A Masai Mara flying safari is the fastest, most convenient, and most comfortable way to experience Kenya’s most famous wildlife reserve. Instead of enduring a five to seven-hour drive on bumpy roads, travelers can take a scenic 40 to 60-minute flight from Wilson Airport in Nairobi and land directly inside the Masai Mara National Reserve.
Flying safaris eliminate the long road transfers and allow visitors to maximize their time on game drives, arriving fresh and ready to explore the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. This guide provides everything you need to know about planning a Masai Mara flying safari, including flight options, costs, airstrips, package deals, travel tips, and the best time to go.
Why Choose a Masai Mara Flying Safari?
There are several advantages to flying to Masai Mara rather than taking a road trip. The most significant benefit is the time saved. A flight from Wilson Airport in Nairobi takes less than an hour, while a drive can take anywhere between five and seven hours, depending on road conditions.
Beyond saving time, flying is the most comfortable way to reach Masai Mara. Travelers avoid long hours on rough roads, dust, and potential delays caused by weather or traffic. Upon arrival at one of Masai Mara’s airstrips, a safari vehicle from the lodge or camp picks up visitors and takes them directly into the reserve, often starting a game drive immediately.
Another compelling reason to choose a Masai Mara luxury flying safari is the breathtaking aerial views. From the air, passengers can enjoy stunning panoramic sights of the Great Rift Valley, Maasai homesteads, open savannah plains, and the winding Mara River. During the Great Migration season (July to October), lucky travelers might even see massive herds of wildebeest and zebras crossing the Mara River from above.
Flying safaris also provide access to remote and exclusive safari lodges. Many high-end lodges and tented camps are located in private conservancies and are difficult to reach by road. Fly-in lodges allow guests to land just minutes away from their accommodation, making the journey seamless and stress-free.
Booking a Masai Mara Flying Safari
Booking a Masai Mara fly-in safari is straightforward, with options ranging from budget-friendly to ultra-luxury packages. Safari packages typically include return flights, accommodation, meals, game drives, and transfers from the airstrip to the lodge.
Budget travelers can opt for shared flights with mid-range lodges, with prices ranging between $500 and $900 per person. For a more exclusive experience, luxury packages range from $1,500 to $4,000 per person, offering private flights, high-end lodges, and personalized game drives. For those seeking complete privacy and flexibility, private air charters start at around $2,500 per aircraft, catering to small groups or families.
The best time to book a flying safari depends on the season. During the peak season (July to October), it is advisable to book at least three to six months in advance to secure availability, as demand is extremely high due to the Great Migration. In the low season (April to June), travelers can often find last-minute discounts, making it possible to book just one or two months in advance while still enjoying excellent wildlife sightings.
Airlines and Flight Schedules to Masai Mara
Several airlines operate daily flights from Wilson Airport in Nairobi to Masai Mara, offering multiple departures throughout the day. The earliest flights depart as early as 7:15 AM, while the latest flights leave in the late afternoon.
Among the leading airlines, Safarilink, AirKenya, Mombasa Air Safari, and Fly ALS provide scheduled flights to various airstrips in Masai Mara. AirKenya offers the shortest flight duration at just 40 minutes, while Fly ALS provides the most budget-friendly fares, with special rates as low as $150 one-way. Safarilink and AirKenya offer the most flexible flight schedules, making them ideal choices for travelers with specific timing preferences.
Flight fares generally range from $150 to $228 for one-way economy tickets, with return fares averaging $300 to $400 depending on the airline and season.
Masai Mara Airstrips and Lodge Accessibility
Masai Mara has multiple airstrips, each serving different lodges and conservancies. Choosing the right airstrip is crucial for reducing transfer time to your accommodation.
For those staying at Mara Intrepids, Fig Tree, or Rekero Camp, Ol Kiombo Airstrip is the best option, as it is centrally located inside the reserve. Visitors staying at Keekorok Lodge, Sarova Mara, or Mara Sopa Lodge should choose Keekorok Airstrip, which offers direct access to these lodges.
Those heading to Governors’ Camp, Little Governors’, or Il Moran should land at Musiara Airstrip, while Mara Serena Safari Lodge guests should opt for Serena Airstrip. For luxury tented camps in Mara North Conservancy, such as Elephant Pepper, Kicheche Mara, and Offbeat Mara, Mara North Airstrip is the most convenient choice.
Travelers should confirm their lodge’s nearest airstrip before booking flights, as some flights have multiple stopovers, which could increase transfer times.
Masai Mara Flying Safari Experiences
A Masai Mara flying safari is more than just a mode of transport—it’s an experience in itself. Many travelers combine their flights with scenic aerial safaris, hot air balloon rides, and exclusive fly-in tours.
Helicopter safaris provide a private and intimate way to explore the landscape, offering unparalleled aerial views of the Masai Mara and the Great Rift Valley. Some luxury camps offer game drives by air, where travelers fly over different areas of the reserve for aerial wildlife spotting before landing for game drives on the ground.
Fly-in safaris also cater to special occasions, including honeymoon getaways. Romantic packages often include private bush dinners, hot air balloon safaris, and secluded tented camp stays, making for an unforgettable experience.
Travel Tips and Essential Information
When packing for a Masai Mara flying safari, travelers must adhere to strict luggage restrictions. Most airlines allow a maximum baggage weight of 15kg per person, and only soft bags are permitted, as hard suitcases do not fit in the small aircraft storage compartments.
Weather conditions should also be considered when planning a trip. The best time for a flying safari is between July and October, when the Great Migration takes place. However, the dry season from January to March also offers incredible wildlife viewing with fewer crowds.
It is important to arrive at Wilson Airport at least one hour before departure, as flights operate on tight schedules. Since some flights make multiple stops at different airstrips, travelers should check with their airline to confirm the exact duration of their journey.
Final Thoughts: Is a Masai Mara Flying Safari Worth It?
A Masai Mara flying safari is the best way to experience the reserve in comfort and style. It eliminates long road travel, maximizes time for game drives, and provides spectacular aerial views of the savannah.
Whether you choose a budget fly-in safari or a high-end luxury experience, flying safaris offer unmatched convenience and breathtaking experiences. If you are looking for a stress-free, time-efficient, and unforgettable safari adventure, a Masai Mara flying safari is definitely worth it.
FAQs on Masai Mara Flying Safaris
1. Can I book a one-way flight to Masai Mara and return by road?
Yes, many travelers choose to fly into Masai Mara for convenience and then return to Nairobi by road to experience the scenic drive through the Great Rift Valley. This option is popular among those who want to maximize their safari time while also enjoying a road trip back. It’s recommended to coordinate this with your tour operator so they can arrange a safari vehicle for your return journey.
2. Do Masai Mara flights have a weight limit for luggage?
Yes, most airlines impose a 15kg (33 lbs) weight limit per passenger, including both checked and hand luggage. Additionally, only soft bags are allowed, as small aircraft have limited storage space. If you have excess luggage, some airlines allow you to purchase extra baggage allowance in advance or store additional bags at Wilson Airport for a small fee.
3. Are there direct flights to Masai Mara from international airports like JKIA?
No, there are currently no direct flights from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to Masai Mara. All flights depart from Wilson Airport (WIL), which is a domestic airport in Nairobi. Travelers arriving at JKIA must transfer to Wilson Airport, which takes about 30 to 45 minutes by taxi. It’s advisable to allow at least two to three hours between flights to accommodate for potential delays.
4. What happens if my flight to Masai Mara is delayed or canceled?
Flight delays to Masai Mara are rare but can occur due to bad weather, operational issues, or air traffic control delays. If your flight is delayed, airlines usually notify passengers in advance and rebook them on the next available flight. In case of cancellations, airlines offer either a full refund or an alternative flight. However, it’s important to have travel insurance that covers flight disruptions in case of unexpected changes.
5. Are there toilets on flights to Masai Mara?
No, the small aircraft used for Masai Mara flights do not have onboard toilets. Since flights are short (40–60 minutes), it’s advisable to use the restroom before boarding at Wilson Airport. Upon arrival at your designated airstrip, your lodge or camp will have restroom facilities.
