Overview: What is Ol Kiombo Airstrip?
Ol Kiombo Airstrip is one of the busiest and most important bush airstrips in Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve. Centrally located, it’s the primary aviation gateway for dozens of camps and lodges in the heart of the Mara, making it an essential hub for safari-goers seeking quick, scenic, and efficient access to wildlife-rich areas.
Location, Map, and Airstrip Code
- Location: Central Masai Mara, near the confluence of the Talek and Mara Rivers—an area famed for dramatic river crossings during the Great Migration.
- Map: Featured on all official Masai Mara and safari operator maps. Most Mara camps within a 15–45 minute drive use Ol Kiombo for arrivals.
- Airstrip Code: OLX (IATA); HKOK (ICAO).
- Elevation: Approximately 5,180 feet (1,579 meters) above sea level.
Tip: Always confirm your camp’s recommended airstrip before booking—Ol Kiombo serves central and many eastern/southern Mara camps.
Flight Schedules, Airlines & Booking
Ol Kiombo Airstrip is served by all leading bush airlines, with high-frequency flights year-round and extra departures in peak migration months.
- Main Airlines:
- AirKenya
- Safarilink
- Fly ALS
- Mombasa Air Safari (select routes and high season)
- Popular Routes:
- Nairobi Wilson to Ol Kiombo: The most frequent and direct route, with several daily departures.
- Diani/Mombasa to Ol Kiombo: Perfect for combining beach and bush.
- Circuit Flights: Link Ol Kiombo with other parks (Amboseli, Samburu, Lewa, Nanyuki) for seamless multi-park safaris.
- Timetables: Check airline sites or FlyMara.com for up-to-date schedules and connections.
- Booking: Secure your flight via airline websites, trusted agents, or FlyMara.com for real-time availability and the best rates.
Transfers, Pickups, and Getting to Your Camp
- Meet & Greet: Your camp or lodge driver will meet you upon arrival with a name board. Many transfers double as your first mini game drive!
- Transfers:
- To central camps: 5–30 minutes.
- To more distant camps: Up to 1 hour.
- Taxis and shuttles: Rare—arrange all transfers in advance with your lodge or operator.
Pro Tip: Most luxury and mid-range camps include Ol Kiombo transfers in their package. Self-drive or budget travelers should coordinate in advance.
Nearby Lodges, Camps, and Hotels
Ol Kiombo Airstrip is the gateway for some of the Mara’s most renowned camps and lodges:
- Entim Camp
- Rekero Camp
- Mara Intrepids
- Mara Explorer
- Kicheche Mara Camp
- Tipilikwani Mara Camp
- Governors’ Camp (usually uses Musiara but can arrange Ol Kiombo transfers)
- Many other tented camps and boutique lodges
Tip: If your camp is not directly listed, check with your operator—the majority in central and southeast Mara use Ol Kiombo.
Facilities, Directions, and Weather
- Facilities:
- Basic: gravel runway, windsock, shelter for waiting, some parking, pit latrine.
- No shops or restaurants—bring water, snacks, and sun/rain protection.
- Directions:
- Accessible by well-maintained dirt roads from all major camps and gates.
- Private vehicles must check in with park authorities; most guests arrive by air.
- Weather:
- Open year-round, with mild mornings and warm days.
- Brief showers can occur in April–June and November, sometimes causing minor delays.
Airlines & Routes
- AirKenya: Multiple daily flights from Wilson, with easy connections to other parks.
- Safarilink: High frequency and reliable for Nairobi and coast-Mara routes.
- Fly ALS: Popular with regional and circuit flights.
- Mombasa Air Safari: For Diani and coast-to-Mara connections.
Direct flights are fastest; circuit flights may stop at other Mara airstrips before Ol Kiombo.
Flight Prices, Deals, and Packages
- Typical One-Way Fare (Wilson–Ol Kiombo): $180–$350, depending on season, advance booking, and airline.
- Beach Routes: Mombasa/Diani–Ol Kiombo typically cost more.
- Deals & Packages:
- Early bookings for July–October migration recommended.
- Look for off-season deals April–June and November.
- Many camps offer all-inclusive packages with flights, transfers, and game drives.
Accessibility: Families, Seniors, and Special Assistance
- Wheelchair Access:
- Basic, but airlines and camps can assist—advise in advance for smooth travel.
- Family-Friendly:
- Airlines provide child discounts, and most camps are equipped for family arrivals.
- Seniors:
- Short transfers, staff assistance, and comfortable pickups make Ol Kiombo senior-friendly.
- Medical Evacuation:
- Ol Kiombo is an approved medevac site—always travel with comprehensive insurance.
Baggage, Safety, and Arrival Essentials
- Baggage:
- Strict 15 kg (33 lbs) limit, soft-sided bags only.
- Arrival:
- Check in at Wilson Airport 60–90 minutes prior.
- Be ready for an open-air, bush experience—sometimes wildlife on the runway!
- Safety:
- All airlines and Ol Kiombo follow strict safety standards; airstrip is well maintained year-round.
Weather & Best Time to Fly
- Best Time:
- July–October (Great Migration) is peak; book 3–6 months early.
- December–March for abundant wildlife and clear skies.
- April–June and November are quieter, offer better deals, and the landscape is lush.
- Weather Delays:
- Rare, but possible in heavy rain.
Traveler Reviews, Photos, and Unique Experiences
- Reviews:
- Travelers praise Ol Kiombo for its central location and the chance to spot wildlife immediately on landing.
- Photos:
- Expect classic bush scenery—planes on gravel, open savannah, and sometimes lions or elephants close by!
- Special Experiences:
- Many guests enjoy sunrise or sunset landings, and it’s a favorite for photographers.
Balloon Safaris & Activities
- Balloon Safaris:
- Book hot air balloon rides from camps near Ol Kiombo—an iconic Mara experience.
- Game Drives:
- Transfers often double as your first game drive—keep your camera ready for lions, cheetahs, and wildebeest!
Pro Tips for Flying to Ol Kiombo Airstrip
- Always reconfirm which airstrip to use with your camp before booking.
- Book flights early for migration or holiday travel.
- Soft-sided bags are required.
- Arrive at Wilson Airport with plenty of time for check-in.
- Notify airlines of any accessibility needs in advance.
- Arrange camp pickup prior to arrival—public taxis and shuttles are rare.
Conclusion: Is Ol Kiombo Airstrip Right for You?
Ol Kiombo is the Masai Mara’s central airstrip, providing unrivaled access to top camps, world-class wildlife, and the heart of the action—especially during the Great Migration. Whether you’re planning a luxury fly-in safari, family holiday, or a last-minute adventure, Ol Kiombo offers convenience, connection, and authentic bush charm.