The Ultimate 2025 Guide to Flights from Nairobi to Masai Mara — Book with Elisa Travel Agency (ETA)

There’s a reason the Masai Mara remains one of the most iconic safari destinations in the world. Its sweeping grasslands, dramatic sunsets, and abundant wildlife — from the Big Five to the Great Wildebeest Migration — make it an unforgettable adventure.

And the easiest, fastest, and most scenic way to reach it? By air.

If you’re planning a trip, this comprehensive guide to flights from Nairobi to Masai Mara will help you understand everything — from flight options and costs to airstrips, travel tips, and why booking with Elisa Travel Agency (ETA) is your smartest move.

🌍 Why Choose Flights from Nairobi to Masai Mara?

Traveling from Nairobi to the Masai Mara by road can take anywhere between 5 to 6 hours, depending on weather and road conditions. While scenic, it can be bumpy and tiring — especially for short safaris.

A flight from Nairobi to Masai Mara, on the other hand, takes just about 45 minutes to 1 hour, offering spectacular aerial views of the Great Rift Valley, rolling savannahs, and winding rivers.

Here’s why flying makes sense:

✈️ 1. Speed and Convenience

A short flight saves hours of travel time, allowing you to maximize your time in the Mara — whether it’s for game drives, relaxation, or photography.

🌄 2. Stunning Aerial Views

Flying low over the Rift Valley is an experience in itself — you’ll see Kenya’s varied landscapes in a way you never could from the ground.

🏕️ 3. Multiple Airstrips in the Mara

Unlike one central airport, the Masai Mara is served by several airstrips near the major lodges and conservancies — meaning your flight lands close to where you’re staying.

💼 4. Easy Connections

Flights from Nairobi to the Mara depart from both Wilson Airport (WIL) and occasionally Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO), allowing easy connections for domestic or international travelers.

🛫 Departure Airports in Nairobi

1. Wilson Airport (WIL)

Wilson Airport is the main departure point for flights to the Masai Mara. Located about 6 km from Nairobi’s city center, it’s smaller and faster to navigate than JKIA. Most domestic safari flights, including charter and scheduled services, operate from here.

Facilities include lounges, cafes, parking, and check-in desks for all major local carriers.

2. Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO)

While most Mara-bound flights operate from Wilson, some tour operators can arrange connecting transfers from JKIA, particularly for international arrivals connecting directly to a safari flight.

🦓 Arrival Airstrips in the Masai Mara

The Masai Mara doesn’t have a single centralized airport — it’s a network of airstrips serving various lodges and conservancies. Your arrival airstrip depends on where you’ll be staying.

Here are some of the key airstrips:

Booking with Elisa Travel Agency (ETA) ensures your flight lands at the airstrip nearest your lodge — saving you additional ground transfer time and cost.

🛩️ Airlines Operating Flights from Nairobi to Masai Mara

Several local carriers offer daily flights from Nairobi to the Masai Mara, mainly from Wilson Airport. These include both scheduled and charter services.

1. Safarilink Aviation

One of Kenya’s most reputable safari airlines, Safarilink offers up to three daily departures to multiple Mara airstrips.

• Website: www.safarilink-kenya.com

• Flight Time: ~1 hour

• Baggage: 15 kg soft bag limit

• Notable: Excellent safety record, reliable schedule

2. AirKenya Express

Another major safari airline, AirKenya operates from Wilson and connects to the Mara, Amboseli, Samburu, and other key safari destinations.

• Website: www.airkenya.com

• Flight Time: 45 minutes – 1 hour

• Features: Modern Cessna Grand Caravan aircraft, good connections to regional destinations.

3. Fly ALS

Fly ALS operates smaller aircraft with flexible schedules, ideal for groups or private travelers. It’s known for punctuality and personalized service.

• Website: www.flyals.com

• Advantage: Multiple daily flights and charter options.

4. Mombasa Air Safari

Originally focused on coastal routes, Mombasa Air Safari also operates flights from Nairobi to the Mara — ideal for travelers connecting from coastal resorts.

• Website: www.mombasaairsafari.com

• Note: Offers convenient Nairobi–Mara–Diani connections.

5. Skyward Express & Air Excel (Private Charters)

For luxury travelers or large groups, Elisa Travel Agency can arrange private charter flights directly to your preferred airstrip — offering privacy, flexibility, and a direct route to your safari lodge.

💸 Typical Airfares (2025 Overview)

Fares for flights from Nairobi to Masai Mara depend on season, demand, and lodge location. Below are average estimates for one-way and return fares:

👉 Pro Tip: Booking early through Elisa Travel Agency (ETA) often gives you discounted safari airfares, especially during off-peak months (April–June).

