Flying from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Nairobi: what you need to know
San Francisco International Airport is located in San Francisco. Based in the UTC+3 timezone, Nairobi is 11 hours ahead of San Francisco.
To avoid rushing for your SFO to Nairobi flight, allow plenty of time to check in and drop off your luggage. Arriving two hours ahead of international departures and one hour before domestic flights is the general rule.
During popular months such as July, it's wise to get to the airport earlier than usual. Plan to arrive two hours before domestic departures and four hours ahead of an international flight when you fly during a peak period in general.
We make it simple to book plane tickets from SFO to Nairobi with a stopover. To see your options, uncheck 'Direct flights only.' Next, select a flight offering a stop long enough to see the sights of your chosen city. The most sought-after stopovers include:
London Heathrow Airport (LHR)
Frankfurt Airport (FRA)
Mumbai Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport (BOM)
SFO is around 18 kilometres from central San Francisco. If you're driving, ride-sharing or catching a taxi from the centre, it'll take 25 minutes or so to get there, depending on the traffic. If you're taking public transport, expect the trip time to be around 35 minutes.
Looking for a hotel near SFO? If you've booked an early flight from San Francisco International Airport to Nairobi, these stays will get you from your pillow to the plane in no time:
Of all flights leaving San Francisco International Airport, 78% land on time at their destination.
How to find the cheapest flights from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Nairobi
R 9,152 is the lowest price we've seen for a one-way San Francisco International Airport to Nairobi flight. A return plane ticket right now is R 15,551. Depending on the availability when you book, these fares could change.
Don't wait until the last minute. You're more likely to land cheap flights from SFO to Nairobi if you book ahead. Airlines often offer some excellent early bird deals.
The 'Whole month' tool will show you the cheapest tickets from San Francisco International Airport to Nairobi across the entire month. It's an easy way to find a bargain if your dates are flexible.
Snapping up a cheap flight from SFO to Nairobi is a breeze with Price Alerts. All you need to do is create one of these automatic notifications and we'll get in touch when a lower fare pops up.
Save money on your flight from San Francisco International Airport to Nairobi with the help of our filters. Choose your ideal departure time, duration and airlines, then sort the results by 'Cheapest' to see the best deals.
Airports in Nairobi
Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO)
Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) is around 18 kilometres from the centre of Nairobi. If you're getting a taxi or a ride-share, the drive takes about 30 minutes.
If you're travelling on public transport, expect a journey time of around 1 hour 5 minutes.
The last thing you want is a long journey to your hotel if you're arriving on a late flight from San Francisco International Airport to Nairobi. Check in to one of these accommodation options near NBO instead:
For the best deal, book your ride from Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta International Airport about three weeks in advance of your flight from SFO to Nairobi.
Nairobi Wilson Airport (WIL)
After your flight from San Francisco International Airport to Nairobi has hit the runway, you can make your way to the city centre in around 20 minutes by car. Central Nairobi is roughly 10 kilometres from Nairobi Wilson Airport (WIL).
If you travel by public transport, the ride to the centre will take you 35 minutes or so.
Hang the 'Do not disturb' sign on your door and rest at a hotel close to WIL. Here are a few options where you can tuck yourself in after your SFO to Nairobi flight:
Pick the vehicle you actually want, not just what's left, by securing your ride from WIL in advance. You'll also avoid paying extra, especially when the airport is busy.
Best time to go to Nairobi
December is the quietest month for flights from San Francisco International Airport to Nairobi, while July is the busiest. Work out the best time to visit Nairobi based on whether you want a laid-back vibe or a more bustling atmosphere.
Book a San Francisco International Airport to Nairobi plane ticket with a departure in February if you're eager to experience the city during its warmest month. Expect temperatures to range from 13ºC (55ºF) to 30ºC (86ºF).
Look for cheap tickets from SFO to Nairobi in July if you'd rather travel when it's cooler. Temperatures are at their lowest then, ranging between 12ºC (54ºF) and 24ºC (75ºF) on average.
More about Nairobi
Start your Nairobi trip off on the right foot by choosing the perfect place to stay. As soon as you've booked your flight from San Francisco International Airport to Nairobi, browse our selection of accommodation options including:
Every great holiday has to include a little sightseeing. The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, Masai Mara National Reserve and Giraffe manor are attractions you won't want to skip in Nairobi.
Explore more of Kenya
You've done Nairobi, now it's time to explore more of Kenya. Travel about 434 kilometres southeast to Mombasa to tick off its top attractions. From Mombasa Marine National Park to Fort Jesus and Mombasa Beach, there's plenty to keep you on the go.
Around 145 kilometres northwest of Nairobi, Nakuru is another essential stop in Kenya. Experience major highlights starting with Nakuru National Park, Lake Nakuru and Lake Nakuru View.
