Masai Mara is one of the most famous wildlife reserves in the world, located in Kenya. It is home to the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino) and the spectacular Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles cross the Mara River.
If you are planning a safari adventure in Masai Mara, knowing the nearest airport will help you arrange a smooth trip. This guide will cover the closest airports, travel options, and tips for reaching Masai Mara effortlessly.
What Is the Nearest Airport to Masai Mara?
Masai Mara does not have an international airport, but several domestic airstrips and regional airports serve travelers heading to the reserve. The nearest airport to Masai Mara is:
Keekorok Airstrip – Closest Airstrip in Masai Mara
- IATA Code: None
- Location: Inside Masai Mara National Reserve
- Distance from Masai Mara Lodges: Few minutes by safari vehicle
- Best For: Travelers flying from Nairobi or other Kenyan cities
Keekorok Airstrip is one of the main airstrips inside Masai Mara. Several small domestic airlines, such as Safarilink, AirKenya, and Fly540, operate flights from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport (WIL) to Keekorok and other airstrips in the reserve.
Other Airstrips in Masai Mara
Apart from Keekorok, there are several airstrips inside Masai Mara that cater to different safari lodges and camps:
- Ol Kiombo Airstrip – Serves central Masai Mara
- Mara North Airstrip – Serves private conservancies
- Serena Airstrip – Near Mara Serena Safari Lodge
- Kichwa Tembo Airstrip – Serves luxury camps near the western part of Masai Mara
Nearest International Airport to Masai Mara
For international travelers, the nearest major airport is:
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) – Best for International Flights
- IATA Code: NBO
- Location: Nairobi, Kenya
- Distance from Masai Mara: 250 km (155 miles)
- Travel Time to Masai Mara: 5-6 hours by road or 1-hour flight
- Best For: International travelers arriving in Kenya
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi is Kenya’s largest and busiest airport. It serves direct flights from major cities in Europe, Asia, North America, and Africa.
Upon arrival in Nairobi, travelers can take a domestic flight from Wilson Airport (WIL) to Masai Mara’s airstrips or travel by road.
Other Regional Airports Near Masai Mara
If you are already in Kenya or a neighboring country, you may also consider these regional airports near Masai Mara.
Wilson Airport (WIL) – Best for Domestic Flights
- IATA Code: WIL
- Location: Nairobi, Kenya
- Distance from Masai Mara: 250 km (155 miles)
- Best For: Domestic flights to Masai Mara airstrips
Wilson Airport is Nairobi’s primary domestic airport and the main hub for flights to Masai Mara. Airlines such as Safarilink, AirKenya, and Fly540 offer daily flights from Wilson Airport to various airstrips in Masai Mara.
Kisumu International Airport (KIS) – Best for Travelers from Western Kenya
- IATA Code: KIS
- Location: Kisumu, Kenya
- Distance from Masai Mara: 200 km (124 miles)
- Best For: Travelers coming from Kisumu or Lake Victoria region
Kisumu International Airport is not directly connected to Masai Mara by flight, but travelers can fly to Nairobi and then take a connecting flight to Masai Mara.
Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) – Best for Travelers from Tanzania
- IATA Code: JRO
- Location: Arusha, Tanzania
- Distance from Masai Mara: 300 km (186 miles)
- Best For: Tourists coming from Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park
If you are coming from Tanzania, the best route is to fly from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) to Nairobi, then take a connecting flight to Masai Mara. Some travelers also take a road transfer from Serengeti National Park to Masai Mara.
How to Get to Masai Mara from the Airport
Once you arrive at an airport near Masai Mara, you have two main travel options to reach the reserve:
1. Domestic Flight to Masai Mara Airstrips (Fastest & Easiest Option)
- Best for saving time and enjoying scenic views
- Flights available from Wilson Airport (WIL) in Nairobi
- Travel time: 1 hour
Domestic flights from Nairobi to Masai Mara are the quickest way to travel. Once you land at an airstrip inside the reserve, your safari lodge will arrange a 4×4 vehicle transfer to your accommodation.
2. Road Trip from Nairobi to Masai Mara (Budget-Friendly Option)
- Best for travelers who enjoy scenic road trips
- Travel time: 5-6 hours
- Roads are bumpy and rough in some areas
Driving from Nairobi to Masai Mara is an adventure itself. You can book a private transfer, join a safari tour, or rent a 4×4 vehicle. Most tourists travel in organized safari tours that include transportation, guides, and accommodations.
Best Time to Visit Masai Mara
Masai Mara offers great wildlife viewing year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your interests.
1. Peak Season (July – October) – Best for the Great Migration
- Wildebeest Migration crosses the Mara River
- High number of tourists, so book early
- Dry season with excellent wildlife viewing
2. Green Season (November – May) – Best for Fewer Crowds & Lush Landscapes
- Fewer tourists, lower safari prices
- Beautiful green scenery, great for photography
- Some rain, but still good wildlife sightings
3. Shoulder Season (June & October) – Best for Good Weather & Fewer Tourists
- Mild weather conditions
- Good wildlife viewing with fewer crowds
Travel Tips for Visiting Masai Mara
1. Book Flights & Safari Tours in Advance
Masai Mara is a popular safari destination, so book flights, accommodations, and tours early to secure the best options.
2. Pack Proper Safari Clothing
Wear lightweight, neutral-colored clothes and bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. The weather can be hot during the day and cool at night.
3. Bring a Good Camera & Binoculars
Masai Mara is home to incredible wildlife. A good camera with zoom lens and binoculars will help you capture the best moments.
4. Follow Wildlife & Safety Guidelines
Always listen to your safari guide, stay inside the vehicle, and respect the animals in their natural habitat.
The nearest airport to Masai Mara depends on your travel route. The closest domestic airport is Keekorok Airstrip, while the nearest international airport is Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi. From Nairobi, you can either take a 1-hour flight to Masai Mara’s airstrips or a 5-6 hour drive.
No matter how you choose to travel, visiting Masai Mara is an unforgettable experience filled with incredible wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and thrilling safari adventures.