If you’re considering a flying safari to the Masai Mara’s Musiara Sector of the Maasai Mara National Reserve—the area made world-famous by the BBC’s Big Cat Diary documentaries—then your best entry point is Musiara Airstrip.
The Musiara Airstrip is one of the ten primary airstrips serving Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve and its surrounding conservancies. Strategically located near the Mara River in the Musiara sector, this small bush airstrip offers visitors direct access to some of the most wildlife-rich areas in the entire Mara ecosystem.
Located in the northern part of the Reserve along the Mara River, Musiara Airstrip is the most convenient and reliable way to reach this spectacular corner of the Mara. It provides direct access to many of the area’s best-known camps, including:
Acaluma Camp, Amani Mara Lodge, Abercrombie & Kent (A&K) Mobile Camp, Cheetah Tented Camp, Crossings Camp, Hammerkop Migrations Camp, Il Moran Camp, Kandili Camp, Little Governors’ Camp, Main Governors’ Camp, Mara Concorde Camp, Mara Eden Bush Camp, Mara Olapa Camp, Ngare Serian Camp, Ngerende in the Wild, Ngorombo Camp (Alex Walker’s Serian), Nkombo Mobile Camp, Nkorombo Camp, Nomadic Encounters Camp, Olumara Camp, River Camp, Sentinel Camp, Serian Camp, Shompole Camp, Speke’s Camp, and Tangulia Mara Camp (Bush and Beyond).
If you’re booked at any of these lodges or mobile camps, Musiara Airstrip is the closest and most efficient air access point.
This guide provides everything you need to know about Musiara Airstrip — from its location, airlines, and transfers to safety regulations, wildlife highlights, and practical travel tips.
1. What is Musiara Airstrip and Where Is It Located?
Musiara Airstrip lies in the north-central region of the Maasai Mara National Reserve, just north of the Mara River and a short distance from Musiara Gate. It serves the Musiara and Mara Rianta sectors, which form part of the Reserve’s most productive wildlife zones.
The airstrip is approximately 285 kilometers southwest of Nairobi, sitting at an elevation of about 5,160 feet above sea level. The GPS coordinates are roughly 1°15′ S, 35°0′ E.
See Exact Google Maps Location:
Address: P325+4FQ, Mara Rianta
The surrounding landscape is dominated by open grasslands, acacia woodlands, and the Musiara Marsh, which attracts a high density of predators and plains game year-round. This makes Musiara a favorite entry point for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts who want immediate access to action-packed game-viewing areas.
Why Flying Is the Best Way to Reach Musiara Sector
While it’s technically possible to drive from Nairobi to the northern Maasai Mara, the journey is long and challenging. The road distance is approximately 285 kilometers, taking 6 to 7 hours on a mix of paved and unpaved roads. The final section from Narok to the Reserve’s northern gates is gravel, uneven, and often poorly maintained, especially after rains.
By contrast, flying to Musiara Airstrip takes just 45 to 50 minutes from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport. Scheduled flights operate daily and land just minutes away from the area’s main lodges. This makes flying not only faster but also far more comfortable—giving you more time to enjoy your safari and less time on rough roads.
2. Why Musiara Airstrip Is Important
Musiara is among the oldest and most active bush airstrips in the Mara, built to service the early safari lodges and camps established along the Mara River in the 1970s. It continues to play a critical role in:
- Tourism: providing daily flight access to high-end lodges in the Musiara sector and Mara North Conservancy.
- Conservation: enabling researchers, park rangers, and wildlife vets to move swiftly between monitoring sites.
- Community logistics: connecting the northern Maasai Mara and Laikipia regions with Nairobi for goods and personnel.
In recent years, Musiara has seen upgrades in runway maintenance, drainage, and communications, keeping it reliable year-round — even during Kenya’s long rains.
3. Flights and Airlines Operating to Musiara Airstrip
Several domestic airlines operate scheduled flights between Nairobi Wilson Airport and Musiara Airstrip daily. These include:
- Safarilink Aviation
- AirKenya Express
- Governors’ Aviation
- Mombasa Air Safari
Flights depart Nairobi typically between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM, arriving at Musiara by 11:00 AM – 11:30 AM, with return flights in the late morning or early afternoon. During high season (July to October), most airlines increase the number of daily flights to accommodate safari guests.
