Helicopter Hire in Kenya 2026: Prices, Routes and What to Ask
Why sit in 6 hours of traffic when the Maasai Mara is about an hour away by air?
Quick answer: helicopter hire in Kenya costs about USD 1,300 to 2,300 per flying hour for the whole helicopter, depending on the model. A scenic ride over Nairobi starts at about KES 30,000 per person.
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Rates by helicopter
Robinson R44 or Bell 206
Guests: 3
Guide rate per hour: about USD 1,300 to 1,500
Airbus AS350
Guests: 5
Guide rate per hour: about USD 2,000
Bell 407
Guests: 5 to 6
Guide rate per hour: about USD 2,150 to 2,300
Popular helicopter trips from Nairobi
Flying time: 20 to 30 minutes
From: KES 30,000 per person
Flying time: about 30 minutes
From: about USD 770
Flying time: about 1 hour
From: USD 1,300 per hour
Flying time: about 1 hour 10 minutes return
From: USD 2,400
Mount Kenya and Laikipia safari
Flying time: 1 to 3 hours
From: USD 2,500
Flying time: 7 days
From: USD 13,500 per person
What changes the price
The helicopter. A 3 seat Robinson costs far less per hour than a 5 seat Airbus.
Flying time. You pay from the moment the rotors turn.
Waiting time. A helicopter waiting on the ground for you is charged by the hour, often around KES 20,000.
Landing fees. Lodges and conservancies may charge USD 50 to 300 per landing.
Nights away. If the pilot stays over, add accommodation and a daily fee.
Helicopter or plane to the Mara?
Helicopter: about 1 hour, lands at camps with a helipad, best for 2 to 4 guests.
Cessna Caravan: about 45 minutes, up to 12 guests, from about USD 2,100 one way. See the Mara charter.
Road: 5 to 7 hours, the lowest cost.
Weddings and proposals
A helicopter exit from the reception, a surprise proposal over the Ngong Hills or a flight from the wedding straight to a honeymoon lodge. See helicopter hire for weddings and events.
Is it legal to fly over Nairobi?
Yes, with a licensed operator on approved routes. Flights over the city centre are limited, so most scenic flights cover Nairobi National Park and the Ngong Hills. Every flight Lujui Kenya Travels books is run by a Kenya Civil Aviation Authority licensed operator.
Questions people ask
How much is a helicopter per hour in Kenya?
About USD 1,300 to 2,300 for the whole helicopter.
How much is a helicopter ride in Nairobi?
From about KES 30,000 per person for 20 to 30 minutes.
Can a helicopter fly at night?
Most scenic and safari flights run in daylight only.
How many people fit in a helicopter?
Usually 3 to 6 guests, depending on the model and luggage.
Prices are 2026 guide prices from Lujui Kenya Travels. Your final price comes from a written quote.