Kenya Safari from Australia: Flights, Costs and the Best Time to Go

Australians travel a long way to reach East Africa, so they tend to plan longer, richer trips, and they're right to. If you're planning a Kenya safari from Australia or New Zealand, this guide explains how to get there, how long to stay and how to get the most from every day.

How to fly from Australia to Kenya

There are no nonstop flights from Australia to Kenya, but one-stop connections work well:

• Via the Middle East: Qatar Airways through Doha or Emirates through Dubai, from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide.
• Via Johannesburg: fly to South Africa, then connect to Nairobi with Kenya Airways or another regional carrier.
• Via Asia or Addis Ababa: other one-stop options depending on your city and the season.

Allow roughly 20–26 hours door to door. Kenya is 7–8 hours behind eastern Australia, so we suggest a rest night in Nairobi on arrival. Our safaris include airport transfers.

How long should an Australian safari be?

Given the journey, we recommend 10–14 days. That's enough for:

• the Masai Mara plus Amboseli, Lake Nakuru or Samburu in Kenya
• an add-on to Tanzania's Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater
• or a few days of beach recovery in Diani or Zanzibar before the long flight home.

The 12-Day Ultimate East Africa itinerary combines all three. For Kenya only, start with the 6-Day Kenya Classic and add extra nights. See also our 10-day Kenya and Tanzania itinerary.

Costs for Australian travellers

Safaris are priced in US dollars. A private mid-range safari is typically USD 350–550 per person per day including vehicle, guide, park fees and full-board lodges. Read the full Kenya safari cost guide, and remember to budget separately for international flights, travel insurance, visas and tips.

Best time to go from Australia

Australia's winter school holidays (late June to July) line up with the start of the Great Migration in the Masai Mara, when river crossings typically run from July to October. The September–October school holidays are also excellent. The Australian summer (December–February) is Kenya's short dry season, which is great for game viewing and the beach.

Entry and health

Australian and New Zealand passport holders need a Kenya Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) before travel, and a Tanzania e-visa if crossing the border. Check Smartraveller (or SafeTravel for New Zealanders) for current advice. See a travel doctor about malaria prevention and vaccinations. If you're transiting through a yellow-fever country, ask whether you need a certificate.

Make the long flight worth it

• Stay longer in fewer places. Three nights in the Mara beats two nights in three parks.
• Mix road and air. A short bush flight saves a full day of driving.
• Add a celebration. Many Australian couples combine a safari with a honeymoon or anniversary. See honeymoon safaris.

Build your own safari or contact us for a tailor-made quote.