Flight time from Nairobi averages 45–50 minutes, depending on routing and stops at other Mara airstrips such as Ngerende, Ol Kiombo, or Serena.
See Musiara Arrivals: https://www.flightradar24.com/data/airports/mdr/arrivals
Departures:https://www.flightradar24.com/data/airports/mdr/departures
4. Charter and Private Flights
Private charters to Musiara Airstrip are available for guests seeking flexibility or traveling as part of a larger group. Aircraft such as Cessna Caravans, King Airs, and Pilatus PC-12s frequently operate here.
Popular charter routes include:
- Nairobi (Wilson or JKIA) to Musiara
- Nanyuki or Lewa Downs to Musiara
- Amboseli or Laikipia to Musiara
- Mara to Samburu or Tsavo connections
Charter costs vary depending on the aircraft type and route but typically start from $1,800–$2,200 one way from Nairobi.
Private flights must secure landing permission from the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) and the Mara Conservancy, which manages the airstrip’s operations and security.
Overview of Musiara Airstrip Flight Operations
Musiara Airstrip is among the busiest airstrips serving the northern sector of the Maasai Mara National Reserve, handling a steady mix of scheduled Safarilink Aviation and Mombasa Air Safari flights daily. The airstrip operates primarily as a mid-morning and mid-afternoon hub, with aircraft connecting passengers between Nairobi (Wilson Airport), Amboseli, and other Mara airstrips such as Ol Kiombo (OLG) and Mara Serena (MRE).
Flights are typically serviced by Cessna Grand Caravans (CNC aircraft) — ideal for short bush runways — and are known for their reliability and scenic low-altitude routes over the Great Rift Valley. Most itineraries involve multi-stop connections within the Mara network before continuing to Nairobi or other Kenyan parks.
Below is a simplified look at the typical daily schedule based on the current timetable.
Typical Daily Schedule – Musiara Airstrip
| Time | Flight No. | Route | Airline | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:45–8:00 AM | F26 / F25 | Departs to other Mara airstrips (MRE) | Safarilink Aviation | Early morning positioning flights connecting Mara sectors |
| 7:55 AM | F25 | Arrives from Ol Kiombo (OLG) | Safarilink Aviation | Morning inbound from central Mara |
| 10:15–10:20 AM | F21 | Arrives from Ol Kiombo / Departs to other Mara strips | Safarilink Aviation | Mid-morning shuttle between Mara airstrips |
| 10:30 AM | RRV5317 | Arrives from Amboseli (ASV) | Mombasa Air Safari | Connects Amboseli → Mara route |
| 11:00 AM | RRV5447 | Arrives from Nairobi (WIL) | Mombasa Air Safari | Morning flight from Nairobi Wilson |
| 11:05–11:10 AM | F22 | Arrives from Ol Kiombo / Departs to Mara (MRE) | Safarilink Aviation | Mid-morning inter-Mara connection |
| 11:15 AM | RRV5477 | Departs to Nairobi (WIL) | Mombasa Air Safari | Midday departure back to Wilson Airport |
| 11:30 AM | RRV5333 | Departs to Amboseli (ASV) | Mombasa Air Safari | Connects Mara → Amboseli → Coast route |
| 3:00 PM | F23 | Arrives from Ol Kiombo / Departs to Mara (MRE) | Safarilink Aviation | Afternoon inter-Mara connector |
| 3:05–3:55 PM | F23 / F24 | Departs to Mara sectors (MRE) | Safarilink Aviation | Afternoon sector flights within Mara |
| 3:15 PM | RRV5489 | Arrives from Nairobi (WIL) | Mombasa Air Safari | Afternoon inbound from Nairobi Wilson |
| 3:30 PM | RRV5507 | Departs to Nairobi (WIL) | Mombasa Air Safari | Final afternoon departure to Nairobi |
| 3:50 PM | F24 | Arrives from Ol Kiombo (OLG) | Safarilink Aviation | Last inbound from central Mara before evening closure |
Key Takeaways
- Peak Activity Windows: 10:00–11:30 AM and 3:00–4:00 PM.
- Main Airlines: Safarilink Aviation (multiple daily rotations) and Mombasa Air Safari (morning and afternoon connections to Nairobi and Amboseli).
- Primary Routes: Nairobi (Wilson), Amboseli, and other Mara airstrips (Ol Kiombo, Mara Serena).
