Nairobi to Masai Mara is about 270 km: 5–6 hours by road via Narok, or a 45–60 minute flight from Wilson Airport. Road vs flight cost and comfort compared.
The Masai Mara is about 270 km from Nairobi. By road it takes about 5–6 hours via the Rift Valley and Narok, including a viewpoint stop. By air, scheduled light aircraft from Nairobi's Wilson Airport reach the Mara airstrips in about 45–60 minutes. Road safaris cost much less, while flying saves almost a full day.
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The route runs from Nairobi down the Rift Valley escarpment (with a viewpoint stop) through Mai Mahiu and Narok to the Sekenani or Talek gate. The road is tarmac to near the reserve, then rougher. Road safaris such as our 3-day group joining safari are the budget choice.
Flights leave Wilson Airport daily for airstrips such as Keekorok, Ol Kiombo and Musiara. Luggage is usually limited to about 15 kg in soft bags. See our 3-day flying package.
Drive for the lowest cost and to see the Rift Valley along the way. Fly if you have little time, are travelling with young children, or are adding a beach stay, since you can fly from the Mara to the coast.
About 5–6 hours, including a stop at the Rift Valley viewpoint. Allow extra time in the rainy season.
The 3-day Masai Mara group joining safari is the most affordable way to see the Mara: you share a pop-up roof vehicle with up to 6 other travellers, leave Nairobi daily, stay two nights in a budget tented camp and get a full day of game driving in search of the Big Five.
The 3-day Masai Mara flying package for residents flies you from Wilson Airport to a Mara airstrip in about 45–60 minutes, with two nights full board in a tented camp and game drives in the camp's 4x4.
The 3-day Masai Mara camping safari by 4x4 Land Cruiser includes two Masai Mara park entries, two nights in an en-suite tented camp, all meals and game drives.
Written by the Seemore Tours & Travels team in Nairobi. Spotted something out of date? Tell us and we will update it.
