13 Days Combined Kenya And Tanzania Safari
13 Days Combined Kenya And Tanzania Safari
Overview;
Embark on an epic 13 Days safari with Kyooma Gorilla Safaris across Kenya and Tanzania, two of Africa’s most celebrated safari destinations. This adventure takes you from the vast plains of the Masai Mara in Kenya to the unparalleled landscapes of Tanzania’s Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and more. Each day reveals unforgettable encounters with Africa’s majestic wildlife, from the Big Five to the iconic Great Migration. Combining breathtaking scenery, cultural immersion, and world-class wildlife sightings, this itinerary is the adventure of a lifetime for nature enthusiasts and travelers seeking to experience Africa’s raw beauty.
Tour Highlights;
Day 1-3: Nairobi to Masai Mara, Kenya
Days 4-5: Lake Nakuru National Park, Kenya
Day 6-7: Amboseli National Park, Kenya
Days 8-10: Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Day 11: Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania
Days 12: Lake Manyara National Park, Tanzania
Day- 13: Return to Arusha and Departure.
Detailed itinerary:
Days 1-3: Nairobi to Masai Mara, Kenya
Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi
Your journey begins in Kenya’s bustling capital, Nairobi. Upon arrival, you’ll check into your hotel and receive a briefing on the safari itinerary. If time allows, explore some of Nairobi’s highlights, such as the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage or the Giraffe Centre, where you can meet baby elephants and feed endangered Rothschild giraffes.
Day 2: Nairobi to Masai Mara National Reserve
After breakfast, travel to the world-renowned Masai Mara National Reserve. This scenic drive takes you through Kenya’s Great Rift Valley, offering spectacular views along the way. After settling into your lodge, it’s time for your first thrilling game drive. The Masai Mara is famous for its dense population of wildlife, including lions, elephants, and cheetahs. The vast open plains create ideal conditions for spotting predators and prey.
Day 3: Full Day in Masai Mara
Today, a full day of game drives awaits, with the chance to witness the Big Five and the mesmerizing African savannah. Depending on the time of year, you may catch the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles make their perilous crossing of the Mara River. Between game drives, enjoy a picnic in the bush and soak in the Mara’s scenery. In the evening, consider a visit to a Maasai village to learn about the rich culture of the Maasai people.
Days 4-5: Lake Nakuru National Park, Kenya
Day 4: Masai Mara to Lake Nakuru
After breakfast, bid farewell to the Mara and head to Lake Nakuru National Park, a sanctuary for rhinos and the endangered Rothschild giraffe. Known for its beautiful lake surrounded by woodlands, Lake Nakuru attracts diverse birdlife, including flamingos and pelicans.
Day 5: Lake Nakuru Game Drive
Enjoy a morning game drive in Lake Nakuru National Park. The park is home to black and white rhinos, as well as lions, leopards, buffalo, and numerous antelope species. The lake’s pink-hued shores, created by flocks of flamingos, make for a stunning sight. By afternoon, relax at your lodge or explore the surrounding area for more wildlife sightings.
Days 6-7: Amboseli National Park, Kenya
Day 6: Lake Nakuru to Amboseli
From Nakuru, head to Amboseli National Park, known as the “Land of Giants” due to its large elephant herds and stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest peak. Arriving in the afternoon, you’ll have time to relax before a sunset game drive to spot elephants, hippos, and various bird species.
Day 7: Full Day in Amboseli
Today, embark on morning and afternoon game drives to explore Amboseli’s distinct ecosystems. Capture photographs of elephants with the towering Mount Kilimanjaro as a backdrop and look out for predators like lions and cheetahs. Amboseli’s varied landscape, with open plains, marshlands, and acacia woodlands, provides ample wildlife sightings and beautiful panoramas.
Days 8-10: Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Day 8: Amboseli to Serengeti via Arusha
Bid farewell to Kenya and cross the border into Tanzania, traveling through Arusha en route to the Serengeti. Known for its vast plains and high wildlife density, the Serengeti is one of Africa’s most iconic parks. Once you arrive, settle into your lodge for an evening of relaxation, preparing for the adventures ahead.
