7-Day Best of Tanzania and Kenya Safari

If you’re dreaming of witnessing big game in their natural habitat across some of Africa’s most iconic parks, this 7-day safari by Your Holiday Abroad might be just what you’re looking for. Combining Kenya’s famous Maasai Mara with Tanzania’s legendary Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire, this tour offers a well-balanced taste of East Africa’s wildlife and landscapes.

What we love about this experience? First, the expert guides who seem to know every animal’s habits and the best spots for sightings. Second, the stunning views from the Great Rift Valley to the endless savannahs. Third, the smooth logistics—domestic flights and accommodations included—making the adventure seamless.

However, travelers should consider that this tour is quite active, with early mornings and full days of game drives, so it’s best suited for those with a good level of physical fitness and an interest in wildlife photography. Overall, if you want a comprehensive, immersive safari with high-value logistics, this could be a fantastic choice.

Key Points

• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance wildlife spotting and storytelling.
• Diverse Destinations: Experience Kenya’s Maasai Mara and Tanzania’s Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Tarangire.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Accommodation, flights, meals, and park fees are covered, simplifying planning.
• Wildlife Highlights: Home to the Big Five and other iconic African species.
• Flexible Add-Ons: Options like hot air balloon safaris can elevate the experience.
• Suitable for Active Travelers: Early mornings and full days of game viewing require stamina but reward with unforgettable sights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction: A Safari Adventure Packed with Iconic Wildlife

This 7-day safari offers an exciting journey through some of Africa’s top wildlife destinations, blending Kenya’s Maasai Mara with Tanzania’s Serengeti and Ngorongoro. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews paint a picture of authentic wildlife encounters paired with comfortable logistics.

What’s especially appealing? The tour’s focus on renowned parks means you’ll get a chance to see the Big Five—lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros—likely with the guidance of knowledgeable guides who are praised for their spotting skills and storytelling. The inclusion of hot air balloon rides, if added, promises a breathtaking perspective on the savannah, along with a celebratory champagne breakfast after landing.

One key thing to keep in mind is the active pace—early mornings, full-day game drives, and the possibility of long vehicle rides—so this experience suits travelers eager for immersive wildlife viewing rather than relaxed sightseeing. It’s best for those who love nature, photography, and adventure.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Day 1: Nairobi to Masai Mara National Reserve

Your adventure kicks off from Nairobi after breakfast. The drive to Masai Mara includes a stop to admire the Great Rift Valley’s breathtaking views, offering that classic, expansive landscape iconic of East Africa. This is a fantastic photo opportunity and a chance to appreciate how geological forces shape Africa’s scenery.

Arriving at the park, you’ll enjoy lunch en route, followed by your first afternoon game drive. The Masai Mara is famed for its “Big Five” sightings, with guides often pointing out hidden cheetahs or elusive leopards tucked in the tall grass.

Day 2: Full Day in Masai Mara

Early mornings are a highlight here. Picturesque sunrises and the chance to see the savannah come alive are what make this safari special. The guide’s knowledge shines as they explain animal behaviors and group dynamics.

For those interested, a hot air balloon safari can be added for an elevated view of the wildlife scene. Reviewers mentioned that this experience “offers a different perspective,” and the champagne breakfast after landing is often described as a highlight, adding a touch of luxury after a morning of wildlife spotting.

The rest of the day features a relaxed breakfast at the lodge, followed by a picnic lunch and a full day of exploration. The guides are praised for their ability to locate and interpret animal signs, making sure no spotted lion or herd of elephants gets missed.

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Day 3: From Masai Mara to Serengeti

You’ll catch a flight from the Mara Airstrip into Tanzania’s Serengeti, which reduces long overland rides and maximizes your game viewing time.

Upon arrival, your Tanzanian guide will take you on your first afternoon game drive in the Serengeti. Known for its diversity of wildlife—over 70 mammal species—this park offers a broader range of animals, from cheetahs sprinting across the plains to elephants bathing in waterholes. Reviewers note the expert guides’ ability to spot animals “that you’d never see on your own,” making every drive rewarding.

Day 4: Exploring the Serengeti

Waking up in the Serengeti is described as a sensory experience—sounds of birds, the smell of morning dew, and the warm glow of dawn over endless plains. The morning game drive is often the highlight, with guides sharing insights into animal behaviors, migration patterns, and the landscape’s history.

Expect long hours in 4×4 vehicles, but the variety of scenery and wildlife sightings keeps the experience fresh. Some guests mentioned that their guides went out of their way to find rare animals, which made their safari truly memorable.

Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater

This day features a drive to the renowned Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The crater’s unique environment allows for close wildlife viewing—herds of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles moving in long columns across the crater floor.

From the rim, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the lush landscape below. The crater offers a concentrated wildlife experience—you might find yourself surrounded by elephants, lions, and hippos all within a small area.

Day 6: Tarangire National Park

Traveling to Tarangire, known for its large elephant herds and tree-climbing lions, you’ll encounter some of the most iconic images of Africa. The park’s distinctive feature—its massive baobab trees—adds to the landscape’s charm.

You’ll enjoy a morning walking safari, an activity some reviewers appreciated for offering a more intimate perspective of the terrain and smaller wildlife. The long-necked gerenuk and other less common species are highlights here, making it a different experience from the open plains.

Day 7: Final Game Drive and Return to Arusha

Your last morning includes a walking safari and a final game drive, offering a chance to connect with the land on foot. After lunch, you’ll be transferred to Arusha, concluding your safari.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour offers excellent value for the all-inclusive package. Accommodations, internal flights, a 4×4 safari vehicle, Wi-Fi, meals, park fees, and a guide are all covered, making it straightforward to focus on enjoying the adventure.

However, travelers should be prepared for extra costs outside the package—such as international flights, visas, and optional activities like balloon safaris. Some reviews highlighted the convenience of the pre-arranged logistics, which minimizes the stress of planning multiple flights and transfers.

Transportation & Logistics

The safari is set up for comfort and efficiency. Domestic flights between parks save hours of overland travel, especially when crossing borders. The 4×4 vehicles are praised for their comfort and visibility, with some guests mentioning that guides are excellent at positioning the vehicle for the best wildlife views.

Timing-wise, early mornings are standard, often starting around sunrise, with full days filled with game drives. Wi-Fi during the safari might be available, which is a bonus for those wanting to share their photos or stay connected.

Experience Highlights and Unique Opportunities

One of the most praised aspects is the guides’ expertise. Multiple reviews mention guides like Peter or David, who are described as “knowledgeable, passionate, and attentive,” making wildlife sightings more frequent and engaging.

The hot air balloon safari is a standout optional activity—guests describe it as “a bucket-list experience,” offering spectacular aerial views of the plains and wildlife below, capped with a champagne breakfast.

The variety of parks—from the lush Ngorongoro to the acacia-dotted Tarangire—ensures diverse scenery and animal encounters, making each day feel fresh and exciting.

Practical Considerations

The tour’s price of $5,049 per person is competitive considering the inclusions—flights, accommodations, and guided game drives. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a fully supported, high-value safari without the hassle of organizing each element separately.

Travelers should be prepared for early mornings, often starting at dawn, and full days filled with wildlife viewing. The group size isn’t specified, but reviews suggest a comfortable, not overly crowded experience.

You’ll want to bring your passport, some beachwear if extending your trip to coastal Kenya or Tanzania, and a visa, if required. The tour emphasizes responsible behavior—no feeding animals, no nudity, and no alcohol or drugs—important for safety and conservation.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This safari suits adventure-minded travelers eager to see the Big Five and iconic landscapes with expert guides. It’s perfect if you value seamless logistics and all-inclusive comfort, and are okay with early mornings and long days of game viewing.

The optional hot air balloon ride and varied parks make it suitable for those wanting both adventure and scenic diversity. It’s especially appealing for wildlife photography enthusiasts who will appreciate the skill of guides and the opportunities for stunning shots.

The Sum Up

This 7-day safari from Your Holiday Abroad offers a well-rounded introduction to East Africa’s wildlife and landscapes. Its combination of expert guides, diverse parks, and seamless logistics delivers a rewarding experience, especially for those wanting a comprehensive trip without the hassle of planning every detail.

If you’re looking for a high-value, immersive safari experience that covers Kenya’s Maasai Mara and Tanzania’s Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Tarangire, this tour is worth strong consideration. The inclusion of optional activities like hot air ballooning adds a special touch of luxury and perspective.

While active mornings and full days mean this isn’t for the faint-hearted, the potential for incredible wildlife encounters and stunning vistas makes it a trip you’ll remember. Perfect for travelers who yearn for authentic, guided adventures with a good dose of comfort and convenience.

FAQ

What parks are included in this safari?
This experience covers Masai Mara in Kenya, Serengeti in Tanzania, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire National Park.

Are domestic flights included?
Yes, all domestic flights between parks are part of the package, saving travel time and making logistics easier.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
The tour offers sightings of the Big Five—lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino—as well as cheetahs, giraffes, hippos, and more.

Is this safari suitable for families?
It’s not explicitly stated, but the active schedule and early mornings suggest it’s better suited for active travelers or older children.

Are optional activities available?
Yes, hot air balloon safaris can be added, which many guests found to be a highlight for aerial views of wildlife.

What is the accommodation like?
While specific lodges aren’t detailed, the inclusions suggest comfortable, well-located facilities tailored for safari travelers.

Do I need a visa?
Visa requirements are not specified, but travelers should check if their nationality requires a visa for Tanzania and Kenya.

Is Wi-Fi available during the safari?
Some reviews indicate Wi-Fi services throughout the trip, which can be helpful for staying connected or sharing photos.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility in planning.

This safari promises an adventure filled with stunning wildlife, expert guidance, and seamless logistics—ideal for those wanting a comprehensive East African experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: