Nairobi to Masai Mara Flights: Complete Guide
Flying from Nairobi to the Masai Mara is the fastest, most convenient way to begin your safari adventure. Here’s how it works:
- Departure City: Nairobi, Kenya’s capital, is the starting point for all air journeys to the Mara.
- Which Airport: All scheduled flights to the Mara depart from Wilson Airport (WIL), not the international Jomo Kenyatta Airport (JKIA).
- Main Airlines:
- AirKenya
- Safarilink
- Fly ALS
- Mombasa Air Safari
- Fly540
- Governors’ Aviation
- Flight Times:
- Most flights depart in the morning (7:00–10:30am) or early afternoon (2:00–3:30pm).
- Flight duration: 40–60 minutes, depending on airstrip and routing.
- Booking:
- You can book directly with the airline, via a specialist agent (like FlyMara.com), or through your safari camp/lodge.
- Early booking is recommended during peak months (July–October).
Tip: Let your camp know your flight details so they can arrange a pick-up at the correct Mara airstrip.
Wilson Airport to Masai Mara: Direct Flight Guide
Wilson Airport is Nairobi’s domestic aviation hub and the gateway to the Mara:
- Location: Just a short taxi or shuttle ride from most Nairobi hotels and about 30–45 minutes from JKIA.
- Check-In: Arrive at least one hour before departure. Security and check-in are usually quick and efficient.
- Facilities: Wilson is smaller than JKIA but has cafes, lounges, and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Flight Experience:
- Most flights go direct to the Mara, sometimes landing at several airstrips within the reserve before yours.
- The aircraft are usually small (10–40 seats), offering great views and a short, smooth flight.
Travel Light: Strict baggage limits apply (15 kg soft-sided bag per person), so pack accordingly.
Masai Mara Connecting Flights: Make the Link Seamless
Travelers often need to make connections to the Mara—whether arriving from international flights, other parks, or even Kenya’s coast.
- From JKIA (International Arrivals):
- After landing in Nairobi, you’ll need to transfer by taxi or shuttle to Wilson Airport (about 20–45 minutes).
- Allow at least 3–4 hours between international arrival and your Mara departure to account for immigration, luggage, and Nairobi traffic.
- Multi-Park Connections:
- “Circuit” flights operated by AirKenya, Safarilink, and Fly ALS link the Mara to Samburu, Lewa, Amboseli, Diani, and even the Serengeti (via Migori/Tarime).
- You can book these multi-park itineraries as a through-ticket—no need to re-check luggage.
- Booking Help:
- Specialist agents (like FlyMara.com) can coordinate your entire itinerary and assist if your flights need to connect across different parks or regions.
Pro Tip: Overnight in Nairobi if your international flight arrives late or you want a stress-free connection.
Masai Mara Transfer Options: Flights, Road & More
There are several ways to get to the Mara, each with unique advantages:
1. Scheduled Safari Flights
- Fastest & Most Convenient: 40–60 minutes from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport.
- Great for: Time-conscious travelers, families, and anyone looking for comfort and a scenic arrival.
2. Road Transfers
- Travel by Safari Van or 4×4: About 5–7 hours’ drive from Nairobi, partly on tarmac and partly on rougher roads.
- Great for: Budget-conscious groups, road-trip lovers, or those combining multiple destinations.
- Caution: Roads can be rough, especially in the rainy season; allow extra travel time.
3. Private Charters
- Ultimate Flexibility: Choose your departure time and land at the closest airstrip to your lodge.
- Perfect for: Luxury travelers, groups, or anyone with special timing needs.
How to Choose:
- Fly if you want speed and comfort.
- Drive if you’re seeking adventure or on a tight budget.
- Charter for privacy and custom itineraries.
Masai Mara Airstrip Transfers: How They Work
Once your flight lands in the Mara, the transfer to your camp is all part of the safari experience!
- Meet & Greet:
- Your safari camp or lodge will send a driver/guide to meet you right at the airstrip.
- Look for a sign with your name or the lodge/camp logo as you step off the plane.
- The Transfer:
- Many airstrip transfers double as your first game drive! Keep your eyes open for wildlife immediately.
- Transfer time to camp varies (usually 10–45 minutes), depending on which airstrip you land at and where your camp is located.
- Facilities:
- Mara airstrips are basic—mostly a dirt runway, some seating, and sometimes a simple shelter.
- No need for taxis; your safari camp handles all transport.
Important:
Share your flight details with your lodge as soon as you book, and reconfirm before your travel day to ensure a smooth pickup.
Fly to Masai Mara from Mombasa: Routes & Booking
Want to combine Kenya’s coast with your safari? You don’t need to fly back to Nairobi!
- Direct Flights:
- Mombasa Air Safari and Safarilink operate direct or one-stop flights from Mombasa, Diani, and Ukunda to the Mara.
- Flight Time: About 2–2.5 hours (may include a short stop in Nairobi or another airstrip).
- Booking:
- Book online or via an agent—these flights fill up quickly in peak season.
- Check luggage rules: the same 15 kg soft bag limit applies.
- Perfect For:
- Travelers who want to see both the beach and the bush without backtracking.
- Honeymooners, families, and anyone on a tight schedule.
Pro Tip: If your Mara camp offers a transfer package, ask if it can include your coastal flight for one simple booking.
Key Takeaways for a Smooth Safari Arrival
- Book flights early—especially for high season.
- Allow plenty of time for connections between international and domestic flights.
- Always confirm your Mara airstrip and pickup with your lodge.
- Pack in soft-sided bags (15 kg limit) for all bush flights.
- Enjoy the journey—your Mara adventure starts from the moment you take off!
With these tips, your journey to the Masai Mara will be seamless, comfortable, and the perfect start to a memorable safari. Safe travels!