9-Day Group budget Safari Through Kenya and Tanzania

Planning a safari that balances unforgettable wildlife encounters with a manageable budget can seem daunting. This 9-day group tour by Perfect Wilderness Tours and Safari promises to do exactly that—delivering a packed itinerary that hits the highlights of Kenya and Tanzania without breaking the bank. It’s a great choice for travelers seeking a mix of big game viewing, iconic landscapes, and authentic local experiences, all within a well-organized package.

What makes this safari stand out? First, the chance to see the Big Five in their natural habitat, which is every wildlife enthusiast’s dream. Second, the journey offers stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the Great Rift Valley, giving travelers a visual feast along with their wildlife sightings. Third, the tour’s all-inclusive approach ensures you won’t be constantly reaching for your wallet, and the group size of up to 7 people offers a more intimate experience than large bus safaris.

A potential consideration? The tents in Tanzania are ground-pitched and shared, which might be less luxurious than hotel stays, and the overall pace can be quite full, so it’s best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy camping and early mornings. If you prefer a more relaxed, luxury safari, this might not be the ideal fit.

This safari appeals most to those eager to see a wide array of wildlife, appreciate spectacular scenery, and enjoy a budget-friendly adventure with knowledgeable guides. It’s perfect for first-timers and seasoned safari lovers alike, especially those who value authentic experiences over luxury.

Key Points

• Wildlife Highlights: Spot the Big Five, flamingoes, hippos, crocodiles, and more
• Scenic Views: Marvel at Mount Kilimanjaro and the Great Rift Valley
• All-Inclusive: Meals, park fees, transport, and guides included for straightforward planning
• Group Size: Small groups of up to 7 ensure a more personalized experience
• Variety of Experiences: From game drives to boat rides and optional activities like horseback riding
• Camping Comfort: Kenyan tents are private and self-contained; Tanzanian tents are ground-pitched with provided gear

You can check availability for your dates here:

Analyzing the Itinerary

Day 1: Nairobi to Maasai Mara

The trip kicks off with a morning pickup from Nairobi, setting the tone with scenic views of the Great Rift Valley. The drive to Maasai Mara is about a few hours, and the journey itself acts as an introduction to Kenya’s stunning landscapes. Upon arrival, you check into your campsite—either Enkajiang or Rhino Tourist Camp—both offering a comfortable base amid wild surroundings.

In the late afternoon, you’ll head out for a sunset game drive—a magical time when animals are most active. Reviewers mention the expert guidance of local guides who are well-versed in spotting animals and explaining their behaviors. The Maasai Mara’s reputation as a wildlife haven means you’re likely to see plenty of animals, with some travelers noting that their guides were particularly skilled at tracking elusive species like leopards.

Day 2: Maasai Mara Wild Encounters

This full day is dedicated to tracking the Big Five—an essential bucket list achievement. The tour emphasizes wildlife diversity, with guides providing detailed animal descriptions, which enhances the experience. Many guests appreciated the picnic lunch under a croton tree, which added a classic safari feel.

The Mara River crossing is a highlight, where residents like hippos and crocodiles sit at the banks, creating perfect photo opportunities. Guides typically share insights into animal behaviors, making the experience educational as well as thrilling.

Day 3: Maasai Mara to Naivasha

Leaving Maasai Mara, the drive to Naivasha introduces lush landscapes and plenty of birdwatching opportunities. The boat ride on Lake Naivasha is a calming contrast to the previous day’s energetic game drives. Expect to see hippos and various bird species, including flamingoes—something many reviews highlight as a memorable sight.

For those interested, there’s an optional horse riding activity that guests report as a fun, unique way to experience the area, though it adds an extra cost ($70 USD). The hotel options—Chambai or Astorian—offer comfortable stays after a busy day.

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Day 4: Hell’s Gate and Border Crossing

This day combines adventure with a little physical activity. Visiting Hell’s Gate National Park offers the chance to bike or walk close to wildlife, which visitors find exhilarating. The gorge walks are described as spectacular, with some reviews mentioning the opportunity to see landmass depressions and unique geological features.

Post-visit, the journey proceeds to the Tanzanian border at Namanga. The experience of crossing the border adds an element of adventure, and reviewers note that having the correct paperwork (like visas and yellow fever certificates) is essential. The Namanga River Hotel offers a restful night after the day’s activities.

Day 5: Arusha and Lake Manyara

Driving into Tanzania, the tour visits Lake Manyara National Park for a short game drive. This site is praised for its endangered tilapia, flamingoes, and a variety of bird species, making it a hit for bird watchers. The combination of wildlife spotting and scenic lakeshore views adds depth to the experience.

You’ll notice the emphasis on comfort here—camp setup is handled by the team, with tents that are safe and well-protected. Many reviews appreciate the hot meals prepared by the guide and chef, which keep everyone nourished during the early mornings and late nights.

Day 6 & 7: Serengeti National Park

Traveling to the Serengeti is a major highlight—the iconic plains are a true safari icon. The first day involves game viewing en route to the Seronera camp, setting the scene for a full day of exploration. The vast, open landscape and wildlife density are often described as breathtaking; the chance to see the wildebeest migration and other large herds makes it a wildlife lover’s paradise.

