15 Day Serengeti & Masai Mara Explorer

Welcome to Kenya! On your arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) you will be met by a local representative in the arrivals hall and transferred to your hotel for relaxation and overnight.

Pre tour accommodation information can be found under “Extra Services” and can be purchased at time of booking. Rates include breakfast PLUS transfer from Nairobi Airport to the Boma Hotel. 

Join your guide and the rest of the group for a pre-departure meeting after enjoying a satisfying breakfast. This marks the beginning of our incredible adventure through Kenya and Tanzania.

Before departing from Nairobi, we make a stop at the enchanting Karen Blixen Museum. This historic farmhouse was once the home of Karen Blixen, the celebrated author of "Out of Africa," during the period of 1917 to 1931.

Afterward, we continue our expedition to the Giraffe Centre and the Daphne Sheldrick Animal Orphanage, where you will have the extraordinary opportunity to witness the dedicated efforts in rehabilitating orphaned baby elephants rescued from the wild.

Following lunch we resume our journey, heading towards the Amboseli National Reserve, we will arrive in the afternoon at the Kibo Safari Camp, nestled within the remarkable Amboseli National Reserve. This enchanting destination promises breathtaking landscapes and wildlife encounters that will leave you in awe.

Our itinerary for today takes us to the renowned Amboseli National Park, where we will embark on an exhilarating full day of wildlife observation. This park holds great fame within Kenya and is particularly renowned for its impressive population of majestic elephant bulls, adorned with remarkable tusks. Capture the ultimate safari moment as you witness these magnificent creatures against the breathtaking backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro, its snow-capped peak adding a touch of awe-inspiring beauty to the scene.

Following a relaxed breakfast, we commence our journey towards the border and proceed onward to Arusha. Along the way, we will have the opportunity to admire the picturesque Marangu waterfalls, which involve a moderately challenging walk (we suggest wearing sturdy footwear and having a reasonable level of fitness for this activity). 

As the day progresses, we will journey towards the charming town of Arusha, known as the gateway to the esteemed Kilimanjaro National Park. Upon our arrival, we will check into the African Tulip Hotel, where the rest of the evening is at leisure to unwind and prepare for the adventures that lie ahead.

Please note that there will be a change of both guide and vehicle at the border as we enter Tanzania.

Following breakfast,  we set out for Tarangire National Park, where we will indulge in a full day of thrilling game drives. Prepare to be enchanted by the awe-inspiring vistas of the Maasai Steppe and the majestic mountains in the southern horizon, creating a mesmerising backdrop during our visit to Tarangire. This national park is renowned for its remarkable population of elephants and the iconic baobab trees that dot its landscape. It also serves as a pivotal location within an annual migratory cycle, attracting a multitude of wildlife, including up to 3,000 elephants, 25,000 wildebeest, and 30,000 zebras. 

As the day draws to a close, we will make our way to our accommodation for the evening, the charming Tarangire Simba Lodge. Here, amidst the tranquillity of the surroundings, we can relax and unwind, immersing ourselves in the beauty of the natural surroundings. Prepare to be enchanted by the wilderness and embrace the serenity that awaits us.

Following breakfast, we begin our journey towards Lake Manyara National Park. This remarkable reserve is situated at the northwestern edge of Lake Manyara, a soda lake nestled at the base of the western escarpment of the Great Rift Valley. Our drive through the park will treat us to breathtaking scenery, renowned not only for its vast flocks of vibrant flamingos but also for the elusive sight of tree-climbing lions, adding an element of intrigue and excitement to our adventure. 

Following this we make our way to the charming village of Karatu, where we will spend the night. Our accommodation for the evening is the inviting Karatu Simba Lodge, providing comfort and relaxation amidst the scenic surroundings. Take this time to unwind and reflect on the incredible experiences of the day, anticipating the adventures that lie ahead.

Today we embark on a captivating journey to explore the cultural diversity of Mto-wa-Mbu. Our adventure begins at the local market, where we immerse ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere and observe the bustling activity. We continue our exploration by visiting a Chagga family engaged in the production of banana beer, providing us with an insightful glimpse into their traditional practices. Along the way, our knowledgeable guide will introduce us to the various fruits and vegetables cultivated in the region, while also explaining the ingenious irrigation system that sustains the local crops.

A highlight of our day awaits as we savour a delightful, home-cooked meal in the warm hospitality of a local's home, indulging in authentic flavours and experiencing the rich culinary traditions of the area. Following this, we venture to the Maasai Boma, where we are privileged to engage in a cultural encounter of a lifetime. The Maasai people, renowned for their semi-nomadic herding lifestyle, have chosen to preserve their traditional customs and are easily recognizable by their distinctive attire.

In the late afternoon, we embark on a leisurely walking tour to Lake Papyrus, a magnificent water body teeming with abundant birdlife and graceful hippos. If time permits, we can also partake in a gentle trek, ascending to a picturesque waterfall. From this vantage point, we marvel at the panoramic view of the lake nestled atop the towering walls of the Rift Valley. Our journey continues through the banana plantations and lush rice fields before culminating in a visit to a local village, providing us with an authentic insight into the daily lives of the community.

As the day draws to a close, we return to the lodge in time for dinner.

