Kenya’s leading low-cost carrier Jambojet is set to resume daily flights between Entebbe and Nairobi on 1st October 2026, ending a six-year break caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
One-way fares start from approximately USD 170, offering travellers a more affordable option on one of East Africa’s busiest short-haul corridors.
The new service strengthens regional connectivity for business, tourism and trade between Uganda and Kenya.
The flight service also opens convenient onward links for Ugandan passengers heading to Kenya’s popular coastal destinations, Mombasa, Diani, Malindi and Lamu.
What’s New on the Entebbe-Nairobi Route?
Jambojet will operate daily passenger flights using its fleet of De Havilland Dash 8-400 (Q400) turboprop aircraft. Flight time is around 1 hour 15-30 minutes.
In addition to passengers, the airline will offer cargo and parcel services, supporting the movement of goods between the two countries.
The Nairobi-Entebbe air corridor is projected to carry about 300,000 passengers in 2026. Jambojet’s return adds competition to existing operators including Kenya Airways, Uganda Airlines, Safarilink and RwandAir, and is expected to put downward pressure on fares.
How Jambojet’s Route Compares to Other Airlines
Currently, several carriers fly the route daily:
- Kenya Airways: Most frequent (2-4 daily), full-service, typically higher fares.
- Uganda Airlines: Strong local presence with multiple daily flights.
- Safarilink: Often among the more competitive prices.
- RwandAir: Regular daily or near-daily service.
Jambojet positions itself as the low-cost alternative, with starting fares from around USD 170, lower than many full-service options.
Travellers looking for the cheapest tickets should still compare dates and book early, as prices fluctuate with demand.
Easy Connections to Kenya’s Coast
One of the biggest advantages for travellers from Uganda is seamless access to Jambojet’s coastal network from Nairobi. Key routes include:
| Destination | Airport | Flight Time (from Nairobi) | Frequency |
| Mombasa | MBA | 1h – 1h:15m | Multiple daily |
| Diani (Ukunda) | UKA | 1h:15m | Multiple daily |
| Malindi | MYD | 1h:15m | Multiple daily |
| Lamu | LAU | 1h:20m | Daily or near-daily |
These short hops make beach getaways, island escapes and coastal city breaks highly accessible. Jambojet frequently runs promotional fares on coastal routes, sometimes from around KSh 6,500 one-way on select dates and occasionally offers flight and hotel packages.
Why This Matters for Travellers
- More choice and potentially lower fares on the Entebbe-Nairobi route.
- Simplified planning for multi-destination trips (Uganda and Kenyan coast).
- Improved options for business travellers, families visiting relatives, and leisure tourists.
- Cargo capacity that supports regional trade.
More Opportunities for Uganda-Kenya Tourism
The significance of the new service extends beyond Nairobi.
For Ugandan travellers, Nairobi can function as a gateway to some of Kenya’s most popular coastal destinations, including Mombasa, Diani, Malindi and Lamu.
This makes it possible to combine a Uganda safari with a Kenyan beach holiday in one East African itinerary.
For example, a traveller could begin with a wildlife safari in Uganda before flying from Entebbe to Nairobi and continuing to the Kenyan coast.
Popular Kenya Coastal Destinations to Explore
- Mombasa
Mombasa is one of Kenya’s best-known coastal destinations, combining Indian Ocean beaches, Swahili culture and historic attractions.
Visitors can explore Fort Jesus, Mombasa Old Town, local markets and coastal beaches, while marine activities provide opportunities for boat excursions, snorkelling and other ocean experiences.
Mombasa is particularly suitable for travellers looking for a combination of beach relaxation, history, food and culture.
- Diani Beach
Diani Beach is one of Kenya’s most popular beach destinations.
The area is known for its white sandy beaches and Indian Ocean setting, with activities including swimming, water sports, boat excursions, marine experiences and beach relaxation.
Kenya’s official tourism portal identifies Diani as part of the country’s important coastal tourism circuit stretching from Lamu to Diani.
- Malindi
Malindi offers a blend of beaches, marine attractions and coastal culture.
Travellers can explore the Malindi Marine National Park, enjoy boat excursions and discover the wider coastal environment.
The destination works particularly well for travellers interested in combining a relaxing beach stay with marine and cultural experiences.
- Lamu
Lamu offers a distinctive cultural experience centred on Swahili heritage and island life.
Visitors can explore Lamu Old Town, experience traditional dhow excursions and discover the destination’s historic architecture and coastal culture.
Kenya’s tourism portal highlights Lamu as part of the country’s coastal tourism circuit, where visitors can experience beaches, cultural heritage and maritime traditions.
Uganda-Kenya Combination Trips to Consider
Jambojet’s return creates opportunities for travellers to build multi-destination East African holidays.
Uganda Safari and Kenyan Coast
A traveller could begin in Uganda with:
- Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
- Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale National Park
- Wildlife viewing in Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Boat safari along the Kazinga Channel
- Wildlife safari in Murchison Falls National Park
The trip could then continue from Entebbe to Nairobi before connecting to the Kenyan coast.
Uganda, Nairobi City Break & Mombasa
Another option is a shorter itinerary combining:
Entebbe to Nairobi to Mombasa then back to Nairobi & finally back to Entebbe
- This works well for travellers interested in city experiences, Kenyan culture and a beach holiday.
