The journey at a glance
Five chapters across Kenya and Tanzania: a restful arrival, the Maasai Mara, the Serengeti's great herds, the Ngorongoro Crater and an optional Zanzibar finale.
Every journey is designed around your dates, pace, interests and preferred style of travel. This itinerary is a starting point, not a fixed package.
Chapter 1 · Nairobi · 2 nights
Arrival in Nairobi
Two quiet nights to rest after the flight before the safari begins.
Days 1–2
Arriving gently
Your Journey Manager meets you on arrival, with an optional visit to orphaned elephants or simply time to settle in.
Chapter 2 · Maasai Mara · 3 nights
Maasai Mara: Kenya's Great Plains
A private conservancy on the edge of the Mara, with quieter sightings and guided walks.
Day 3
The first game drive
A light aircraft to the conservancy, and lions and elephants by afternoon.
Day 4
The Mara at first light
An optional balloon flight or early drive, then breakfast in the bush.
Day 5
A slower day
Lunch under a lone acacia, a walk with a Maasai ranger, or a community visit at their invitation.
Chapter 3 · Serengeti · 5 nights
Serengeti: Following the Herds
One seamless crossing into Tanzania, then camps placed according to the season and the migration.
Day 6
Crossing the border by air
We coordinate the flights, border formalities and guide hand-over, so it feels like one journey.
Day 7
Rocks, cats and endless grass
The granite kopjes of the central Serengeti are favourite resting places for lions and leopards.
Day 8
Following the herds
Depending on the month, calving in the south or river crossings in the north. We tell you honestly what to expect.
Day 9
Elephants in the evening light
A full day on the plains, ending quietly as the elephant families come out.
Day 10
A last sundowner on the plains
Chairs set out on a rise, a cool drink of your choice, and the plains settling for the night.
Chapter 4 · Ngorongoro & Highlands · 2 nights
Ngorongoro: The Crater and the Highlands
One of Africa's most remarkable landscapes, followed by an unhurried day on a highland coffee farm.
Day 11
Descending into the crater
An early descent to see black rhino, lions and flamingos before most vehicles arrive.
Day 12
Coffee and a quiet day
A plantation walk, a long lunch and time to reflect on the journey.
Chapter 5 · Departure or Zanzibar · Optional extension
Home, or On to the Ocean
End the journey in Tanzania, or continue to the warm waters of Zanzibar.
Day 13
Onward
Fly from Kilimanjaro for your connection, or continue to Zanzibar for sea, Stone Town history and rest.
Questions about this journey
- Who is this journey suited to?
- Travellers who want the full East African safari across Kenya and Tanzania in one seamless, privately guided journey.
- Can this itinerary be adapted?
- Yes. The route, timing, lodges and length are designed around your dates, the season and your priorities.
- How is the border crossing handled?
- We coordinate the light-aircraft flights, border formalities and guide hand-over, so the crossing feels continuous.
Create a journey inspired by this
Speak privately with a Journey Designer about adapting this route to your dates, pace and priorities, including any dietary or religious needs.