Kirawira B Airstrip – Kirawira Aerodrome

Kirawira B Airstrip also known as Kirawira Aerodrome is a rather small airstrip on the western corridor of Serengeti national park, just a stone’s throw away from the Grumeti river. It serves as one of few air access points into the park.

If you’re planning a visit to the Serengeti National Park and looking for a convenient and quick way to get there, the Kirawira B airstrip might just be what you need. This small airstrip, located on the western end of the park, is one of the few air access points into the park. In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about Kirawira B airstrip, including the best time to visit, location, how to get there, and more.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Kirawira B airstrip is around May to August when the wildebeest are in the area, as they cross the nearby rivers and head north into Grumeti game reserve. The river crossings are one of the most coveted points of the migration. During this time, the weather is relatively dry, and there are fewer mosquitoes, making it a more comfortable time to visit. However, if you’re interested in seeing other wildlife, you can visit any time of the year.

Location of Kirawira B Airstrip

Kirawira B airstrip is located on the western end of Serengeti national park, a short distance north of the Grumeti river. The border with Grumeti game reserve is a few kilometers north on a vast protected area known for its diverse wildlife, stunning natural landscapes, and iconic wildebeest migration. The airstrip is situated near the Kirawira Serena Camp, a luxury safari lodge that offers unparalleled comfort and exclusive safari experiences for guests.. The airstrip’s location is perfect for visitors who want to explore the park’s western region, which is home to various wildlife, including lions, elephants, giraffes, and many more.

How to Get There

There are two ways to get to Kirawira B airstrip: by air or by vehicle. If you’re coming from outside Tanzania, the easiest and quickest way to get there is by flying into the nearby airports, such as Kilimanjaro International Airport or Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam, and then take a connecting flight to Kirawira B airstrip.

If you’re already in Tanzania, you can drive to the airstrip, which is about a three-hour drive from the nearby city of Mwanza and about half an hour from Ndabaka gate. There is no preference for 4×4’s, even though they are more convenient – especially in the rainy season.

Kirawira Airstrip is primarily accessed by private charter flights from other parts of Tanzania, including the cities of Arusha and Dar es Salaam. Many of the top safari lodges and tour operators in Tanzania offer all-inclusive safari packages that include private charter flights to and from Kirawira Airstrip. Guests can contact these lodges or tour operators directly to book their flights and safari packages.

Alternatively, guests can also access Kirawira Airstrip by road, although this option is less common due to the remote location of the airstrip. The drive to Serengeti National Park from Arusha takes approximately 7-8 hours and involves traversing rough and challenging terrain.

What to do there?

There are plenty of things to do and see in the vicinity of the Kirawira B Airstrip. Here are some of the activities you can enjoy:

Board prebooked air safaris

One of the most popular things to do at Kirawira B Airstrip is to board pre-booked air safaris that offer a bird’s-eye view of the Serengeti. These safaris provide a unique and breathtaking perspective of the park’s diverse landscapes and wildlife, including the famous wildebeest migration.

Game drives in the nearby areas

Another popular activity is taking game drives in the nearby areas, where you can witness the Serengeti’s rich wildlife up close. There are plenty of tour operators and guides in the area who offer personalized game drives and safari experiences.

Camping at the public, special, or tented campsites in the area

The Serengeti offers a range of accommodation options, including public campsites, special campsites, and tented campsites. These campsites provide a comfortable and authentic camping experience in the heart of the park.

Balloon safaris

For those seeking a unique and unforgettable experience, balloon safaris are available from a launch site near the Kirawira B Airstrip. These safaris offer a spectacular aerial view of the Serengeti’s landscapes and wildlife and are perfect for capturing stunning photographs.

Kirawira Airstrip Facilities

The airstrip is equipped with modern facilities, including a well-maintained runway, a terminal building, and other amenities. The runway is capable of accommodating a variety of aircraft, including small propeller planes and larger business jets. The terminal building offers comfortable seating areas, refreshments, and other amenities for guests arriving or departing from the airstrip.

The Kirawira Serena Camp

The Kirawira Serena Camp is a world-renowned luxury safari lodge located in the heart of the Serengeti National Park. The lodge offers unparalleled luxury and comfort, with a range of exclusive safari experiences and amenities for guests.

Guests at the Kirawira Serena Camp can enjoy a variety of safari activities, including game drives, bush walks, hot air balloon rides, and more. The lodge also features a spa, a swimming pool, a fitness center, and other amenities to ensure that guests are comfortable and relaxed during their stay.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I access Kirawira Airstrip by commercial airline?
   • No, Kirawira Airstrip is a private airstrip and is primarily accessed by private charter flights.
2. How do I book a private charter flight to Kirawira Airstrip?
   • Many of the luxury safari lodges and tour operators in Tanzania offer all-inclusive safari packages that include private charter flights to and from Kirawira Airstrip. You can contact these lodges or tour operators directly to book your safari adventure.
3. Is Kirawira Airstrip open year-round?
   • Yes, Kirawira Airstrip is open year-round, although the accessibility of the airstrip may be affected by seasonal weather conditions.
4. What is the baggage allowance on private charter flights to Kirawira Airstrip?
   • Baggage allowances may vary depending on the charter company and the size of the aircraft. It’s best to check with your charter company or safari lodge for specific details.