Kalama Airstrip is a private Samburu airstrip located within Kalama Conservancy, near the northern border of Samburu National Reserve in northern Kenya. It serves as a convenient entry point for travelers visiting the conservancy and nearby lodges.
Kalama Airstrip is comparable to Musiara or Keekorok Airstrips in the Masai Mara in terms of its accessibility, bush-style setup, and strategic location for seamless safari logistics. It features a well-maintained gravel runway, basic infrastructure for light aircraft, and reliable service for charter flights, making it a vital aviation hub for guests flying into the northern Samburu ecosystem.
✈️ Kalama Airstrip: Safari Gateway to Northern Kenya
🛬 Features:
- Gravel Runway: Suitable for small bush planes like Cessna Caravans and Dash 7s, which are commonly used in Kenyan safari routes.
- Bush Terminal: No formal buildings, but shaded waiting areas and friendly ground staff welcome guests upon arrival and assist with transfers to camps.
- Security & Coordination: Managed in coordination with the Northern Rangelands Trust and local community rangers, ensuring safety and smooth operations.
- Flight Access: Receives daily scheduled and chartered flights from Nairobi’s Wilson Airport, especially from operators like Safarilink, AirKenya, and Tropic Air.
🚙 Transfers from Kalama Airstrip:
Private Conservancies (e.g., Westgate, Sera, Kalepo): Transfers can be arranged via pre-booked safari vehicles, either direct from your lodge or through your tour operator.
- Saruni Samburu: Located just 15–20 minutes from the airstrip via scenic drive.
- Buffalo Springs & Samburu Reserves: Approximately 30–40 minutes depending on the season and road conditions.
📍 Location & Coordinates
- Latitude: 0°41’39” N (0.694630)
- Longitude: 37°36’45” E (37.612912)
- Elevation: Approximately 1,000 meters above sea level
- Proximity: Situated near the Kalama Conservancy Headquarters, approximately 8 km north of Archer’s Post
✈️ Flight Access & Airlines
Kalama Airstrip accommodates both private chartered and scheduled commercial flights. The primary airlines operating flights to and from Kalama Airstrip include:
- Air Kenya
- Safarilink
Below is a snapshot of booking process from Nairobi’s Wilson to Kalama using AirKenya which costs $485 for 2 adults round trip:
Below is a snapshot of booking process from Nairobi’s Wilson to Kalama using Safarilink which costs $480 for 2 round trip:
These airlines offer daily flights connecting Kalama Airstrip with Wilson Airport in Nairobi. Flight durations are approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the number of stops (known as “hops”) en route.
🏨 Nearby Lodges & Camps
Kalama Airstrip primarily serves accommodations within Kalama Conservancy and neighboring areas. Notable lodges and camps include:
- Saruni Samburu Lodge: Located within Kalama Conservancy, offering exclusive access to the surrounding wilderness and cultural experiences with the local Samburu community.
Transfers from Kalama Airstrip to these lodges are typically short and can be arranged by the respective accommodations.
🛣️ Road Access & Directions
For travelers opting to drive, Kalama Airstrip is accessible via the A2 highway from Nairobi:
- Route: Nairobi → Thika Superhighway → Nyeri/Karatina → Nanyuki → Timau → Isiolo → Archer’s Post.
- From Archer’s Post: Continue north for approximately 8 km. Look for signage indicating “Kalama Conservancy/Saruni Camp” on the left-hand side.
- Final Stretch: Follow the dirt road, keeping landmarks like Thumb Rock in view, leading to the airstrip and lodges .
The total driving time from Nairobi is approximately 6 to 7 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic.
🛡️ Facilities & Services
While Kalama Airstrip is modest in infrastructure, it offers essential facilities to ensure traveler comfort:
- Runway: Single dirt runway suitable for small aircraft.
- Waiting Area: Basic shelter for passengers awaiting flights.
- Security: Maintained by conservancy rangers ensuring safety.
- Community Engagement: Nearby, visitors can explore the Kalama Airstrip Women Curio Shade, showcasing local crafts and supporting community livelihoods .
🌍 Significance of Kalama Conservancy
Established in 2002, Kalama Conservancy spans approximately 16,000 hectares within the larger Gir Gir Group Ranch. It plays a pivotal role in wildlife conservation and community development:
- Wildlife Corridor: Serves as a critical passage for species like elephants, Grevy’s zebras, and reticulated giraffes.
- Community Initiatives: Supports local projects, including beadwork and sustainable tourism, enhancing economic opportunities for the Samburu people.
- Conservation Efforts: Focuses on habitat protection, anti-poaching measures, and environmental education .
✅ Travel Tips
- Flight Bookings: Reserve flights well in advance, especially during peak seasons (July to October), to secure availability.
- Luggage Restrictions: Most flights enforce a 15 kg (33 lbs) luggage limit per person; soft-sided bags are recommended.
- Transfers: Coordinate with your lodge for seamless transfers between the airstrip and accommodation.
- Local Engagement: Take time to visit community projects near the airstrip to gain insights into Samburu culture and support local artisans.