Starting July 2, 2025, Kenya Airways will expand its UK flight offerings by introducing a new direct route between London Gatwick Airport and Nairobi, Kenya’s capital city. This thrice-weekly service, operating on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, will complement the existing daily flights from London Heathrow, increasing the total weekly connections between the two cities to ten. The new route offers travelers greater flexibility and convenience, with one-way economy fares starting from £360 and a flight duration of just under nine hours. Kenya Airways sees the UK as a strategically important market, serving as a crucial link for trade, tourism, education, and diaspora connections. This expansion reflects the airline’s commitment to strengthening its presence in the UK and providing more travel options for its passengers. The airline has hinted at the possibility of introducing further UK services, though no specific details have been confirmed.
Kenya, with its diverse offerings, presents a compelling destination for travelers seeking a blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. Renowned for its world-class safari experiences, Kenya is one of the few places globally where visitors can witness the “Big Five” – lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, and buffalos – in their natural habitat. Beyond the savannas, Kenya boasts a picturesque coastline along the Indian Ocean, offering opportunities for beach relaxation, snorkeling, and diving. The country’s rich cultural heritage, exemplified by the UNESCO World Heritage site of Lamu Old Town, provides a glimpse into the traditions of local tribes and the historical tapestry of the region.
Nairobi, the capital city, serves as a vibrant hub where wildlife encounters and cultural exploration converge. Day trips to Nairobi National Park offer the chance to observe animals in a natural setting, while the Giraffe Centre provides up-close interactions with these graceful creatures. The city enjoys a mild climate, with temperatures typically ranging between 10°C and 26°C. Coastal regions, such as Mombasa, experience warmer temperatures year-round, ranging from 23°C to 35°C. The dry season, spanning from May to October, is considered the ideal time to visit Kenya, characterized by high temperatures and minimal rainfall.
Kenya’s accessibility further enhances its appeal as a travel destination. English and Swahili are the official languages, facilitating communication for English-speaking tourists. The local currency is the Kenyan Shilling (KES), with an exchange rate of approximately 181 KES to £1. British citizens can enter Kenya with an e-visa, which is obtained electronically. Passports must be valid for at least six months from the arrival date and contain at least two blank pages. While the UK government generally considers Kenya a safe destination, it advises against travel to specific areas near the Kenya-Somali border and certain counties due to security concerns.
The resurgence of Kenya as a popular holiday destination is evident in the reintroduction of travel packages by tour operators like TUI, following a hiatus during the COVID-19 pandemic. Seven-night all-inclusive holidays during peak season are available from £1,215 per person, providing an attractive option for travelers seeking a comprehensive and hassle-free vacation experience. Kenya’s diverse offerings, ranging from thrilling safaris to relaxing beach getaways and cultural immersions, cater to a wide range of travel preferences, solidifying its position as a sought-after destination for adventure, relaxation, and exploration.
The new Gatwick route signifies Kenya Airways’ ongoing efforts to enhance connectivity between the UK and Kenya, catering to the growing demand for travel between the two countries. The increased flight options provide greater convenience and flexibility for travelers, whether they are visiting Kenya for business, leisure, or to connect with family and friends. The airline’s focus on expanding its network and providing a seamless travel experience underscores its commitment to serving the UK market and strengthening its position as a leading carrier in the region. This expansion comes at a time when other airlines, such as easyJet and Jet2, are also expanding their services from UK airports, reflecting the growing demand for air travel and the increasing competition within the industry. With its diverse attractions and improved accessibility, Kenya is poised to attract a growing number of visitors from the UK and beyond.
