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NYK โ MRE
Which side of the plane to sit from Nanyuki Airport (Nanyuki) to Mara Serena Lodge Airstrip (Masai Mara)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers a superior view of the Great Rift Valley's dramatic floor and the stunning Siria Escarpment upon descent into the Masai Mara, benefited by front-lit landscapes during morning flights.
Laikipia Plateau
Aerial perspective of world-renowned private conservancies known for high concentrations of black rhino and elephants.
Great Rift Valley
Spectacular views of the valley floor, featuring extinct volcanic vents and dramatic fault lines.
Mau Escarpment
The massive, forested western wall of the Rift Valley rising sharply from the savanna floor.
Siria Escarpment
The Oloololo Escarpment provides a breathtaking backdrop as the plane descends toward the Mara Serena airstrip.
The right side is ideal for morning flights as the sun is behind you, illuminating the Rift Valley floor perfectly. During the Great Migration (JulyโOctober), keep a sharp eye out on the final approach into MRE; the Mara River crossings are often visible just to the west of the flight path.
Mount Kenya
Immediate views of Africa's second-highest peak and its jagged, snow-dusted summits shortly after takeoff.
Aberdare National Park
Dense indigenous forests and deep valleys of the Aberdare Range stretching toward the southern horizon.
Maasai Manyattas
Circular traditional homesteads of the Maasai people visible as the aircraft crosses the southern plains.
Loita Plains
Expansive grasslands where seasonal wildlife movements and large herds of cattle can often be spotted.
Sit on the left for the best views of Mount Kenya right after departure from Nanyuki. However, be aware that morning flights (the most common for safari transfers) will face the rising sun, which can create glare on the window and make photography challenging.
Distance: 271 km (168 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 27 min
Departure: NYK (-0.062398899346590035, 37.04100799560547)
Arrival: MRE (-1.406111, 35.008057)
Route Type: Domestic
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