Kenya & Tanzania Great Migration 12 Day Adventure

Traveling through Kenya and Tanzania during the Great Migration is often considered a bucket-list experience for wildlife enthusiasts. This 12-day adventure by BrushBuck Wildlife Tours promises a front-row seat to some of Africa’s most breathtaking landscapes, phenomenal wildlife encounters, and cultural insights. While I haven’t been on this exact tour, I’ve reviewed plenty of similar safaris, and this one appears to strike a remarkable balance between adventure, comfort, and value.

What immediately catches the eye are the expert guides, often praised for their knowledge and ability to spot wildlife others might miss. The variety of locations, from the lush Maasai Mara to the dramatic Ngorongoro Crater, promises diverse scenery and animal sightings. Lastly, the opportunity to witness the Great Migration, an awe-inspiring natural spectacle, is a standout feature. However, with a price point of nearly $13,000, some travelers might wonder about the value and exclusivity of the experience.

This tour seems best suited for those who want a comprehensive, well-organized safari with a focus on seeing the migration and a variety of iconic wildlife. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate comfort, cultural experiences, and expert guidance, and who are prepared for the investment.

Key Points

• Unmatched wildlife viewing in Kenya’s Maasai Mara and Tanzania’s Serengeti, including the Big 5 and the migration.
• Expert guides provide insightful commentary, enhancing your understanding of wildlife and local cultures.
• Diverse destinations like Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, and Olduvai Gorge for a well-rounded safari experience.
• Authentic cultural experiences include visiting a Maasai Village and tasting local cuisine.
• High-end accommodations ensure comfort after long days of game drives.
• Price reflects a comprehensive, guided, all-inclusive experience with premium access and private transport.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary: What You’ll Actually Experience

Starting in Nairobi: Culture and Preparation

The adventure begins in Nairobi, where you’ll meet your guides and fellow travelers. This initial stage is more than just logistics; it sets the tone with a glimpse into Kenyan culture, possibly involving some orientation or briefing. Expect a warm welcome and a chance to get familiar with the 4×4 land cruisers, which are crucial for navigating the varied terrains ahead.

Maasai Mara: Witnessing the Great Migration

The heart of the safari lies here. The Maasai Mara is renowned for its large herds of wildebeest and zebras, especially during the migration. Guides often emphasize the importance of patience — the herds move with the season, and sightings depend on timing. According to reviews, the guides’ keen eyes frequently locate animals that less experienced eyes might overlook, including elusive big cats.

Guests will often remark on the spectacular views along the Mara River, where crossing wildebeest and crocodiles create dramatic scenes. The chance to see big cats, such as lions and cheetahs, is high, especially in the Short Grass plains, which are prime for predator sightings. The diversity of wildlife is staggering, from Thomson’s gazelle to topi and hartebeest, with birdwatching also rewarding enthusiasts.

Serengeti: Two Distinct Areas

The tour takes you into Tanzania’s Serengeti, split between the northern Mara River area and the expansive Short Grass plains. The northern Serengeti is the best place to witness the migration in action, with thousands of animals crossing the river in search of greener pastures. Here, the guides’ experience shines, as they know exactly where to position the vehicle for prime wildlife viewing.

In the Short Grass plains, expect to spot predators like cheetahs, which are known for their speed and agility. The Kopis rock formations offer a different landscape and a chance—if you’re lucky—to see leopard, rock pythons, or klipspringer antelope. This variety keeps the safari exciting and ensures you’re not just watching for the Big 5 but also smaller, equally fascinating species.

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Ngorongoro Crater: The Wildlife Bowl

Descending into the Ngorongoro Crater is a highlight for many. This volcanic caldera acts as a natural wildlife refuge with unobstructed views—all the animals are gathered in a relatively small area, making game viewing intense and easy. You might see lions, hyenas, elephants, and even the rare black rhinoceros, along with countless zebras and wildebeest.

The water in the crater supports a multitude of bird species, including flamingos, adding to the photographic opportunities. Reviews point out the wide-open vistas that make wildlife sightings feel almost cinematic. The crater’s ecosystem is particularly rich and diverse, offering a microcosm of Africa’s wildlife.

Exploring Lake Manyara and Cultural Insights

On the journey south, Lake Manyara offers a lush, forested environment—an unusual contrast to the plains and crater. Expect to see blue monkeys, baboons, and elephants up close, with the possibility of spotting tree-climbing lions. The lush setting provides a different aspect of African wildlife and scenery.

A visit to a Maasai Village is included, where you’ll observe their traditional way of life, see local crafts, and possibly taste banana beer. These cultural visits add depth to your experience, connecting you with the local communities that have shared this land for generations.