Days 9-10: Full Days in Serengeti National Park
Spend two full days exploring the Serengeti’s diverse landscapes, from open grasslands to river valleys. Known for its role in the Great Migration, the Serengeti is home to lions, cheetahs, leopards, elephants, and an endless array of wildlife. Game drives at sunrise and sunset offer the best opportunities to see predators in action, while a bush picnic provides a unique lunch experience in the wild.
During the Great Migration (typically between June and October) millions of wildebeests and zebras cross the plains, facing crocodile-infested rivers. Witnessing this spectacle is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and a highlight of the safari.
Day 11: Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania
Morning Transfer to Ngorongoro Crater
After breakfast, journey to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a geological marvel and one of Africa’s premier wildlife destinations. Descending into the crater is like entering a vast, natural amphitheater brimming with life. This unique ecosystem supports almost every species found in East Africa, including the rare black rhino.
Game Drive on the Crater Floor
Enjoy a full-day game drive on the crater floor, where you’ll encounter everything from lions and rhinos to hippos and flocks of flamingos at the lake. The stunning views from the crater rim and the diversity of wildlife in such a compact area make Ngorongoro one of Tanzania’s most treasured sites.
Day 12: Lake Manyara National Park, Tanzania
Transfer to Lake Manyara
After breakfast, head to Lake Manyara National Park, nestled beneath the Great Rift Valley escarpment. Known for its lush forests and tree-climbing lions, Lake Manyara is one of Tanzania’s hidden gems. The park is also a bird lover’s paradise, with thousands of flamingos and diverse bird species adorning the lake.
Afternoon Game Drive in Lake Manyara
An afternoon game drive in Manyara offers the chance to see elephants, hippos, zebras, and, if you’re lucky, the famous tree-climbing lions. The park’s dense vegetation, striking scenery, and high wildlife density make it an excellent addition to your safari journey.
Day 13: Return to Arusha and Departure.
Morning Drive Back to Arusha
On the final day, journey back to Arusha, where you can do some last-minute shopping or simply relax before your departure. Reflect on the incredible adventure that has taken you through the best of Kenya and Tanzania’s natural beauty. From spotting the Big Five to experiencing the Great Migration and visiting unique geological wonders, this safari will leave you with lifelong memories and a newfound appreciation for East Africa’s extraordinary landscapes.
Tips for a 13-Day Kenya and Tanzania Safari
- Pack Light but Smart: With the variation in temperatures, bring layers for early morning game drives and breathable clothing for the afternoons. Don’t forget a hat, sunscreen, and sturdy shoes.
- Stay Hydrated and Bring Snacks: Safari days can be long, so keep hydrated and pack energy-boosting snacks.
- Charge Your Camera: East Africa is a photographer’s paradise, so ensure your camera and batteries are ready to capture every moment.
- Respect Wildlife Guidelines: Always follow your guide’s advice to ensure both your safety and that of the animals.
Why Choose a 13-Day Combined Safari?
A 13-day Kenya and Tanzania safari captures the best of East Africa. Allowing you to explore a variety of ecosystems and encounter an impressive array of wildlife. This extended journey through iconic parks like Masai Mara, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater gives you ample time to immerse yourself in the wilderness, making it ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive and deeply rewarding safari experience.
In Conclusion:
A 13-day safari with Kyooma Gorilla Safaris through Kenya and Tanzania is a journey that embodies the magic of Africa. From witnessing the Great Migration in the Serengeti and Masai Mara to descending into the lush Ngorongoro Crater and exploring Amboseli’s elephant-dotted plains, every day offers something extraordinary. This adventure is more than a safari; it’s a soul-stirring experience that brings you closer to nature, wildlife, and the vibrant cultures of East Africa. Whether you’re a seasoned safari-goer or a first-timer, this combined Kenya and Tanzania safari is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure you’ll never forget.
