Main Flight Hubs in East Africa and Southern Africa

Flying into Africa is relatively straightforward, with various international and national airports serving as key gateways to remote islands and iconic safari destinations. Knowing which airport best serves your chosen destinations is essential for planning your trip.

If you don’t have a preferred flight agent, we can connect you with an experienced one who has helped many of our clients.

East Africa

There are direct flights to Nairobi from New York, but many times there are more economical flights through Europe or other African gateways, and some of those can get you closer to your eventual destination. We will work with you to assist in selecting the best option for your situation.

Nairobi (Jomo Kenyatta International Airport) – Kenya

Nairobi, Kenya’s capital, is the main flight hub for East Africa. If you’re heading to destinations like the Masai Mara, Uganda, Rwanda, or Tanzania (including Zanzibar), Nairobi will likely be your first stop. From here, travelers can transfer to Wilson Airport for regional and inter-camp light aircraft flights.

Dar es Salaam (Julius Nyerere International Airport) – Tanzania

As Tanzania’s primary flight hub, Dar es Salaam is ideal if you’re traveling to Zanzibar, Pemba Island, or the Selous Game Reserve. For the northern safari circuit, including Mount Kilimanjaro and Serengeti, you can transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha Airport for regional flights.

Southern Africa

There are direct flights to Johannesburg from New York, Washington DC, and Atlanta. There are connections to many safari destinations from Johannesburg, and several other cities. We will work with you to assist in selecting the best option for your situation.

Johannesburg (OR Tambo International Airport) – South Africa

As Africa’s premier flight hub, OR Tambo serves as the gateway to all major Southern African destinations, including Kruger National Park, Victoria Falls, Botswana, and Madagascar.

Cape Town International Airport – South Africa

Cape Town International serves South Africa’s Cape destinations such as Cape Town, the Whale Coast, and the Cape Winelands. It is also the gateway to the Garden Route and Eastern Cape. For those visiting Namibia and Botswana, Cape Town is another key access point.

By choosing the appropriate flight hub, you can seamlessly reach your safari destinations across East and Southern Africa.