Overview: What is Mara Serena Airstrip?
Mara Serena Airstrip is the premier aviation entry point to the western sector of Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve—especially the famed Mara Triangle. Perfectly positioned for rapid access to Mara Serena Safari Lodge, Little Governors’ Camp, and top west Mara properties, this airstrip offers quick transfers, daily scheduled flights, and stunning views over the savannah and the Mara River.
Location, Map, and Airstrip Code
- Location: West Masai Mara, inside the Mara Triangle, close to Mara Serena Safari Lodge and spectacular river crossings.
- Map: Find Mara Serena Airstrip marked on all official Mara Triangle and safari operator maps.
- Airstrip Code: MRE (IATA), HKMS (ICAO).
- Elevation: Approximately 5,620 feet (1,713 meters) above sea level.
Tip: This is the best airstrip for Mara Triangle camps, as well as for lodges on the western side of the Mara River.
Airlines & Routes: Who Flies to Mara Serena?
Mara Serena Airstrip enjoys excellent connections from Nairobi and other Kenyan hubs:
- Main Airlines:
- AirKenya
- Safarilink
- Fly ALS
- Mombasa Air Safari (high season and by arrangement)
- Direct Flights:
- Multiple daily departures from Nairobi Wilson Airport (flight time: 50–60 minutes).
- Some airlines offer circuit flights connecting Mara Serena with other Mara airstrips, Nanyuki, Samburu, or the Kenyan coast.
- Seasonal flights may operate from Diani Beach or Mombasa—perfect for bush-to-beach itineraries.
Airline Tip: Always check schedules—most flights stop at other Mara airstrips before or after Mara Serena. Ask your airline or agent for the most direct option.
Flight Schedules & Booking
- Daily Flights:
- AirKenya, Safarilink, and Fly ALS offer morning and afternoon departures.
- Timetables:
- Updated seasonally—high season (July–October, December–March) sees more flights.
- How to Book:
- Use airline websites, trusted agents, or FlyMara.com for schedule comparison, instant booking, and deals.
- Ticket Prices:
- Wilson–Mara Serena: $180–$350 one-way, depending on season, airline, and how early you book.
- Group, family, and child fares available with most carriers.
Transfers, Pickup, and Arrival Process
- Meet & Greet:
- All lodges and camps served by Mara Serena Airstrip provide a complimentary pick-up service. Look for your camp’s vehicle and staff on arrival.
- Transfers:
- Mara Serena Safari Lodge: 5 minutes by road; often your game drive starts from the airstrip!
- Little Governors’ Camp: About 20–30 minutes by road and boat.
- Other Mara Triangle Camps: Generally within 10–40 minutes’ drive.
- Taxi and Shuttle:
- Limited, as most travelers are pre-booked with a camp or lodge.
Arrival Tip:
Your safari often begins the moment you land, as wildlife is abundant around the airstrip and along the transfer route.
Safari Experience: Why Choose Mara Serena Airstrip?
- Closest Access to the Mara Triangle:
- The Mara Triangle is less crowded, features spectacular wildlife, and is prime territory for river crossings during the Great Migration.
- Game Drives & Balloon Safaris:
- Start your first game drive en route to your lodge from the airstrip.
- Many camps near Mara Serena offer sunrise hot air balloon rides—book in advance for peak season!
- Wildlife Encounters:
- Hippos and elephants are commonly spotted near the airstrip; predators abound year-round.
- Scenic Arrivals:
- The airstrip sits on a ridge with panoramic views—have your camera ready!
Lodges, Camps, and Accommodation Near Mara Serena Airstrip
- Mara Serena Safari Lodge: Adjacent; ideal for quick access.
- Little Governors’ Camp, Governors’ Camp: Short transfer, sometimes with river crossing.
- Mara Engai Wilderness Lodge, Mara West, and others: Within easy transfer range.
- Nearby campsites and bush camps for self-drive and budget travelers.
Accommodation Tip:
Always confirm which airstrip is closest to your lodge before booking your flight—Mara Serena serves all of west Mara, but some camps on the eastern side may be closer to other airstrips.
Local Services: Map, Weather, Parking, and Directions
- Map:
- Available on Mara Triangle and most safari operator websites.
- Weather:
- Generally mild, but mornings can be cool (pack a jacket); the area receives short, sharp showers in April–June and November.
- Parking:
- Minimal, as most guests arrive by air and are collected by their lodge.
- Directions:
- Private vehicles can reach Mara Serena via the Mara Triangle Gate—check with the Mara Conservancy for current road conditions and permits.
Baggage, Accessibility, and Special Needs
- Baggage:
- Strict 15 kg (33 lbs) soft-sided bag limit applies on all bush flights.
- Wheelchair Access & Assistance:
- Basic accessibility; advise your airline or lodge in advance if you require assistance.
- Family and Senior Travelers:
- Friendly for all ages; family and group travel supported by most airlines.
- Medical Flights:
- Mara Serena Airstrip is approved for emergency medical evacuation flights. Always travel with valid insurance.
Flight Prices, Deals, and Packages
- Flight Prices:
- Vary by season, route, and airline—compare on FlyMara.com or with your safari planner.
- Deals:
- Book early for peak migration months (July–October) and holidays.
- Look for off-peak or last-minute deals for the best savings.
- Package Safaris:
- Many tour operators offer all-inclusive packages with flights, transfers, accommodation, and activities.
Reviews, Photos, and Traveler Experiences
- Traveler Reviews:
- Visitors praise Mara Serena Airstrip for convenience, reliability, and breathtaking arrival scenery.
- Photos:
- Expect classic African bush scenes: red soil runway, grazing animals, and the Mara’s golden savannah backdrop.
- Unique Experiences:
- Arriving at sunrise or sunset is especially magical; some guests report seeing herds of wildebeest, elephants, and even lions from the plane or runway.
Pro Tips for Flying to Mara Serena Airstrip
- Book flights early—especially for migration season or if you want specific departure times.
- Soft-sided luggage only (no hard cases).
- Keep cameras handy—the airstrip area is teeming with wildlife.
- Check weather before departure, especially if traveling April–June or November.
- Arrive at Wilson Airport early—check-in lines for bush flights can be long in peak season.
- Confirm transfer details with your lodge for seamless pickup.
Conclusion: Is Mara Serena Airstrip Right for Your Safari?
Mara Serena Airstrip is the number one choice for travelers visiting the Mara Triangle and west Mara. With daily flights, stunning location, and immediate access to some of Africa’s best wildlife viewing, it’s the gold standard for fly-in safaris in Masai Mara.
Ready to experience the Mara Triangle? Book your flight to Mara Serena Airstrip, arrange your transfers, and prepare for the safari of a lifetime!