Safarilink Aviation is one of Kenya’s most recognized domestic airlines, specializing in bush and safari flights connecting Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to the Masai Mara, Diani, Amboseli, Samburu, Lamu, and other premier destinations. If you’re considering flying Safarilink, here’s an in-depth look at every aspect of the service and passenger experience.
Safarilink Reviews: Real Passenger Feedback
Traveler reviews of Safarilink consistently praise its scenic routes, friendly staff, and the excitement of flying directly to remote safari airstrips. Many highlight:
- Convenient and Punctual Operations: Flights typically depart on time from Wilson Airport, with simple, fast check-in procedures. The smaller, less crowded airport environment is a plus for many.
- Safari Adventure: Passengers love the “flying safari” element—spotting wildlife from above and landing on bush runways surrounded by nature.
- Professionalism: Crews are described as polite, attentive, and reassuring. Small gestures like providing bottled water add to the positive experience.
- Areas for Improvement: Some travelers report occasional delays, strict baggage enforcement (especially the 15 kg soft-bag rule), and minimal airport amenities. Cabin comfort is basic, and turbulence can be expected on small aircraft, especially during the rainy season.
Bottom line: Safarilink earns strong ratings from adventure travelers, families, and groups who want efficiency, reliability, and the thrill of bush flying.
Safarilink Customer Service: Contact & Support
Safarilink’s customer service is designed to be responsive and supportive before, during, and after your journey.
- Contact Methods: Reach customer care by phone, email, or in person at their Wilson Airport office or partner desks in other destinations.
- Support Offered: Assistance with booking, flight changes, lost & found, special requests (mobility needs, children, pet travel), and flight status updates.
- On-the-Ground Help: Airport staff guide you through check-in, baggage policies, and boarding, and are available to answer questions about connections or weather-related delays.
Tip: For fastest service, provide your booking reference when contacting customer care and reconfirm baggage and schedule details before traveling, especially during the rainy season.
Is Safarilink Safe? Safety Record Explained
Safety is a top priority for Safarilink, which has built its reputation on reliable bush operations.
- Professional Pilots: All flight crew meet strict regulatory and company standards, with recurrent training and check rides.
- Maintenance: Aircraft undergo regular inspections by certified engineers at Wilson Airport, with routine audits by Kenya Civil Aviation Authority.
- Incidents: While rare, any operational incidents are handled with transparency, and the airline is quick to reinforce or upgrade safety protocols as needed. Notably, in the event of a widely reported Dash 8 incident, all passengers and crew were safe, and the response was commended.
- Bush Flying Standards: Safarilink pilots are experienced in landing on unpaved, wildlife-prone runways and are trained for emergency scenarios unique to safari flying.
Travelers can fly with confidence knowing Safarilink maintains international and national aviation safety standards.
Safarilink Fleet: Aircraft Types & Comfort
Safarilink operates a modern, safari-suited fleet to connect travelers with Kenya’s top destinations.
- Cessna 208B Grand Caravan:
- 11–12 seats; the workhorse for short bush strips.
- Large windows for sightseeing, reliable in rugged conditions.
- De Havilland Dash 8 (100/200/300/315):
- 35–52 seats; used for high-volume or longer routes (coast, group charters).
- Pressurized, offering a smoother ride and more comfort than smaller planes.
Cabin Comfort: Expect basic, clean seating and large windows—perfect for scenic views but no frills. Soft-sided bags only due to limited cargo holds. The Dash 8 fleet offers a bit more space and a smoother ride.
Inflight Experience on Safarilink
What’s it like on board Safarilink?
- Scenic Flights: Windows on all seats offer panoramic views—sometimes even of wildlife en route or on the runway.
- Simple Service: Expect bottled water and a welcoming crew. There are no meals, in-flight entertainment, or premium cabin classes.
- Adventurous Landings: Flying into bush strips adds excitement and authenticity to the journey.
- Short Flights: Most trips last under an hour, minimizing the need for extensive inflight amenities.
Travelers describe the experience as efficient, safe, and memorable—making the flight part of the adventure.
How Safarilink Pilots Are Trained
Safarilink’s pilots are among the most skilled bush aviators in the region.
- Rigorous Selection: Pilots must hold commercial licenses and significant bush flying experience.
- Recurrent Training: Regular simulator and real-world training covers bush airstrip approaches, wildlife hazards, and emergency scenarios.
- Safety Drills: Frequent safety briefings and scenario training ensure pilots are prepared for any eventuality.
- Customer Care: Pilots are also chosen for their communication skills and are trained to keep passengers calm and informed, especially in unexpected situations.
Final Thoughts
Safarilink delivers a distinctly Kenyan safari experience—combining the excitement of bush flying with safety, professionalism, and personalized service. While you shouldn’t expect luxury, you can count on an efficient, scenic, and reliable journey that gets you close to the action, whether you’re heading to the Mara, the coast, or beyond.