Ol Seki Naboisho Airstrip, commonly referred to as Ol Seki Airstrip, is a vital aviation hub serving the Mara Naboisho Conservancy, one of the most exclusive wildlife conservancies in Kenya. Located in the northeastern section of the Maasai Mara ecosystem, this airstrip provides easy access to luxury safari lodges, eco-camps, and is increasingly becoming popular for budget travelers due to its proximity to Kambu Mara Camp.
1. Location and Accessibility
- Geographical Coordinates:
- Latitude: -1.378° S
- Longitude: 35.378° E
- Elevation: Approximately 5,900 feet (1,800 meters) above sea level
- Proximity to Key Sites:
- Located within the Mara Naboisho Conservancy, northeast of the Maasai Mara National Reserve.
- About 19.7 km from Kambu Mara Camp, a budget-friendly option, only 30 minutes’ drive away, making it the closest budget camp to the airstrip.
- Close to luxury lodges and camps within the conservancy, ensuring quick transfers and easy access to wildlife hotspots.
- Accessibility:
- By Air: Daily scheduled flights from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport and other safari circuits.
- By Road: Accessible via 4×4 vehicles, although road conditions can be challenging, especially during the rainy season.
2. Runway and Airstrip Specifications
- Runway Length: Approximately 2,170 meters (7,119 feet)
- Surface Type: Unpaved gravel/dirt runway suitable for small to medium-sized aircraft
- Condition: Regularly maintained to ensure year-round usability, though dust and loose gravel can be expected during dry seasons
3. Camps and Lodges Served by Ol Seki Naboisho Airstrip
Ol Seki Airstrip provides convenient access to a range of luxury camps and lodges within the Mara Naboisho Conservancy as well as budget-friendly options nearby.
Nearby Camps and Lodges Include:
- Hemingways Ol Seki Mara Camp – A luxury tented camp with panoramic savannah views
- Naboisho Camp – An intimate, eco-friendly camp with exceptional guiding
- Eagle View Camp – Known for elevated views and sustainable practices
- Leopard Hill Camp – A luxury camp with unique stargazing tents
- Wilderness Camp – A traditional camp for an authentic safari experience
- Kambu Mara Camp – The closest budget camp to the airstrip, located just 19.7 km away (about 30 minutes’ drive), offering affordable safari experiences without compromising access to wildlife-rich areas
Kambu Mara Camp’s proximity makes it an ideal option for budget-conscious travelers seeking affordable accommodation while enjoying the exclusivity of the Naboisho ecosystem.
4. Airlines and Flight Connectivity
Ol Seki Airstrip is serviced by leading domestic airlines offering scheduled flights connecting key safari hubs across Kenya.
Major Airlines Operating at Ol Seki Naboisho Airstrip:
- AirKenya Express:
Offers daily flights from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport, with connections to other airstrips in the Maasai Mara and beyond. - Safarilink Aviation:
Provides regular flights from Nairobi and connects to other wildlife destinations like Amboseli, Diani Beach, and Nanyuki.
Note: Flight schedules can vary based on demand and weather conditions.
5. Facilities and Services at the Airstrip
While Ol Seki Airstrip is a basic bush airstrip, it provides essential services to ensure a smooth arrival and departure experience for safari-goers.
- Passenger Shelter: Simple shaded areas for passengers to wait comfortably
- Ranger’s Office: Staffed by conservancy personnel to assist with park entry formalities and security
- Ground Transportation: Most lodges and camps, including Kambu Mara Camp, provide complimentary transfers for guests upon arrival
- Basic Restrooms: Minimal but available facilities for travelers
6. Operational Considerations for Travelers
To ensure a seamless travel experience, here are key points to consider when flying to Ol Seki Naboisho Airstrip:
Baggage Allowance:
- Maximum Weight: 15 kg (33 lbs) per person, including hand luggage
- Bag Type: Soft-sided bags are preferred due to limited cargo space in light aircraft
Wildlife Safety:
- The airstrip is located within a wildlife conservancy, so sightings of giraffes, zebras, elephants, and even predators near the runway are common. Always remain within designated waiting areas.
Weather Dependency:
- Flights may experience delays or cancellations during adverse weather conditions, particularly during the rainy seasons (March-May and October-December).
Health and Safety Tips:
- Carry a water bottle to stay hydrated
- Apply sunscreen and wear a hat for sun protection
- Dress in layers due to fluctuating morning and evening temperatures
7. Ground Transfers from Ol Seki Naboisho Airstrip
Transfers from the airstrip are typically arranged by the camp or lodge you’re staying at. The journey often doubles as a mini game drive, with wildlife sightings en route.
Estimated Transfer Times:
- Hemingways Ol Seki Mara Camp: 10 minutes
- Naboisho Camp: 15-20 minutes
- Eagle View Camp: 20-25 minutes
- Leopard Hill Camp: 20-30 minutes
- Kambu Mara Camp: Approximately 30 minutes (19.7 km) – the closest budget camp to the airstrip
Transfers are conducted using 4×4 safari vehicles capable of handling rugged terrain.
8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How do I book a flight to Ol Seki Naboisho Airstrip?
Flights can be booked directly with airlines like AirKenya and Safarilink, or through safari operators and travel agents.
Q2: Are there direct flights from Nairobi to Ol Seki Naboisho Airstrip?
Yes, both AirKenya and Safarilink offer direct flights from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport to Ol Seki Airstrip.
Q3: What is the baggage allowance?
The standard baggage allowance is 15 kg (33 lbs) per person in soft-sided bags to fit small aircraft compartments.
Q4: Is ground transportation available upon arrival?
Yes, most safari camps and lodges, including Kambu Mara Camp, provide complimentary transfers. It’s best to arrange this in advance.
Q5: What wildlife might I see near the airstrip?
The area is rich in wildlife—you may spot zebras, giraffes, antelopes, elephants, and occasionally even big cats near the airstrip.
Q6: Is Ol Seki Naboisho Airstrip suitable for budget travelers?
Yes, with Kambu Mara Camp located just 19.7 km away, budget travelers can enjoy affordable accommodation while accessing the conservancy easily.
9. Pros and Cons of Ol Seki Naboisho Airstrip
Pros:
- Convenient access to the Mara Naboisho Conservancy, a less crowded and wildlife-rich area
- Close to both luxury camps and budget options like Kambu Mara Camp
- Regular daily flights from Nairobi, offering flexible travel options
- Transfers often double as mini game drives
- Located in an area with excellent wildlife viewing opportunities
Cons:
- Basic facilities with no advanced amenities like shops or restaurants
- Weather-dependent schedules, especially during the rainy seasons
- Strict baggage restrictions due to small aircraft limitations
10. Final Thoughts
Ol Seki Naboisho Airstrip is an essential gateway for travelers seeking an authentic Maasai Mara safari experience. Whether you’re staying at a luxury lodge like Hemingways Ol Seki Camp or choosing an affordable option like Kambu Mara Camp—which is conveniently located just 30 minutes away—this airstrip offers efficient access to the breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife of the Mara Naboisho Conservancy.
For those looking to combine affordability, convenience, and rich wildlife experiences, Ol Seki Naboisho Airstrip, paired with Kambu Mara Camp, provides the perfect safari adventure.