The development of Narok Airport is being positioned as a key infrastructure project that will improve transport and logistics in the South Rift while easing congestion at other aviation facilities, particularly those serving the Maasai Mara tourism circuit.
The airport, located about 12 kilometres from Narok town and roughly 79 kilometres from the Maasai Mara’s Sekenani Gate, sits on 329 acres and is being developed in phases through a partnership between the national and county governments.
Improving access and logistics
County and national leaders say the airport will significantly reduce travel time for tourists, investors and service providers, while lowering logistical costs associated with road transport.
Narok Governor Patrick Ole Ntutu said the facility will bring services closer to the people and unlock economic opportunities for the county.
“This airport will improve access to Narok, reduce the cost of doing business and make it easier for investors and tourists to reach this region,” said Ntutu.
The first phase includes upgrading the existing runway to an asphalt surface measuring 1.8 kilometres, with plans to extend it further once additional land is acquired to accommodate larger aircraft.
Decongesting other aviation facilities
Leaders argue that Narok Airport will help ease pressure on Wilson Airport and Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, which currently handle most tourist traffic destined for the Maasai Mara.
Narok Senator Ledama Ole Kina said decentralising air transport infrastructure was critical to reducing congestion in Nairobi.
“We cannot continue funnelling all traffic through Nairobi. Narok Airport will decongest Wilson and JKIA while bringing services closer to the Maasai Mara,” he said.
Officials note that direct access to Narok will streamline charter operations and improve efficiency across the aviation network.
Boosting tourism and the local economy
Beyond transport, the airport is expected to support tourism growth and broader economic activity in Narok County. Improved air access is projected to benefit hotels, tour operators, farmers and small businesses by expanding market access and improving supply chains.
President William Ruto previously underscored the project’s national importance, announcing that both the national and county governments would each commit Sh700 million towards its development.
“The Narok airstrip will open up the Maasai Mara and the entire South Rift region, creating jobs and boosting tourism,” the President said during an earlier address.
As construction progresses, leaders say Narok Airport will not only strengthen logistics and transport but also position the county as a strategic gateway to one of Kenya’s most important economic and tourism zones.
