12 Days Kenya & Tanzania Safari Private Lodge Safari from Nairobi

Planning a safari that combines Kenya and Tanzania is no small feat, but this 12-day private lodge tour promises to cover the highlights with style and expert guidance. From the moment we looked into it, three things jumped out: the promise of seeing the Big Five, the luxury accommodations, and the convenience of transfers included.

What really caught our eye was the flexible, private-guided approach—meaning you’re not just part of a big group, but traveling with your own expert guide. The itinerary hits the major parks like Maasai Mara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Tarangire, which are all renowned for wildlife and stunning landscapes. Plus, reviews highlight experienced guides and breathtaking views, making this a solid choice for wildlife enthusiasts.

However, with a price tag of over $6,200 per person, this isn’t a casual trip—it’s an investment in comfort, exclusivity, and unforgettable wildlife encounters. If you’re after a curated, private safari experience with high-end lodges, this tour could be perfect. If budget is a concern, you might want to explore other options, but for those seeking a seamless, luxury adventure, the value here is compelling.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a hassle-free, personalized experience with plenty of comfort, fantastic game viewing, and the opportunity to see Africa’s iconic wildlife in iconic parks. It’s ideal for those celebrating a special occasion or anyone who simply wants to indulge in a memorable safari with expert guidance.

Key Points

• Private Guided Experience: Your own expert guide maximizes game viewing and personalized attention.
• High-Quality Accommodation: Almost every night is spent in comfortable, well-rated lodges or camps.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Covering Kenya’s Maasai Mara, Lake Naivasha, Nakuru, and Tanzania’s Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Lake Manyara, and Tarangire.
• All-Inclusive Meal Plan: Most meals are included, reducing planning stress and adding value.
• Seamless Transfers: Airport pickups and drop-offs make logistics simple and smooth.
• Authentic Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see the Big Five, plus extensive birdlife and scenic landscapes.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect on Each Day

Day 1 & 2: Nairobi and Lake Naivasha

Your adventure kicks off with an arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, where you’ll be transferred to the Ibis Style Hotel for orientation. If your flight arrives early, there’s the option to explore Nairobi, but most travelers will appreciate the rest before the journey begins. The next day, you’ll venture out to Lake Naivasha, with a scenic stop at the Great Rift Valley viewpoint—an impressive landscape where the earth seems to split in two.

Hell’s Gate National Park is your first safari experience. It’s a unique park because you can explore by bike (which reviewers rave about), walk through gorges, and see wildlife in a relatively accessible setting. Expect to see cliffs, volcanic formations, and maybe some zebras and antelopes. An optional boat ride on Lake Naivasha is available, and based on reviews, this adds a peaceful wildlife viewing option, especially for bird lovers.

Day 3: Lake Nakuru

Next, you’re off to Lake Nakuru, famed for its flamingos and rhino populations. The park is an extraordinary sight—literally, the lake is flanked by acacia bushes and lush grasslands. You’ll look for the elusive black rhino, a member of the Big Five. The full-day game drive, with a picnic lunch, offers plenty of chances for close encounters with elephants, giraffes, and possibly leopards.

One reviewer noted that the early morning and full-day safaris here are perfect for getting a good look at the park’s wildlife, and the Makalia Waterfalls provide a scenic break during the day.

Days 4 & 5: Maasai Mara

Crossing into Tanzania’s Serengeti via the Isebania border, you’ll experience the thrill of changing landscapes and ecosystems. Arriving at Maasai Mara in the early afternoon, you’ll settle into the AA Lodge and go on your first game drive that evening. The Maasai Mara is a highlight for many travelers, thanks to its high density of wildlife and the potential for witnessing the Great Migration, depending on timing.

Day 5 is a full day of game drives, including a visit to the Mara River—famous for crossings during the migration. Expect to see lions, elephants, cheetahs, and possibly the elusive leopard. The option of a balloon safari (at an extra cost) offers an aerial perspective of the plains, which reviewers describe as a breathtaking experience.

Day 6 & 7: Serengeti National Park

From Maasai Mara, you’ll cross into Tanzania’s Serengeti, with a stop for lunch at the border. The Serengeti’s vast plains are a favorite for their endless horizons and abundant wildlife. You’ll spend two days here, with guided game drives in search of the Big Five and other iconic animals like giraffes, hyenas, and countless bird species.

One reviewer appreciated the guides’ expertise, noting that they knew exactly where to find animals and called out interesting facts along the way. The Serengeti Hippo Pool is a special stop, where you’ll see hippos lounging in the water—an image that sticks with many travelers.

Day 8 & 9: Ngorongoro Crater & Lake Manyara

After breakfast, you’ll head to Ngorongoro, often called the “Garden of Eden” thanks to its lush environment and dense wildlife. Spending a night on the crater rim offers spectacular views over the caldera, which is a natural amphitheater teeming with lions, elephants, and rhinos.

The next day, you’ll descend into Lake Manyara for a full-day game drive. This park is renowned for its tree-climbing lions and diverse birdlife, including flamingos. You’ll stay overnight at the Octagon Tented Lodge, which offers a more authentic and immersive experience, according to reviews.

Days 10 & 11: Tarangire National Park & Return to Arusha

The final full day takes you into Tarangire, known for its large herds of elephants and iconic baobab trees. Birdwatchers will love the variety of species here, especially flamingos along the lake shores. The Sangaiwe Tented Lodge provides a comfortable base for your game drives.

