11-Days Best of Kenya & Tanzania Big 5 Safari on a 4×4 Jeep

Traveling to Africa to see its iconic wildlife can be a life-changing experience, and this 11-day safari promises just that. Organized by Gracepatt Safaris, this journey takes you through some of the most celebrated parks in Kenya and Tanzania, offering a chance to spot the Big 5 and other incredible animals in their natural habitats—all from the comfort of a well-equipped 4×4. Whether you’re a seasoned safari enthusiast or a first-timer, this tour combines authentic wildlife encounters with practical comforts, making it a balanced choice for adventurous travelers.

What we love about this safari is its carefully curated itinerary that covers key wildlife hotspots like Maasai Mara, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater, ensuring plenty of game viewing. The inclusion of rustic camps with big tents featuring hot showers and flush toilets adds a touch of adventure without sacrificing comfort. Plus, the guides seem to be knowledgeable and personable, enhancing the overall experience. The only thing to keep in mind is that this is a group tour, so if you’re seeking complete independence or a private experience, that might be worth considering.

This tour is especially suited for those who want an immersive, well-organized safari that balances spectacular wildlife viewing with comfortable accommodations. It’s also a fantastic option for travelers who appreciate engaging guides and value-packed itineraries. If you’re looking for a comprehensive adventure that covers both Kenya and Tanzania without the hassle of planning every detail, this could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Balanced Itinerary: Combines iconic parks in Kenya and Tanzania for a comprehensive safari experience.
• Authentic Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see the Big 5 and other animals on multiple game drives.
• Comfortable Rustic Camps: Stay in big tents with amenities like hot showers and flush toilets, blending adventure with comfort.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable drivers enhance game viewing with expert insights.
• Value for Money: Includes park fees, all meals, water, and transfers, offering a hassle-free experience.
• Group Tour: Small group setting may suit social travelers but less private than custom trips.

Introduction: What’s on Offer with the 11-Day Kenya & Tanzania Big 5 Safari?

This tour promises an authentic, all-encompassing journey through East Africa’s most celebrated wildlife parks. It’s designed for travelers who want to experience the thrill of spotting lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalo, and leopards in their natural environment, combined with the convenience of well-organized logistics and decent accommodations.

What makes this safari stand out is not only the variety of parks visited—ranging from lakes to savannahs—but also the thoughtful accommodation choices that allow you to feel close to nature while maintaining comfort. The tour’s reviews highlight knowledgeable guides and stunning vistas as major highlights, making it a compelling option for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.

While the price of $5,275 per person might seem steep, it covers most costs, including park fees, meals, bottled water, and overnight stays. The real question is whether the experience offers enough value for those seeking a well-rounded, memorable safari without overpaying. That’s what we intend to explore in detail.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Orientation in Nairobi

After landing in Kenya’s bustling capital, Nairobi, you’ll settle into the After40 Hotel. Here, the focus is on relaxation and orientation—getting familiar with upcoming adventures. The hotel’s location provides a convenient starting point, and the brief introductory session from the guide helps set expectations.

This initial day isn’t just about resting—it’s a chance to get a feel for Nairobi, which offers vibrant markets, cultural sites, and local eateries. The hotel’s breakfast sets you up for the adventure ahead, and with a free 30-minute admission ticket, you can start exploring or simply unwind.

Day 2: Lake Nakuru National Park – The Black Rhino and Flamingos

Early morning departure takes you to Lake Nakuru, famous for its flamingos and rare black rhinos. The highlight here is the chance to see the endangered black rhino—one of the Big 5 animals. Expect a full-day game drive, which provides ample opportunity for wildlife sightings.

The review mentions that the guide’s knowledge and the landscape’s beauty elevate the experience. You’ll enjoy a picnic lunch amid the wildlife—something truly special that makes this part of the trip stand out. The park’s alkaline lake and the surrounding acacia forests create a picturesque setting that’s perfect for photography.

Day 3: Lake Naivasha & Hell’s Gate National Park

After breakfast, your journey continues to Lake Naivasha, a freshwater lake teeming with birdlife. A visit to Hell’s Gate National Park allows a mini-safari on foot or by bike, giving a different perspective on the landscape and animals. In the evening, a boat ride on Lake Naivasha is a highlight, where you might spot hippos and waterbirds.

Reviewers mention that the boat ride is both relaxing and wildlife-rich, offering a closer look at the lake’s ecosystem. The combination of land and water safaris here ensures a diverse experience, with vibrant birdlife and perhaps some crocodiles basking on the shores.

Day 4-5: Maasai Mara – The Crown Jewel of Safari

Traveling to Maasai Mara, the iconic Kenyan reserve, marks a major milestone. The big tent accommodation at Lenchada Tourist Camp adds a sense of adventure, with amenities like mosquito nets, flush toilets, and hot showers. It’s a perfect balance of roughing it and comfort.

Expect your first game drive in the Maasai Mara around 4 p.m., with a full-day safari the next day. The reviews emphasize the guides’ expertise, with some mentioning the thrill of spotting animals around the Mara River, like crocodiles and hippos, and catching lions on the prowl. The guided game drives are tailored to maximize sightings, often with expert commentary that adds context to what you see.

Days 6-7: Serengeti National Park – The Great Plains

Crossing the border into Tanzania, you’ll head to the Serengeti, renowned for its endless plains and incredible wildlife density. The early morning game drive on Day 6 increases your chances of witnessing predators hunting, especially with guides who know where the action is.

