If you’re considering a flying safari to the Maasai Mara, one of Kenya’s most breathtaking wilderness areas, the Kichwa Tembo Airstrip is one of the most scenic and convenient entry points. Nestled beneath the Oloololo Escarpment on the edge of the Mara Triangle, this airstrip serves as the main gateway for travelers staying in the northwestern Mara, including iconic lodges such as Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp, Bateleur Camp, Angama Mara, Mara Siria, Sanctuary Olonana, Elephant Pepper Camp, and Mara Engai Lodge.
This detailed guide explains everything you need to know about Kichwa Tembo Airstrip — how to get there, which airlines operate flights, where it’s located, and what to expect when you land — making it easier to plan your dream Maasai Mara safari.
1. What Is Kichwa Tembo Airstrip and Why It Matters
Kichwa Tembo Airstrip is a small, well-maintained bush airfield that provides direct access to the northwestern sector of the Maasai Mara National Reserve. It is strategically located near the Mara Triangle, a protected zone managed by the Mara Conservancy, known for its pristine landscapes, rich wildlife, and lower visitor density compared to the central or eastern Mara.
The airstrip primarily serves high-end lodges and tented camps positioned near the Oloololo Escarpment. Because of its proximity to many luxury properties, Kichwa Tembo has become one of the busiest and most efficient airstrips in the area — offering travelers a seamless transition from air to safari within minutes.
2. Location and Setting
Kichwa Tembo Airstrip sits in the northwestern corner of the Maasai Mara, approximately 250 kilometers southwest of Nairobi. Its coordinates are roughly 1°14′ S, 34°55′ E, and it lies at an elevation of 1,700 meters (5,580 feet) above sea level.
The airstrip’s position at the base of the Oloololo Escarpment, part of the Great Rift Valley, offers a stunning aerial view during approach — the vast plains of the Mara unfold beneath you as you descend.
Location:P2PF+G47, Narok
The runway is located inside the Mara Triangle, close to the Mara River, where many of the Great Migration’s river crossings occur between July and October. The airstrip is also conveniently close to the main entry gate, Oloololo Gate, which provides road access to the Mara Conservancy.
3. Why Fly to Kichwa Tembo Airstrip Instead of Driving
Driving from Nairobi to the Maasai Mara takes roughly 6–7 hours (280–300 kilometers), with a significant portion of the road after Narok still unpaved and bumpy. While the drive can be an adventure, it’s not the most comfortable or efficient route for reaching the northwestern Mara, where Kichwa Tembo is located.
Flying, on the other hand, takes just 45–50 minutes from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport and allows you to enjoy panoramic views of the Great Rift Valley and the Mara plains. Because the road to the Oloololo Escarpment is longer and rougher than that to the southern Mara near Sekenani Gate (which is now paved), most travelers heading to this area prefer to fly.
4. Airlines and Flights Serving Kichwa Tembo Airstrip
Kichwa Tembo Airstrip is serviced daily by several domestic airlines offering scheduled and charter flights between Nairobi and the Mara:
- Safarilink Aviation
- AirKenya Express
- Mombasa Air Safari
- Fly ALS
Flights depart from Nairobi Wilson Airport (WIL) in the morning (typically between 10:00 and 11:00 AM) and land at Kichwa Tembo by 11:00 AM – 11:30 AM. Afternoon flights usually leave Nairobi around 3:00 PM, arriving just before sunset.
During high season (July–October), extra flights are often added to accommodate migration travelers.
Average flight time: 45–50 minutes
Aircraft type: Cessna Caravan or Twin Otter (9–12 passengers)
Connecting Flights
You can also fly to Kichwa Tembo from other safari destinations, including:
- Amboseli
- Nanyuki / Laikipia
- Samburu
- Diani / Mombasa
- Lewa Downs
These connections make it easy to include Kichwa Tembo in a multi-park Kenya safari itinerary.
5. Private Charters
Private charters to Kichwa Tembo Airstrip can be arranged for guests who prefer flexibility or are traveling as a group. Charter flights typically cost between USD 1,800–2,500 per aircraft (one way) from Nairobi, depending on the operator and aircraft size.