- Aircraft Type: Cessna Grand Caravan (CNC) — 9 to 12 passengers.
- Travel Tip: Guests connecting to or from Nairobi should plan transfers and check-out times around the 11:00 AM and 3:30 PM departures.
This schedule reflects the typical rhythm of Musiara Airstrip, allowing travelers staying at nearby camps such as Governors’, Little Governors’, Rekero, and House in the Wild to easily coordinate same-day connections from Nairobi or between Kenya’s key safari parks.
5. Runway and Facilities
Musiara Airstrip features a gravel/murram runway approximately 1,300 meters long, suitable for small aircraft carrying up to 12 passengers. The runway is regularly graded and well-drained, ensuring usability even during the rainy seasons.
Facilities are minimal but adequate for bush air travel. Passengers will find a shaded waiting area, basic seating, restrooms, a security post, and a small communications office used by aircrew and ground handlers. There are no restaurants or lounges, as the airstrip is designed for short stops, with most guests spending less than 15 minutes before or after a flight.
6. Arrival Procedures and Passenger Experience
Arrivals at Musiara Airstrip are simple and efficient. After the plane lands, passengers disembark directly onto the runway and are greeted by lodge guides holding name boards. Luggage is quickly offloaded and placed in the appropriate safari vehicles.
Most lodges—such as Governors’ Camp, Little Governors’, Rekero, or House in the Wild—provide complimentary transfers from the airstrip. These transfers often double as mini-game drives, since the surrounding plains are rich with elephants, giraffes, lions, and antelope.
Passengers should ensure:
- Soft bags only (maximum 15–20 kg per person)
- eCitizen park tickets are pre-purchased and saved digitally
- Flight timings are coordinated with lodge check-in and check-out schedules
During the wet season, if the Musiara runway is temporarily closed due to heavy rain, flights may be diverted to the Serena Airstrip, with lodges arranging ground transfers (20–30 minutes away).
7. Transfers and Access to Lodges
Musiara Airstrip’s greatest advantage is its proximity to several top lodges and camps. Approximate transfer times include:
- Governors’ Camp: 5–10 minutes
- Little Governors’ Camp: 10 minutes (including river crossing by boat)
- Rekero Camp: 15–20 minutes
- Mara Rianta and House in the Wild: 30–40 minutes north of the airstrip
- Mara Explorer & Intrepids: 20–25 minutes
Transfers are conducted in custom-built Land Cruisers or open 4×4 safari vehicles, depending on your camp’s setup. Road conditions vary seasonally; during the rains, some sections may be muddy, but all main access routes remain navigable with 4WD vehicles.
8. Connectivity to Other Airstrips
For travelers connecting within the Mara or to other safari destinations, Musiara Airstrip links seamlessly with:
- Ol Kiombo Airstrip (Central Mara)
- Serena Airstrip (Southwest Mara)
- Ngerende Airstrip (Mara North Conservancy)
- Ol Seki Airstrip (Naboisho Conservancy)
Inter-airstrip flights are quick—usually under 20 minutes—and can be booked directly through your airline or tour operator. These routes make it easy to combine different conservancies or travel onwards to destinations like Samburu, Amboseli, or Laikipia.
9. Weather and Flight Reliability
Musiara enjoys relatively stable weather for most of the year. The dry seasons (June–October and December–March) are ideal for smooth landings and excellent visibility.
During the long rains (April–May) and short rains (November), conditions can become muddy, but the airstrip remains operational thanks to constant maintenance. Airlines communicate closely with lodges about flight delays or diversions, ensuring travelers are updated in real time.
10. Safety and Oversight
All flights into Musiara Airstrip operate under the supervision of the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) and the Mara Conservancy, which manage airstrip safety, maintenance, and airspace coordination.
Key safety features include:
- Daily pre-flight runway inspections
- On-site ranger presence and 24-hour security
- Radio communication with Nairobi’s Wilson Airport
- Emergency support through Amref Flying Doctors stationed in Nairobi and Nanyuki
The airstrip is also occasionally used by wildlife authorities for emergency operations, research teams, and anti-poaching patrols.
11. Nearby Attractions and Wildlife Highlights
The Musiara sector is one of the most iconic wildlife zones in the Maasai Mara. The area is home to the Musiara Marsh, made famous by BBC’s Big Cat Diary, where lion prides like the Marsh Pride have been filmed for decades.
