If you’ve got a layover in Masai Mara, don’t let it go to waste sitting at MRE. The city, in Kenya, is within easy reach — roughly 60 minutes by local transport. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Important Details Before You Go
A few things to sort out before you leave MRE:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Kenya. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Masai Mara takes about 60 minutes by local transport. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is KES. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some KES in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
From MRE, the local transport gets you to Masai Mara in around 60 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 80 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the local transport offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Exploring Masai Mara on a Layover
If you head into Masai Mara, here are two things worth checking out:
Short Game Drive is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Masai Mara.
Maasai Cultural Village Visit is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
If you’d rather stay inside MRE — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Mara Serena Lodge Wildlife Viewing Deck
- Mara Serena Lodge Pool Area
Best Bites Near MRE
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Masai Mara: Governors’ Camp Dining Room and Angama Mara Restaurant. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Mara Serena Lodge Main Restaurant or Mara Serena Lodge Bar & Lounge. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
How Much Money You’ll Need
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Masai Mara:
Transport to the city and back runs about $6 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $12 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $28 USD total.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Masai Mara.
Luggage Storage at MRE
Dedicated luggage storage at MRE may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Masai Mara’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at MRE for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Masai Mara or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Sleep & Lounge Options at MRE
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at MRE, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Masai Mara doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 60 minutes from MRE, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.