6-Day Kenya and Tanzania safari

A Balanced Look at a 6-Day Kenya and Tanzania Safari

Travelers seeking an unforgettable African adventure often dream of spotting the Big Five, witnessing the vastness of the Serengeti, and experiencing the unique landscapes of Kenya and Tanzania. This 6-day safari from RajaTours offers just that, combining iconic parks with comfortable mid-range lodges and expert guides.

What we love about this tour? First, the well-organized itinerary ensures you see the best highlights in a relatively short time. Second, the knowledgeable guides—like Chris in Kenya and Allen in Tanzania—bring the parks alive with their insights and enthusiasm. Third, the value for money is impressive when you consider the inclusiveness of meals, park entries, and the diverse locations visited.

A potential consideration is the long drives—up to six hours on some days—which might be tiring for those expecting a more relaxed pace. However, the scenic views and wildlife sightings make every minute worth it.

This tour best suits adventurous travelers eager to pack in high-quality wildlife experiences and cultural highlights over a compact schedule. If you’re comfortable with some driving and want expert-guided, all-inclusive safaris with authentic touches, this could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Kenya’s Maasai Mara and Tanzania’s Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Lake Manyara.
• Expert guides who are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and extra effort.
• Mid-range accommodations that balance comfort with affordability.
• Wildlife viewing opportunities, including the Big Five and rare sightings like albino giraffes.
• Long travel days but rewarding scenery and wildlife encounters along the way.
• All meals included for a hassle-free experience, with some days featuring picnic lunches for flexibility.

What to Expect from the 6-Day Safari

This safari seamlessly blends some of Africa’s most famous national parks with a focus on authentic wildlife watching. Expect mornings at dawn, when animals are most active, and afternoons filled with game drives that maximize animal sightings. The tour is designed for those who want to see the highlights without sacrificing comfort.

Day 1: From Nairobi to Maasai Mara

Your adventure begins with a 6-hour drive from Nairobi to the Maasai Mara. While the journey itself is lengthy, it’s a chance to soak in the changing scenery—from bustling city outskirts to sweeping savannahs. Upon arrival, you’ll enjoy a hot lunch before your first game drive.

The Maasai Mara is famous for its large predator populations, and the sunset views over the plains are unforgettable. Staying at Pride Inn Mara camp, you’ll get a taste of authentic safari ambiance with tented accommodations that are comfortable yet still immersive.

Day 2: Exploring the Maasai Mara

This full day is dedicated to game drives. Expect to spot elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos, especially since the Maasai Mara is a prime Big Five location. Reviewers highlight the guides’ expertise here—Chris, in particular, is credited with showing guests lions so close they could hear their roars.

Many comment on how wildlife seems to appear at just the right moments, making each drive exciting. You’ll enjoy a relaxed lunch at the camp, then head back into the reserve for more sightings. The evening is perfect for sunset photography—something you’ll want to savor.

Day 3: Crossing into Tanzania via Serengeti

After breakfast, you’ll set off in your Land Cruiser or minivan for the journey to Tanzania, crossing the border at Isebania. This 6-hour drive includes an en route game drive, offering a last chance to spot wildlife on the Kenyan side.

Once in Tanzania, your adventure continues with an evening game drive in Serengeti, another world-renowned park. Staying at Serengeti Osero camp, you’ll be surrounded by the sounds of the wild while enjoying your first Tanzanian sunset.

Day 4: Full Day in Serengeti

Today is all about discovering the vastness of the Serengeti. With a picnic lunch, you’ll explore some of the most iconic landscapes of Africa—vast plains dotted with acacia trees and herds of migrating animals.

Reviewers mention the guides’ skill at locating elusive predators and herds, making this a memorable wildlife experience. The landscape here is breathtaking, and the opportunity to see animals “in the wild” as they go about their day is what makes Serengeti special. Expect plenty of hours in the vehicle, but with rewarding sights at every turn.

Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Manyara

After breakfast, the journey takes you to Ngorongoro, often called the “Garden of Eden” for its stunning scenery and dense wildlife. Descending into the crater, you’ll see elephants, wildebeest, zebras, and possibly even predators like lions resting by lakes or in the tall grass.

The Ngorongoro Crater is known for being a concentration of wildlife in a relatively small area, with impressive views of lakes and the crater rim. Many reviewers highlight the “great herd of animals” and the beautiful landscape, making it a highlight of the trip. You’ll stay overnight at Farm of Dreams lodge, which offers good comfort with authentic charm.

Day 6: From Ngorongoro to Arusha

Your safari concludes with a 4-hour drive to Arusha or the airport. If you have time, you might explore the town or simply relax after your adventures. Many travelers appreciate the smooth logistics and attentive planning, allowing for a stress-free end to your journey.

Transportation and Comfort

Throughout the safari, you’ll be using minivans and Land Cruisers, both of which are standard for safaris of this kind—designed for game viewing with large windows for photography. Travel days are longer, but the vehicles provide good comfort, and the scenic drives make the time pass quickly.

Accommodation comprises mid-range tented camps and safari lodges, offering a cozy, authentic feel without the high costs of luxury options. Reviewers often praise the delicious meals and friendly staff, which make the experience even more enjoyable.

The Value of this Safari

At $5,900 per person, this tour packs a lot into six days. You get to visit five different parks, see the Big Five, and enjoy full-board meals—all with the guidance of experienced, personable guides. Many reviews mention that guides like Chris and Allen went out of their way to show guests the best sights, with some noting they got up close to lions and even saw a rare albino giraffe.

The inclusive nature of the trip—meals, park fees, and transfers—means fewer surprises and more time to focus on the wildlife. Compared to standalone park visits or self-drive options, this guided tour offers a blend of convenience, expertise, and local knowledge.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This safari appeals most to travelers who want an organized, guided experience that maximizes wildlife sightings without the stress of planning every detail. It’s well-suited for first-time safari-goers or those with limited time but high expectations for seeing Africa’s iconic animals.

It’s also ideal for groups or families looking for a structured adventure with good accommodations and meals included. If you’re comfortable with long driving days and want a balanced mix of scenery, wildlife, and cultural insights, this tour will serve you well.

The Sum Up

This 6-day Kenya and Tanzania safari offers a well-rounded, authentic safari experience with expert guides, comfortable lodges, and the chance to see some of Africa’s most famous parks. The itinerary is thoughtfully designed to deliver high-value wildlife encounters, with flexible options for sightseeing and photography.

Travelers who prioritize guided expertise, diverse landscapes, and an inclusive package will find this safari excellent. It caters to those eager to tick off the Big Five, explore different ecosystems, and enjoy genuine African hospitality—all packed into a manageable, adventure-filled week.

If you’re after a professional, immersive, and well-organized safari that balances adventure with comfort, this tour hits the right notes.

FAQ

How long is the drive from Nairobi to Maasai Mara?
It takes approximately 6 hours by road, offering scenic views and an opportunity to see rural Kenya along the way.

Are park fees included in the price?
Yes, park admission tickets are included, making it easier to budget your trip without unexpected costs.

What type of vehicles are used for the safari?
The safari uses minivans and Land Cruisers, both equipped for game viewing with large windows for photography.

Is accommodation in tents or lodges?
Guests stay in mid-range safari lodges and tented camps, providing comfort without the luxury price tag.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided for most days, including picnic lunches on the longer game drives.

Can this tour be canceled?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy if you cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.

Who are the guides?
Notably, guides like Chris in Kenya and Allen in Tanzania receive praise for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and personalized approach.

How is the overall value for money?
Considering the destinations, accommodations, guided expertise, and meals, the tour provides excellent value for the price.

Is this tour suitable for families or groups?
Absolutely, since it’s a private tour designed for your group, making it a flexible and personalized adventure.

This safari promises a lively, authentic, and well-coordinated trip through some of Africa’s most iconic parks. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or a first-time safari traveler, it’s an experience worth considering.