🧳 Baggage and Check-in Guidelines

Because these flights use smaller aircraft (Cessna Caravans), baggage restrictions are stricter than on standard domestic flights.

• Soft bags only (no hard suitcases)

• 15 kg total limit per person (including hand luggage)

• Check-in time: 1 hour before departure

• Carry essentials: Camera, hat, sunscreen, and a light jacket

Elisa Travel Agency provides packing tips and helps ensure your baggage meets airline rules before your flight day.

📅 Daily Flight Schedule (Example)

Return flights from Masai Mara typically depart between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM, allowing time for morning game drives before you fly back.

🏕️ Best Time to Fly to Masai Mara

The Masai Mara is a year-round destination, but flight frequency and pricing vary by season.

• Peak Season (July–October): Great Wildebeest Migration; book at least 2–3 months in advance.

• Shoulder Season (November–March): Fewer tourists, great rates, lush green scenery.

• Low Season (April–June): Occasional rain, discounted lodges, quiet airstrips.

Booking during the shoulder or green season through Elisa Travel Agency can save you up to 25% on flight + lodge packages.

🌟 Why Book with Elisa Travel Agency (ETA)

If you’re flying to the Masai Mara, Elisa Travel Agency (ETA) should be your first call. As one of Kenya’s most reputable travel agencies, ETA handles everything — from flight reservations and park fees to safari lodge coordination.

Here’s why travelers love ETA:

1. Local Expertise – Based in Kenya, ETA knows every airstrip, airline, and safari lodge.

2. Best Price Guarantee – They compare all airline options for you and secure the lowest fares.

3. Custom Safari Packages – Combine flights, lodge bookings, and park transfers in one smooth package.

4. 24/7 Customer Support – Assistance before, during, and after your trip.

5. Flexible Payments – Pay via M-Pesa, credit card, or bank transfer safely and easily.

6. Visa and Travel Assistance – For international travelers, ETA offers guidance on eVisas and travel logistics.

📞 Contact Elisa Travel Agency (ETA):
Website: www.elisatravelagency.com
Email: info@elisatravelagency.com
Phone/WhatsApp: +254 XXX XXX XXX

🦒 What Awaits You in the Masai Mara

Once you land, the magic begins immediately. Expect:

• Game Drives: Witness lions, elephants, cheetahs, buffalo, leopards, and rhinos up close.

• Hot Air Balloon Safaris: Float above the plains at sunrise.

• Cultural Visits: Meet the Maasai people and learn about their traditions.

• Photography Opportunities: Capture endless plains and stunning wildlife action.

• Luxury Lodges: Enjoy top-notch stays at camps like Mara Serena, Angama Mara, or Mahali Mzuri.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a repeat traveler, every trip to the Mara feels brand new.

🧭 Travel Tips Before You Fly

1. Confirm Airstrip Transfers: Always check if your lodge includes pickup from the airstrip.

2. Dress Comfortably: Layered clothing is best for cool mornings and warm afternoons.

3. Carry Essentials: Sunscreen, camera, and binoculars are must-haves.

4. Stay Hydrated: Bring bottled water for your flight and arrival.

5. Respect Weight Limits: Pack light — the planes are small for safety reasons.

6. Book Early: Flights fill up quickly during migration season.

7. Trust ETA: Let Elisa Travel Agency coordinate your entire journey for a smooth safari experience.

🌍 Alternative Routes and Safari Extensions

After exploring the Mara, you might extend your trip to:

• Amboseli National Park – Known for elephants and Mount Kilimanjaro views.

• Samburu National Reserve – Unique wildlife and semi-arid landscapes.

• Diani Beach – Connect from the Mara to Kenya’s coast for a bush-to-beach experience.

Elisa Travel Agency can create tailor-made packages combining these destinations — complete with flights, accommodation, and transfers.

🌅 Final Thoughts

Flying from Nairobi to Masai Mara transforms your journey from a long road trip into a breathtaking adventure through Kenya’s skies. With just under an hour’s flight time, you arrive relaxed, ready, and immersed in nature’s beauty.

Whether you’re witnessing the Great Migration, celebrating a honeymoon, or ticking a dream safari off your bucket list, Elisa Travel Agency (ETA) ensures your experience is smooth, affordable, and unforgettable.

When planning your next safari flight from Nairobi to Masai Mara, don’t waste hours comparing websites or juggling bookings — let Elisa Travel Agency handle everything for you. Their unmatched expertise, personalized service, and unbeatable prices make them Kenya’s #1 flight and safari booking partner.

🌐 Useful External Links

• Safarilink Kenya

• AirKenya Express

• Mombasa Air Safari

• Kenya Civil Aviation Authority

• Kenya Tourism Board