20 Days Kenya & Tanzania Ultimate Safari with Zanzibar Beach

Planning a safari that combines the best of wildlife, culture, and relaxation? This 20-day adventure promises an immersive journey through Kenya and Tanzania, ending with some well-deserved beach time in Zanzibar. While the price tag of $14,745 per person might seem steep, the experience offers a comprehensive look at East Africa’s highlights, with expert guides, fantastic game viewing, and luxury accommodations.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the blend of iconic national parks like Maasai Mara, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro ensures ample wildlife sightings, including the Big 5. Second, the inclusion of unique activities like a hot air balloon ride over Maasai Mara elevates the experience—literally! Lastly, the trip’s ending on Zanzibar’s pristine beaches offers a perfect place to unwind after days packed with adventure.

That said, this tour isn’t for the faint of heart or budget-conscious travelers, as it covers significant distances and includes premium accommodations and activities. It’s best suited for wildlife enthusiasts, adventure seekers, or those craving a comprehensive East African experience with a dash of beachside luxury.

Contents show

Key Points

All-inclusive wildlife experience: Covering Kenya and Tanzania’s top parks with expert-guided game drives.
Unique activities: Hot air balloon rides and visits to Maasai villages add cultural and scenic value.
Luxury accommodations: Quality lodges and tents, paired with full-board meals, ensure comfort.
Rich itinerary: From the Maasai Mara to Zanzibar, every day offers something new.
Value for wildlife lovers: See the Big 5 and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
Practical planning: Includes transportation, park fees, and bottled water, but expect extra for visas and personal expenses.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Inside Look at the Itinerary

This safari is designed to give you a thorough taste of East Africa’s most renowned parks, blending thrilling wildlife encounters with cultural insights and a relaxing beach retreat.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Nairobi

Day 1-3: Starting in Nairobi and Ol Pejeta

The journey kicks off with your arrival in Nairobi, where you’ll be met and transferred to the Best Western Meridian Hotel. This initial day sets a comfortable tone, giving you a chance to recover from your flight before heading into the wilderness.

Moving to Ol Pejeta Conservancy, known as East Africa’s largest Black Rhino sanctuary, is a highlight. It’s also the only place in Kenya where you can get close to chimpanzees. Expect knowledgeable guides like Robert, whose familiarity with the wildlife and conservation efforts adds depth to your game drives. Reviews mention “the guides’ passion and knowledge made all the difference,” and “seeing the chimpanzees up close was a highlight.” You’ll enjoy full-day game drives with picnic lunches, maximizing your wildlife sightings, including rhinos, elephants, and possibly the elusive leopard.

Day 4-5: Lake Nakuru & Maasai Mara

Travel to Lake Nakuru, famous for its flamingos and rhino conservation. Afternoon game viewing here offers a different landscape—alkali lakes and acacia trees—rich with birdlife. Staying at Lake Nakuru Lodge, you’ll appreciate the stunning views and the chance to spot flamingos in their thousands.

The big excitement begins with the trip to Maasai Mara. Expect a scenic drive that gets you into the heart of Africa’s most celebrated reserve. The Maasai Mara is renowned for its dense wildlife concentrations, including lion prides, elephants, cheetahs, and the infamous Great Migration (though the timing can vary). Reviews note that the wildlife viewing here is exceptional, and guides are often praised for their sharp spotting skills.

Day 6-8: Full Days in Maasai Mara and Lake Naivasha

Full days in Maasai Mara mean multiple game drives—morning and afternoon—with chances to witness predator-prey interactions and possibly even a lion hunt. Optional activities like a hot air balloon ride (which reviews mention as “absolutely worth the early wake-up”) or a visit to a Maasai village deepen your cultural understanding.

Afterward, heading to Lake Naivasha introduces a different landscape—freshwater lakes and lush surroundings. A boat ride here is a must-do, offering close encounters with hippos and bird species, including kingfishers and fish eagles. The peaceful setting provides a calming break from the more intense game drives.

More Great Tours Nearby

Day 9-10: Amboseli National Park

Next, crossing into Kenya’s Amboseli, you’ll be greeted by views of Mount Kilimanjaro and herds of elephants. Full-day game drives in Amboseli are a favorite among reviewers, who mention expert guides like Peter, whose insights about elephant behavior and park ecology add richness to the experience. The landscape—vast savannahs dotted with acacia trees—makes wildlife spotting especially rewarding.

There's plenty more to explore in Nairobi

Day 11-14: Tanzania’s Northern Circuit

Crossing into Tanzania through Namanga, you’ll explore Lake Manyara, known for its tree-climbing lions and flamingos, then head to Serengeti. The Serengeti’s vast plains are iconic, offering what many consider the quintessential African safari backdrop. Expect to see large herds of zebras, wildebeests, and predators stalking their prey.

The Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is next. Its dense wildlife population in a natural volcanic caldera provides an intimate viewing experience—”like a natural zoo,” as one reviewer described. Staying at Rhino Lodge, you’ll be close to wildlife and enjoy the scenic beauty of this protected area.

Day 15-16: Transition to Zanzibar

After a final morning in Tanzania’s wilderness, you’ll fly from Arusha to Zanzibar. The transition from safari to beach is seamless, with the Blue Bay Beach Resort & Spa offering a luxurious, relaxing environment. Reviewers love the beach’s white sands and the chance to unwind after days of adventure.

Days 17-19: Beach Relaxation in Zanzibar

These days are flexible—swimming, sunbathing, or exploring the historic Stone Town are popular options. The hotel’s beachfront location makes it easy to enjoy the Indian Ocean’s warm waters. From snorkeling to cultural tours, Zanzibar offers a satisfying end to your East African journey.

Day 20: Departure

Your trip wraps up with a transfer back to Nairobi for international flights. It’s a long but rewarding itinerary, leaving you with memories of Africa’s stunning landscapes and incredible wildlife.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour’s inclusions are quite comprehensive: hotel pickup/drop-off, a professional guide, park entrance fees, game drives, and bottled water on safari. The full-board accommodation means you won’t need to worry about meals during your game viewing days, which adds value.

However, extras like visas, international flights, personal expenses, and travel insurance aren’t covered. It’s wise to budget for these separately. Also, while the price sounds steep, considering the inclusiveness—multiple parks, luxury lodges, activities like hot air balloon rides—many travelers find it offers good value for such an extensive experience.

Practical Tips for Your Safari

Pack comfortable shoes and a hat for sun protection.
Bring a good camera and binoculars—you’ll want to capture every moment.
Sunscreen is essential, especially during game drives.
Carry local currency for personal expenses and tips.
Follow your guide’s instructions for safety and wildlife viewing etiquette.
Check visa requirements and yellow fever vaccination rules before traveling.

The Sum Up

This 20-day safari provides a comprehensive snapshot of East Africa’s diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and vibrant cultures, capped with a relaxing beach stay in Zanzibar. The carefully curated itinerary balances wildlife encounters, scenic drives, and cultural insights, making it ideal for travelers seeking an all-encompassing adventure.

The tour’s strength lies in its knowledgeable guides, who bring the parks to life with their stories and spotting skills, and in the stunning views that unfold across each destination. The blend of luxury lodges and immersive experiences justifies the cost for those who prioritize quality and depth in their safari.

If you’re after a well-rounded, authentic African experience that combines the thrill of wildlife with the serenity of ocean beaches, this trip could be your perfect escape. Just be prepared for an active schedule packed with early mornings and exciting discoveries.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for first-time safari travelers?
Yes, it offers a well-structured introduction to East Africa’s most iconic parks with experienced guides, making it accessible for newcomers.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
You’re likely to see the Big 5—lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros—as well as giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, hippos, and a variety of bird species.

Are activities like hot air balloon rides included?
The tour mentions the option of a hot air balloon ride in Maasai Mara, but it’s not specified if it’s included. It’s often an optional extra.

How long are the game drives each day?
Most days include morning and afternoon game drives, with some full-day drives, giving ample time for wildlife viewing and photography.

What is the quality of accommodations?
Expect full-board stays at comfortable lodges and tented camps, praised for their scenic locations and attentive service.

Do I need to prepare anything specific before the trip?
Yes, check visa requirements, ensure your passport is valid for six months, and consider yellow fever vaccination if required. Pack essentials like sunscreen, binoculars, and comfortable shoes.

This extensive journey promises a vivid snapshot of Africa’s wilderness and coast, crafted for those eager to experience its magic in comfort and style.