Keekorok Airport is one of the primary entry points into the Masai Mara National Reserve, renowned as the first airstrip established in the region. Located near the heart of the reserve, it serves as a convenient landing spot for those visiting Keekorok Lodge, Siana Springs Tented Camp, and other popular accommodations in the central and southern parts of the Mara. With coordinates of approximately 1° 34′ 0″S, 35° 15′ 0″E and an elevation of about 5,100 feet, Keekorok Airport provides travelers with immediate access to some of the richest wildlife areas in the reserve.
The approach to Keekorok Airport offers stunning views of the Mara’s sprawling grasslands, often teeming with animals, and provides an exciting preview of the safari experience awaiting visitors. The airstrip is well-connected to Nairobi’s Wilson Airport through daily flights and also offers connections to other safari destinations in Kenya. Although small and with basic facilities, Keekorok Airport has a comfortable waiting area, luggage handling services, and other essentials to ensure a smooth arrival and departure.
Upon arrival, guests are welcomed by local guides and safari vehicles, ready to escort them on a journey through the Masai Mara’s remarkable landscapes. Wildlife encounters begin almost immediately, with nearby game-viewing areas that frequently feature elephants, lions, giraffes, and large herds of wildebeest and zebra. During the Great Migration (July to October), Keekorok Airport is ideally located for guests seeking to witness the spectacle of the migrating herds and the drama of predator-prey interactions.
Nearby points of interest include the Sand River, famous for its crocodile population and diverse birdlife, and the wide-open plains of the central Mara, which provide ample opportunities for game drives, photography, and birdwatching. Guests can also experience the local Maasai culture, with many camps offering cultural tours that include village visits and insights into Maasai traditions.
As the oldest airstrip in the Masai Mara, Keekorok Airport combines historical significance with accessibility, making it a fitting entry into the classic safari experience. With its proximity to prime wildlife areas, it provides a memorable start for travelers ready to explore the world-famous Masai Mara.
The primary airlines operating on this route include AirKenya Express, Mombasa Air Safari, and Safarilink Aviation.
AirKenya Express: This airline operates multiple daily flights between Nairobi Wilson and Keekorok, with departure times typically ranging from early morning to early afternoon. The flight duration is approximately 40 minutes. For detailed schedules and bookings, visit their official website.
Mombasa Air Safari: Offering daily services, Mombasa Air Safari connects Nairobi Wilson to Keekorok, with flight times similar to those of AirKenya Express. Passengers can expect a flight duration of around 40 minutes. For the most current schedules, it’s advisable to consult their official website or contact their customer service.
Safarilink Aviation: Safarilink provides daily flights to various airstrips within the Masai Mara, including Keekorok. Their flights from Nairobi Wilson to Keekorok are scheduled throughout the day, with a flight time of approximately 40 minutes. Detailed schedules and booking options are available on their official website.