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How to Get to Diani Beach

How to Get to Diani Beach

Diani Beach Kenya Travel Guide

Air Travel to Diani

Airports Serving Diani

Diani Beach has two main airports: Moi International Airport (MBA) in Mombasa and Ukunda Airstrip (UKA) in Diani.

Airport Locations

  • Moi International Airport (MBA): About 30 km north of Diani, serving international and domestic flights.
  • Ukunda Airstrip (UKA): Located directly in Diani, serving flights primarily from Nairobi.
  • MBA requires a ferry crossing, UKA offers direct access to Diani.

Airlines & Routes

International airlines like Qatar Airways and Ethiopian Airlines travel by air to MBA. Domestic airlines connect Nairobi to the two MBA and UKA.

Flight Options

  • International to MBA: Ethiopian Airlines, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Kenya Airways.
  • Domestic to MBA/UKA: Kenya Airways (NBO-MBA), Safarilink Aviation (WIL-UKA), AirKenya Express (WIL-UKA), Jambojet (NBO-MBA).
  • Most travelers from outside Africa connect through major European, Middle Eastern, or African hubs.

Seasonal Flights

Flight prices peak during high season (July-Oct, Dec-Feb), with highest fares around Christmas. Low season (Apr-May) generally haves more affordable tickets. Consider platforms like Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner when searching for the best fares.

Airport Facilities

MBA provides currency exchange, ATMs, duty-free shops, car rental, and restaurants. UKA has more basic facilities, featuring a small waiting area.

Airport Transfers

Pre-booking private transfers from MBA to Diani is advisable. Taxis and tuk-tuks are readily available from UKA.

Transfer Options from Airports

From Moi International Airport MBA

  • Taxi/Private Transfer: Most convenient. Pre-book through your hotel. Costs KES 3,000-6,000 (US$25-50).
  • Likoni Ferry: Journey includes going across the Likoni ferry (can have queues). Travel time 1.5-3 hours.
  • Ride-sharing Apps (Bolt/Uber): Available but drivers may be hesitant to cross the ferry.
  • Matatu/Bus: Cheapest but complex, not recommended with luggage due to several transfers.

From Ukunda Airstrip UKA

  • Taxi/Tuk-tuk: Short drive (5-20 minutes) from UKA to Diani resorts.
  • Taxis and tuk-tuks are readily available just outside the airstrip.
  • Negotiate fare beforehand. A taxi might cost KES 500-1,500 (US$4-12).
  • Direct access to Diani Beach area.

Land Transportation Insights

Train Travel

The "Madaraka Express" connects Nairobi to Mombasa (5-6 hours). From Mombasa SGR Terminus, taxi to Likoni boat and next to Diani.

Bus Connections

Numerous bus lines connect Mombasa to Nairobi and other significant towns. Local buses from Mombasa to Likoni ferry are available.

Self-Driving Notes

International Driving Permit is needed. Drive on the left. The state of the roads changes. Night driving is not recommended.

Land Journeys

Road Travel & Safety

While Diani Beach is a coastal destination, land transport connects it to other parts of Kenya.

Driving Conditions

  • Main roads are generally good, but area-specific roads can be rough with potholes.
  • Likoni ferry crossing might experience long queues, causing delays.
  • Night operating a vehicle is not recommended due to poor lighting and obstacles.

Vehicle Rentals

Hiring a car offers freedom but includes considerations. Understand the requirements and local conditions for driving.

Rental Information

  • Car rental: IDP, national license, credit card. Minimum age 23-25. Prices US$40-80/day. Consider booking through platforms like DiscoverCars.com for competitive rates.
  • Motorcycle/Scooter: Available from local vendors. Needs a valid motorcycle license.
  • Bicycle: No formal sharing programs. Some resorts and local shops offer rentals.

Border Crossings

This data is not directly relevant for arrival in Diani. For travel to Tanzania, use the Lunga Lunga/Horohoro border post south of Ukunda.

Border Notes

  • Always confirm visa and entry requirements for any country you plan to visit.
  • Border post hours can vary; plan your crossings accordingly.
  • Be prepared for potential queues and verification procedures at border points.

Sea & River Arrivals

The Likoni Ferry connects Mombasa Island southward coast, including Diani. It transports vehicles and people on foot across the channel 24/7.

Water Transport Notes

  • Mombasa has a cruise terminal (Mombasa Port).
  • River transportation is not valid for Diani Beach, as it is mainly coastal.
  • No regular ferry services operate directly from the where the cruise ships dock to Diani.

Departure Logistics

  • No official exit fees or taxes apply; these are usually included in your air ticket prices.
  • International Flights (MBA): Arrive at Moi International Airport at least 3 hours before departure.
  • Allow ample the time to Likoni ferry crossing; factor in potential delays, which can be an hour or more during peak times.
  • Domestic Flights (UKA): Arrive at Ukunda Airstrip at least 1 hour before departure.
  • Follow standard procedures for check-in, security screening, and immigration for international flights.
  • Moi International Airport (MBA) offers restaurants, cafes, shops, and lounges. Ukunda Airstrip (UKA) provides a basic waiting area.

Departure Logistics

Departure Planning

No official exit fees or taxes apply; these are generally included in your air ticket prices.

Timing Your Departure

  • International Flights (MBA): Arrive at least 3 hours before departure.
  • Allow ample time for Likoni ferry crossing, factor in potential delays (1+ hour peak).
  • Domestic Flights (UKA): Arrive at least 1 hour before departure.

Airport Facilities

Airport and station facilities ensure a comfortable wait for departing travelers.

Services for Travelers

  • Moi International Airport (MBA): Offers standard airport facilities, including restaurants, cafes, shops, and lounges.
  • Ukunda Airstrip (UKA): Provides a basic waiting section for departing travelers.
  • Follow standard check-in, security screening, and immigration procedures for international flights.

Local Transport for Departure

Taxi & Tuk-tuk

Readily available in holiday resorts. Confirm fare before beginning the journey. Pre-book for early morning flights.

Ride-sharing Apps

Bolt and Uber are options. Verify driver and vehicle details for safety.

Hotel Transfers

Numerous hotels provide airport transfer services, specifically for MBA. Inquire upon booking accommodation.

Final Travel Tip

For airport transfers, particularly from Moi International Airport, always account for potential delays at the Likoni ferry crossing, particularly during peak hours.

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