Final Shopping & Cultural Wrap-Up

Your last day includes a stop at the Africa Galleria, where you can purchase souvenirs like wood art, paintings, and Tanzanite jewelry. This is also a chance to support local artisans. The tour culminates with a traditional meal prepared by Mama Africa, giving you a taste of local flavors and hospitality.

Transportation & Accommodation: Comfort and Convenience

Transportation is in a private 4×4 land cruiser, which is vital for comfort and accessing game-rich areas. The length of game drives and the quality of roads mean the vehicle needs to be reliable and spacious, which it is in this case.

Accommodations are in lodge or tented camps listed in the itinerary. These tend to be high-end, offering a good mix of comfort and authentic safari ambiance. Reviewers appreciate the cleanliness, friendly staff, and picturesque surroundings. After long days of game viewing, relaxing in these lodges is a welcome treat.

Timing & Group Size

Though not explicitly stated, safaris like this typically run with small groups, allowing for personalized attention from guides. The timing of the migration varies, but the itinerary’s flexibility suggests it’s designed to maximize migration viewing opportunities.

Price & Value Analysis

At $12,999 per person, this safari is a significant investment. It includes all park entrance fees, guided game drives, accommodation, some cultural experiences, and transportation. The cost reflects the level of service, expert guides, and access to prime wildlife hotspots.

Compared to other safaris, this package offers a comprehensive experience, especially with its focus on witnessing the migration and exploring multiple key areas. The inclusion of cultural visits and museum entries adds value for those interested in both wildlife and local history.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

Your price covers most essentials—guides, park fees, bottled water, and accommodations. However, you’ll need to cover personal expenses, travel insurance, and any additional activities not listed, such as extra cultural tours or souvenirs.

What Reviewers Say

Multiple reviews highlight the guides’ knowledge and attentiveness as a major plus. One reviewer describes their guide, “Harry, was exceptional — spotting animals I didn’t even see and explaining behaviors that made everything more meaningful.” Others appreciate the stunning vistas and plentiful wildlife sightings, especially the migration crossing at Mara River.

A common praise is the quality of the accommodations — comfortable, clean, and well-located. Some mention that the game drives are quite long, but the scenery and wildlife make this worthwhile. The cultural visits also received positive comments, with travelers appreciating the chance to learn about Maasai traditions and local crafts.

Final Thoughts: Is This Safari for You?

This 12-day adventure offers an immersive, well-rounded exploration of Kenya and Tanzania’s best wildlife areas. The guided experience, combined with expert guides and comfortable lodges, makes it ideal for those who want to focus on wildlife without sacrificing comfort or cultural connection.

If witnessing the Great Migration and Big 5 animals in their natural habitat is your top priority, this tour provides plenty of opportunities, especially in prime locations like Maasai Mara and Ngorongoro Crater. The cultural components enrich the journey, offering a balanced mix of adventure and learning.

However, given the price point, it’s best suited for travelers who see this as a once-in-a-lifetime experience or who value guided, all-inclusive safaris with high-end amenities.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for first-time safari-goers? Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible for those new to safaris, with guided game drives and comfortable accommodations.

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

How long are the game drives each day? The tour involves extensive game drives, with many days spent exploring multiple locations, often with long hours in the vehicle.

Can I expect to see the Big 5 animals? Yes, the Ngorongoro Crater, Maasai Mara, and Serengeti are all prime locations for Big 5 sightings, with many reviews mentioning successful encounters.

Is food included? Meals are generally provided at the lodges and camps, with some included in the itinerary like lunch at Mto Wa Mbu.

Are cultural experiences included? Yes, visits to Maasai villages and the museum at Olduvai Gorge are part of the itinerary.

What’s the best time to go for the migration? While the exact timing isn’t specified, the tour’s design suggests it aligns with peak migration periods, typically around July to October.

How flexible is the itinerary? The itinerary offers a structured but comprehensive plan, with some adaptability depending on wildlife movement and weather conditions.

Are accommodations luxurious? The lodges and camps are described as high-end, ensuring comfort after days of adventure.

Is tipping expected? While not specified, tipping guides and staff is customary in safaris, and it’s advisable to budget accordingly.

To sum it up, this Kenya & Tanzania safari offers a thoughtfully curated experience blending wildlife, scenery, and culture, all led by knowledgeable guides. For those willing to invest in a premium, full-spectrum adventure, it promises unforgettable memories of Africa’s most iconic landscapes and animals.

You can check availability for your dates here: