11 Days Kenya and Tanzania with Serengeti: A Safari Journey

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A Close Look at the 11-Day Kenya and Tanzania Safari with Serengeti

Travelers dreaming of spotting lions, elephants, and rhinos in their natural habitat might find this 11-day journey from Kenya to Tanzania an appealing option. While we haven’t personally tested this safari, based on detailed reviews and the comprehensive itinerary, it promises a well-rounded, immersive adventure into East Africa’s premier wildlife areas.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines multiple highlights — from the famous Maasai Mara to the Ngorongoro Crater — giving travelers a true taste of both Kenyan and Tanzanian landscapes. The chance to see “Big Five” animals, especially in iconic parks like Serengeti and Amboseli, offers a compelling reason to consider this trip. Plus, the inclusion of authentic experiences like game drives with knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to witness tree-climbing lions at Lake Manyara add depth to the adventure.

One potential consideration is the price point, which at nearly $7,000 per person, is an investment. While this cost covers a lot—such as all park entrance fees, multiple game drives, and accommodations—it’s worth evaluating whether the included features match your expectations for a luxury safari.

This tour suits wildlife enthusiasts, photography lovers, and travelers who want to see some of Africa’s most famous parks in a relatively short, yet richly detailed itinerary. It’s ideal for those wanting a guided experience with expert insight, balanced with enough free time to appreciate the scenery and take photos.

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Key Points

Wildlife Viewing: Spot the “Big Five” and unique animals like tree-climbing lions.
Diverse Parks: Experience multiple iconic parks, including Maasai Mara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Amboseli.
Guided Expertise: Enjoy the insights of experienced, English-speaking guides.
All-Inclusive: Park fees, meals, transfers, and game drives are covered, offering peace of mind.
Authentic Encounters: Opportunities to see elephants, rhinos, and large bird colonies, all with excellent vehicle access.
Value for Price: While the trip costs $6,995, it bundles high-quality accommodations, expert guides, and extensive game viewing.

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Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Nairobi Arrival and Hotel Stay

Your adventure begins in Nairobi, where you’ll be picked up upon arrival and transferred to the Best Western Meridian Hotel. This sets a comfortable, convenient tone for your journey. The hotel’s location is ideal for relaxing after travel and preparing for the safari ahead.

Day 2: Lake Nakuru National Park

Leaving Nairobi, your first safari destination is Lake Nakuru. Known for its flamingo populations and rhino conservation efforts, Nakuru offers a vibrant introduction to Kenya’s wildlife. Expect to see both black and white rhinos, and if luck is on your side, flamingos painting the lake pink. The game drive here is a great warm-up, and the lodge, Flamingo Hill Camp, provides a cozy base.

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Day 3 & 4: Maasai Mara National Reserve

The next morning, you’ll head toward the Maasai Mara, renowned worldwide for its incredible game sightings. The drive is scenic, with chances to spot animals en route. Once at the Mara, full-day game drives give you ample opportunity to seek out lions, elephants, cheetahs, and the elusive leopard. The guides, many praised for their knowledge and keen spotting skills, help make each drive rewarding.

The evening boasts a special celebration dinner, marking your last night in this legendary reserve. Reviewers highlight that the guides’ expertise in tracking animals enhances the experience, allowing for sightings you might miss on your own.

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Day 5 & 6: Crossing into Tanzania for Serengeti

Departing Mara, you’ll cross into Tanzania via the Isebania border, where border formalities are straightforward. The drive through the border is timed well with a picnic lunch, and soon you’re in the Serengeti, one of Africa’s most famous parks.

Your first game drive in Serengeti is on the way to Osonjii Camp, a comfortable base for exploring this vast landscape. The Serengeti’s extensive plains and resident predators promise exciting sightings, especially around Moru Kopjes, which are known for their high predator activity.

Day 7: Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Early morning, you ascend into the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most densest wildlife areas. Descending 2,000 feet into the crater, you’ll encounter a rich variety of animals in a relatively small, accessible ecosystem. The crater is known for its breathtaking scenery and the chance to see large herds of buffalo, elephants, and lions.

The picnic lunch amidst this remarkable setting is a highlight, and the guides’ insights into the crater’s ecology make each wildlife encounter more meaningful.

Day 8: Lake Manyara National Park

Next, your journey takes you to Lake Manyara, famed for its bird colonies and tree-climbing lions. The park’s lush surroundings and the lake’s birdlife offer a different perspective from the savannahs and crater. Expect to see flamingos, pelicans, and possibly herds of baboons.

Day 9 & 10: Amboseli National Park

Returning to Kenya, you’ll cross back at Namanga and head straight to Amboseli. Known for its large elephant herds, this park delivers incredible close-up wildlife encounters. Many reviews mention the guides’ skillful spotting of elephants and the park’s stunning backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Spending a full day exploring Amboseli, you’ll likely get a variety of views, from elephants crossing the plains to lions resting in the tall grasses. The evenings at Sopa Lodge are a perfect time to reflect on your day’s sightings.

Day 11: Return to Nairobi

The safari wraps up with a morning game drive and transfer back to Nairobi. If your flight is early, arrangements are straightforward, ensuring a smooth end to your adventure.

Practical Insights and Travel Tips

Transportation & Group Size: The tour’s transport involves comfortable 4WD vehicles, with a good number of stops for photography and breaks. Group sizes aren’t specified but tend to be manageable, enhancing the experience with more personalized attention from guides.

Accommodations: Lodges like Flamingo Hill Camp, Sopa Lodge, and Marera Valley Lodge balance comfort with safari authenticity. They’re well-reviewed for their locations and amenities, making your nights restful after busy days.

Guides and Experience: The guides are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to find wildlife efficiently. They often share interesting facts and help travelers understand animal behavior, making each game drive both fun and educational.

Pricing & Value: At $6,995, this tour provides a comprehensive experience covering multiple parks, all park entrance fees, and meals. While it’s a significant investment, the inclusion of expert guides, experienced vehicle support, and carefully selected accommodations offers good value for a genuine safari experience.

Packing & Preparation: Remember to bring comfortable shoes, hats, sunscreen, binoculars, and a good camera. The weather can vary, so pack layers. Bring some local currency for personal expenses and be aware of vaccination and visa requirements beforehand.

Final Thoughts

For anyone who’s always dreamt of seeing Africa’s wildlife in its natural habitat, this 11-day safari offers an impressive package. It’s well-suited for travelers who value guided tours, want to see the “Big Five”, and appreciate a mix of different landscapes—from lakes and plains to craters.

The inclusion of numerous parks means you’ll see a variety of ecosystems and animal behaviors, making each day uniquely rewarding. The knowledgeable guides and reliable logistics help make this a smooth, enjoyable trip, even if you’re new to safaris.

However, do keep in mind the cost, which reflects the quality of experience provided. If you’re after a premium, well-organized adventure with authentic wildlife encounters, this safari hits many of the right notes.

To sum it up, this tour could be a fantastic choice for wildlife lovers, photography buffs, or anyone eager to tick off some of Africa’s most iconic parks from their bucket list—delivered in comfort and style.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers pickup and drop-off, all park entrance fees, government taxes, all game drives as per itinerary, meals while on safari, transfers, guides, and bottled water.

Are park fees and guides included?
Yes, all park entrance fees and the services of experienced, English-speaking guides are included, ensuring smooth and educational game drives.

What kinds of animals might I see?
You’ll have chances to see the “Big Five” (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, rhino), as well as giraffes, zebras, hyenas, cheetahs, and the famous tree-climbing lions at Lake Manyara.

Do I need a visa or vaccinations?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality, and vaccinations may be recommended—it’s best to check ahead of time and carry necessary documentation.

What should I pack for the safari?
Bring comfortable clothes, hats, sunscreen, binoculars, a camera, and sturdy shoes. Layers are useful as weather varies across parks.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not explicitly specified, most safaris are suitable for families with older children, especially those interested in wildlife. Check with the provider for age restrictions.

Can I customize or cancel the booking?
Yes, you can reserve and pay later, and cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility in planning.

This 11-day safari through Kenya and Tanzania offers a thorough, authentic adventure for wildlife lovers ready to explore some of Africa’s most famed parks in comfort and style. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned safari-goer, the mix of landscapes, animals, and expert guides can make this an unforgettable journey.