The full-day game drives on Day 7 let you explore the expansive plains, which are almost surreal in their scale and beauty. The guides are praised for their knowledge, and the scenery—vast, golden grasses stretching to the horizon—is simply breathtaking. The late evening game drive offers a chance to catch the last rays of sunlight while searching for nocturnal wildlife.

Day 8: Ngorongoro Crater – The Eden of Africa

Descending into the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site, you’ll experience perhaps the most densely populated wildlife area in Africa. The crater’s lush grasslands teem with animals, and its unique bowl shape provides excellent viewing opportunities.

The review notes the value of the full-day crater tour, which allows ample time to observe the abundance of wildlife. Expect to see large herds of elephants, lions, and perhaps some elusive predators. The crater’s scenery, with its towering walls and fertile floor, makes it a standout part of the trip.

Day 9: Lake Manyara & the Crater Floor

Starting early, you’ll explore Lake Manyara, famous for its tree-climbing lions and birdlife. A full-day crater tour with picnic lunches ensures you get the most out of your wildlife viewing. Later, the journey continues to Lake Manyara, where the scenery shifts from crater to lakeside landscapes.

From the reviews, it’s clear that the guides’ local knowledge really shines here, helping you spot elusive animals and understand their behaviors. This area offers a different flavor of safari, with lush forests and lakes teeming with flamingos and pelicans.

Day 10: Manyara National Park & Arusha

A final game drive in Manyara provides one last chance for sightings before heading to Arusha. The guide’s experience seems to enhance the experience, with travelers commenting on how well they were cared for and how knowledgeable their drivers were. In Arusha, the tour wraps up with a drop-off, marking the end of an adventure-filled journey.

Day 11: Return to Nairobi and Departure

On the last day, you’ll be transported back to Nairobi for your flight. The transfer time is about six hours, giving you a comfortable window to reflect on your adventure and perhaps plan your next trip.

What Reviewers Say About the Experience

Multiple reviews praise the guides’ expertise, describing them as “excellent drivers” and “very experienced and informed.” One reviewer from February 2025 highlights the “well-organized” nature of the tour and the “beauty” of the locations visited. Another shared that the tour exceeded expectations, especially praising the scenery, animals, and local people.

Travelers also appreciate the accommodations—big tents with hot showers and flush toilets—combining rustic charm with practical comfort. The inclusion of park fees, meals, bottled water, and transfers means you can focus on the experience rather than logistics.

Some reviews mention the importance of knowing guides are familiar with animal behaviors and best viewing spots, which can make all the difference in spotting elusive wildlife. The guides’ local knowledge also helps enhance understanding of the parks’ ecosystems.

Additional Details and Practical Considerations

The tour starts early each day, with departures around 7 a.m., so packing light and being prepared for early mornings is key. The group size is not explicitly stated, but the mention of “only your group” indicates a small, intimate experience—ideal for travelers who prefer a more personalized touch.

The price, at $5,275 per person, includes most essentials—park fees, meals, bottled water, and transfers—making it a good value for such a comprehensive itinerary. Extra costs might be drinks, alcohol, or personal items, so budgeting extra for that is wise.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, as it’s designed to be accessible, with most participants able to participate in game drives and activities. The flexible cancellation policy allows for peace of mind, with full refunds available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

The Sum Up

This 11-day safari offers a well-rounded experience of Kenya and Tanzania, perfect for those wanting to see the Big 5 and explore some of Africa’s most iconic national parks. It blends authentic wildlife encounters with comfortable, rustic accommodations, supported by knowledgeable guides who know how to find the animals and tell their stories.

The organized nature of the tour means you don’t have to worry about logistics—everything from park fees to meals is taken care of—giving you more time to enjoy the sights and sounds of Africa’s wilderness. The scenic drives, game viewing, and local insights create a memorable adventure that appeals to both first-time safari-goers and seasoned travelers.

If you value expert guidance, authentic wildlife experiences, and a tour that balances comfort with adventure, this trip is likely to meet and even exceed your expectations. It’s best suited for travelers who want a structured, hassle-free journey with plenty of opportunities to see Africa’s legendary animals in their natural habitat.

FAQ

• What is included in the tour price? The price covers park fees, bottled water, 10 lunches, 11 breakfasts, 10 dinners, and transfers, making it a comprehensive package.
• Are the accommodations comfortable? Yes, they are rustic tents with big beds, mosquito nets, hot showers, and flush toilets, providing a good balance of adventure and comfort.
• Can I cancel the tour? Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, ensuring flexibility.
• Is this tour suitable for all travelers? Most travelers can participate, and it’s designed to be accessible, with a private group experience.
• How long are the game drives? Expect around 8 hours of game driving each day, with some days offering full-day safaris.
• What wildlife can I expect to see? The Big 5—lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino, and leopard—plus giraffes, zebras, hyenas, and various bird species.
• Are there optional activities? The tour includes activities like boat rides on Lake Naivasha and game drives, but personal or additional activities are not specified.
• What is the best time to go? The itinerary doesn’t specify seasons, but generally, the best safari times are during dry seasons when animals congregate around water sources.
• How large are the groups? The tour is private for your group, offering a more personalized experience.
• What should I pack? Light, neutral-colored clothing, sun protection, binoculars, camera, and personal essentials for early mornings and outdoor activities.

This safari strikes an excellent balance between adventure, comfort, and value. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone wanting to tick Africa’s wildlife off their bucket list with a knowledgeable team by their side.