Seven tourists feared dead in Kenya helicopter crash

A helicopter crash in northern Kenya’s Samburu County is believed to have killed everyone on board, with several tourists reportedly among those aboard the aircraft.

The incident occurred at Ololokwe Mountain at about 9:13am local time on Wednesday.

The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) said the helicopter was travelling from Loisaba Wildlife Reserve towards the Ewaso Nyiro River, which runs through the Samburu National Reserve.

A preliminary police report indicated that seven tourists were on the helicopter when it crashed. Their nationalities have yet to be disclosed.

Witnesses said they saw the aircraft rapidly descend into a deep valley on the mountain before crashing and bursting into flames.

The KCAA identified the aircraft as a Eurocopter EC130 B4, registered as 5Y-GYM.

The authority said it is working with relevant agencies and stakeholders following the accident, while the Ministry of Roads and Transport and the Air Accident Investigation Department are leading investigations into the cause of the crash.

“The Authority extends its deepest condolences to the families of the victims following this tragic incident,” KCAA said.

Ololokwe Mountain has become a notable tourist attraction in Kenya in recent years, drawing visitors to its dramatic terrain and scenic surroundings.

Also called Ol Donyo Sabache, the mountain is a distinctive flat-topped formation in Samburu County that rises above the surrounding dry landscape.

The site has gained popularity among photography and videography enthusiasts, with thousands of visitors drawn to its unique scenery.

The Kenya Red Cross and local emergency response teams are reportedly part of the multi-agency operation responding to the incident.