Uganda Safari & Diani Beach
- Travellers seeking a wildlife-and-beach holiday can combine a Uganda safari with several days on the Kenyan coast.
A typical journey could include gorilla trekking or wildlife viewing in Uganda, followed by:
Entebbe to Nairobi &back to Diani
- This creates a diverse East African holiday covering forests, wildlife, culture and the Indian Ocean.
Activities Travellers Can Enjoy
The improved connection between Uganda and Kenya makes it easier to build trips around different interests.
Wildlife Safaris
Uganda offers major wildlife experiences including gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking and Big Five safaris.
Kenya can then add experiences in destinations such as the Maasai Mara, where travellers can enjoy game drives and cultural experiences.
Beach Holidays
Travellers heading through Nairobi can continue towards Mombasa, Diani, Malindi or Lamu for:
- Beach relaxation
- Swimming
- Snorkelling
- Boat excursions
- Dhow cruises
- Marine wildlife experiences
- Coastal cultural tours
- Historic site visits
- Photography
Kenya’s coastal tourism circuit combines beaches with Swahili heritage and marine experiences.
Cultural Experiences
A multi-country itinerary can also incorporate cultural experiences in both Uganda and Kenya, from community tourism and local food experiences to Swahili heritage along the Kenyan coast.
Transport Options for Travellers
By Air
Flying is the most convenient option for travellers moving between Uganda and Kenya.
The new Jambojet service will operate between Entebbe International Airport and Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, creating a direct connection between the two countries.
From Nairobi, travellers can continue by domestic flight to coastal destinations such as Mombasa, Ukunda/Diani, Malindi and Lamu.
Jambojet’s network includes these coastal destinations.
By Road in Uganda
Travellers arriving at Entebbe can connect to Kampala and other destinations by private safari vehicle, airport transfer, taxi or other ground transport.
For visitors beginning a Uganda safari, private transfers can connect Entebbe or Kampala with national parks and tourism destinations across the country.
By Road in Kenya
Travellers arriving in Nairobi can continue to the Kenyan coast by air or road.
For longer journeys, private transfers and road trips provide an opportunity to experience Kenya’s landscapes and communities along the way.
For a short holiday, domestic flights can save significant travel time.
Jambojet’s Cargo and Parcel Service
The return of Jambojet is also significant for businesses.
The airline plans to offer cargo and parcel services on the Nairobi-Entebbe route, supporting the movement of goods between Uganda and Kenya.
This could benefit businesses involved in regional trade, tourism supplies, e-commerce, personal shipments and other time-sensitive movements.
The availability of additional air cargo capacity also strengthens the wider economic relationship between the Uganda and Kenya.
Tips for Travelling on a Low-Cost Airline
Passengers considering the new Jambojet service should check the fare conditions carefully before completing a booking.
Check baggage allowances
Low-cost fares can have different baggage conditions from traditional full-service tickets.
Travellers carrying checked luggage should calculate the additional baggage cost before comparing fares.
Book early
The lowest promotional fares are usually subject to availability.
Compare the complete cost
Consider baggage, airport transfers and other optional services when calculating the final trip budget.
Allow sufficient connection time
Travellers connecting from Nairobi to another destination should allow adequate time between flights, particularly where separate tickets are involved.
A Boost for East African Regional Travel
The return of Jambojet comes at a time when regional travel between Uganda and Kenya remains important for tourism, business, trade, education and family visits.
Jambojet’s management has described the Uganda return as part of its wider regional expansion strategy, while industry stakeholders have welcomed the potential for stronger tourism and trade links.
The airline had expanded its active fleet to 11 aircrafts in 2026 and reported carrying more than 10 million passengers since launching operations in 2014.
Jambojet’s return therefore represents more than the restoration of a single route. This adds another connection within an increasingly interconnected East African tourism and business network.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do the new Jambojet flights start?
Daily services begin on 1st October 2026.
How much do the air tickets cost?
One-way fares start from approximately USD 170. Actual prices depend on travel date, how early you book, and availability. Coastal routes from Nairobi often start lower when booked in advance.
How long is the flight?
Entebbe-Nairobi takes about 1 hour 15-30 minutes. Coastal flights from Nairobi are typically 1-1 hour and 20 minutes.
Can I connect to the Kenyan coast on the same ticket?
Jambojet operates an extensive coastal network from Nairobi. Check the airline’s website for connection options and through-fares.
Where can I book the flights from?
Book directly on the official Jambojet website. For complete holiday packages, expert advice, or multi-destination itineraries, specialised travel companies can help.
Is baggage included?
As a low-cost carrier, the cheapest fares usually include only hand luggage. Checked bags can be added during booking, often at a lower rate online than at the airport.
Plan Your Trip with Confidence
Whether you’re flying for business meetings in Nairobi, visiting family, or combining Uganda with a Kenyan beach holiday, the return of Jambojet adds a welcome low-cost option to the region.
Ready to explore?
Contact us at Responsible Tourism Company Ltd for personalised itineraries, flight and hotel packages, responsible travel advice, and seamless bookings that support local communities and sustainable tourism.
Our team can help you plan everything from a simple Entebbe-Nairobi return to a full East African coastal adventure.
Book smart, travel responsibly, and make the most of East Africa’s improving air connectivity.