Other nearby landmarks include:
- The Mara River, famous for the Great Migration crossings between July and October
- Rhino Ridge and Paradise Plains, excellent for cheetah and elephant sightings
- Governor’s Balloon Safaris, offering breathtaking dawn flights over the savannah
For guests staying in Mara Rianta, Musiara provides direct access to both the Reserve and neighboring conservancies, allowing seamless game viewing across private and public lands.
12. Accommodation Options Near Musiara
Musiara Airstrip services a range of lodges and tented camps, from luxury safari retreats to eco-friendly bush camps. Top options include:
- Governors’ Camp Collection (Main, Little, and Il Moran)
- Rekero Camp
- Mara Explorer and Intrepids
- House in the Wild
- Enkipai and Nkorombo Camps
Most lodges offer all-inclusive packages covering accommodation, meals, game drives, and airstrip transfers. Bookings can be made directly through camp websites or through tour operators offering fly-in safari packages from Nairobi.
13. Costs, Fees, and Permits
Scheduled flights from Nairobi to Musiara typically cost between $200 and $250 per person one way, depending on the airline and season.
Charter rates start around $1,800 per aircraft one way for small groups. Landing and handling fees for private planes are modest (about $30 per landing), but are usually covered in your operator’s fees.
Visitors entering through Musiara must hold valid park entry permits issued via Kenya’s eCitizen platform. Current entry fees for non-residents are $100 per adult per day and $50 per child per day (as of 2025), payable online before travel.
14. Travel Tips for Flying into Musiara
- Book early during the high season (July–October), as flights fill quickly.
- Travel light, as small aircraft have strict baggage limits (15–20 kg).
- Use soft-sided bags rather than hard suitcases.
- Download your eCitizen ticket before departure.
- Coordinate flights and lodge transfers carefully to avoid long waiting times.
- Carry local currency or MPesa for small tips or park payments.
- Check weather forecasts in April–May and November for potential schedule adjustments.
15. Frequently Asked Questions
Which airlines fly to Musiara Airstrip?
Safarilink, AirKenya, Mombasa Air Safari, and Governors’ Aviation offer daily scheduled services from Nairobi and Nanyuki.
How long is the flight from Nairobi to Musiara?
Approximately 45–50 minutes depending on route and stops.
Can private charters land at Musiara?
Yes. Private aircraft must obtain prior landing clearance from the Mara Conservancy and KCAA.
Are there lounges or WiFi at the airstrip?
No. Musiara is a small bush airstrip with basic facilities designed for efficiency and quick transfers.
What happens if my flight is delayed?
Airlines coordinate with lodges for updated pick-up times, and in rare cases of heavy rain, flights may divert to Serena or Ngerende Airstrip.
How far is Musiara from Mara Rianta?
Roughly 25–40 minutes by road depending on conditions and wildlife stops along the way.
16. Other Key Airstrips in the Maasai Mara
Musiara is one of ten primary airstrips that make up the Mara’s aviation network:
- Ol Kiombo Airstrip – Central Mara
- Serena Airstrip – Southwest Mara
- Keekorok Airstrip – Southern sector
- Ngerende Airstrip – Mara North Conservancy
- Olare Orok Airstrip – Olare Motorogi Conservancy
- Ol Seki Airstrip – Naboisho Conservancy
- Siana Airstrip – Eastern edge
- Angama Airstrip – Oloololo Escarpment
- Kichwa Tembo Airstrip – Northwest Mara
- Musiara Airstrip – Northern Reserve and Mara Rianta access
Together, these airstrips ensure seamless connectivity across the Maasai Mara and between Kenya’s other major parks, making fly-in safaris both time-efficient and unforgettable.
17. Final Thoughts
For travellers heading to the Mara Rianta area or the northern banks of the Mara River, Musiara Airstrip is the most practical and picturesque gateway into the Maasai Mara. Its proximity to top lodges, rich surrounding wildlife, and reliable flight connections make it a cornerstone of safari travel logistics in Kenya.
Arriving at Musiara is more than just a transfer—it’s the beginning of the adventure. As your aircraft descends over the golden plains, giraffes wander below and elephants graze near the riverbanks, giving you a breathtaking preview of the safari experience that awaits.