Embark on an extraordinary 10-day journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Kenya and Tanzania, where untamed wilderness meets unforgettable wildlife encounters. This thoughtfully crafted itinerary showcases two of East Africa’s most iconic safari destinations—Masai Mara and Serengeti National Parks—along with the geological marvel of the Ngorongoro Crater. Together, these locations promise an adventure of a lifetime, highlighted by the spectacular Great Wildebeest Migration.
Starting in Nairobi, you’ll journey through the scenic Great Rift Valley to the world-renowned Masai Mara National Reserve. From there, cross into Tanzania’s North Serengeti, famed for its dramatic river crossings during migration season. Continue south to Central Serengeti, where predator-rich plains offer thrilling wildlife sightings amidst stunning, endless landscapes. Conclude your adventure in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, exploring the breathtaking caldera teeming with diverse ecosystems and extraordinary wildlife.
Whether you’re a seasoned safari enthusiast or embarking on your first African adventure, this journey is designed to surpass all expectations and leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
Day 1: Arrival at Nairobi Jomo Kenyatta Airport – Transfer to Masai Mara National Reserve
Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, you will meet your professional safari guide for a warm welcome and a briefing about your upcoming adventure and head to the hotel for the diner and overnight stay.
Accommodation options:
- Standard: La Maison Royale Westlands
- Midrange: Sarova Stanley Nairobi
- Luxury: Villa Rosa Kempinski
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast
Day 2: Transfer to Masai Mara for game drive
Depart Nairobi in a 4×4 safari vehicle and journey through the scenic Great Rift Valley, with a brief stop for breathtaking views and photography. Continue to the Masai Mara National Reserve, arriving in time for lunch at your luxurious safari camp or lodge. In the afternoon, embark on your first game drive to explore the iconic savannahs of the Mara, teeming with wildlife such as lions, elephants, and cheetahs. Return to your accommodation for dinner and overnight, surrounded by the sounds of the African wilderness.
Accommodation options:
- Standard: Basecamp Adventure
- Midrange: Zebra Plains Mara Camp
- Luxury: Entim Mara Camp
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 3: Full Day in Masai Mara National Reserve
Spend the entire day exploring the Masai Mara, one of Africa’s premier wildlife destinations. Enjoy morning and afternoon game drives, searching for the “Big Five” (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino) and other incredible species such as giraffes, zebras, and hyenas.
Depending on the season, you may witness the awe-inspiring Great Migration, as millions of wildebeest and zebras cross the Mara River in search of greener pastures. A picnic lunch in the bush enhances the experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the reserve.
Accommodation options:
- Standard: Basecamp Adventure
- Midrange: Zebra Plains Mara Camp
- Luxury: Entim Mara Camp
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 4: Full Day in Masai Mara National Reserve
Another day in the Masai Mara allows for deeper exploration of its vast landscapes. Begin with a pre-dawn game drive to catch predators on the hunt and the magical sunrise over the savannah. Visit a local Maasai village to learn about their traditional culture, way of life, and customs. In the afternoon, venture further into the reserve to discover hidden wildlife gems and enjoy close encounters with nature. Return to your lodge for a hearty dinner and a relaxing evening under the starlit African skies.
Accommodation options:
- Standard: Basecamp Adventure
- Midrange: Zebra Plains Mara Camp
- Luxury: Entim Mara Camp
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 5: Masai Mara to North Serengeti National Park (via Isebania Border)
After an early breakfast, embark on a cross-border journey to Tanzania through the Isebania border. Complete immigration formalities and continue to the North Serengeti, known for its untouched landscapes and abundant wildlife. Arrive at your accommodation in time for lunch, followed by an afternoon game drive. The North Serengeti is particularly renowned for the dramatic Mara River crossing during the migration season, offering an unparalleled safari experience. Conclude the day with dinner and rest in your secluded camp or lodge.
Accommodation options:
- Standard: Baobab Migration Camp
- Midrange: Acacia Migration Camp
- Luxury: Serengeti River Camp
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 6: Full Day in North Serengeti – Mara River Area
Dedicate the day to exploring the North Serengeti, with a focus on the Mara River area, a hotspot for wildlife action. Witness the thrilling spectacle of wildebeests and zebras attempting to cross the crocodile-infested waters, a highlight of the Great Migration. Game drives also reveal a wealth of predators, including lions, leopards, and cheetahs, waiting for the perfect moment to strike. Savor a bush picnic lunch amid stunning vistas, and enjoy the pristine serenity of the region. Dinner and overnight at your lodge or tented camp.
Accommodation options:
- Standard: Baobab Migration Camp
- Midrange: Acacia Migration Camp
- Luxury: Serengeti River Camp
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 7: North Serengeti to Central Serengeti National Park
After breakfast, journey south to the Central Serengeti, an area famed for its endless plains and exceptional wildlife density. Along the way, spot herds of elephants, towering giraffes, and playful baboons. Arrive at your accommodation for lunch and embark on an afternoon game drive to explore the Seronera Valley, a predator-rich area with abundant prey. As the day ends, enjoy a sundowner in the bush before returning to your camp for a delightful dinner and overnight stay.
Accommodation options:
- Standard: Serengeti Thorn Tree Camp
- Midrange: Acacia Central Camp
- Luxury: Sametu Tented Camp
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 8: Central Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater Rim
Embark on a morning game drive in the Central Serengeti, followed by breakfast at your lodge. Depart for the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Drive through the stunning landscapes of the Ngorongoro Highlands, arriving at the crater rim in the afternoon. Check into your lodge perched on the edge of the crater, offering breathtaking views of the caldera below. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere and preparing for the next day’s adventure.
Accommodation options:
- Standard: Ngorongoro Rhino Lodge
- Midrange: Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge
- Luxury: Melia Ngorongoro
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 9: Ngorongoro Crater Floor – Transfer to Arusha
Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, a wildlife haven often referred to as Africa’s “Garden of Eden.” Spend the morning exploring the crater floor, home to an astonishing concentration of wildlife, including black rhinos, lions, elephants, and flamingos on the soda lakes. After a memorable game drive and a picnic lunch, ascend the crater and begin your journey to Arusha. Arrive in the late afternoon, marking the end of your extraordinary safari. Transfer to your hotel for the diner and overnight stay.
Accommodation options:
- Standard: Arusha Planet Lodge
- Midrange: Kibo Palace
- Luxury: Arusha Gran Melia
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 10: Airport Departure
In the morning after breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for the departure flight.
Meal Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Package Inclusions:
- Round-trip transfers from JKIA.
- Accommodation and meals as specified in the itinerary.
- Private transport and game drives in a customized 4×4 safari vehicle equipped with a pop-up roof.
- Services of a professional, experienced English-speaking safari driver-guide.
- Park entry and conservancy fees for the listed parks and national reserves.
- Sufficient mineral water for the duration of the trip.
- All activities and meals outlined in the itinerary.
- Enrollment in the AMREF Flying Doctors emergency medical evacuation cover (valid only with guests’ own travel insurance).
- Applicable government taxes on tour services.
Package Exclusions:
- Personal expenses such as laundry, phone calls, and drinks during meals.
- Drinks and beverages during the safari and at the hotels.
- Any items not explicitly mentioned in the inclusions.
- All flights.
- Personal insurance coverage