Overview of Musiara Airstrip
Musiara Airstrip is a small but essential bush airstrip located in the northeastern part of the Maasai Mara National Reserve, near the famous Musiara Marsh. This area is teeming with wildlife, making it a favorite landing point for travelers heading to iconic camps like Governors’ Camp, Little Governors’, and several other luxury and eco-friendly lodges in the area.
Musiara Airstrip primarily serves tourists arriving for fly-in safaris, offering quick access to one of the richest wildlife areas in the Mara.
- IATA Code: HKMI
- Location: Near Musiara Marsh, Maasai Mara National Reserve
- Coordinates: Approx. 1.4020° S, 35.0500° E
- Elevation: ~5,000 feet (1,524 meters) above sea level
- Runway Surface: Gravel/dirt
- Length: Approximately 1,200 meters (suitable for small aircraft only)
Why Choose Musiara Airstrip?
- Direct access to central and northern Maasai Mara
- Close to high-profile wildlife areas, including Musiara Marsh, known for lion sightings and the BBC’s Big Cat Diaries
- Short drive to top camps and lodges
- Ideal for fly-in safaris with easy connections from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport
How to Get to Musiara Airstrip
By Air
The easiest way to reach Musiara is via scheduled or charter flights from Wilson Airport (Nairobi). The flight takes about 45–60 minutes and is typically operated by:
- Air Kenya
- Safarilink
- Fly ALS
- Yellow Wings
During high season (June to October and December to March), flights run multiple times daily.
Charter Flights
Private charters are available for those seeking a customized schedule, VIP experience, or direct connections from other parks like Amboseli, Samburu, or Lewa. These flights are typically arranged through safari operators or directly with aviation companies.
Musiara Airstrip Transfers & Ground Transport
Transfer to Camps
Transfers from Musiara Airstrip to nearby lodges are usually arranged in advance and included in your safari package. Lodges use 4×4 safari vehicles to pick up guests directly from the airstrip.
If you’re not staying at a full-service lodge, you can book a private transfer. A local taxi operator based near Sekenani Gate offers airport pickups and drop-offs for $50 per vehicle (typically using a Toyota Probox – not a Land Cruiser).
⚠️ Transfers to distant airstrips such as Musiara to Mara North or other conservancies may incur higher costs.
Travel Time to Lodges
- Governors’ Camp: ~10 minutes
- Little Governors’ Camp: ~15 minutes (includes boat crossing)
- Other Musiara camps: 5–30 minutes depending on distance
Facilities at Musiara Airstrip
Being a bush airstrip, Musiara has very basic facilities. It’s not a conventional airport and does not have a terminal building.
What you’ll find:
- Small waiting area with basic shelter
- Aircraft parking bay
- Runway marshal (to guide planes in and out)
- Occasional ranger presence
- No toilets, restaurants, or shops
Bring essentials such as water, sun protection, and anything you may need before boarding.
Airstrip Schedule & Timing
Flight Schedule
- Most flights operate between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM
- Exact times vary based on the season and airline
- Some operators offer early morning arrivals (8:00 AM–9:00 AM)
Recommended Transfer Timing
If your departure flight is at 2:45 PM, we recommend leaving your lodge by 12:30 PM, allowing for delays and wildlife sightings along the way.
Lodges & Camps Near Musiara Airstrip
Staying near the airstrip means more time for game viewing and less time in transit. Top nearby options include:
Luxury Camps
- Governors’ Camp – historic, riverside tents, great for photography
- Little Governors’ Camp – secluded, accessible via boat crossing
- Mara Plains Camp – ultra-luxurious, excellent guiding
Mid-Range & Eco Camps
- Musiara Bush Camp
- Riverside Tented Camp
- Kicheche Mara Camp (slightly farther, depending on location)
Most camps include full-board meal plans, guided game drives, and transfers to/from the airstrip.
Wildlife & Safari Highlights
Musiara offers direct access to some of the best game viewing in the Maasai Mara. It’s especially known for:
- Lions, especially the Marsh Pride
- Elephants, buffalo, giraffes, and hippos
- Seasonal wildebeest migration crossings along the Mara River
- Excellent birding opportunities
- Big Cat sightings: cheetah, leopard, hyena
Many travelers choose Musiara for the chance to start game drives within 10–15 minutes of landing.
What to Know Before You Go
Baggage Allowance
- Soft-sided bags only
- 15 kg (33 lbs) per person, including hand luggage
- Strictly enforced on small aircraft
Travel Tips
- Carry sunscreen, hat, and light jacket
- Bring binoculars and camera gear
- Have cash or MPesa for tips or purchases at camps
- Power banks are helpful — no charging at the airstrip
Weather
- Dry seasons: June–October, January–March
- Rainy seasons: April–May, November
- Flights can occasionally be delayed due to heavy rain or fog
Can You Buy Food or Drinks at Musiara Airstrip?
No – there are no food or beverage facilities at the airstrip itself. However, most lodges and camps offer:
- Full-service restaurants
- Alcoholic beverages
- Packed breakfasts/lunches for early flights or game drives
Booking Information & Contact
Most visitors access Musiara through a safari operator, who handles flight bookings, transfers, and lodge reservations. You can also book flights directly via:
Final Thoughts
Musiara Airstrip is a quiet, scenic, and highly convenient entry point into one of the most wildlife-rich corners of the Maasai Mara. Its proximity to iconic lodges and high predator density make it a fantastic choice for both first-timers and seasoned safari-goers.
Whether you’re flying in for a romantic getaway, family adventure, or photography trip, Musiara offers the kind of access that brings the magic of the Mara to your doorstep — within minutes of landing.