6. Can I carry my camera gear and photography equipment on a Masai Mara flight?
Yes, professional cameras and photography equipment are allowed on flights to Masai Mara. However, since weight restrictions apply, bulky camera bags must fit within the 15kg luggage allowance. It’s recommended to carry fragile or expensive equipment as hand luggage and pack efficiently using padded camera bags.
7. Can I take a flight to Masai Mara if I have a fear of flying?
If you have a fear of flying, you should know that flights to Masai Mara use small aircraft (typically 12 to 40 seats) and fly at low altitudes. While the experience is safe and scenic, turbulence can be slightly more noticeable compared to commercial jet flights. If you are prone to anxiety, consider:
- Booking a morning flight, as weather conditions are usually calmer.
- Choosing a larger aircraft (e.g., 40-seater planes), as they are more stable.
- Taking motion sickness tablets if needed.
If flying is a significant concern, driving to Masai Mara may be a better alternative.
8. Can I fly between different safari destinations within Kenya?
Yes, several airlines offer flights between Masai Mara and other safari destinations, eliminating the need to return to Nairobi. Some of the most common routes include:
- Masai Mara to Amboseli National Park
- Masai Mara to Samburu National Reserve
- Masai Mara to Diani Beach (Ukunda) or Mombasa
- Masai Mara to Lake Naivasha or Lake Nakuru
These inter-park flights allow for multi-destination safaris without long road transfers.
9. Do flights to Masai Mara operate year-round?
Yes, flights to Masai Mara operate every day, all year round. However, during the low season (April to June), some airlines reduce the number of daily flights due to lower demand. If traveling in the rainy season, it’s recommended to confirm your flight schedule in advance.
10. Can I book a private charter flight to Masai Mara?
Yes, private charter flights are available for travelers who prefer a personalized flying experience. Charter flights are ideal for:
- Families or small groups traveling together.
- Photographers and filmmakers who need flexible flight schedules.
- Luxury travelers who want direct access to remote conservancies.
Private charters allow travelers to fly directly to any airstrip of their choice without stopovers. However, charter flights are more expensive, typically starting at $2,500 per aircraft.
11. Are there weight restrictions for passengers on Masai Mara flights?
Yes, due to the small aircraft used for these flights, some airlines may have weight restrictions for individual passengers. If a passenger weighs over 100kg (220 lbs), they may be required to purchase an extra seat for balance and safety reasons. It is advisable to check with the airline when booking if this applies.
12. Do children get discounted fares on Masai Mara flights?
Yes, many airlines offer discounted rates for children under 12 years old. The discount varies by airline, but typically:
- Children aged 2–11 pay 75% of the adult fare.
- Infants under 2 years old may fly for free or at 10% of the adult fare, but they must sit on an adult’s lap.
Since policies differ among airlines, it’s best to confirm the exact pricing when booking.
13. Can I request a specific seat on a flight to Masai Mara?
Seating on Masai Mara flights is usually not pre-assigned. However, passengers can request a window seat upon check-in for better scenic views. Since these small aircraft have limited seating, every seat typically offers great visibility, but the left side often has the best aerial views of the Great Rift Valley.
14. Will my lodge provide transport from the airstrip to the camp?
Yes, all lodges and tented camps arrange airport pickups from the nearest airstrip. The transfer is usually included in the safari package and is conducted in a 4×4 safari vehicle. Upon landing, travelers are typically greeted by lodge representatives holding a sign with their name and are driven directly to their accommodation.
15. Is it safe to fly to Masai Mara?
Yes, flights to Masai Mara are very safe. Airlines operating these routes are well-regulated, and pilots are highly experienced in bush flying. Aircraft undergo regular maintenance, and flights follow strict safety protocols. Additionally, pilots are trained to navigate changing weather conditions and use well-maintained airstrips.
MasaiMara.ke offers both 2-day and 3-day fly-in safaris to Masai Mara, providing a seamless and time-efficient way to experience Kenya’s premier wildlife reserve. These packages include round-trip flights from Wilson Airport to Masai Mara, airport transfers, guided game drives in a 4×4 safari vehicle, and full-board accommodation at carefully selected lodges or tented camps. Whether you’re short on time or looking for a quick yet immersive safari adventure, our fly-in safaris ensure maximum game-viewing opportunities without the long road trip, allowing you to witness the breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife of Masai Mara with ease.
