Combining Kenya’s coastline with a Masai Mara safari is one of the most popular holiday routes for both international and local travelers. White-sand beaches in Mombasa, Diani, Malindi, or Watamu pair perfectly with the wildlife experience of the Mara. However, many visitors are unsure how to travel between the coast and the reserve. This guide explains all the available options in 2026, including flights, timings, costs, and recommended routes.
If you are flying into Nairobi first, see How to Get to the Masai Mara From Nairobi (Road vs Flight in 2026).
1. Overview: The Best Way to Travel From Kenya’s Coast to the Masai Mara
The only practical way to travel from the coast to the Masai Mara is by flight.
There is no direct road connection, and attempting to drive requires passing through Nairobi, adding long hours without any advantage.
Coast → Masai Mara Travel Options
- Direct bush flights from Diani, Mombasa, Malindi, or Watamu
- Connecting flights via Nairobi’s Wilson Airport
- Private charter flights
Road travel from the coast to the Mara is not recommended due to distance and time.
2. Direct Flights From the Coast to the Masai Mara
Direct flights land inside the reserve or nearby conservancies, saving many hours.
Airlines Operating Coast → Masai Mara Flights
- Safarilink
- Mombasa Air Safari
- Air Kenya (seasonal)
- Fly ALS
- Auric Air
Direct Departures
| Departure Airport | Arrival Airstrip(s) | Frequency | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diani/Ukunda | Keekorok, Ol Kiombo, Mara North | Daily | 2–2.5 hrs |
| Mombasa | Multiple Mara airstrips | Daily | ~2.5 hrs |
| Malindi | Mara airstrips | Seasonal | 2.5–3 hrs |
| Watamu (via Malindi) | Mara airstrips | Seasonal | ~3 hrs |
Prices (2026)
- USD 250–350 one-way
- USD 400–550 return
If you plan to fly, compare options described in the full flight guide:
Flights to the Masai Mara: Airports, Airlines and Prices From Nairobi and Beyond.
3. Flights Through Nairobi (Wilson Airport)
This is the most flexible option if direct flights are unavailable.
Route
- Coast → Nairobi (JKIA)
- Transfer to Wilson Airport
- Wilson → Masai Mara airstrip
Coast → Nairobi Airlines
- Kenya Airways
- Jambojet
- Fly540
Time Breakdown
- 1 hour Coast → Nairobi
- 15–30 min transfer
- 45 min Wilson → Masai Mara
Cost
- USD 50–120 (coast → Nairobi)
- USD 100–200 (Nairobi → Mara)
This is a good option if you want to join a budget group trip:
Best Masai Mara Safari Packages From Nairobi.
4. Masai Mara Airstrips Used by Coastal Flights
National Reserve Airstrips
- Keekorok
- Ol Kiombo
- Serena
- Musiara
Conservancy Airstrips
- Mara North
- Olare Orok
- Naboisho
- Ol Seki
- Siana Springs
To match your airstrip with the right lodge, check:
All of them specify airstrip access.
5. Can You Travel From the Coast to the Masai Mara by Road?
Short answer: No direct route exists.
To drive, you would need to:
- Mombasa → Nairobi (6–7 hours by road or 4.5 hours by SGR train)
- Nairobi → Masai Mara (5–6 hours)
Total: 11–13 hours
This is far longer than flying and not practical for most travelers.
For more, see:
How to Get to the Masai Mara From Nairobi (Road vs Flight).
6. Coast + Masai Mara Recommended Itineraries (2026)
A. 5-Day Coast + Mara
- Day 1: Fly Diani → Mara
- Day 2: Full-day game drives
- Day 3: Balloon safari + sundowners
- Day 4: Morning drive, fly back to the coast
- Day 5: Beach relaxation
For experiences beyond game drives, see:
Things to Do in the Masai Mara (Beyond Game Drives).
B. 7-Day Beach + Safari
- 3 days on the coast
- 3 days in the Mara
- Fly back to coast or Nairobi
Choose your stay depending on style:
- Luxury → Masai Mara Luxury Resorts
- Budget → Best Budget Stays in the Mara
C. Budget Option via Nairobi
- Coast → Nairobi (SGR or budget flight)
- Join a group safari
For group safari choices, refer to:
Best Masai Mara Safari Packages From Nairobi.
7. Best Coastal Airports for Masai Mara Connections
Diani / Ukunda (UKA)
- Most direct flights
- Best for beach+safari combos
Mombasa (MBA)
- Reliable schedules
- Year-round departures
Malindi / Watamu
- Seasonal
- Great for northern coastal route travelers
8. Best Time to Combine Coast + Mara
For full seasonal information, use:
Best Time to Visit the Masai Mara Kenya.
Peak Season: July–October
Great Migration viewing + beach weather.
Good Season: January–March
Clear skies, newborns, calm beach days.
Low Season: April–June
Fewer crowds, green landscapes, occasional schedule changes.
9. Cost Summary
Direct Flights:
USD 250–350 one way
USD 400–550 return
Via Nairobi:
USD 50–120 coast → Nairobi
USD 100–200 Nairobi → Mara
10. Final Recommendation
- Best overall: Direct flight from Diani or Mombasa
- Best budget: Coast → Nairobi → Joining safari
- Best for itineraries: Coast → Nairobi → Mara bush plane
Whichever route you choose, combining Kenya’s coast with the Mara offers one of the most rewarding travel experiences in East Africa.