanzibar from cities like Nairobi, Dar es Salaam, Doha, and Dubai. However, many international travelers first transit through major hubs in Kenya or Tanzania.
How do I travel between Kenya, Tanzania, and Zanzibar?
- Flights between Kenya and Tanzania:
- Kenya Airways and Precision Air operate direct flights between Nairobi (NBO) and Kilimanjaro (JRO) or Dar es Salaam (DAR).
- Flights to Zanzibar:
- Coastal Aviation, Precision Air, and Air Tanzania offer direct flights to Zanzibar from Nairobi, Kilimanjaro, and Dar es Salaam.
- Flights between Kenya and Tanzania:
How far in advance should I book my flights?
It’s best to book flights 3-6 months in advance for international travel, especially during peak seasons like June to October and December to February.
Are there domestic flights within Kenya and Tanzania?
Yes, both countries have well-connected domestic flight networks.
- Kenya:
- Airlines like Safarilink, AirKenya, and Jambojet connect Nairobi, Maasai Mara, Amboseli, and Mombasa.
- Tanzania:
- Coastal Aviation, Auric Air, and Precision Air offer flights between Kilimanjaro, Serengeti, Arusha, Dar es Salaam, and Zanzibar.
How long does it take to fly between these destinations?
- Nairobi (Kenya) to Kilimanjaro (Tanzania): 1 hour.
- Nairobi to Zanzibar: 1.5–2 hours.
- Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar: 20–30 minutes.
- Arusha (near Serengeti) to Zanzibar: 1.5 hours.
Do I need a visa for flights between Kenya, Tanzania, and Zanzibar?
Yes, travelers typically need a visa for entry into each country:
- Kenya and Tanzania offer a Visa on Arrival or e-visa.
- Zanzibar is part of Tanzania, so a Tanzania visa covers entry to Zanzibar.
If you’re traveling within the East African Community (EAC) (Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda), you can opt for a single East Africa Tourist Visa.
Are there baggage restrictions on domestic or regional flights?
Yes, many domestic and regional airlines have strict baggage policies:
- Weight Limits: Typically 15 kg (33 lbs) per passenger for checked luggage.
- Size Restrictions: Soft-sided bags are often recommended for small aircraft.
Check your airline’s specific policy.
What is the best time to book flights for safaris and beach holidays?
The best time depends on the season:
- High Season: Book early for June to October and December to February.
- Low Season: Enjoy discounts during the rainy months (March to May, November).
