Airports Near Nairobi
Looking for the nearest airport to Nairobi? Nairobi is served by a couple of airports located in different directions around the city. With two airports within a 50-mile radius, you still have solid options to choose from. Here's a quick guide to help you find the one that best suits your travel plans.
What Is the Closest Airport to Nairobi?
The closest airport to Nairobi is Wilson Airport (WIL), a medium-sized airport located approximately 2.7 miles (4.3 km) south of the city center. The driving distance is about 3.4 miles (5.5 km), which typically takes around 10 minutes by car.
If you're looking for better connectivity, the nearest major airport is Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO), located about 8.1 miles (13 km) east of Nairobi in a straight line. The driving distance is around 10.8 miles (17.3 km), with an average travel time of about 19 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
Wilson Airport (WIL)
IATA: WIL · ICAO: HKNW
Direct Distance 📏
2.7 miles
4.3 kilometers
Driving Distance 🚗
3.4 miles
5.5 kilometers
Driving Time 🕓
10 min
Direction ➤
South
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO)
Located 8.1 miles (13 km) east of the city.
Direct Distance 📏
8.1 miles
13 kilometers
Driving Distance 🚗
10.8 miles
17.3 kilometers
Driving Time 🕓
19 min
Direction ➤
East
Nearby airports to Nairobi
| Airport | Iata Code | Location | Distance | Driving Distance | Driving Time | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wilson Airport | WIL | Nairobi | 2.7 mi (4.3 km) | 3.4 mi (5.5 km) | 10 min | Medium-sized |
| Jomo Kenyatta International Airport | NBO | Nairobi | 8.1 mi (13 km) | 10.8 mi (17.3 km) | 19 min | Large |
| Nakuru Airport | NUU | Nakuru | 81.8 mi (131.7 km) | 92.5 mi (148.9 km) | 2 h 3 min | Small |
| Nanyuki Airport | NYK | Nanyuki | 85.8 mi (138 km) | 119.4 mi (192.1 km) | 2 h 51 min | Medium-sized |
| Amboseli Airport | ASV | Amboseli | 98.8 mi (159 km) | 144.1 mi (231.9 km) | 3 h 56 min | Medium-sized |
| Mara Serena Airport | MRE | Maasai Mara | 125.2 mi (201.5 km) | 171.7 mi (276.3 km) | 4 h 42 min | Medium-sized |
| Mulika Lodge Airport | JJM | Meru-Kinna | 138.2 mi (222.3 km) | 192.9 mi (310.4 km) | 5 h 47 min | Small |
| Arusha Airport | ARK | Arusha | 144.6 mi (232.7 km) | 165.7 mi (266.7 km) | 3 h 28 min | Medium-sized |
| Kilimanjaro International Airport | JRO | Kilimanjaro | 149.3 mi (240.4 km) | 202.3 mi (325.5 km) | 4 h 34 min | Medium-sized |
Closest Airports to Other Cities Near Nairobi
Planning to travel somewhere else in the region? Find the closest airport to these nearby cities:
General Airport Travel Tips
- Allow enough time: It's generally recommended to arrive at the airport 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights.
- Check your terminal: Confirm your departure terminal before heading to the airport, especially at larger airports.
- Airport selection: When choosing between multiple airports, consider flight availability, prices, and proximity to your final destination.
- Transportation options: Research transportation options to and from the airport including public transit, taxis, rideshares, or car rentals.
- Check flight status: Always verify your flight status before heading to the airport as schedules can change.
When planning your trip to Nairobi, choosing the right airport can help ensure a smoother travel experience. Consider all available options based on your specific needs.