8 Days Nakuru, Masai Mara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro & L Manyara

Taking a multi-national safari that stretches across Kenya and Tanzania is a dream for many wildlife enthusiasts, and this 8-day tour offers a well-balanced glimpse into some of Africa’s most celebrated parks. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of spotting the Big Five, marveling at the endless plains, or simply soaking in breathtaking views, this trip hits all those marks — with the added bonus of a knowledgeable guide and comfortable transport.

We love that this experience combines classic highlights like the Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti with the charming scenery of Lake Nakuru. The itinerary also emphasizes birdwatching, making it appealing for nature lovers who want more than just big game sightings. On top of that, the use of 4×4 Land Cruisers promises an up-close adventure, giving you the best vantage points for wildlife viewing.

One thing to keep in mind is that the schedule is quite packed — so if you’re looking for a very relaxed, slow-paced holiday, this might feel a bit intense. But for those eager to see a lot in a short time, this safari offers excellent value. It’s ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive safari experience, with guided insight and diverse landscapes.

Key Points

• Wildlife Variety: Spot the Big Five, numerous predators, and prolific birdlife across multiple parks.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable drivers/guide enhances the experience with insights and local context.
• Comfort and Convenience: Full-board accommodation, air-conditioned Land Cruisers, and all park fees included.
• Diverse Landscapes: From soda lakes to endless plains, each stop offers a unique scenery.
• Well-Paced Itinerary: Carefully planned to balance game drives, travel, and some leisure time.
• Authentic Encounters: Opportunity to see wildlife in natural habitats, not just tourist spots.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Day 1: Nairobi to Lake Nakuru

The adventure begins with a morning pickup from your Nairobi hotel around 7.30 am. From there, you’ll drive southward, enjoying a brief stop at the viewpoint of the Great Rift Valley — a stunning panorama that instantly reminds you of Africa’s geological grandeur. The journey continues to Lake Nakuru National Park, famous for its thousands of flamingoes that turn the soda lake into a vibrant pink spectacle.

This first game drive offers a mellow introduction to the wildlife and scenery. The park is also home to rhinos, buffalo, and various antelope species. We loved the way the guide pointed out the different bird species, making it a good start for birdwatchers. The day wraps up with a comfortable overnight stay at the Buraha Zenoni Resort, giving you solid rest before the next day’s adventures.

Day 2: Nakuru to Maasai Mara

After breakfast, the journey takes you further south through the Kenyan landscape to Narok, a small Maasai town. The drive to the Maasai Mara is scenic, with rolling hills and acacia trees framing the route. Upon arrival, you’ll check into your tented camp and enjoy a hearty lunch.

The afternoon game drive in the Maasai Mara introduces you to the stunning diversity of this reserve. Here, you’ll see large herds of plain game, along with predators such as lions, leopards, cheetahs, and elephants. One guest mentions, “The scenery is beautiful, and the ride is a real roller coaster,” referring to the bumpy but exhilarating Land Cruiser journeys. The day ends with dinner and overnight at Rhino Tourist Camp.

Day 3: Full Day in Maasai Mara

This full day is dedicated to exploring the Maasai Mara’s iconic landscapes. You’ll venture across treestudded grasslands and rolling hills, with the chance to see the Big Five and other wildlife in their natural environment. The guide’s expertise makes the game viewing both informative and engaging, helping you identify animals and behaviors you might otherwise miss.

Expect a combination of morning and afternoon game drives, with a break at the camp for meals and rest. The landscape’s expansive plains provide ample opportunities for wildlife photography, and the guide’s knowledge of animal habits enhances the chances of sightings.

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Day 4: Maasai Mara to Serengeti

An early start takes you across the border into Tanzania at Isebania, with immigration formalities smoothly handled. After lunch, the drive continues into Serengeti National Park, famed for its endless plains and wildlife migrations. Arriving in the late afternoon, you’ll enjoy your first game drive on the way to your Tented Camp.

The Serengeti’s vastness is hard to grasp until you’re there — the plains seem to stretch endlessly in every direction. The guide describes the park as “normally the scene of the annual migration of wildebeest and zebras,” which is a spectacle you might catch if timing aligns.

Day 5: Exploring Serengeti

A full day in the Serengeti allows for both morning and afternoon game drives. During the day, you’ll have the flexibility to relax at the camp or continue exploring, with lunch served at the lodge. The guide shared that the park is home to leopards, hyenas, and cheetahs, often seen resting on rocks or stalking prey.

The Serengeti’s endless plains are a photographer’s dream, and your chances of witnessing predators in action are high, especially during the migration season. The guide’s insights about animal behavior add depth to the experience, making it more than just a wildlife sighting.

