Ultimate 12 Days Private Safari Tour in Kenya and Tanzania

Planning a safari that crosses two of Africa’s most iconic countries can seem daunting, but this 12-day private tour promises a seamless journey through some of the continent’s top wildlife hotspots. With a top-rated 5.0/5 from 60 reviews, it’s clear that many travelers have found this safari to be a life-changing experience. The blend of expertly guided game drives, personalized service, and stunning landscapes makes it a standout option.

What we love about this adventure? First, the knowledgeable guides—reviewers rave about guides like George, Vincent, and Joshua, who are praised for their skills and local insights. Second, the variety of iconic parks and reserves, from Ol Pejeta to Serengeti, offers a broad view of Africa’s wildlife. Lastly, the flexibility and customization options, whether in accommodations or tour focus, mean you get a truly tailored experience.

A potential consideration? The high price tag of $17,780 per person might seem steep, but many reviewers point out the value, especially given the private, all-inclusive nature of the trip. It’s likely best suited for travelers seeking a premium, curated experience rather than a budget alternative. If you’re craving a comprehensive, luxury safari with authentic wildlife encounters, this tour could be your perfect match.

Key Points

• Private and customizable: Designed for groups or families who want a tailored experience.
• Expert guides: Guides like George, Vincent, and Joshua receive high praise for their knowledge and passion.
• Diverse landscapes: Covering Kenya’s conservancies and Tanzania’s reserves, including the Serengeti and Ngorongoro.
• Wildlife highlights: Big Five, wildebeest migration, chimpanzees, and more are on show.
• Value for money: While costly, reviews suggest the price reflects the quality, exclusivity, and expert service.
• Comfort and flexibility: Accommodation options can be tailored, and the itinerary leaves room for spontaneous wildlife sightings.

An In-Depth Look at the Safari Itinerary

Starting in Nairobi at Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Our journey kicks off at Ol Pejeta Conservancy, just a few hours from Nairobi. Here, the focus is on getting a first taste of Africa’s wildlife. The drive from your Nairobi hotel takes about four hours, traveling through Kenya’s lush highlands with stops to admire coffee and tea plantations — a reminder of the land’s agricultural roots.

Once there, your first game drive introduces you to big cats, black rhinos, and wild dogs. Reviewers mention the conservancy’s “endangered species enclosure”, a large drive-through that’s a highlight for wildlife lovers. The sanctuary is home to a great population of black rhino and rescued chimpanzees in their natural setting, making it a well-rounded start.

The fact that the tour includes lunch and dinner allows for a relaxed, immersive experience without rushing. Many reviewers, like the one who described their experience as “unforgettable,” highlight guides like George and Joshua, who are known for their enthusiasm and deep knowledge.

Exploring Ol Pejeta and Transitioning to Lake Naivasha

The following days continue at Ol Pejeta, where you spend your time on private game drives, exploring the conservancy’s diverse habitats. This is a prime opportunity to see the Big Five and learn about conservation efforts firsthand. The reviews frequently mention how well-organized and smooth the game drives are, and how guides make all the difference.

Day three brings a scenic drive across the Rift Valley to Lake Naivasha. Along the way, you’ll stop at Thompson’s Falls, a 243-foot waterfall, for some photo-worthy moments. The afternoon features a boat safari across the lake, where hippos and water birds are the main attractions. Many travelers find this boat ride particularly relaxing—an easier, more scenic way to observe wildlife than land drives.

A short walk at Crescent Island offers a chance to see giraffes, impalas, and zebras up close, with reviews noting the “quick walk” as very rewarding. The combination of boat and walking safaris ensures a varied perspective of Kenya’s lakeside ecosystems.

The Maasai Mara: Africa’s Wildlife Icon

Moving on to the Maasai Mara, the safari’s star, is a must for wildlife enthusiasts. The drive from Lake Naivasha takes you past the spectacular gorges of the Great Rift Valley, a landscape that looks like a photo shoot waiting to happen. The Maasai Mara is famous for its dense lion populations and the Great Migration, though the latter is seasonal.

Arriving in the Mara, you’ll immediately feel the sense of vastness. Reviewers praise the “amazing game drives”, often saying they saw lions, elephants, giraffes, and more in the first few hours. The park’s “great density of lions” makes it a prime spot for spotting big cats, especially in early mornings and late afternoons.

On Day five, the early morning light and dew create beautiful scenes, perfect for capturing memorable photos. The “unlimited game drives” allow for thorough exploration, often resulting in sightings of warthogs, ostriches, and cheetahs.

Cross into Tanzania and Explore the Serengeti

Crossing the border into Tanzania, the tour enters the Serengeti, sharing the same ecosystem as Maasai Mara but with its own unique charm. The vast plains, dotted with acacia trees, are the backdrop for some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife scenes.

You’ll love the way guides like Vincent in Tanzania are praised for their local knowledge, making each sighting more meaningful. The Serengeti is especially known for big cat sightings and the great wildlife movements — a highlight for many reviewers who have seen herds of wildebeest crossing the plains or predator-prey interactions unfold.

Full-day game drives are common here, with options for morning, afternoon, or even night drives, according to your preferences. Many reviewers emphasize that guide expertise and local insight greatly enhance the experience, turning each sighting into an exciting story.

Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Manyara: Wildlife in a Natural Bowl

After exploring the Serengeti, the tour visits the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Descending into the crater, you enter a natural wildlife paradise, with a chance to see rhinos, lions, elephants, and possibly the elusive black-maned lions on the crater’s lush floor.

Many reviewers mention the “spectacular views at sunrise and sunset” from the crater rim, making it a photographer’s paradise. A picnic lunch amidst lush surroundings further enhances the whole experience.

Next, a stop at Lake Manyara offers opportunities to see the famous tree-climbing lions (rare but possible), flamingos, and diverse birdlife. The drive through the park is a quieter, scenic contrast to the Mara and Serengeti, giving additional wildlife moments.

The Final Leg in Amboseli National Park

Crossing into Kenya again, the tour heads to Amboseli, known for its spectacular views of Mount Kilimanjaro, especially when clouds lift. The park is famous for elephants, and many reviewers mention their “stunning” encounters with herds walking across the plains.

Early morning game drives here are praised for their tranquility and focus on elephants and other plains game. Guides like Peter and the team are celebrated for their local expertise and ability to find wildlife in the sprawling landscape. The observation hill offers a panoramic view, perfect for photos.

Wrapping Up in Nairobi

The tour concludes with a final early morning game drive, giving you one last chance to spot predators or rare wildlife. From there, transfer back to Nairobi, reflecting on what many review as a “life-changing” experience.

Why This Tour Offers Real Value

While the cost of $17,780 per person might seem high, reviews consistently point to the quality of guides, accommodations, and personalized service as justifying the price. Travelers rave about guides like George, Joshua, Vincent, and Peter, emphasizing their local expertise and passion, which elevate the entire experience.

The itinerary’s diverse parks and reserves are carefully selected to maximize wildlife sightings, from the endangered rhinos of Ol Pejeta to the lions of Maasai Mara and Serengeti, and the elephants of Amboseli. The inclusion of both Kenya and Tanzania allows for a broader view of Africa’s wildlife, making it a comprehensive journey.

Accommodations are flexible, allowing you to tailor the stay to your budget and preferences. Despite the luxury price point, many reviewers feel the experience is worth every penny, citing well-organized logistics, comfortable lodges, and unforgettable wildlife moments.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This safari is best suited for travelers seeking a high-end, private experience with knowledgeable guides and tailored options. It’s ideal for families, groups of friends, or couples who prioritize comfort, exclusivity, and authentic wildlife encounters. If your goal is to see the Big Five, witness the Great Migration, and enjoy expertly curated safaris, this tour ticks all the boxes.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Since it’s a private, customizable experience, it can be suitable for families or groups with children, but you should consider the physical demands of game drives and travel.

Are accommodations included?
Yes, the tour offers options to tailor accommodations based on your budget and preferences, ensuring comfort throughout.

How many people are in a typical group?
This is a private tour, so only your group will participate, providing a more personalized experience.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. The tour is designed to be flexible, allowing you to prioritize specific parks, activities, or rest days.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Major sightings include the Big Five (lion, elephant, rhino, leopard, buffalo), cheetahs, zebras, giraffes, hippos, and if lucky, the wildebeest migration during certain seasons.

What is the best time to book?
Most travelers book around 51 days in advance, but availability can vary based on the season and demand.

Final Thoughts

This 12-day private safari offers a well-rounded, immersive journey through some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife areas. Thanks to highly praised guides and thoughtfully curated sites, it promises stunning scenery, close wildlife encounters, and personal service. While the price is considerable, it’s reflected in the quality, exclusivity, and depth of experience.

If you’re looking for an authentic, comfortably luxurious safari with the flexibility to customize your adventure, this trip is likely to be a memorable, once-in-a-lifetime experience. Perfect for those who want to explore Kenya and Tanzania in style, with guides who truly know their stuff and a schedule packed with unforgettable moments.

Notes for Potential Travelers

• Be prepared for long game drives—most days include multiple drives, but the scenery and wildlife sightings make it worthwhile.
• The itinerary is flexible, so discuss your preferences with your guides beforehand, especially if certain parks or activities are a priority.
• The tour is best suited for those comfortable with the cost, but reviews suggest the value exceeds the investment.

Embark on this tailor-made, wildlife-rich journey to see the best of Africa’s natural wonders, guided by passionate experts—your unforgettable adventure awaits.