Several Tourists Die in Helicopter Crash Near Mount Ololokwe, Samburu
A Eurocopter EC130 B4 carrying seven people crashed near Mount Ololokwe in Samburu, killing several tourists. Investigations are ongoing.
By John Mtongoi Newsroom
August 19, 2026
2 min read
Several tourists lost their lives on Wednesday morning when a helicopter crashed at the foot of Mount Ololokwe in Samburu County. Rescue and recovery operations are currently underway at the crash site.
The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) confirmed the accident involving a Eurocopter EC130 B4, registration 5Y-GYM. The aircraft was en route from Loisaba to Ewasonyiro when it went down near Kirish at approximately 9:13 a.m.
According to KCAA, the helicopter had seven occupants, including one woman. Some of the passengers died instantly at the scene. The aircraft was operated by Lady Lori Flight Company and was reportedly headed towards the mountain summit before continuing to Ewasonyiro.
The cause of the crash remains undetermined as investigations led by the Ministry of Roads and Transport's Air Accident Investigation Department continue. KCAA expressed condolences to the victims' families.
Local security firm Armistice Security Consult International (ASCI) reported the crash near Kirish, close to the sacred Mount Ololokwe. Witnesses observed smoke and flames rising from the site.
ASCI noted that the helicopter was based at Loisaba Conservancy and had picked up clients from Suiyan, who were booked through End Beyond Safaris.
