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How far is the Maasai Mara from Nairobi? About 270 km. This map shows the road route via Narok and the flight option. Trunktrails Safaris arranges both, by road or by air.
Nairobi to Maasai Mara route map
The dashed orange line is the usual road route: Nairobi, down the Rift Valley escarpment, through Narok, then on to the Sekenani gate. The orange block is the reserve.
Boundaries from OpenStreetMap contributors and WDPA, simplified for display; roads and airstrips from OpenStreetMap; basemap © CARTO. Drive times are typical and vary with conditions.
The drive from Nairobi
It is about 270 km and 5 to 6 hours by road. You leave Nairobi on the A8, drop down the Rift Valley escarpment, and reach Narok in around three hours. Narok is the last town for fuel and supplies. From there it is a rougher two to three hours on murram to the Sekenani or Talek gates.
| Leg | Distance | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nairobi to Narok | ~145 km | ~3 hr | Tarmac, escarpment views |
| Narok to Sekenani gate | ~95 km | ~2-3 hr | Murram, slower |
| Total | ~270 km | 5-6 hr |
Or fly it in 45 minutes
Scheduled flights leave Nairobi’s Wilson Airport two or three times a day and reach the Mara airstrips in 40 to 45 minutes. Many travellers drive one way and fly the other to save a day. See the map of the Maasai Mara for the airstrips.
Nairobi to Maasai Mara: frequently asked questions
How far is the Maasai Mara from Nairobi?
About 270 km, a 5 to 6 hour drive via Narok, or a 40 to 45 minute flight from Wilson Airport.
How long does it take to drive from Nairobi to the Maasai Mara?
Usually 5 to 6 hours. The tarmac to Narok takes about three hours; the rougher murram road from Narok to the gates takes another two to three.
Is it better to drive or fly to the Maasai Mara?
Driving is cheaper and scenic but long; flying saves most of a day. A popular option is to drive in and fly out, or the reverse.
Book your Maasai Mara trip
Trunktrails Safaris arranges the Mara by road or by air, with the right vehicle and the right camp. Tell us your dates and we will sort the journey.
WhatsApp +254 113 208888 | info@trunktrailssafaris.com
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