8 Days 7 nights Tanzania and Kenya Wildlife Safari

A Comprehensive Look at the 8 Days 7 Nights Tanzania and Kenya Wildlife Safari

Traveling through Africa’s iconic wilderness can be a life-changing adventure, and this 8-day safari offers a well-rounded taste of the region’s most famous parks. We haven’t personally taken this tour, but based on detailed reviews and the itinerary, it promises an immersive experience filled with breathtaking wildlife sightings and authentic local encounters.

What we love about this safari is its inclusive nature—covering some of Africa’s most celebrated locations like the Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti, and Maasai Mara. The knowledgeable guides, especially Vincent, seem to make all the difference with their expertise and friendly approach. We also appreciate the focus on natural phenomena, like witnessing the wildebeest migration, which truly is one of the world’s greatest wildlife spectacles. A potential consideration is the pace of the trip; with so much packed in, some travelers might find it a bit intense, especially on long game drives. Still, it’s ideal for those wanting a comprehensive adventure with expert guidance.

This tour is best suited for wildlife enthusiasts, first-time safari travelers, and those eager to combine Kenya and Tanzania in one seamless journey. If you’re looking for a well-organized, value-packed safari with a focus on iconic ecosystems and wildlife, this tour could be perfect.

Key Points

• Wildlife encounters in iconic parks like Ngorongoro and Serengeti are front and center.
• Expert guides, especially Vincent, are highly praised for their knowledge and ability to locate migration herds.
• Authentic experiences with local Maasai tribes provide a cultural dimension beyond wildlife viewing.
• Scenic routes and game drives offer some of the most stunning views and close-up wildlife moments.
• All-inclusive costs cover park fees, transport, and meals, making planning straightforward.
• Long days of travel and game drives mean packing comfortable clothes and patience is key.

An In-Depth Review of the 8-Day Safari Experience

Starting Point: Nairobi and Border Formalities

The tour kicks off early with pick-up from your Nairobi hotel, easing you into the adventure smoothly. The first border crossing from Kenya into Tanzania is a highlight in itself, as your Kenyan driver guide handles formalities, allowing you to relax and soak in the scenic drive that follows. Expect a manageable 2.5-hour transfer to the border, followed by a similar time to Arusha, where you’ll enjoy a leisurely lunch. This break is a welcome chance to stretch your legs and get ready for the wildlife-filled days ahead.

Day 1: Lake Manyara – The Tree Climbing Lions and Baboons

Arriving at Lake Manyara National Park in the afternoon, you’ll check into the Lake Manyara Wildlife Lodge. The park’s claim to fame is its tree-climbing lions and the world’s largest baboon population. Expect an evening at leisure, with a chance to spot flamingos on the soda lake or elephants wandering across the plains. Reviewers note that the park’s landscape offers stunning views, and guides are skilled at spotting wildlife in the diverse terrain.

Day 2: Ngorongoro Crater – A Natural Wonder

An early morning game drive in Lake Manyara sets the tone for the day. Then, after breakfast, you’ll head down into the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and arguably Africa’s most awe-inspiring caldera. Guides like Vincent are praised for their ability to find wildlife in this vast crater, where lions, elephants, and rhinoceroses roam freely. The crater’s dense concentration of animals makes it a highlight, and you might find yourself overwhelmed by the sheer number of creatures in this enclosed ecosystem.

Day 3-4: Serengeti – Witnessing the Migration

As you leave Ngorongoro, the journey to Serengeti National Park begins. The route itself is scenic, with plenty of wildlife sightings along the way. Arriving at Seronera, you’ll settle into a comfortable lodge and begin your exploration of the Serengeti’s endless plains. The area is renowned for hosting the greatest concentration of large mammals on Earth, including the world-famous wildebeest migration.

With full-day game drives on Day 4, you’ll experience the vastness of Serengeti firsthand. Expect to see herds of wildebeest, zebras, cheetahs, and possibly lions lounging in the tall grasses. Reviewers like Krishna_S mention that guides are highly knowledgeable, managing to locate large herds migrating through Serengeti, which is a truly spectacular sight.

Day 5: Northern Serengeti and Ikoma Wild Camp

On your third day in Serengeti, explore further into northern regions, with a picnic lunch en route. The journey to Ikoma Wild Camp involves traversing different landscapes, each teeming with wildlife. Night game drives here offer a chance to see nocturnal animals, and you’ll appreciate the more intimate camping experience after days of luxury lodges. The full day of game drives is designed to maximize your wildlife encounters, with many reviewers emphasizing how guides go out of their way to find elusive predators and herds.

Day 6-7: Transition into Kenya and Maasai Mara

Crossing into Kenya at the Isebania border, the safari’s focus shifts to Maasai Mara, an extension of Serengeti’s ecosystem. Upon arrival, you’ll check into the Mara Sun Lodge and begin your game drives. The Maasai Mara is renowned for its diversity and the possibility to see predators stalking prey, making it a favorite among wildlife aficionados.

A full day in Maasai Mara includes a trip to the Mara River, where hippos and crocodiles dominate the waters—a scene often highlighted as a must-see in reviews. The experience of meeting Maasai tribespeople adds a cultural layer to the safari, which many travelers find enriching and authentic.

Day 8: Return to Nairobi

Your final morning involves an early game drive, giving you one last chance for wildlife sightings before heading back to Nairobi for lunch. The journey back takes about 6 hours, with an organized drop-off, making the return seamless.

Transportation and Comfort

Throughout the safari, you’ll be traversing in a private 4×4 Safari Jeep, a key factor in wildlife viewing. This vehicle size allows for excellent visibility and comfort during long drives. The itinerary is designed for efficiency, with most days packed with game drives and transfers, so travelers should be prepared for early mornings and full days.

Guides and Expertise

Reviewers like Krishna_S highlight Vincent’s knowledge and friendliness, noting his ability to locate large herds during the Serengeti migration. Guides appear skilled at reading animal behavior and navigating the vast parks, which significantly enhances the safari experience. The inclusion of English-speaking guides ensures clear communication and educational insights.

Meals and Accommodation

Meals are included—seven breakfasts, eight lunches, and seven dinners—offering convenience and the chance to enjoy local and international dishes after long days. Accommodation varies from wildlife lodges to camp settings, providing a mix of comfort and adventure. The lodges are described as comfortable and well-located for game viewing.

Price and Value

At $4,999 per person, this tour represents a competitive price considering the comprehensive itinerary, park fees, private transport, and expert guides. The cost covers the major parks, all activities, and meals, making it easier for travelers to budget without surprises. Given the scale of wildlife viewing, cultural experiences, and the quality of guides, many would agree this offers excellent value.

Who Would Enjoy This Safari?

This safari is ideal for those eager to see the “big five” and witness the wildebeest migration firsthand. It suits travelers who appreciate well-organized tours with knowledgeable guides and are comfortable with long game drives. It’s perfect for first-timers wanting a broad introduction to East Africa’s wildlife, as well as seasoned safari lovers craving a comprehensive experience.

The Sum Up

This 8-day safari combines iconic parks, stunning landscapes, and authentic cultural encounters into one well-structured adventure. With expert guides, seamless logistics, and a focus on wildlife highlights like the Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti migration, and Maasai Mara, it promises an immersive and memorable trip.

The value offered by this tour is impressive: all major park fees, transportation, and meals are included at a reasonable price. It’s especially suited for those who want a full, varied experience without the hassle of organizing each detail independently.

However, don’t underestimate the long days and travel times—comfort and patience are essential for fully enjoying the trip. If you’re looking to tick off Africa’s premier wildlife destinations with knowledgeable guides and a touch of cultural exchange, this safari hits all the marks.

FAQ

What parks does this safari visit?
It visits Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti National Park, and Maasai Mara National Reserve, covering some of Africa’s most famous wildlife areas.

Are park entry fees included?
Yes, all park entry, concession, and crater fees are included in the price.

What is the transportation like?
Travel is in a private 4×4 safari Jeep, designed for optimal wildlife viewing and comfort during long drives.

Does the tour include meals?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included for all seven days of the safari.

Who are the guides?
The guides are experienced English speakers, with reviewers mentioning Vincent as particularly knowledgeable and personable.

How long are the game drives?
Most days feature approximately 6 to 8 hours of game drives, with early mornings and late afternoons being prime wildlife viewing times.

Can I see the wildebeest migration?
Yes, the itinerary is designed to maximize chances of seeing the migration, especially in Serengeti and Maasai Mara.

What is the accommodation like?
Accommodation ranges from wildlife lodges to wild camping (Ikoma Wild Camp), balancing comfort with authentic safari experiences.

Is this tour suitable for first-time safari travelers?
Absolutely, it’s designed to be comprehensive yet accessible, perfect for those new to the safari world wanting a guided, all-inclusive experience.

Embark on this safari if you crave authentic wildlife encounters, expert guiding, and the chance to witness some of Africa’s most famous landscapes—all within a carefully curated eight days.