Today, we begin our day with an early departure to embark on a thrilling game drive in the iconic Ngorongoro Crater, renowned worldwide for its extraordinary wildlife encounters. For many, this awe-inspiring natural wonder stands as the pinnacle of their safari experience. The crater boasts the entire 'Big 5' group of animals, including a small population of the critically endangered black rhino. The diverse range of wildlife and the breathtaking scenery make this an unforgettable adventure.

After enjoying a delightful picnic lunch amidst the beauty of the crater, we proceed towards the Serengeti, we traverse the breathtaking central Plains, which epitomise the iconic landscapes the park is famous for. Picture endless undulating grass savannahs punctuated by rugged outcrops that provide secluded havens for wildlife. Finally, we arrive at the enchanting Kisura Serengeti Camp, nestled in the heart of this remarkable wilderness, where you will find comfort and tranquillity during your stay.

Today will be dedicated to a full-day game drive in the Seronera area of the Serengeti. Known as one of the three main regions of the Serengeti, Seronera stands as the central and easily accessible part of the park. It is home to the Park Headquarters and is characterised by vast open plains of grassland teeming with an abundance of wildlife.

The Seronera River serves as the lifeblood of the Serengeti, attracting a diverse array of animals throughout the year. This area is renowned for its exceptional game viewing opportunities, with remarkable sightings available regardless of the season. It is particularly known for its frequent encounters with majestic lions and agile cheetahs. Additionally, Seronera presents a prime opportunity to spot the elusive and enchanting leopard, known as the most secretive of all the big cats.

Get ready for another thrilling day of adventure as we continue our exploration of the magnificent Serengeti National Park. Equipped with lunch boxes to keep us energised, we embark on captivating game drives throughout the afternoon. As we traverse the vast and boundless plains, our eyes are treated to a spectacle of wildlife sightings, reaffirming the well-deserved fame of this extraordinary national park. Marvel at the diverse array of animals that roam these lands, and immerse yourself in the sheer beauty of the Serengeti.

As the sun begins its descent, we make our way back to the lodge, filled with unforgettable memories and stories to share. Rest and rejuvenate overnight, ready to embrace the wonders that await us on the next leg of our journey.

Following a satisfying breakfast, we embark on a journey towards the enchanting Lake Victoria. Along the way, we traverse through the picturesque villages inhabited by the Sukuma tribe, renowned for their cultivation of ground nuts, sorghum, and cassava, as well as their traditional livestock rearing. Life in these villages reflects a simplicity that has endured through the ages, providing us with a glimpse into a timeless way of living. Amidst this serene ambiance, we encounter poignant reminders of the 20th century, further adding to the depth of our cultural experience.

Our next destination is Lake Victoria, where we will be staying at the charming boutique lodge, Serenity on the Lake, for the evening. Take advantage of the leisure time in the afternoon to relax and unwind, or consider taking a leisurely bird walk along the picturesque lake shore.

This morning presents a unique opportunity to partake in a boat excursion, allowing you to explore one of the local fishing villages surrounding Lake Victoria. Delve into the vibrant culture and livelihoods of the community, gaining a deeper understanding of their fishing traditions and way of life. After this enriching experience, we bid farewell to the majestic Lake Victoria and continue our journey northwards, crossing the border into Kenya.

Our destination is the renowned Masai Mara, a land steeped in tradition and home to the Maasai people. This vast savannah landscape serves as a grazing area for the Maasai's cattle, allowing them to sustain their traditional pastoral lifestyle. The Masai Mara encompasses a diverse range of ecosystems, including riverine forests along the Mara and Talek Rivers, scattered acacia forests, and expansive open plains. Prepare to immerse yourself in this extraordinary ecosystem as we arrive at the Mara Eden Safari Camp, your welcoming haven for the next two remarkable nights. 

Please note that there will be a change of guide and vehicle at the border crossing into Kenya.

Today, we embark on an exhilarating full-day adventure immersed in the renowned Masai Mara National Park. This iconic wildlife sanctuary offers an abundance of diverse habitats that serve as a haven for a wide array of game species. Prepare to be captivated as we seek to encounter magnificent creatures such as lions, leopards, and cheetahs in their natural habitat. The sweeping landscapes of the Masai Mara are also home to an impressive range of wildlife, including zebras, wildebeest (gnu), giraffes, buffalos, jackals, topis, gazelles, impalas, and elephants.

As we navigate the park's lush plains and traverse its meandering rivers, we are likely to encounter a multitude of hippopotamuses and crocodiles, adding to the wildlife spectacle. Keep your eyes trained on the skies as well, for the birdlife in this area is incredibly abundant, offering opportunities to spot a wide variety of avian species.

After breakfast, we head to Nairobi, the capital of Kenya. You have the afternoon to explore the city or enjoy leisure time. Time allowing, we will visit the renowned Kazuri Beads Centre and workshop. Here, we can immerse ourselves in the artistry of the skilled women who meticulously handcraft each striking ceramic bead. The name "Kazuri," meaning "small and beautiful" in Swahili, perfectly encapsulates the exquisite nature of these intricate creations.

In the evening, we return to the hotel for dinner and overnight stay.

After a final breakfast, the tour concludes, and it's time to say goodbye. You will be transferred to the airport for your outbound flight. 

We hope the memories and experiences from this journey will stay with you as you continue on your future adventures.

Post tour accommodation information can be found under “Extra Services” and can be purchased at time of booking. Rates include breakfast PLUS transfer from the Boma Hotel to Nairobi Airport.