On day 11, a shorter drive takes you back to Arusha, where you’ll stay at the Venus Premier Hotel. Many reviewers praised guides like George, who are described as friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to share their love of wildlife and local culture.

Day 12: Departure

Your safari ends with breakfast, followed by a private transfer back to Nairobi via the Namanga border. The tour includes airport drops, making logistical planning straightforward. Travelers can opt to be dropped at their hotel or the airport, depending on their schedule.

What Sets This Tour Apart

Expert, Private Guides

Multiple reviews mention guides like George and Hassan, who are praised for their friendly demeanor, deep knowledge, and ability to spot wildlife. This personalized attention enhances the safari experience, allowing you to spend more time observing animals rather than just driving past.

Comfortable, Well-Selected Lodges

Almost every night is spent in comfortable lodges or tented camps, with some reviewers highlighting upgraded options. The accommodations strike a good balance between luxury and authentic safari charm, providing restful retreats after long days of game viewing.

Seamless Logistics & Transfers

The included transfers from Nairobi, the border crossing, and between parks remove much of the stress travelers often face. This allows you to focus on the experience rather than the logistics, which many reviewers appreciated.

Rich Wildlife Encounters & Views

Seeing the Big Five and other iconic species is a highlight, and the guided game drives are designed to maximize chances of wildlife sightings. Many reviewers mention being able to see all five in a single day, which is a rare and memorable achievement.

Analyzing the Price & Value

At over $6,200 per person, this safari is definitely a premium experience. The cost covers 11 nights of accommodation, all park fees, meals, private transport, and guides. Reviewers consistently mention the high quality of guides and lodges, which justifies the expense for those seeking comfort, exclusivity, and expert wildlife viewing.

While the price might seem steep, the value lies in the luxury, convenience, and personalized service. The inclusion of most meals and transfers helps prevent unexpected costs, and the flexibility of a private guide means your safari is tailored to your interests.

What you’re paying for:

• High-end lodges and camps that promise comfort and authentic safari atmospheres
• Private guided game drives with experienced guides who know where animals are
• All meal plans that allow you to relax and enjoy local cuisine in the wild
• Seamless transfers and border crossings that cut down on travel stress

What some might consider as drawbacks:

• The price tag may be beyond budget for casual travelers
• The itinerary is packed; some might prefer more time at fewer parks or to include extra activities like balloon safaris or cultural visits (which are optional and at extra cost)
• Limited flexibility for those wanting a more DIY-style adventure

Authentic Experiences & Reviewer Insights

Several reviews highlight the professionalism and friendliness of guides like George, Hassan, and Ronald, who are described as attentive, knowledgeable, and eager to share their expertise.

One traveler appreciated the flexibility, noting that the guides knew exactly where to find wildlife, making their game drives highly successful. Others mention the stunning landscapes, such as the sweeping plains of Serengeti and the lush crater floor of Ngorongoro, which truly are sights to behold.

A couple of reviewers pointed out minor issues, like vehicle comfort or hotel reservations, but these seem to be exceptions rather than the rule. The tour’s focus on quality guiding, authentic lodges, and efficient logistics shine through as its main strengths.

Who is This Tour Best For?

• Wildlife enthusiasts looking for a comprehensive, guided safari covering Kenya and Tanzania’s top parks
• Luxury travelers who want comfort without sacrificing adventure
• Families or small groups seeking a private, personalized experience with expert guides
• Celebratory travelers (anniversaries, honeymoons) wanting a memorable, hassle-free trip
• Photographers eager to capture iconic scenes with the help of experienced guides

The Sum Up

This 12-day Kenya and Tanzania safari offers a beautifully curated adventure for those who value high-quality accommodations, expert guidance, and seamless logistics. The private guides and carefully chosen lodges help elevate the experience from a typical safari to a personalized journey filled with breathtaking wildlife sightings and scenic landscapes.

While the cost is higher than average, the emphasis on comfort, exclusivity, and expert assistance justifies it for travelers who prioritize a stress-free, immersive wildlife experience. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking the best of Africa’s wilderness, this safari is a reliable choice for a memorable adventure.

In essence, this tour is perfect for those who want a luxurious, guided exploration of Kenya and Tanzania’s most iconic parks, with the added assurance of expert guides and well-reviewed lodges.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for first-time safari travelers?
Yes, the comprehensive itinerary and experienced guides make it a great choice for newcomers, offering a smooth, guided experience with plenty of wildlife sightings.

Are all meals included in the price?
Most meals—11 breakfasts, 9 lunches, and 9 dinners—are included, simplifying planning and allowing you to indulge in local and lodge cuisine.

How are the transfers handled?
Transfers are included from the airport to your hotel, between parks, and back to Nairobi at the end. They are private and arranged for convenience and comfort.

Can I customize the itinerary?
While the tour is pre-planned, reviews suggest guides and staff are flexible and accommodating, especially for additional activities like balloon safaris or cultural visits (at extra cost).

What is the typical group size?
This is a private tour, so you travel exclusively with your group and guide, ensuring personalized attention and flexible scheduling.

Is there an option to upgrade accommodations?
Yes, reviews mention they upgraded lodges and added extra nights, indicating flexibility for customization based on your preferences and budget.

By carefully balancing comfort, wildlife viewing, and expert guidance, this safari offers a truly memorable adventure for travelers ready to explore Africa’s iconic parks in style.