Using charter flights on your next safari

In English, the word safari has come to mean a journey for observing wild animals. But the word ‘safari’ originates from Swahili and Arabic and means journey or trip. Given this, it seems logical that all aspects of the safari journey, not just the time spent on game drives, should be as enjoyable and thrilling as the game drives themselves. Incorporating charter flights in an African safari is a great way to elevate the safari experience, both literally and figuratively. 

Saving time, seeing more

Across East Africa’s vast and varied landscapes, time is one of a traveler’s most valuable resources. From the plains of the Maasai Mara and Serengeti to the peaks of Laikipia, the white sands of Diani or Zanzibar, and the rugged shores of Lake Turkana, charter flights offer an efficient and rewarding way to experience it all. Charter flights turn long, tiring road trips into short, beautiful journeys through the sky. What might take five or six hours by road—say, from Nairobi to Amboseli—becomes a comfortable 45-minute flight with stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro.

From Wilson Airport, travelers can reach Laikipia, Samburu or Nanyuki in under an hour, or head west to the lush highlands and lakes of Western Kenya. The same aircraft can then connect guests to Maasai Mara, Mombasa, or Diani Beach—combining bush, beach, and everything in between in one smooth itinerary. For adventurers, even distant destinations like Sibiloi National Park on the edge of Lake Turkana, become easily accessible and unlock areas that few travelers ever reach.

Comfort, flexibility and privacy

Flying private means traveling entirely on your schedule—no fixed departure times, no waiting in crowded departure lounges, and no missed connections. Private Sky Charters' Cessna Caravan EX, which seats up to 12 passengers plus two crew, is perfect for both groups and individuals who value comfort, privacy, and flexibility. The aircraft’s ability to operate from remote bush strips makes it ideal for safari circuits, while its cabin space and range offer reliability on longer legs to the coast or northern Kenya. Every flight is tailored to suit the client’s timing, preferences and destination.

A journey through the sky

A flight across Kenya is an experience in itself. From above, travelers witness wildebeest crossing rivers, flamingos coloring the Rift Valley lakes pink, and volcanic craters giving way to endless savannah. These aerial views turn travel time into breathtaking extension of the safari. 

From above, travelers witness elephants crossing rivers, flamingos coloring the Rift Valley lakes pink, and volcanic craters giving way to endless savanna. These aerial views turn travel time into a breathtaking extension of the safari.

Empty leg flights—smart and sustainable

Empty leg flights are a great way to enjoy private air travel at discounted rates. These are return or repositioning flights available when an aircraft would otherwise fly empty. Because empty legs work best as a lucky-timing option for flexible travelers—they’re perfect for travelers with flexible plans—offering significant savings and a more sustainable option by reducing unnecessary fuel use. The limitation is that empty legs operate on pre-set routes and dates. For guests who can adapt their schedule, it’s a cost-effective and eco-conscious way to explore Kenya’s wild beauty from above. 

Sample charter itinerary—A classic Kenya circuit

This itinerary demonstrates the versatility of charter flying—linking Kenya’s most diverse ecosystems quickly and comfortably. Guests are able to enjoy world-class safari experiences, highland conservancies and relaxing beach time, all within one seamless journey. 

Day 1: Depart from Nairobi Wilson Airport to the Maasai Mara—Kenya's premier safari destination, renowned for exceptional game viewing and open savannah landscapes. 
Day 4: Fly from Maasai Mara to Laikipia or Nanyuki, exploring private conservancies, dramatic highland scenery and rhino sanctuaries.
Day 7: Continue south with a direct flight to the Kenyan coast (Diani Beach or Mombasa), transitioning from safari adventure to coastal relaxation along the Indian Ocean.
Day 10: Return from the coast to Nairobi Wilson Airport, completing the journey is comfort and style. 
Optional extension: Add a flight to Samburu National Reserve, Sibiloi National Park or Western Kenya for a glimpse of remote, untamed beauty.

Sample charter itinerary—Kenya and Tanzania combination

For travelers who wish to extend their safari experience beyond Kenya’s borders for instance, exploring deeper into the Serengeti after an unforgettable stay in the Maasai Mara Private Sky Charters provides a seamless air connection that transforms a long, multi-day drive into a smooth, scenic journey across two countries. A typical routing for such a safari adventure could be:> (Wilson – Maasai Mara – Kisumu – Musoma – Serengeti)

• Nairobi (Wilson Airport) – Maasai Mara (45 minutes of flight time)
• Maasai Mara – Kisumu for customs clearance (25 minutes flight time, 30 minutes on ground)
• Kisumu – Musoma, Tanzania for entry clearance (40 minutes flight time, 30 minutes on ground)
• Musoma – Serengeti (35 minutes flight time

This routing allows guests to experience the very best of the region in one continuous journey—from Kenya’s rolling savannahs to Tanzania’s vast, wildlife-rich plains. The operations team coordinates all logistics and customs arrangements in advance, ensuring a smooth transition at every point. The result is a travel experience that is not only efficient but also breathtakingly beautiful, as guests enjoy sweeping aerial views of two of the continent’s most iconic safari landscapes.

Discover more on safari with a charter flight

Charter flights redefine how travelers experience East Africa—opening up vast distances, saving time, and revealing the country’s beauty from a new perspective. With chartered flights, every flight is designed around your journey, whether it’s from the savanna to the sea or from remote deserts to bustling cities.

For those seeking freedom, flexibility, and unforgettable views, flying private across East Africa isn’t just a way to travel, it’s a journey in itself. If you're interested in charter flights and potentially taking advantage of empty leg flights, be sure to ask your tour operator or guide if they can check for availablity during your scheduled safari dates. 

About Private Sky Charters

Based at Wilson Airport in Nairobi, Private Sky Charters specializes in connecting guests to Kenya and Tanzania’s most iconic and remote destinations. Whether it’s a luxury safari, a photographic expedition, or an executive transfer, their aim is simple: make every journey seamless, scenic and personal.