11 Days Magical Kenya and Tanzania Safari
An Unforgettable Journey Through East Africa’s Premier Wildlife Parks
Embarking on an 11-day Magical Kenya and Tanzania Safari is a dream come true for any wildlife enthusiast or nature lover. This exclusive safari promises to take you through some of East Africa’s most iconic and breathtaking landscapes—from the vast plains of the Masai Mara and the spectacular Great Rift Valley to the legendary Serengeti and the unique Ngorongoro Crater. Along the way, you will encounter the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino—witness spectacular birdlife, and experience the vibrant culture of the Maasai people.
This 11 Days Magical Kenya and Tanzania Safari combines the best of Kenya and Tanzania’s national parks, offering a harmonious blend of scenery, wildlife diversity, and cultural richness. Whether you are fascinated by the annual wildebeest migration in the Masai Mara and Serengeti, enchanted by the flamingos at Lake Nakuru, or awed by the ancient volcanic walls of Ngorongoro Crater, this itinerary delivers a profound and intimate wildlife adventure.
With the flexibility of a private 4×4 safari vehicle and an 11 Days Magical Kenya and Tanzania Safari expert guide fluent in English, you will explore at your own pace, stopping for memorable moments and photographs whenever the opportunity arises. Terenga Safaris ensures that your journey is comfortable, safe, and personalized, with carefully selected lodges and camps that complement the wilderness experience without sacrificing quality and service.
This safari is not just about wildlife viewing; it’s a comprehensive East African adventure that includes immersive cultural encounters, scenic drives through the Great Rift Valley, and visits to conservation areas that protect Africa’s natural heritage. Whether you are a seasoned safari-goer or a first-time traveler, this 11-day journey promises to be one of the most remarkable experiences of your life.
Detailed 11 Days Magical Kenya and Tanzania Safari
Arrival in Nairobi and Transfer to Masai Mara National Reserve
Your magical 11 Days Magical Kenya and Tanzania Safari begins the moment you land at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi. As you exit the arrival hall, a Terenga Safaris guide will be waiting to welcome you with a warm “Karibu Kenya.” After introductions and a brief safari overview, you will embark on a scenic drive southwest towards the world-renowned Masai Mara National Reserve.
Along the way, you will pass through the Great Rift Valley—a dramatic geological feature carved over millions of years, with vistas that offer spectacular photo opportunities. The drive includes a stopover at a viewpoint overlooking the Rift Valley floor, where you can soak in panoramic views of the surrounding landscape dotted with acacia trees and distant wildlife.
Arriving in the Masai Mara, one of Africa’s most famous and wildlife-rich reserves, you can either opt for an afternoon game drive to begin your wildlife adventure or relax at your lodge, taking in the tranquility of the African bush. The Masai Mara’s rolling plains are home to vast herds of herbivores and predators alike, making it one of the continent’s best safari destinations.
Tonight, you will stay at Tulia Retreat Hotel and Spa, a serene lodge offering comfort and tranquility amid nature. The lodge’s friendly staff will prepare a delicious dinner while you unwind and anticipate the exciting days ahead.
- Accommodation: Tulia Retreat Hotel and Spa
- Meals: All meals and drinking water included
Full-Day Game Drive in Masai Mara National Reserve
Today promises to be one of the most thrilling days of your 11 Days Magical Kenya and Tanzania Safari. After an early breakfast, your guide will prepare a packed lunch for you, and you will set off on a full-day game drive across the Masai Mara’s expansive savannahs. The Mara is famous for its abundance of wildlife, including the “Big Five” and numerous bird species.
Your 11 Days Magical Kenya and Tanzania Safari vehicle will traverse diverse ecosystems—from open grasslands to riverine forests—allowing for a rich variety of wildlife encounters. You will have the opportunity to spot lions lounging in the shade, leopards stealthily stalking prey, large herds of elephants, buffalo wallowing in mud, and elusive rhinos grazing on the plains.
If your timing is right, you might witness one of nature’s most spectacular phenomena—the Great Wildebeest Migration. This mass movement of millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles across the Mara River involves dramatic river crossings where crocodiles lie in wait. Your guide will position the vehicle for the best views of these intense and adrenaline-filled moments.
Lunch will be served under the shade of an acacia tree in the wilderness, where you can listen to the sounds of birds and distant wildlife. The afternoon drive will focus on exploring other parts of the reserve, with chances to see cheetahs sprinting across the plains or hippos wallowing in the rivers.
Return to the lodge late afternoon, where you can relax, share stories with fellow travelers, and enjoy a sumptuous dinner prepared by the lodge’s chefs.
- Accommodation: AA Lodge
- Meals: All meals and drinking water included
Transfer from Masai Mara to Lake Nakuru National Park
After breakfast, your 11 Days Magical Kenya and Tanzania Safari journey continues with a transfer to Lake Nakuru National Park, located about six to seven hours away, depending on road conditions. The route offers stunning views of the Kenyan countryside and occasional wildlife sightings en route.
Lake Nakuru is one of Kenya’s gem parks, famous primarily for its incredible flamingo populations that gather in the alkaline lake, creating a vibrant pink spectacle visible from miles away. Beyond flamingos, Lake Nakuru supports diverse wildlife including white and black rhinos, buffaloes, zebras, and various bird species.
Upon arrival, you will settle into your lodge or camp and enjoy a midday meal. In the afternoon, you may opt for a short game drive in the park. Guided by your 11 Days Magical Kenya and Tanzania Safari expert safari guide, you will explore the park’s diverse habitats—from the lake shore to wooded savannahs—spotting wildlife and birds such as pelicans, fish eagles, and colorful bee-eaters.
The park is also a known sanctuary for endangered black rhinos, and your guide will keep an eye out for these magnificent creatures. Lake Nakuru’s scenic beauty combined with its rich biodiversity provides a more intimate safari experience compared to the vastness of the Masai Mara.
Return to your lodge in the evening for dinner and rest, reflecting on a day full of fascinating wildlife encounters.
- Accommodation: Jacaranda Lake Elementeita Lodge
- Meals: All meals and drinking water included
Transfer to Amboseli National Park via En-Route Game Drive
Following breakfast, prepare for a longer transfer to Amboseli National Park in southern Kenya. This journey covers approximately eight hours and includes a memorable en-route game drive as you exit Lake Nakuru. The changing scenery transitions from fertile highlands to semi-arid plains, providing a glimpse into Kenya’s varied ecosystems.
Amboseli is world-famous for its large elephant herds and stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro—the highest free-standing mountain in the world and Africa’s tallest peak. On arrival at your lodge or camp, you will enjoy a late lunch and then relax, preparing for tomorrow’s full day of wildlife exploration.
The evening is perfect for reflecting on the day’s drive, enjoying the lodge’s amenities, or simply soaking in the spectacular sunset views over the savannah.
- Accommodation: AA Amboseli
- Meals: All meals and drinking water included
Full Day Game Drive in Amboseli National Park
Amboseli offers one of the best safari experiences in East Africa. After breakfast, you will embark on a full-day game drive, exploring the park’s vast landscapes dotted with acacia trees and swamps. This park is a haven for wildlife, particularly elephants, which often appear in large family groups.
Your game drive will focus on spotting the Big Five and other animals including cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, and hippos. Bird enthusiasts will be delighted by the variety of species such as crowned cranes and kori bustards.
Lunch will be served at a scenic viewpoint overlooking Amboseli’s famous swamps, with the majestic snow-capped peak of Mount Kilimanjaro as a breathtaking backdrop.
Beyond wildlife, you will have the opportunity to interact with Maasai communities near the park, learning about their rich cultural heritage, traditional dances, and colorful beadwork. This cultural element adds depth and meaning to your safari experience.
Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
- Accommodation: AA Amboseli
- Meals: All meals and drinking water included
Cross the Border to Tanzania and Overnight in Arusha
After breakfast and checkout, you will be transferred to the Kenya-Tanzania border at Namanga, where you will complete border formalities and meet your 11 Days Magical Kenya and Tanzania Safari counterpart guide. This seamless transition marks the start of the Tanzanian leg of your safari.
You will be driven to Arusha city, the safari capital of Tanzania, known for its lively markets and cultural diversity. This overnight stay offers a chance to refresh and prepare for the Serengeti adventure ahead.
Enjoy a relaxing evening at Tulia Retreat Hotel and Spa, where you can indulge in comfortable accommodations and exquisite dining.
- Accommodation: Tulia Retreat Hotel and Spa
- Meals: All meals and drinking water included
Transfer to Serengeti National Park and Afternoon Game Drive
Today marks one of the highlights of your 11 Days Magical Kenya and Tanzania Safari journey to Serengeti National Park. After an early breakfast, you will embark on a scenic 7-8 hour drive from Arusha to the legendary Serengeti plains.
The Serengeti is the largest national park in Tanzania and is famous for its unparalleled wildlife diversity, including large populations of predators and herbivores. Upon arrival at your camp or lodge, enjoy lunch and a brief rest before embarking on your first game drive in the park.
Your 11 Days Magical Kenya and Tanzania Safari experienced guide will lead you on an afternoon safari, searching for lions, elephants, giraffes, and the countless other species that make the Serengeti a natural wonder. The vastness of the park offers endless opportunities for unique wildlife sightings and breathtaking landscapes.
