Landing at Nairobi Airport: Guide and Plastic Bag Ban Warning

Navigating your arrival and departure in Kenya

So, you booked your dream holiday to Kenya. You will visit the city, and then get picked up by your 4x4 and head off to the Masai Mara or Samburu. Good for you! But first step first, let me help you get past airport security.

So when you land. You will need to have your ETA for Kenya ready, as that will be your first navigation hurdle. After passing security you will have to collect your luggage.

By this time, you are tired, and you have been on the plane, and you want to start your holiday, but wait. 

As you want to depart the airport, there is a security check - basically, just before the final exit.

What!?

Yes. 

But it is a check only for your hand luggage.  Not your checked baggage.

Why?

Well. Kenya has a strict "no plastic bag" policy which it enforces at the airport. If you have plastic bags in your luggage you will have to remove them. 

Note: Clear, small ziplock bags for your flight toiletries are usually permitted, but do not bring standard carrier bags, duty-free bags, or plastic grocery packaging! 

The line can get a bit messy for the exit. People do not want to queue and there were some strong words exchanged last time I was there. But, actually, the line goes by very quickly if you are prepared with only your hand luggage. It is the people that start to put all the suitcases in the machine that hold up the line. 

So be warned. 

1. Do not take plastic bags to Kenya

2. Only put your hand luggage in the final security check.

What about when I go back home?

Well departing Kenya does mean a lot of checks too. What can get frustrating is that when you enter the airport there are checks and the security staff do not like any beeps. 

You must remove your laptop and put it in a tray on its own. 

To get through the security screens..

I had to take off

• All jewellery

• Belt

• Hair clip

• Watch

• Shoes 

In order for me to pass which was time consuming and there is no space to change and get ready again.

Follow these signs to get you through security.

Then after this security check there is the official security check (immigration) which is tough.

Why?

Because you have to do the same thing again. You cannot beep passing the scanners and have to take everything off, including your watches. Shoes must be put in a separate box, as should your laptop. But when you have done all of that you are free...

Go enjoy the airport and relax!

Heading to the Taita Hills next? See how our safari group gave back to a local school.