Day 6: Serengeti to Ngorongoro

Following a morning game drive, you leave the Serengeti for the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Once there, you’ll descend about 2,000 feet into the crater for a full afternoon tour. The crater is dense with wildlife — lions, rhinos, buffalo, elephants — all in a relatively compact space.

Lunch is at Ngoitoktok Springs picnic site, offering a picnic with a view of the crater’s wildlife. As one reviewer noted, “Black-maned lions, rhinos, and elephants abound,” making this a highlight of the trip. The night is spent near the crater at Ngorongoro Rhino Lodge or camp.

Day 7: Ngorongoro to Lake Manyara

After breakfast, a scenic drive takes you to Lake Manyara National Park. Known for its flamingoes, giraffes, and tree-climbing lions, this park offers a different kind of wildlife experience. You’ll arrive early for lunch, then embark on an afternoon game drive where you may spot elusive animals and bird species.

Lake Manyara’s unique terrain, with its alkaline lake and lush vegetation, sets it apart from other parks. The guide explained how the park’s environment supports a diverse ecosystem, making every drive an unpredictable adventure.

Day 8: Departure from Arusha

Your safari concludes with breakfast, then a scenic drive back to Arusha. This transfer marks the end of your memorable journey through some of Africa’s most iconic parks, leaving you with countless images and stories.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Expert Guides and Comfortable Transport: Guests praised the guides for their knowledge and friendliness. One reviewer, Mary, called her guide an “excellent tour guide” who made the experience even more special — highlighting the importance of a good guide to truly enjoy the safari.

Stunning Scenery and Wildlife Diversity: From the flamingoes at Nakuru to the predators in the Serengeti and the crater’s dense wildlife, the variety keeps the experience fresh and exciting.

Value for Money: With full-board accommodation, all park entrance fees, and bottled water, the tour offers a comprehensive package. The use of 4×4 Land Cruisers ensures a comfortable and up-close wildlife experience, especially important given the sometimes bumpy roads.

Authentic Encounters: The itinerary emphasizes seeing animals in their natural habitat, not just tourist spots. The guided game drives and strategic park stops maximize wildlife sightings, making it worth the price for serious safari lovers.

Possible Drawbacks: The schedule is quite full, meaning some days might feel rushed, especially for travelers who prefer a leisurely pace. Also, the drive between parks can be bumpy, as noted by one guest describing it as a “roller coaster ride,” which might not suit everyone.

Who Would Love This Safari?

This tour is perfect for travelers who want to see a wide variety of Africa’s top wildlife parks in one trip. It suits those eager to experience big game, birdwatching, and iconic landscapes without sacrificing comfort. If you’re someone who thrives on guided insight, enjoys a balance of travel and adventure, and doesn’t mind a packed schedule, this safari delivers on all fronts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The package covers ground transport in a comfortable 4×4 Land Cruiser, full-board accommodation, all park entrance fees, an English-speaking guide, and bottled water during the safari.

Are the accommodations comfortable?
Yes, guests stay in a mix of lodges and tented camps that are well-rated for comfort and convenience, providing a good balance of adventure and rest.

Is this tour suitable for birdwatchers?
Absolutely. The itinerary highlights prolific birdlife, including flamingoes at Nakuru and various species throughout the parks.

How long are the game drives?
Expect full days of game viewing, with morning and afternoon drives, plus some longer drives between parks.

What is the best time to go?
While the exact timing isn’t specified, the parks are generally lively year-round, with the migration in Serengeti being most spectacular during certain seasons. Check with the provider for tailored advice.

Is this tour good for first-time safari-goers?
Yes, the guided game drives, detailed itinerary, and comfortable transport make it suitable for those new to safaris wanting a comprehensive experience.

Final Thoughts

This 8-day safari tour offers a fantastic opportunity to explore Africa’s most renowned parks in just one trip. The combination of wildlife viewing, stunning scenery, and expert guides ensures a memorable adventure that balances comfort with authentic encounters. Whether you’re chasing the Big Five, marveling at the endless plains, or enjoying birdwatching, this tour caters to a wide range of interests.

While the schedule is busy, the value provided — especially with all accommodations and entry fees included — makes it an excellent choice for travelers seeking a comprehensive, guided safari experience. It’s particularly well-suited for those who want to maximize their wildlife sightings and landscape diversity in a relatively short period.

If you’re ready for an immersive journey through some of Africa’s most iconic landscapes, this safari is a well-organized, rewarding option that won’t disappoint.

You can check availability for your dates here: