Mara Serena Airstrip (MRE) is one of the 11 key airstrips serving Kenya’s world-famous Maasai Mara National Reserve and one of the 6 located inside the reserve itself. Positioned strategically in the northwestern section of the reserve, near the Mara Triangle and the iconic Mara River, it is a vital entry point for tourists heading to some of the Maasai Mara’s most luxurious lodges and camps. Its prime location offers quick access to wildlife hotspots, including areas renowned for the Great Migration river crossings.
This guide covers everything you need to know about Mara Serena Airstrip, from flight schedules to surrounding lodges, transport options, and practical tips for travelers.
1. Location and Accessibility
- Coordinates:
- Latitude: 1° 24′ 18.00″ S
- Longitude: 35° 0′ 36.00″ E
- Elevation: Approximately 5,600 feet (1,707 meters) above sea level
- Proximity to Key Sites:
- Located near the Mara River, famous for the dramatic wildebeest migration crossings.
- Close to the Mara Triangle, offering less crowded, rich wildlife-viewing opportunities.
- Serves the Mara Serena Safari Lodge, perched on a hill with panoramic views of the savannah.
- Accessibility:
- By Air: Regular flights from Nairobi Wilson Airport (WIL), Mombasa, Diani, and other key destinations.
- By Road: Though accessible by road, the journey from Nairobi takes about 5-6 hours, often requiring a 4×4 vehicle due to rugged roads, especially in the rainy season.
2. Runway and Airstrip Specifications
- Runway Orientation: 09/27
- Runway Length: 1,050 meters (3,445 feet)
- Surface Type: Unpaved gravel/dirt runway suitable for small to medium-sized aircraft.
- Condition: Regularly maintained to support high-frequency safari flights, but dust and loose gravel can be expected.
3. Airlines and Flight Connectivity
Mara Serena Airstrip handles daily scheduled flights operated by top regional airlines, providing seamless connections to Nairobi and other safari circuits.
Airlines Operating at Mara Serena Airstrip:
- AirKenya Express:
- Flights from Nairobi Wilson Airport (WIL)
- Stops at other Maasai Mara airstrips before or after Mara Serena
- Safarilink Aviation:
- Regular connections from Nairobi Wilson Airport
- Flights to other destinations like Amboseli, Nanyuki, and Diani Beach
- Mombasa Air Safari:
- Flights from the Kenyan coast, including Mombasa and Diani
Flight Schedules:
- Morning Flights: Typically between 7:30 AM – 11:00 AM
- Afternoon Flights: Departures and arrivals between 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Note: Flight schedules are subject to weather conditions and seasonal demand.
4. Nearby Camps and Lodges Served by Mara Serena Airstrip
Mara Serena Airstrip is the closest airstrip to several luxury and mid-range camps and lodges, ensuring minimal transfer times for guests:
- Mara Serena Safari Lodge – 5 minutes away
- Kilima Camp – 20-30 minutes by road
- Mara Engai Wilderness Lodge – Approximately 30 minutes
- Little Governors’ Camp – Accessible with a combination of vehicle and boat transfer across the Mara River
- Mara West Camp – Located near the Oloololo Escarpment
5. Facilities and Services at the Airstrip
Mara Serena Airstrip is a small, functional airstrip, designed to cater to safari-goers in transit. While facilities are basic compared to major airports, they cover essential needs:
- Passenger Shelter: Simple shaded areas to protect from the sun and rain while waiting for flights.
- Security: Staffed with Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) rangers for safety and park entry formalities.
- Ground Transport: Safari vehicles from lodges typically meet arriving flights for immediate transfers.
- Basic Restroom Facilities: Available but minimal.
- Wildlife Viewing: Due to its location within the reserve, it’s not uncommon to spot wildlife—like zebras, giraffes, or even elephants—near the airstrip!
6. Baggage Allowance and Travel Guidelines
Because flights to Mara Serena Airstrip are typically operated by small aircraft:
- Baggage Limit:
- 15 kg (33 lbs) per person, including hand luggage.
- Soft-sided bags are recommended due to limited cargo space.
- Security Checks:
- Light security screening before boarding.
- Ensure valuables are in your carry-on.
- Wildlife Safety:
- Always wait in designated areas as wildlife can roam freely near the airstrip.
- Avoid wandering away from the waiting areas without an escort.
7. Ground Transfers from Mara Serena Airstrip
Most safari lodges offer complimentary transfers to and from the airstrip, typically included in safari packages. Guests are greeted by their lodge’s safari guides with 4×4 safari vehicles ready for transfer.
- Transfer Times:
- Mara Serena Lodge: 5 minutes
- Little Governors’ Camp: 20 minutes with a boat crossing
- Mara Engai Lodge: Around 30 minutes
If not pre-arranged, private transfers can be organized at an additional cost.
8. Advantages of Flying to Mara Serena Airstrip
- Quick Access: Fastest way to reach the Mara from Nairobi, saving time compared to road travel.
- Scenic Flights: Aerial views of the Great Rift Valley, Maasai villages, and Mara River.
- Proximity to Wildlife: Land right in the heart of the action, with wildlife often visible from the runway.
- Convenience: Reduced travel fatigue, allowing more time for game drives.
9. Challenges and Considerations
- Limited Facilities: No restaurants or large waiting lounges. Pack water and light snacks.
- Weather Dependency: Flights can be delayed or canceled due to weather, especially during the rainy season.
- Strict Luggage Restrictions: Be mindful of the 15 kg limit. Overweight bags may incur extra charges or be left behind.
10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How do I book a flight to Mara Serena Airstrip?
A: Flights can be booked through safari operators, travel agencies, or directly with airlines like AirKenya, Safarilink, or Mombasa Air Safari.
Q2: Are there direct flights from Nairobi to Mara Serena?
A: Yes, both AirKenya and Safarilink offer direct flights from Wilson Airport (WIL) to Mara Serena Airstrip.
Q3: What is the baggage allowance?
A: A maximum of 15 kg (33 lbs) in soft bags, including hand luggage.
Q4: Is there Wi-Fi at the airstrip?
A: No, Wi-Fi is not available. However, some mobile networks may have limited coverage.
Q5: Can I see wildlife at the airstrip?
A: Yes! It’s common to spot wildlife like zebras, giraffes, and antelopes around the runway.
11. Pros and Cons of Mara Serena Airstrip
Pros:
- Close to top lodges like Mara Serena Safari Lodge
- Quick access to prime wildlife areas, especially the Mara River
- Regular flight schedules from Nairobi and other safari circuits
- Incredible aerial views on arrival and departure
- Minimal transfer times to camps, maximizing safari experiences
Cons:
- Basic facilities with no advanced amenities like restaurants or shops
- Weather-dependent schedules, especially during rainy seasons
- Strict baggage limits may require extra planning
12. Final Thoughts
Mara Serena Airstrip is the perfect gateway to the heart of the Maasai Mara, especially if you’re staying near the Mara Triangle or Mara River. Its strategic location ensures quick transfers to lodges, spectacular wildlife sightings, and efficient flight connections to and from Nairobi and beyond.
For travelers looking to maximize their safari time and minimize travel hassle, flying into Mara Serena Airstrip offers an unbeatable combination of convenience, scenery, and adventure.