Secure Cheap Flights to Kenya for Your Next African Adventure

This is the cool, dry season. It is the best time for safaris as animals gather around water holes and the Great Migration begins.

Short rains start in November, but September and October remain excellent for wildlife. Prices start to drop before the holiday rush.

This is the hottest time of year. It is perfect for beach holidays and diving, though flight prices are at their highest.

The long rainy season. While some lodges close, this is when you will find the absolute cheapest flights to Kenya.

Travelers from the United Kingdom no longer require a traditional visa but must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) before boarding their flight. You should apply through the official Kenyan government portal at least three days before departure, though a week is safer. The eTA is valid for a single entry. Ensure your passport has at least six months of validity from your date of arrival and at least two blank pages. Unlike the UK, where many processes are automated, you will still undergo a brief manual interview with an immigration officer upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. Keep a digital and printed copy of your eTA confirmation, as airlines will check this during check-in at London or Manchester.

Navigating Kenya is a different experience compared to the UK's rail-heavy system. For long distances, the SGR (Standard Gauge Railway) between Nairobi and Mombasa is excellent, modern, and reliable. Within cities, ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt are widely available and safer than hailing random taxis. For a local experience, 'matatus' (minibuses) are the backbone of Kenyan transport; they are cheap but can be chaotic and fast-paced. If you are heading on safari, most travelers use specialized 4x4 vehicles provided by tour operators. Driving is on the left side of the road, same as in the UK, but road conditions vary greatly once you leave the main highways. Domestic flights are a popular way to reach the coast or northern parks quickly, with several budget carriers operating from Wilson Airport in Nairobi.

While most visits are trouble-free, it is important to stay alert. In large cities like Nairobi, avoid walking at night and keep valuables out of sight. A common local scam involves 'friendly' strangers offering unsolicited help or directions, only to demand payment later. Always agree on taxi fares before starting the journey if not using an app. Be cautious with your phone in public places, as 'snatch and grab' thefts can occur in crowded areas. When on safari, always follow your guide's instructions; the animals are wild and dangerous. Stick to bottled water and ensure food is well-cooked to avoid 'Delhi belly' style issues. It is also wise to check the UK Foreign Office travel advice for specific regions, particularly near the borders, before finalizing your itinerary.

Kenyan food is hearty and flavorful. The national staple is 'Ugali', a maize flour porridge served with 'Sukuma Wiki' (collard greens) and grilled meat known as 'Nyama Choma'. On the coast, you will find a heavy Swahili influence with delicious coconut-based curries and spiced rice dishes like Pilau. Don't miss out on 'Mandazi', a Kenyan doughnut that goes perfectly with local tea. To explore like a local, visit a 'boma' or a local grill house rather than just eating in international hotels. For a unique photo and taste experience, head to a local coffee house in Nairobi to try world-renowned Kenyan beans. TICKETS.ME.UK recommends visiting the 'Carnivore' restaurant for a famous meat feast or finding a small coastal shack for the freshest grilled snapper you have ever tasted.