Return to camp for dinner and overnight, surrounded by the sounds of the African wilderness.
- Accommodation: Serengeti Wildebeest Camp
- Meals: All meals and drinking water included
Full-Day Serengeti Game Drive
Today, prepare for a full day of exploration in the Serengeti. After breakfast and packing a lunch, you will head out early to maximize your wildlife viewing.
The Serengeti is renowned for the Great Migration—the seasonal movement of over two million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles. Depending on the time of year, you might witness dramatic river crossings or the birth of newborn animals during the calving season.
Your 11 Days Magical Kenya and Tanzania Safari guide will assist in locating the park’s abundant predators, including over 4,000 lions, 225 cheetahs, and numerous leopards and hyenas. Birdwatchers can enjoy species such as vultures, Secretary birds, and martial eagles soaring overhead.
The day’s game drives traverse a variety of habitats—open grasslands, kopjes (rocky outcrops), and woodlands—ensuring a rich and varied safari experience. You will stop for lunch in the shade of an acacia tree, enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
As the afternoon progresses, the animals become more active, offering fantastic photo opportunities before you return to your camp for dinner and rest.
- Accommodation: Serengeti Wildebeest Camp
- Meals: All meals and drinking water included
Transfer from Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater and Afternoon Game Drive
After breakfast, your 11 Days Magical Kenya and Tanzania Safari journey continues to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique volcanic crater ecosystem.
Upon arrival, check into your tented camp or lodge, then embark on an afternoon game drive along the rim or into the crater floor. The Ngorongoro Crater is one of Africa’s most famous wildlife destinations, home to the highest concentration of large mammals on the continent within a relatively small area.
Inside the crater, you will have an excellent chance to see the Big Five, including endangered black rhinos. Other common sightings include vast herds of wildebeest, zebras, hippos, and numerous predators.
The spectacular crater walls provide a dramatic backdrop to the wildlife below, making this one of the most picturesque safari experiences in East Africa.
Return to your accommodation for dinner and overnight.
- Accommodation: Karatu Tented Lodge
- Meals: All meals and drinking water included
Visit Lake Manyara National Park and Transfer to Nairobi
Wake early for breakfast and check out as you drive to Lake Manyara National Park, located in the Great Rift Valley. This park is known for its breathtaking scenery and diverse birdlife, especially the thousands of flamingos that gather along the soda lake shores.
Enjoy a two-hour game drive focusing on the park’s varied ecosystems, including dense forests, alkaline lakes, and acacia woodlands. Look out for tree-climbing lions, baboons, and large herds of elephants.
After your visit, you will begin the 11 Days Magical Kenya and Tanzania Safari journey back to Nairobi via Arusha and the Namanga border. Lunch will be served in Arusha city.
Upon arrival in Nairobi, check into Foresight Eco Lodge & Safari for a comfortable evening of rest.
- Accommodation: Foresight Eco Lodge & Safari
- Meals: All meals and drinking water included
Nairobi City Tour and Departure
On your final day, enjoy a leisurely breakfast before checking out of the lodge. Your day includes a visit to Nairobi’s famous Giraffe Centre, where you can feed endangered Rothschild giraffes and learn about conservation efforts.
Next, visit the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, a sanctuary for orphaned baby elephants, where you can witness the daily mud baths and feeding times. Both centers offer invaluable insight into Kenya’s commitment to wildlife conservation.
For lunch, you will stop at Carnivore Restaurant, famous for its variety of meat dishes, offering a unique cultural dining experience.
After lunch, your guide will transfer you to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your onward flight, concluding your unforgettable 11-day Magical Kenya and Tanzania Safari.
11 Days Magical Kenya and Tanzania Safari Inclusions and Exclusions
Comprehensive Safari Inclusions
- All park entry fees and conservation fees for both Kenya and Tanzania
- All scheduled game drives and wildlife viewing activities as per itinerary
- Accommodation as specified (or similar), including all meals and drinking water
- Services of a professional, English-speaking safari guide and driver
- Private 4×4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof for game viewing and photography
- All transfers between lodges, parks, and airports as per itinerary
- Bottled drinking water during safari days
- Round-trip airport transfers in Nairobi and Arusha
- Cultural visits as detailed (Giraffe Centre, Elephant Orphanage)
- Government taxes and VAT
Safari Exclusions
- International airfare to/from Nairobi
- Visa fees for Kenya and Tanzania
- Travel insurance (highly recommended)
- Personal expenses such as souvenirs, phone calls, laundry, and tips
- Optional activities not specified in the itinerary
- Meals not mentioned explicitly in the itinerary
- Gratuities for guides, drivers, lodge staff (guideline: USD $10 per person per day)
- Any government-imposed increases in taxes or park fees after booking