One of the great joys of an East African safari is that the adventure begins the moment you take off. Light aircraft flights connect Kenya and northern Tanzania’s most iconic parks and coastlines, all while offering stunning views of the landscape below. From savannah to sea, mountain to market town, there’s a route to match every kind of traveler.
Here are some of the best safari flight routes and circuits to keep in mind as you plan your East African adventure:
Nairobi – Masai Mara – Amboseli – Coast
This circuit offers a sweeping overview of Kenya’s most legendary landscapes. You’ll start in Nairobi, head into the big cat territory of the Mara, then on to Amboseli for those classic elephant-under-Kilimanjaro shots, before wrapping it up with sandy toes on the Swahili Coast. It’s a real ‘best of Kenya’ route, perfect for first-timers.
Nairobi – Nanyuki (Laikipia) – Masai Mara – Coast
This route takes you into the heart of northern Kenya’s conservation success stories. Fly from Nairobi up to Laikipia’s private conservancies around Nanyuki, where rhino conservation and community-led tourism shine. From there, it’s an easy hop down to the Mara and then on to the coast to round it all out with some beach bliss.
Nairobi – Masai Mara – Coast
A favourite for guests looking to balance a bit of wildlife with a lot of downtime. You’ll hit the Mara’s game-rich plains, then fly straight to the beach without having to route back through Nairobi. It’s one of the smoothest and most time-efficient itineraries out there.
Coast – Amboseli – Masai Mara – Nairobi
Ideal for those starting with a beach holiday and then heading inland. Begin with a few lazy days at the coast, then fly directly to Amboseli for elephants and epic views. Continue on to the Mara, and finally return to Nairobi—either for your international flight or to add a city stay at the end.
Nairobi – Amboseli – Coast
For travelers short on time but wanting contrast, this is a great pick. You’ll go from Nairobi to Amboseli for a couple of days in the bush, then straight to the beach to relax. It’s a satisfying mix of scenery and pace.
Nairobi – Masai Mara – Serengeti (via Tarime/Migori border) – Arusha/Kilimanjaro
For those looking to combine Kenya and Tanzania, this route is an adventurous dream. Start in Nairobi, spend time in the Mara, and then fly across the border (with a quick Tarime/Migori road transfer) into the Serengeti. You’ll finish in Arusha or Kilimanjaro—ready for your flight out or a climb up Africa’s tallest peak. It’s a brilliant cross-border circuit that ties together two of the world’s most iconic safari landscapes.
Flying around East Africa isn’t just a convenient way to travel—it’s part of the safari magic. You’ll spot wildlife from the air, avoid long road transfers, and touch down on bush airstrips where giraffes might be the first to greet you. With so many well-connected routes and creative combinations, the sky really is the limit.
Ready to map out your perfect safari circuit?
Drop Jim or Charley an email at jim@ololosafaris.com or charley@ololosafaris.com, or send us a quick WhatsApp on +254 792 606919 (Jim) or +254 111 855374 (Charley)—we’d love to help you plan something special.
Kenya
