From Nairobi: 15-Day Kenya and Tanzania Safari with Zanzibar

Planning a safari that combines the best of Kenya’s wildlife with Tanzania’s iconic landscapes and a relaxing beach escape in Zanzibar? This 15-day safari organized by Dyjany Tours and Safaris offers just that. It’s a thoughtfully crafted journey that takes you from bustling Nairobi through some of Africa’s most celebrated national parks, before finishing with a few days on Zanzibar’s pristine beaches.

What we particularly like about this tour is the diversity of experiences — from spotting the Big Five in Amboseli to crossing the border into Tanzania for the Serengeti’s endless plains, and then unwinding by the Indian Ocean. The itinerary balances thrilling game drives with meaningful cultural interactions, like visiting a Maasai village, all wrapped up with comfortable accommodation and expert guides.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour involves quite a bit of travel between parks, which means early mornings and long days are expected. If you’re someone who loves a fast-paced adventure packed with wildlife viewing and cultural moments, this could be perfect. It’s especially suited for those who want a comprehensive experience that mixes wildlife, landscapes, and beach relaxation all in one trip.

Key Points

• Diverse itinerary: Covering Kenya’s top parks and Tanzania’s Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, plus Zanzibar’s beaches.
• Wildlife at its best: Big Five sightings and birdwatching in Lake Nakuru.
• Cultural experiences: Visiting Maasai villages adds a human touch to the safari.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance wildlife spotting and park insights.
• Value for money: The $7,525 price covers accommodations, most meals, park fees, and activities.
• Active days: Expect early starts and full days of game drives with some optional cultural activities.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the 15-Day Safari Experience

Starting Point: Nairobi to Amboseli National Park

Your adventure kicks off with hotel pickup from Nairobi or Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, usually around 7:00 AM. From there, you’ll travel along the Nairobi-Mombasa highway, giving you a glimpse of Kenya’s vibrant landscapes even before reaching your first wildlife stop.

Amboseli is renowned for its stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro and its large herds of elephants. Your days here are filled with game drives where the focus is on locating the Big Five, particularly elephants, which are often seen roaming near the grasses or bathing in waterholes. The guides we’ve read about are very knowledgeable, often sharing interesting facts about elephant behavior and local ecosystems.

Lake Nakuru and Hell’s Gate: Birdwatching and Adventure

After a day of exploring Amboseli, you’ll head to Lake Nakuru National Park, famous for its flamingos and diverse birdlife. Birdwatchers will find this spot a highlight, with over a million flamingos and other waterfowl creating a spectacle on the lake.

The next day involves a transfer to Lake Naivasha, known for its scenic beauty and birdlife. Here, you can enjoy a boat ride on the lake, which offers a different perspective of the wildlife, with hippos and waterbirds close-up. The optional activity of cycling or game drives inside Hell’s Gate National Park adds an adventurous touch, with travelers reporting that cycling through the park offers a unique way to see the landscape and wildlife.

The Maasai Mara: Kenya’s Iconic Safari Destination

The journey continues into the Maasai Mara, arguably Africa’s most famous game reserve. The boat ride on Lake Naivasha is a peaceful start, but the real excitement comes with the game drives. Expect to see lions, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, and possibly the elusive leopard. The guides are praised for their patience and sharp eyes, often pointing out animals that might otherwise be missed.

Optional Maasai Village visits provide cultural insight, where you’ll learn about Maasai traditions and interact with local communities — a genuine, authentic experience that adds depth to the safari. Reviews mention that these visits tend to be very engaging and offer a rewarding contrast to the wildlife viewing.

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Crossing into Tanzania: Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater

After several days exploring Kenya’s wilderness, the group departs early for the Tanzanian border to access the Serengeti. The drive through the South Gate of Serengeti offers sweeping views of endless plains, where the iconic African wildlife migration might be glimpsed.

The Serengeti provides a full-day game drive that’s often described as awe-inspiring — endless grasslands, acacia trees, and a constant parade of animals. Travelers love the guides’ ability to find wildlife in the vast landscape, making each game drive engaging and rewarding.

The next stop, the Ngorongoro Crater, is known as Africa’s “garden of Eden” — a collapsed volcano filled with lush vegetation and abundant wildlife. The crater’s dense concentration of animals, including rhinos and lions, makes for incredible sightings, especially from designated viewpoints.

Exploring Tanzania’s Parks: Tarangire and Manyara

Your Tanzanian safari continues with Tarangire National Park, famous for its towering baobab trees and large herds of elephants. Expect full-day game drives that may reveal herds of zebras, antelopes, and predators stalking their prey.

Later, you’ll visit Lake Manyara, a park noted for its tree-climbing lions and flamingos. The diverse habitats here — from groundwater forest to shallow lakes — make it a fascinating stop for wildlife enthusiasts.

Relaxing in Zanzibar

After nearly two weeks of busy safari days, you’ll transfer to Kilimanjaro Airport and fly to Zanzibar. The final days are dedicated to unwinding at The Loop Beach Resort or similar accommodations, where you can enjoy the white sandy beaches and turquoise waters.

The relaxing days in Zanzibar are perfect for swimming, lounging, or exploring the island’s cultural sites, like Stone Town, if you choose. The balance of adventure and leisure means you’ll return home refreshed and full of stories.

Practical Details and Considerations

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses comfortable 4×4 safari vehicles suitable for game viewing and park conditions. Reviews highlight that guides are very knowledgeable, often sharing interesting insights about wildlife and local culture. While the group size isn’t specified, safaris like this typically range from small to moderate groups, allowing for better wildlife sightings and personal attention.

Accommodation and Meals

Accommodation is included at designated lodges and tented camps, offering a mix of comfort and safari ambiance. Meals as per the itinerary are covered, generally providing hearty Kenyan and Tanzanian cuisine, with options for vegetarian or special dietary requests if communicated in advance.

Pricing and Value

At $7,525 per person, the tour covers park entrance fees, most meals, accommodations, and guided game drives. While it’s not a budget option, the price reflects the comprehensive nature of the trip — covering multiple parks, international border crossings, and Zanzibar’s beaches. For travelers seeking a full experience of East Africa’s wildlife, culture, and beaches, this offers considerable value.

What to Pack

Travelers should bring comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, a camera, binoculars, and water bottles. Since the tour involves early mornings and outdoor activities, packing appropriately for varying weather conditions is wise.

Practical Tips

• Carry cash for personal expenses and tips, as card payments may not be accepted everywhere.
• Respect wildlife and keep a safe distance, following guides’ instructions.
• Confirm visa requirements before travel; visas may be needed for entry into Kenya and Tanzania.
• Check the weather forecast and pack accordingly — safari parks can be hot during the day and cooler at night.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This safari is ideal for travelers who want an all-encompassing wildlife adventure paired with cultural insights and beach relaxation. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a balance of exciting game drives, comfortable accommodations, and the chance to unwind on Zanzibar’s beaches after the safari. While the itinerary is active, it’s suitable for those with decent mobility and an appetite for adventure.

It’s also well-suited for first-time safari-goers eager to tick off the Big Five and experience Africa’s landscapes from multiple angles. Plus, the flexible booking and cancellation policy make it accessible for those who prefer to keep plans adaptable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The $7,525 covers hotel pickup and drop-off, guided game drives, park entrance fees, accommodations, most meals, and a professional guide throughout the trip.

Are park fees included?
Yes, park entrance fees are included in the tour price, ensuring smooth access to all the parks visited.

How many game drives are there?
There are multiple game drives across different parks, including Amboseli, Lake Nakuru, Maasai Mara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, and Manyara.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
The tour involves several full days of game drives and early mornings, so it may be better suited for older children or adults comfortable with active outdoor days.

What should I pack for this safari?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, camera, binoculars, water bottles, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.

Are optional activities available?
Yes, visiting Maasai villages is an optional cultural activity for about USD 20, offering an engaging look into local traditions.

How long are the travel days between parks?
Travel times vary, but expect early mornings and full days of driving, especially when crossing borders into Tanzania.

Is Zanzibar included as part of the tour?
Yes, after completing the safari, the tour continues with flights to Zanzibar for a few relaxing days at the beach resort.

Can I customize this tour?
While the itinerary is set, you might be able to request certain adjustments, especially regarding optional activities or extensions.

What is the best time to take this safari?
While not explicitly stated, most East African safaris are ideal during dry seasons when wildlife congregates around water sources, typically from June to October or January to March.

To sum it up, this 15-day Kenya and Tanzania safari with Zanzibar offers a fantastic balance of wildlife, cultural encounters, and beach relaxation. It’s a comprehensive journey that takes you through the highlights of East Africa’s landscapes, with expert guides and well-chosen accommodations ensuring comfort and insight along the way. Whether you’re a first-time safari traveler or seeking to tick off multiple destinations in one trip, this adventure provides a memorable and value-packed experience worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: