An extraordinary journey through Tanzania and Kenya Embark on an exhilarating journey through the Serengeti, Masai Mara, and the finest safari parks in Tanzania, all while enjoying comfortable and affordable lodgings.

Begin your journey in the stunning and varied Tarangire National Park, where you’ll encounter one of the largest elephant populations in Tanzania. Journey through the breathtaking Great Rift Valley to Karatu in the Ngorongoro Highlands, setting off on an exciting game drive in Lake Manyara National Park along the way. Venture into the Ngorongoro Crater, home to the richest variety of mammals in Africa, featuring one of the most remarkable concentrations of lions globally. Venture into the iconic plains of Serengeti Park, Tanzania’s renowned game park, alive with an abundance of wildlife. Then, encounter local African culture at Tanzania’s less-visited Lake Victoria.

Embark on an enchanting journey through the Masai Mara Game Reserve in Kenya, where thrilling 4×4 game drives await as you seek out the Big Five and beyond. During the right time of year, experience the breathtaking spectacle of the Great Migration in Masai Mara and Serengeti.

Day 1: Arusha to Tarangire National Park – Tanzania

This Tanzania & Kenya Safari begins with an exciting tour briefing in Arusha before we embark on our journey southwest to our first destination, Tarangire National Park.

This vibrant African game reserve boasts an incredible array of wildlife and is regarded as one of the most stunning wilderness regions in northern Tanzania. Tarangire Park is home to a vast population of elephants and features an enchanting landscape filled with baobab and acacia thorn trees. The national park boasts an array of magnificent big cats such as lions, leopards, and cheetahs, alongside the fascinating tree-climbing pythons. The safari park is home to a vibrant array of wildlife, featuring numerous giraffes, buffalos, zebras, and a variety of antelope species, including gazelles.

We spend the late afternoon immersed in incredible wildlife experiences in Tarangire Park, followed by our first night under the stars at a tented camp close to the park. Stay in roomy, en-suite tents featuring verandas that offer stunning views of Lake Burunge and the expansive Tarangire landscape beyond. The safari camp boasts a pool, a main lounge, and a dining/bar area elevated on a wooden deck, allowing guests to soak in the stunning views. Unwind with refreshing drinks as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the lake and nearby wilderness, or gather around the inviting fireplace on cool evenings.

Dining: Midday Feast; Evening Banquet

Day 2: Journey from Tarangire to Lake Manyara National Park & Karatu – Tanzania

On the second day of our lodge safari, we set off from Tarangire National Park after enjoying a hearty breakfast. From Tarangire, we journey deeper into the Great Rift Valley, soaking in the breathtaking vistas of northern Tanzania along the way.

We journey north to the nearby Lake Manyara Park, a vibrant safari destination characterized by the expansive, shallow soda lake that lends it its name. Lake Manyara National Park captivates visitors with its vibrant seasonal flocks of flamingos and a variety of waterbirds that grace the lake at certain times. The park is renowned for its tree-climbing lions, alongside massive baboon troops and a significant population of elephants.

Upon reaching Lake Manyara, we set off on an exhilarating game drive, frequently encountering elephants, hippos, zebras, giraffes, buffaloes, impalas, primates, warthogs, and wildebeest, as well as a variety of birds. Following our thorough journey, we embarked on a trip to Karatu in the vibrant crater highlands. As we ascend into the Ngorongoro Highlands, we are greeted by breathtaking vistas of the plains and Lake Manyara, stopping occasionally to capture the stunning scenery with our cameras.

This evening, we find ourselves at one of the perfectly situated Tanganyika Wilderness Adventure Lodges. Nestled near a coffee estate, just a half-hour from the entrance of the Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area, the lodges provide stunning vistas of the vibrant crater highlands. If time permits upon our arrival, we can explore the coffee plantations on foot.

Dining: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Day 3: Journey from Ngorongoro Crater to the vast Serengeti Park – Tanzania

Our next Tanzania safari destination is the renowned Ngorongoro Crater, often referred to as Africa’s Garden of Eden. Ngorongoro Crater stands out as a remarkable destination within the Northern Tanzania Safari Circuit, just like our upcoming adventure at Serengeti Park.

On the third day of our thrilling journey through Tanzania and Kenya, we kick off the morning with breakfast at dawn. Then we plunge down the rugged walls of the crater in our 4×4 safari vehicle for an exhilarating game drive in the wildlife-rich caldera.

Ngorongoro, a remarkable feature of the Serengeti ecosystem, is a vast caldera that stretches an impressive 18 km across, with towering walls reaching heights of 600m. This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts an incredible array of wildlife, featuring approximately 25,000 large mammals, making it a thrilling destination for nature enthusiasts. The rich environments of the lush crater floor teem with an array of wildlife, featuring elephants, monkeys, hyenas, jackals, and vibrant herds of zebras, wildebeests, buffalo, and various antelope species. The Ngorongoro Crater is home to the Big Five of Africa, showcasing one of the highest concentrations of lions globally.

This compact crater is home to a remarkable array of wild animal species that roam the savannahs of East Africa. Ngorongoro presents an exceptional opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts and is renowned as a prime location to film the endangered black rhino. In the early afternoon, we move on from the crater to the seemingly endless Serengeti Plains.

The Serengeti Park, renowned for its breathtaking wildlife, is the stage for the incredible spectacle of the annual Great Migration. Here, immense groups of wildebeest, gazelle, and zebra thunder across the plains, embarking on their journey for fresh grazing, which in turn draws a host of predators eager to join the chase.

This evening, we will be at a tented safari camp nestled in the heart of Serengeti Park. The classic tented camp provides cozy camping lodgings in the center of Serengeti, enveloped by the wild African landscape and its fascinating creatures. The camp boasts safari-style tents equipped with en suite bathrooms, electric lights, and mosquito netting, inviting you to experience the wild in comfort.

Dining: Morning Feast; Midday Meal; Evening Banquet

Day 4: Thrilling Safari in the Serengeti – Tanzania

The day begins with the first light of dawn, embarking on an exhilarating game drive through the Serengeti, and then savoring a delicious breakfast upon returning to the safari camp. Alternatively, you can pre-book a hot-air balloon flight over the Serengeti Plains to experience this breathtaking landscape and observe wildlife from a unique vantage point. Following the optional balloon ride (additional cost), participants enjoy a delightful champagne breakfast in the heart of the bush.

Serengeti National Park presents an exhilarating experience with its breathtaking game viewing throughout the year. It boasts thriving populations of Africa’s iconic Big Five – rhino, lion, buffalo, elephant, and leopard, alongside vast herds of diverse antelope species including eland, topi, kudu, impala, oribi, waterbuck, and gazelle. The Serengeti is home to an exhilarating variety of wildlife, including cheetahs, hippos, giraffes, serval cats, crocodiles, hyenas, and a vibrant mix of other creatures such as monkeys, mongooses, and various rodent species, not to mention over 500 bird species!

In the afternoon, you can embark on an exciting guided trip to the visitor’s center with a representative from the Frankfurt Zoological Society. The experienced guide is ready to share insights about the organization’s activities over the past thirty years in Serengeti (request when booking). We set off on an exhilarating game drive in the afternoon, eager to explore before heading back to our safari lodge for another night immersed in the African wilderness. We spend another night at the tented camp within Serengeti Park, enveloped by the wilderness and the symphony of nature.

Dining: Morning Feast; Midday Meal; Evening Banquet

Day 5: Journey from Serengeti National Park to the shores of Lake Victoria – Tanzania

Today we embark on an exciting journey to Lake Victoria for some thrilling game viewing as we depart from Serengeti National Park. From this premier Tanzania safari park, we journey to the stunning shores of Lake Victoria, the largest lake in Africa and the second largest in the world.

We pause at Lake Victoria, catching a glimpse of the lesser-explored parts of Tanzania in this lush and vibrant region. The region around the lake is the most densely populated in Tanzania and here we get the unique opportunity of seeing the local way of life and encountering Tanzanian people in this less touristed spot. Experience the local fishermen as they haul in their catch and explore a rural community school in this hidden gem of Tanzania that remains untouched by most travelers.

Tonight, you will spend the night at a charming safari lodge nestled on a serene 100-hectare estate by the shores of Lake Victoria. The lodge boasts a restaurant, bar, and lounge, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. We spend the night in charming thatched bungalows with en-suites, nestled along the lakeshore for a sense of seclusion.

Dining: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Day 6: Journey from Lake Victoria to the Masai Mara Game Reserve – Kenya

On the sixth day, the morning begins with a hearty breakfast. Then our Tanzania & Kenya Safari leads us on an exhilarating canoe trip alongside a local guide and fishermen. We set out onto the lake in a canoe to witness the locals fishing in a traditional manner. After our local fishing experience, we set off from Lake Victoria, eager for what lies ahead.

Today we embark on an exciting journey, crossing the border into Kenya and making our way to the famous Masai Mara National Reserve.

Masai Mara is a vibrant realm where the largest lion populations of Africa’s game reserves thrive, and the big cats roam in abundance all year round. The annual Wildebeest Migration unfolds in this breathtaking Kenyan game reserve – a remarkable wildlife display featuring over two million wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle charging across the picturesque plains as they journey between Tanzania’s Serengeti and the Masai Mara in Kenya.

The 1510km² Mara Reserve boasts a remarkable diversity of wildlife, featuring a multitude of antelope species, rhinos, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, elephants, hyenas, and an astonishing variety of birds. In the company of majestic big cats like lions, leopards, and cheetahs.

Tonight we immerse ourselves in the comfort of luxury safari tents nestled beside a thicket that borders the escarpment. The safari camp is located on the fringes of Masai Mara Game Reserve. The camp provides breathtaking vistas of the game reserve, where antelopes and zebras roam freely, accompanied by a vibrant array of birdlife.

Dining: Morning Feast; Midday Meal; Evening Banquet

Day 7: Mara Triangle, Masai Mara Safari – Kenya

Today we embark on an exhilarating journey through the Mara Triangle area of the Masai Mara game reserve in open-sided 4×4 vehicles, embracing the essence of an authentic African safari. Enjoy a full-day safari in Masai Mara with your experienced safari guide who takes you in search of Africa’s Big Five and other wildlife. Alongside the Big 5, Masai Mara boasts a vibrant array of wildlife, including cheetahs, hyenas, bat-eared foxes, Masai giraffes, gazelles, elands, hartebeests, and roan antelopes.

The Mara Triangle area, in northwestern Masai Mara, showcases vast savannahs sprinkled with acacia trees – the perfect backdrop for an exhilarating African safari experience.

We also drive to the Mara River, renowned for its thrilling wildlife encounters during the annual wildebeest migration. During the rainy season, which spans from July to October, an incredible migration unfolds in this area as the river expands to several times its usual size. Tens of thousands of hoofed beasts plunge into the roaring Mara River, where crocodiles lie in ambush for unsuspecting prey, as the herbivores bravely navigate the perilous crossing. The river attracts wildlife and birds year-round, however, with hippos, crocodiles, and other animals gathering here.

After our thrilling day on safari in Masai Mara, we settle in for another night at the tented safari camp on the edge of Masai Mara National Reserve. Experience the thrill of staying in permanent canvas tents perched on elevated wooden platforms, with breathtaking views of the African bush.

Morning meal; Midday feast; Evening banquet

Day 8 – 9: Masai Mara Expedition – Kenya

Days eight and nine of our Tanzania & Kenya Safari are dedicated to the thrilling exploration of central Masai Mara. We embark on an exhilarating two full days in a 4×4 safari through Masai Mara, immersing ourselves in one of Africa’s premier game reserves.

With ample opportunity to discover Masai Mara, you can savor every moment in this renowned safari park at your leisure. Pause to absorb the intricacies of the African bush, seize wildlife encounters, and be awed by the marvels of the natural world. Your guide leads you on an exhilarating quest to encounter the Big Five and a myriad of other magnificent creatures that inhabit this land. Stay alert for Thomson’s and Grant’s gazelles, elands, and Coke’s hartebeests, along with other fascinating species. The Masai Mara boasts the unique Masai giraffe, which is rarely spotted beyond Kenya, along with the elusive roan antelope and the intriguing nocturnal bat-eared fox. The game reserve is home to more than 470 bird species, featuring around 60 different raptor species.

We immerse ourselves in the experience for the next two nights at a wild safari lodge nestled within the heart of Masai Mara Game Reserve. This genuine game lodge is nestled in a forest by the Olarro Orok River, harmoniously merging with its surroundings. Amidst the pristine wilderness, the camp is alive with a diverse array of wildlife and birds throughout the year. It is a paradise for wildlife photographers and a delight for every nature enthusiast.

Dining: Morning Feast; Midday Meal; Evening Banquet

Day 10: Journey from Masai Mara to Nairobi – Kenya

Wake up in the heart of Masai Mara on the final day of your budget-friendly lodge safari. After breakfast at the authentic safari camp, it’s time to bid farewell to the Kenyan segment of the Serengeti ecosystem, renowned as Africa’s most iconic safari destination.

As we journey out of the national park, we keep our eyes peeled for the vibrant wildlife and birds that might cross our path. Leaving the Masai Mara behind, we journey back to Nairobi, the vibrant capital of Kenya.

As you touch down in Nairobi in the early afternoon, your guide will escort you to the airport or your post-tour accommodation, marking the conclusion of our unforgettable journey through Tanzania and Kenya.

Morning Meals & Midday Bites