Getting from Serengeti to Maasai Mara: Best way to travel

The Serengeti in Tanzania and the Maasai Mara in Kenya together form one of Africa’s greatest wildlife ecosystems. Many travellers visiting the Tanzania also want to experience the Kenyan side, and get from the Serengeti to Maasai Mara.

However, unlike what some might expect, there is no direct border crossing to get from the Serengeti to Maasai Mara. The old Bologonya border between the two parks has been closed since 1977. Right now, all travellers must cross at the Sirari/Isebania border, which requires either a long road transfer or a combination of flights and short road shuttles.

In this guide, we will break down the best ways to travel from the Serengeti to the Maasai Mara, including road and air options, visa requirements, and what to expect at the border.

1. Why can’t you cross directly?

The Serengeti and Maasai Mara share a natural border, but the Bologonya border crossing remains closed since 1977 after the collapse of the East African Community of the time. The only practical international border crossing available is at Sirari (Tanzania) / Isebania (Kenya), located further west.

You can of course fly from Kilimanjaro to Arusha or Kilimanjaro International Airport and hop on a flight to Nairobi or Wilson Airport, and then connect to the Maasai Mara by road or by a small bush flight – but for the purposes of this guide, we will focus on a more direct connection.

2. Travel options from Serengeti to Maasai Mara

There are two main ways to make this journey: by road or by air. The route by road is generally a bit more affordable but longer, while the route by air offers convenience at a higher cost.

Option 1: Serengeti to Maasai Mara by road (Longer, but more affordable)

For those on a budget or who prefer overland travel, crossing by road is an option, but be prepared for a long day of driving.

Route breakdown by road

1. From the Serengeti to the Border (Tanzania Side)

• Exit the Serengeti via the Tabora B Gate or Lemai (Northwest Serengeti).
• Drive 110 km to the town of Tarime (~3-4 hours).
• Arrive at Sirari Border Post.

2. Border Crossing at Sirari/Isebania

• The Sirari/Isebania One-Stop Border Post (OSBP) allows you to process both Tanzanian exit and Kenyan entry at a single facility.
• Processing time: 1–2 hours, depending on the number of travellers ahead of you.

3. From the Border to the Maasai Mara (Kenya Side)

• After clearing immigration, you enter the town of Migori, Kenya.
• Drive 75 km to Northeastern gate of Oloololo, Maasai Mara (~2 hours).
• Enter the Maasai Mara!

Important notes:

The drive time to Tabora B Gate varies depending on where you are in the Serengeti:

• From Northern Serengeti (Kogatende, July–September): 1–2 hours.
• From Central Serengeti (Seronera): 4–5 hours.
• From Southern Serengeti (Ndutu, Kusini): 6+ hours.

Option 2: Serengeti to Maasai Mara by air (Fastest & most comfortable)

If you want to save time and avoid long drives, flying between the Serengeti and Maasai Mara is the best choice. Here’s how it works:

Route breakdown by air

1. Fly from the Serengeti to Tarime (Tanzania)

• If you’re in Northern Serengeti (July–September), fly from Kogatende Airstrip to Tarime Airstrip (near the border).
• If you’re in Central Serengeti (Seronera, all-year-round), fly from Seronera Airstrip to Tarime.
• Flights are also available from Kirawira (Western Serengeti), Kusini, Ndutu, and other airstrips.

2. Road Transfer & Border Crossing

• Upon arrival in Tarime, a safari operator or airline shuttle will drive you a short distance to the Sirari Border Post.
• Process immigration at the Sirari/Isebania OSBP.
• Once cleared, transfer approximately 15 minutes by road to Migori Airstrip (Kenya).

3. Fly from Migori to Maasai Mara

• Board a short flight from Migori Airstrip to one of the Maasai Mara’s many airstrips (Keekorok, Musiara, Mara North, etc.).
• Arrive in the Maasai Mara and start your safari!

Safari Airlines operating this route include: Coastal Aviation, Air Kenya, Regional Air, Auric Air and Grumeti Air.

3. Visa requirements

When traveling between Tanzania and Kenya, you need to ensure you have the correct visas.

4. Which option should you choose?

If you’re on a budget and don’t mind a long day of driving, road travel works really well. However, if you want to maximise your safari time and travel comfortably, flying is generally the best choice.

5. Final Tips for a smooth journey

Following some basic tips, you can always ensure your transfer between these two legendary parks and game reserves is smooth and uneventful.

• Book flights early (limited seats on safari flights).
• Ensure border transfers are arranged in advance with the airline or safari operator.
• Have your visas ready to avoid delays.
• If driving, start early to allow enough time for border processing.

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