For visitors travelling from the UK to Maasa Mara, the safari is easier than it sounds. You don’t need the long journey on road to Maasai Mara after your arrival in Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. The easiest way for you to visit Maasai Mara is to fly from the UK to JKIA, then connect to Wilson airport for a domestic flight to any of the Maasai Mara airstrips.

With proper planning a journey that could have taken you hours on the road can turn to be a seamless safari.

Step 1: Flying from the UK to Nairobi

Travelers from the United Kingdom, London Heathrow have access to direct flights to Kenya Nairobi, through the British Airways or the Kenya Airways. The whole journey takes about nine hours depending on the flight conditions and specific service.

Visitors from other parts of the United Kindom can also connect to Nairobi through London, the Middle Eastern or the European Hub. The most important point to note is that Wilson and JKIA are two different airports which you need to connect.

Step 2: Transfers from JKIA to Wilson Airport.

After landing in JKIA, you need a transfer across Nairobi. Due to the traffic unpredictability in Nairobi, create sufficient time for the transition. However, to be on the safe side book your first night at a Nairobi Hotel to proceed to Maasai Mara on the next day comfortably.

Step 3: Flying from Wilson Airport to Maasai Mara

This flight marks the start of your Kenyan Safari. The aircraft heads towards the west from Nairobi into a bush airstrip closer to your camp or hotel in the greater Mara. Here you can use scheduled flights by either Safarilink or AirKenya. The whole journey takes you about 40 minutes. However, the journey can take you longer due to the stop overs at the various airstrips in Maasai Mara.

Which Airstrip in Maasai Mara should you use?

The choice of your airstrip is dictated by the safari itinerary. Maasai Mara has a diverse network of Airstrips, you can use Keekorok, Musiara, Ol Kiombo, Kicha Tembo, Mara North, Olare , Mara Serena or Ol Seki depending on your chosen place of stay. Technically, the best airstrip is the closest to your place of accommodation. You choose the flight after the accommodation has been established.

How long will it take you to take you fly from the UK to Maasai Mara?

The flight duration is not fixed considering that there are two flights involved for the entire journey. A typical fly-in flight itinerary starts from the UK, Nairobi (JKIA), transfers to Wilson Airport, domestic flight to Maasai Mara airstrip and finally to camp/lodge. The airport transfer and the connection time may vary which is part of the journey.

Note, you can not fly from the UK directly to Maasai Mara you must pass through Nairobi for the international arrivals.

What luggage should you Pack during the safari?

Luggage restrictions vary between the international flight and the local flights. For local flights there are baggage restrictions depending on the airlines. Carry light luggage but follow the airline rules on luggage restrictions.

When is the Best time to fly to Maasai Mara?

A morning flight is more recommended for a Maasai safari as it gives you time allowance for any unpredictability. However, it is advisable to do early bookings if you are traveling for the Great Migration.

The smartest way to fly from the UK to Maasai mara is to ensure to check all the official requirements for the flight and get a practical itinerary first before booking your international flight.