11-day Spirit & Soul of Africa safari in Kenya and Tanzania

Traveling through Africa’s most famous game parks is a dream for many, and this 11-day Spirit & Soul of Africa safari promises to bring that dream closer to reality. Offered by SHAGAMI KENYA TOURS AND SAFARIS, this journey combines the best of Kenya and Tanzania’s wildlife treasures, with a well-rounded itinerary that balances adventure, comfort, and authentic cultural insights.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to see Lake Nakuru’s flamingos and black lions up close. Second, the chance to witness the Great Migration in the Serengeti—arguably the most spectacular wildlife event on the planet. Third, the visit to Ngorongoro Crater offers a stunning wildlife spectacle in one of the world’s natural wonders.

Of course, the price of $5,995 per person may seem steep, but considering the inclusions like park fees, full-board meals, and guided game drives, many travelers find this offers excellent value for a comprehensive safari experience. One thing to consider is that some optional activities, like the hot air balloon ride or Masai village visit, come at extra costs.

This trip is suited for those who want an enriching, well-organized adventure with plenty of wildlife viewing, comfortable accommodations, and knowledgeable guides. It’s ideal for first-timers eager to tick off Africa’s most iconic parks, as well as seasoned travelers wanting a thorough experience with authentic cultural touches.

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Key Points

Comprehensive Itinerary: Covers major parks in both Kenya and Tanzania, including the Masai Mara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Amboseli.
Expert Guides: Guides with local knowledge enhance the experience, offering insights and spotting skills that often impress travelers.
Wildlife & Landscapes: Expect to see a variety of iconic animals and stunning scenery, from flamingos to lions and elephants.
Travel Comfort & Convenience: Reliable transportation in a 4×4 Landcruiser with a retractable roof makes game viewing easier and more comfortable.
All-Inclusive Value: Park entrance fees, accommodations, full-board meals, and transfers are covered, simplifying planning.
Optional Extras: Activities like hot air balloon safaris or visits to Maasai villages are available at additional costs.

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The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect Day-by-Day

Looking for more options in Nakuru? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Day 1: Nairobi to Lake Nakuru

Starting your adventure, you’ll be picked up in Nairobi and driven to Lake Nakuru National Park. This park is famous for its flamingos and alkaline waters, creating a striking pink hue across the lake. The landscape is surreal and offers unique photo opportunities. The overnight stay at Flamingo Hill Camp ensures you’re close to the action and surrounded by nature.

What travelers say: Guests love how close the camp is to the park, and many comment on the abundance of flamingos that create a truly otherworldly scene. Expect a relaxed evening with dinner under the stars.

Day 2: Lake Nakuru to Masai Mara

A pre-dawn start leads to a drive toward the legendary Masai Mara, home to vast plains where wild animals roam freely. This reserve is renowned for its large predator populations, including black lions, and the chance to see the legendary Big Five.

Tip: Early mornings here often reward you with active wildlife sightings—lions lounging in the shade or elephants crossing the plains. Arriving in the afternoon, you’ll settle into Mara Leisure or similar lodges, offering comfortable amenities after a day of travel.

Day 3: Full Day in Masai Mara

A full-day game drive, with a packed lunch, allows plenty of time to spot cheetahs, giraffes, wildebeest, and perhaps a lion pride stalking prey. The vastness of the park means glimpsing different animals in different habitats.

Real-world insight: Guests mention the expertise of guides, often spotting animals they wouldn’t see on their own. One reviewer said, “Our guide was incredible at tracking lions, and we even saw a rare black-maned lion, which was unforgettable.”

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Day 4: Masai Mara to Serengeti

Early morning game drive in Masai Mara sets the tone for the day. After crossing the border into Tanzania, you’ll head to the Serengeti, a place where the plains seem to stretch forever. Dinner at Sound of Nature Camp introduces you to Tanzania’s wilderness.

Highlight: The border crossing is smooth, with formalities handled efficiently—a relief for many travelers. The transition from Kenyan to Tanzanian landscapes adds a sense of adventure.

There's plenty more to explore in Nakuru

Days 5 & 6: Serengeti – The Great Migration and More

These days are dedicated to exploring Serengeti’s endless plains, where over 2 million large animals roam, including the famed wildebeest during the migration. Guided game drives here are spectacular, and many guests find the diversity of wildlife awe-inspiring.

Special note: The park’s size means you can encounter large herds and predator-prey interactions. Some reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guides who spot elusive animals and explain the ecosystems.

Day 7: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater

A morning drive takes you from the Serengeti to the Ngorongoro Crater, often called the 8th wonder of the world. En route, you’ll enjoy a picnic lunch, then descend into the crater for an afternoon of animal sightings.

What makes Ngorongoro special: The crater’s natural bowl creates a concentrated wildlife habitat, making it easier to see animals like elephants, lions, and rhinos in a relatively small area. Guests note that the guides’ spotting skills are crucial here, as they often find predators hidden in dense bush.

Day 8: Ngorongoro to Lake Manyara

After breakfast, you’ll drive across the Great Rift Valley and arrive at Lake Manyara National Park. Known for its lush forests and troop of baboons, this park offers a different experience—more green, bird-rich, and scenic.

Traveler tip: Many appreciate the diversity here, and some mention seeing blue monkeys and acrobatic baboons as highlights.

Days 9 & 10: Lake Manyara to Amboseli National Park

The journey continues south to Kenya’s Amboseli, famous for its elephants and views of Mount Kilimanjaro. The landscape is a mix of dry lake beds, grasslands, and rocky hills. Once settled at Amboseli Sopa Lodge, you’re ready for game drives.

Insight: Guests often remark on the opportunity to see large herds of elephants, with some describing it as a surreal experience to watch these gentle giants against the backdrop of Africa’s highest mountain.

Day 11: Amboseli to Nairobi

Your final morning includes a game drive and a chance to visit a Maasai village—an authentic cultural experience. You’ll head back to Nairobi with memories of incredible wildlife, landscapes, and local traditions.

Guest feedback: Many appreciate the cultural element, describing the Maasai visit as touching and insightful, providing a glimpse into local life beyond wildlife.

Practical Aspects & Value

Transportation & Comfort

Travel is in a reliable Landcruiser 4×4 with a retractable roof—perfect for game viewing and photography. The group size tends to be small to medium, ensuring personalized attention from guides.

Accommodation & Meals

Staying at well-chosen lodges and tented camps, guests enjoy full-board meals, which balance convenience and local flavor. The accommodation offers a comfortable base without sacrificing the wilderness experience.

Inclusions & Extras

All park entrance fees and guided game drives are included, simplifying your planning. The tour offers the flexibility to reserve and pay later, which is nice for flexible travelers. Optional activities like hot air balloon safaris and Maasai village visits are available at extra costs, offering additional memorable moments.

Pricing & Overall Value

At $5,995, this tour provides extensive coverage of Africa’s most iconic parks, quality accommodations, and expert guides—all essentials for a memorable safari. While it’s a mid-range price, the inclusions make it competitive, especially considering the high costs of individual park entries and guided tours if booked separately.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This 11-day safari offers a well-rounded, immersive adventure into Africa’s wildlife and landscapes. It’s perfect for travelers who want a structured, guided experience with reliable logistics, knowledgeable guides, and a mix of wildlife, scenery, and culture.

If you’re seeking a comprehensive safari that hits all the highlights without the stress of planning every detail yourself, this tour delivers. The inclusion of iconic parks like Masai Mara, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro ensures you’ll witness some of the best wildlife viewing Africa has to offer.

However, those who prefer highly flexible, self-directed trips or are on a tight budget might find this package’s fixed schedule and cost less suited to their style. Still, for most first-time safari-goers and those eager for a rich, guided experience, this trip presents excellent value.

Frequently Asked Questions

What parks are included in this safari?
This tour visits Lake Nakuru, Masai Mara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, and Amboseli.

Are park entrance fees included?
Yes, all park entrance fees are included in the price.

What transportation is used on the tour?
Travel is in a Landcruiser 4×4 with a retractable roof, ideal for game viewing and photography.

Can I book optional activities?
Yes, activities like hot air balloon safaris and Maasai village visits are available at additional costs.

What’s the accommodation like?
Guests stay at comfortable lodges and tented camps close to the parks, providing both comfort and an authentic safari atmosphere.

Is meal planning included?
Full-board meals are provided throughout the trip, starting with lunch on Day 1 and ending with lunch on Day 11.

How flexible is the booking process?
You can reserve now and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

To sum it up, this safari combines wildlife, scenery, and cultural insight into a carefully curated experience. It’s designed for those who want to see Africa’s most famous parks with expert guides and comfortable accommodations, all while enjoying the adventure of a lifetime. Whether you’re an avid wildlife enthusiast or a first-time safari traveler, this journey promises memories that will last forever.