The full day game drive includes a picnic lunch, and many travelers mention their guides’ skill in finding animals, even in the expansive wilderness. The guides’ knowledge and storytelling help bring the landscape alive, making the experience more than just a checklist of animals.

Day 8: Ngorongoro Crater

The final major highlight is the Ngorongoro Crater, often called a “natural amphitheater” teeming with wildlife. This largest intact caldera offers an incredible concentration of animals, including lions, elephants, and rhinos. The scenery here is striking, and the half-day tour allows ample time to explore and photograph.

Many visitors comment on how memorable the crater is, with its varied terrain and high animal density. It’s a fitting end to a wildlife-packed adventure.

Day 9: Return to Nairobi

After breakfast, you’ll head back to Arusha and then transfer to Nairobi. The journey wraps up around 2:30 pm, leaving you with a wealth of memories—and hopefully some stunning photos to prove it.

What You Gain From This Safari

This tour offers a balanced combination of wildlife viewing, scenic landscapes, and cultural experiences like the optional Maasai village visit (costs extra). The small group size ensures you’re not just a number, and guides such as “extremely knowledgeable” are credited with enhancing the entire experience, pointing out animals you might miss on your own. The early morning game drives maximize wildlife encounters, as animals are most active at dawn, a fact many guests appreciated.

The all-inclusive pricing removes much of the hassle—park fees, meals, bottled water, and transport are covered—meaning you can focus on absorbing the sights rather than worrying about additional costs. The use of pop-up roof vehicles in Kenya and Tanzania is a significant plus, offering unobstructed views and great photo opportunities.

The Camping Experience

While some travelers love camping because it brings them closer to nature, others may find the ground-pitched tents in Tanzania less comfortable than hotel stays. The tents are ground-pitched, provided with sleeping bags and mattresses, and set up by the team, ensuring safety and convenience. In Kenya, the tents are private and self-contained, with showers and toilets inside, making for a more comfortable camping experience.

Guests emphasize that the guides and staff go out of their way to make camping enjoyable, with some reviewers noting the hot meals prepared at the campsites as a highlight. However, the overall comfort level depends on your expectations—adventurous travelers will find the setup perfectly adequate, while luxury seekers may feel it’s a bit rustic.

Transportation and Group Dynamics

Traveling in comfortable vans with pop-up roofs in Kenya and land cruisers in Tanzania, you’ll have unobstructed views and ample space. The small group model (up to 7 guests) is a big selling point, allowing for a more interactive and personalized experience. Reviewers mention that this size makes it easier to ask questions and get more attention from guides.

The timing of activities—early morning game drives, afternoon boat rides—aligns well with wildlife behavior, maximizing chances for sightings. The transport arrangements are well-organized, with reliable pickups and drop-offs, ensuring smooth transitions between locations.

Pricing and Value

While the overall cost might seem modest compared to luxury safaris, the value is evident in inclusive park fees, all meals, transport, and experienced guides. Guests say the quality of guiding and the variety of activities make it a worthwhile investment, especially given the comprehensive itinerary. Optional extras like hot air balloon safaris or Maasai village visits are available at additional costs but are not necessary to enjoy the core experience.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Safari Perfect For?

This safari is ideal for adventurous travelers on a budget who want a full wildlife experience without sacrificing organization or safety. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable with camping, early mornings, and a packed schedule. The small group setting and knowledgeable guides mean more personalized attention and insider insights, enriching each day.

If your priority is seeing the Big Five, the Serengeti’s vast plains, and the Ngorongoro Crater, this tour covers it all with efficiency and authenticity. It’s especially suited for first-timers eager for iconic safari moments but also appeals to seasoned travelers who appreciate the value of guided expertise and intimate group sizes.

FAQ

What is included in the price?
All accommodation as per the itinerary, park entrance fees, bottled water, all meals, transport in vans with pop-up roofs in Kenya and land cruisers in Tanzania, professional guides, and pickup/drop-off at your hotel or airport are included.

Are there any optional activities?
Yes, you can opt for a Maasai village visit for USD 20 or a balloon safari for USD 420, but these are extra beyond the core package.

What kind of tents are used in Tanzania?
The tents are ground-pitched, provided by the tour, and include sleeping bags and mattresses. They do not require you to bring your own gear.

Do I need a visa or yellow fever certificate?
Yes, a yellow fever certificate is required to cross from Kenya to Tanzania, obtainable at the border for USD 50 if not already certified. Kenya visas are obtained online, and Tanzania visas are available online or at the border for USD 100 in cash.

What’s the group size?
Up to 7 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and flexible.

Is this safari suitable for children or older travelers?
The tour involves early mornings, camping, and long drives, making it best suited for active travelers comfortable with these conditions. Those over 70 don’t need a yellow fever certificate to cross borders.

How is the wildlife viewing?
Guests report excellent sightings, especially with guides who are skilled at animal tracking. The safari’s timing maximizes opportunities, particularly during dawn and dusk.

What’s the best time to go?
While not specified, safaris in Kenya and Tanzania generally thrive during dry seasons when animals congregate around water sources.

This 9-day safari offers a balanced blend of adventure, scenery, and wildlife at a competitive price point. Whether you’re after iconic Big Five sightings, breathtaking landscapes, or a taste of local culture, this tour provides a practical, unforgettable gateway to East Africa’s most celebrated parks.

You can check availability for your dates here: