Kenya & Tanzania: 18-Day Safari with Zanzibar Beach Stay

Planning an African safari can feel overwhelming, but this 18-day journey offered by Wander Nest Adventure promises a well-rounded experience. Combining iconic wildlife encounters with some well-deserved beach relaxation, this trip appeals to travelers seeking authentic safaris paired with leisure time on the coast.

What catches our eye are the opportunities to see the Big Five in their natural habitats, the chance to watch the Great Migration in Maasai Mara and Serengeti, and the luxurious beaches of Zanzibar for unwinding afterward. The inclusion of hot air balloon rides and visits to Maasai villages adds cultural and adventurous flavor.

On the flip side, the cost of $11,000 per person might give some pause, but when you consider the all-inclusive nature—park fees, domestic flights, private safaris, and accommodations—it’s often about the quality of experience rather than just price. This tour suits wildlife lovers, cultural explorers, and those craving a hassle-free, curated African adventure.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary: Combines Kenya and Tanzania with a relaxing Zanzibar stay.
• Wildlife highlights: Big Five, Great Migration, baby animals.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience.
• All-inclusive: Park fees, accommodations, and flights included.
• Luxury options: Choice between mid-range and luxury lodging.
• Cultural immersion: Visits to Maasai villages offer insight into local traditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Well-Rounded Safari Experience

This 18-day safari offers a balanced mix of wildlife encounters, cultural experiences, and beach relaxation. It’s designed to give you a genuine taste of East Africa’s iconic landscapes and animal life, combined with the opportunity to unwind in Zanzibar’s pristine beaches.

Starting in Nairobi, your journey begins with a warm welcome and a smooth transfer to your hotel. The tour then swiftly transitions into game drives, starting at Amboseli National Park. Here, elephants roam freely against the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro, which for many is a highlight. We loved the way guides pointed out the mountain’s changing views and shared stories about Maasai traditions, making the scenery more meaningful.

Exploring Amboseli & Maasai Mara

Amboseli’s full-day exploration allows travelers to really get acquainted with the local wildlife—lions, cheetahs, giraffes, and the always impressive elephants. Visiting a Maasai village adds an enriching cultural layer, where you can learn about their colorful traditions and daily life. The optional fee for the village visit might be worth it for those interested in deeper cultural engagement.

Next, flying from Amboseli to Maasai Mara is a smart move, saving time and maximizing game-viewing opportunities. The Maasai Mara is renowned for its predator sightings and the seasonal Great Migration, which is a spectacle of wildebeest and zebra crossing rivers, often described as a once-in-a-lifetime view. We’re told that the optional hot air balloon ride offers stunning aerial views, although it comes at an extra cost.

Serengeti & Ngorongoro: The Heart of Wild Africa

Crossing the border into Tanzania, the safari continues into the Serengeti, home to endless plains and extraordinary wildlife action. Spending two days in the northern Serengeti means more chances to witness the Great Migration river crossings and predator activity, making it a prime time for wildlife enthusiasts.

Moving south to the Ngorongoro Crater, you’ll descend into a lush volcanic caldera teeming with wildlife—rhinos, flamingos, and even the elusive black rhinoceros. The Ngorongoro is often called a “natural zoo,” and the viewing opportunities here are fantastic. Our insight from other reviews confirms that guides are very knowledgeable about animal behavior, enhancing your chances of seeing rare species.

Tanzania’s Tarangire & Ending in Zanzibar

After Ngorongoro, the trip continues to Tarangire National Park, known for its high density of elephants and iconic baobab trees. The game drives here are less crowded but equally rewarding. The day-to-day combination of parks ensures you experience a variety of landscapes and wildlife.

Finally, the flight to Zanzibar marks the beginning of the relaxing segment. Stone Town’s historic streets and vibrant culture provide a charming contrast to the wild safari days. The transfer to Nungwi Beach allows travelers to unwind on white sandy shores, with optional activities like snorkeling or sunset dhow cruises adding to the experience.

The two full days at Nungwi Beach offer genuine downtime, perfect for absorbing the coastal atmosphere or trying water sports. As one reviewer noted, “the beaches are absolutely stunning,” making it a fitting end to an active safari adventure.

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Practical Considerations and Value

This tour’s price of $11,000 per person, inclusive of accommodations, park fees, domestic flights, and transfers, provides a seamless package that minimizes logistical stress. You’re paying for convenience, expert guiding, and access to prime wildlife areas—something that can be hard to arrange independently.

The accommodation options—ranging between mid-range and luxury—allow for flexibility based on your preferences and budget. Staying in comfortable lodges or tented camps enhances the safari experience, offering both comfort and the thrill of being close to nature.

Transportation is handled via private 4×4 vehicles, which are ideal for game viewing. The small group size ensures you get personalized attention from guides, who are praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm. Days are well-paced, with enough time for game drives, rest, and cultural visits.

What to Pack and Prepare

Travelers should bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera with binoculars for optimal wildlife viewing. Warm clothing is recommended for early mornings and evenings, especially in cooler months. The tour explicitly excludes international flights, visas, and travel insurance, so plan these separately.

Flexibility & Booking

The “Reserve & Pay Later” option makes booking less stressful, allowing you to secure your spot and decide later. Cancellation is straightforward—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which provides peace of mind.

Authentic Experiences We Appreciated

One aspect that stood out in reviews was the expert guidance. The guides, often praised for their extensive knowledge, make a huge difference. They share fascinating details about animal behavior, local cultures, and conservation efforts, enriching the safari beyond just spotting animals.

The visits to Maasai villages received positive comments, with travelers valuing the opportunity to connect with local communities and learn about their traditions firsthand. The optional activities, such as balloon safaris and snorkeling, are well worth considering if you want to add a bit of adventure to your trip.

The Balance of Activities and Relaxation

The tour strikes a good balance—action-packed days exploring the parks, followed by peaceful evenings at lodge or camp. The Zanzibar extension was described as “a perfect way to unwind,” with the white sands and turquoise waters offering a stark but welcome contrast to the savannah.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This safari is best suited for travelers seeking a comprehensive experience of East Africa’s wildlife and landscapes, combined with some beach downtime. It’s ideal for those who want a curated, hassle-free adventure with knowledgeable guides, comfortable accommodations, and a good mix of adventure and relaxation.

However, it may not be perfect for travelers on a tight budget, as the overall price reflects the premium inclusions and logistics. It’s also less suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues, given the nature of game drives and travel logistics.

FAQ

What is included in the price?
The price covers accommodations, park fees, private 4×4 safari vehicles, domestic flights (Amboseli-Maasai Mara, Arusha-Zanzibar), and airport transfers.

Are international flights included?
No, international flights are not included, so travelers need to arrange their own flights to and from Kenya and Tanzania.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour is structured with set dates and activities, but you can reserve your spot now and pay later. Specific customizations are unlikely, but optional activities like balloon safaris are available at extra costs.

Is this tour suitable for families?
It is not suitable for children under 5 years, pregnant women, or those with certain health issues, making it more appropriate for adventure-ready adults.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, a camera, binoculars, and a daypack.

What is the best time for this safari?
While not specified, safaris in the Serengeti and Maasai Mara are generally best during the dry season when animals congregate around waterholes and migratory movements are visible.

How flexible is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility in case your plans change unexpectedly.

Final Thoughts

This 18-day safari with a Zanzibar beach extension represents a well-rounded, thoughtfully curated adventure into East Africa’s wild heart. With a good balance of wildlife, cultural insights, and leisure, it offers a smooth, all-inclusive way to experience Kenya and Tanzania’s best.

You’ll enjoy the expertise of guides who genuinely know their stuff, the comfort of quality accommodations, and the convenience of seamless logistics. The addition of Zanzibar’s beaches provides the perfect wind-down after days spent tracking lions, elephants, and the Great Migration—truly a trip of a lifetime for wildlife enthusiasts and beach lovers alike.

If you’re after an authentic, hassle-free safari that covers the highlights and includes time to relax, this tour is worth considering. Just be sure to prepare for the adventure and pack your sense of curiosity and adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: