Travel between Kenya and Uganda just became a whole lot easier. Safarilink Aviation has officially introduced direct flights between Kisumu and Entebbe. This creates a smooth one-hour connection across Lake Victoria.
For anyone who has spent long hours on the road or navigated busy border points, this new service is a refreshing upgrade. You no longer need to fly back to Nairobi just to reach Uganda. You can now hop across the lake in minutes.
This connection links Kisumu International Airport with Entebbe International Airport. Kisumu is a fast-growing lakeside hub in western Kenya. Entebbe is Uganda’s main gateway.
Whether you are exploring the Kenyan lake region, heading to Kampala, or planning a combined Uganda–Rwanda trip, this new route adds flexibility to your itinerary.
Why This Route Matters
For travellers, this is not just another flight opening. It is a practical solution to a common travel challenge.
The old way of travelling between Western Kenya and Uganda was tough. You had two choices. You could drive to the Busia or Malaba border. This often meant sitting in a bus for over ten hours. You dealt with heat, dust, and unpredictable delays at immigration.
Your other option was flying. But that meant flying away from your destination to Nairobi first. Then you had to wait for a connection to Entebbe. It wasted time and money.
The new Kisumu–Entebbe flight cuts down hours of travel time. It gives you a quick, direct option that fits perfectly into East Africa’s expanding tourism network.
Tourists can now:
Plan multi-country trips with less hassle.
Combine Kisumu, Entebbe, Kampala, and even Rwanda in a single itinerary.
Connect easily to safaris, lakeside attractions, and major cities.
Business travellers also benefit from a fast and reliable route. It makes cross-border movement efficient and stress-free.
The Flight Experience: What to Expect
Safarilink is known for its reliable service and extensive network of safari destinations. This new route uses their comfortable aircraft to hop over Lake Victoria.
The views from the window are spectacular. You take off from the lush landscapes of Kisumu. You fly over the shimmering waters of Africa’s largest lake. You land on the peninsula of Entebbe.
The flight takes roughly 45 minutes to one hour.
Flight Schedule Safarilink generally operates this route with morning departures. This allows you to arrive in Entebbe before noon. You have the rest of the day to explore or travel onward to Kampala.
Depart Kisumu: Mid-morning
Arrive Entebbe: Before lunch
(Check the official Safarilink website for the most current times as schedules can change).
This timing is perfect. You avoid the early morning rush. You also arrive early enough to transfer to other destinations like Jinja or Kibale Forest.
Practical Tips for Your Trip
1. Get the East Africa Tourist Visa This is the most important document for this trip. The East Africa Tourist Visa (EATV) allows you to travel between Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda on a single visa.
Cost: $100 USD.
Validity: 90 days.
Rule: You must apply through the country you enter first. If you start in Kenya, apply through the Kenyan e-visa portal.
This visa saves you from paying separate visa fees for each country. It is much cheaper than buying three individual visas.
2. Check Luggage Allowances Safarilink uses smaller aircraft like the Cessna Caravan. These planes have strict luggage limits.
Usually, soft bags are required.
The weight limit is often 15kg (including hand luggage).
Avoid hard-shell suitcases as they may not fit in the cargo hold.
3. Book in Advance This route is popular with both business people and tourists. Seats are limited because the planes are small. Book your ticket at least a few weeks early to secure your spot.
4. Yellow Fever Card You must have a valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate. You will be asked to show this when you land in Entebbe. Keep it in your hand luggage.
A Boost for East Africa Travel
This new service supports regional tourism by improving access to destinations around Lake Victoria.
From Uganda’s national parks to Kenya’s cultural attractions, travellers now have a simple way to move between the two countries. You avoid the congestion of Nairobi. You skip the fatigue of long road trips.
Safarilink’s Kisumu–Entebbe launch is a welcome addition for anyone who loves exploring East Africa. It is faster. It is more convenient. It opens up new travel possibilities.
Whether you are planning a weekend getaway, a business trip, or a multi-country adventure, this flight is your best option.