Charters allow you to choose your own departure time and fly directly from other parks such as Tsavo, Amboseli, Samburu, or Lewu, without passing through Nairobi. All charters must obtain landing permission from the Mara Conservancy and the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA).
6. Airstrip Facilities and Runway Details
Kichwa Tembo Airstrip is compact but efficient, offering basic facilities suitable for bush flights:
- Runway Length: Approx. 1,200 meters
- Surface: Gravel/murram
- Elevation: 1,700 m above sea level
- Facilities: Small passenger shelter, restrooms, waiting area, radio control hut, baggage area
- Security: 24-hour ranger patrols under the Mara Conservancy
- Communications: Airstrip maintains VHF radio contact with Nairobi Wilson and nearby airstrips
Though there’s no café or lounge, the airstrip is clean, safe, and well organized. The simplicity adds to the charm of a bush flying experience — fast check-ins, minimal waiting, and views of wildlife grazing right beside the runway.
7. Arrival and Departure Experience
When your aircraft lands at Kichwa Tembo, you’ll be greeted by the warm air of the Mara and a short runway surrounded by golden grass. Passengers disembark directly onto the runway, where camp driver-guides wait with name signs beside safari vehicles.
Luggage is offloaded immediately and matched to each lodge. The transfer from airstrip to camp usually takes between 5 and 25 minutes, depending on where you’re staying:
- Kichwa Tembo & Bateleur Camps: 5 minutes
- Angama Mara: 10–15 minutes (including an uphill drive to the escarpment)
- Sanctuary Olonana: 20 minutes along the river
- Mara Siria, Kilima, Mara Engai: 20–25 minutes
Most transfers double as your first game drive, as the area teems with elephants, giraffes, buffalo, and occasionally lions or cheetahs.
8. Nearby Lodges and Camps
Kichwa Tembo Airstrip provides access to some of the Mara’s most renowned safari properties, including:
- Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp – A classic safari camp operated by andBeyond.
- Bateleur Camp – An intimate luxury retreat combining old-world elegance with modern comfort.
- Angama Mara – A strikingly modern lodge perched on the Oloololo Escarpment.
- Sanctuary Olonana – An eco-luxury riverside camp with spa and fine dining.
- Mara Siria & Kilima Camp – Boutique lodges offering sweeping escarpment views.
- Elephant Pepper Camp – A small, authentic tented camp ideal for photographers.
Each of these camps offers all-inclusive packages covering accommodation, meals, game drives, and airstrip transfers.
9. The Kichwa Tembo Area and Wildlife Experience
The area surrounding Kichwa Tembo is part of the Mara Triangle, one of Africa’s most productive ecosystems. It is bordered by the Oloololo Escarpment to the west, the Mara River to the east, and the Serengeti National Park to the south.
This region is famous for:
- The Great Migration crossings at the Mara River (July–October)
- The Big Five — lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos
- Exceptional predator sightings, including cheetahs and hyenas
- Open grassland ideal for photography
- Hot air balloon safaris offering sunrise views of the plains
Because of the area’s low tourist density, guests enjoy a quieter and more exclusive safari compared to the central Maasai Mara.
10. Weather and Best Time to Visit
The weather around Kichwa Tembo is mild year-round due to its high elevation.
- Dry Seasons: June–October and December–March (best for wildlife and reliable flights)
- Rainy Seasons: April–May (long rains) and November (short rains). Flights still operate, though occasionally delayed due to muddy conditions.
- Temperature Range: 12°C (54°F) at night to 27°C (81°F) during the day.
The best time to visit depends on your priorities:
- July–October: For the Great Migration and river crossings
- November–June: For lush scenery, fewer crowds, and excellent resident wildlife
11. Regulations, Safety, and Management
Kichwa Tembo Airstrip is managed by the Mara Conservancy under the supervision of the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA). All flights are subject to national safety regulations and daily runway inspections.
Security and wildlife safety are top priorities — the runway is fenced against large animals, and rangers are stationed nearby. In the event of emergencies, Amref Flying Doctors provides air ambulance services to Nairobi and Nanyuki.
12. Booking Flights and Travel Planning
You can book flights to Kichwa Tembo through:
- Your lodge or safari operator (most include flights in package itineraries)
- Directly via airline websites (Safarilink, AirKenya, Mombasa Air Safari)
- Travel agencies or online safari platforms offering fly-in packages
When booking, ensure your flight times match your lodge’s check-in schedule, especially if you have onward connections.
Tip: Morning flights generally offer smoother weather, better visibility, and higher chances of on-time arrivals.
13. Costs and Fees
- Scheduled flights: USD 200–250 per person (one-way) from Nairobi
- Charter flights: USD 1,800–2,500 per aircraft (one-way)
- Park entry fees: USD 100 per adult per day for non-residents (paid via eCitizen)
- Transfers: Usually included in your camp package
Payments can be made in USD, Kenyan shillings, or by card, but always confirm your operator’s accepted methods.
14. Practical Travel Tips
- Pack soft bags (maximum 15–20 kg) for small aircraft.
- Bring warm layers — mornings and nights are cool.
- Download your park entry permit from eCitizen before arrival.
- Book early during migration season.
- Coordinate flight and lodge transfers at least 48 hours in advance.
- Carry essentials (camera, medications, sunscreen, hat) in your hand luggage.
15. Kichwa Tembo vs Other Maasai Mara Airstrips
| Airstrip | Sector | Best For | Approx. Drive from Nairobi (Road) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kichwa Tembo | Northwest / Mara Triangle | Luxury camps near Oloololo Escarpment | 6–7 hrs (unpaved) |
| Musiara | North / Mara River | Governors’, Serian, Nkorombo camps | 6–7 hrs |
| Serena | Southwest | Serena Lodge, Keekorok area | 5.5–6 hrs |
| Ol Kiombo | Central Mara | Ashnil, Fig Tree, Basecamp | 5.5–6 hrs |
| Ol Seki | Naboisho Conservancy | Naboisho, Encounter Mara | 6 hrs |
For travelers staying at Kichwa Tembo, Angama, or Bateleur Camps, the Kichwa Tembo Airstrip is the most logical and direct point of access.
16. Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the flight from Nairobi to Kichwa Tembo Airstrip?
Approximately 45–50 minutes from Wilson Airport, depending on intermediate stops.
Which airlines fly to Kichwa Tembo?
Safarilink, AirKenya, Fly ALS, and Mombasa Air Safari operate scheduled services.
Can private charters land at Kichwa Tembo?
Yes. Private charters can land with prior approval from the Mara Conservancy and KCAA.
Are lodge transfers included?
Most lodges include round-trip transfers from the airstrip in their safari packages.
Is the airstrip open year-round?
Yes, though some weather delays may occur during the long rains in April–May.
What is the baggage allowance?
15–20 kg per person in soft bags due to aircraft size limits.
Is Kichwa Tembo Airstrip safe?
Yes, it’s managed by the Mara Conservancy with regular security patrols and strict safety standards.
17. Summary and Takeaways
Flying to Kichwa Tembo Airstrip is the quickest, most scenic, and most comfortable way to reach the northwestern Maasai Mara. The airstrip is well positioned for guests staying at luxury camps on or near the Oloololo Escarpment, offering breathtaking views and immediate access to the Mara Triangle’s premier wildlife zones.
With daily scheduled flights from Nairobi, simple arrival procedures, and short transfers to nearby lodges, Kichwa Tembo Airstrip perfectly embodies the ease and adventure of a true fly-in safari.
18. Final Thoughts
Whether you’re planning your first safari or returning to the Mara for another unforgettable experience, Kichwa Tembo Airstrip offers the ideal start to your journey. The moment your aircraft descends over the escarpment and touches down on the red earth runway, you’ll understand why this airstrip — like the camps it serves — captures the essence of Kenya’s wild beauty.
If you want to save time, avoid long drives, and immerse yourself in the heart of the Maasai Mara from the moment you arrive, fly to Kichwa Tembo Airstrip — the gateway to the wilderness of the Mara Triangle.