9 days Kenya Tanzania safari
The summary outlines a thrilling nine-day safari adventure through some of East Africa's most iconic national parks and reserves. Starting in Nairobi, Kenya, travelers journey to Maasai Mara National Reserve for wildlife encounters and scenic drives. The journey continues to Lake Nakuru National Park, known for its birdlife, before heading to Amboseli National Park with its stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Crossing into Tanzania, the safari explores Arusha before venturing into Serengeti National Park and the legendary Ngorongoro Crater. Each day is filled with game drives, wildlife sightings, and breathtaking landscapes, offering an unforgettable safari experience.
Activities
Day 1: Nairobi – Maasai Mara
Upon arrival in Nairobi, the bustling capital of Kenya, your adventure begins. After a warm welcome, embark on a scenic journey towards the iconic Maasai Mara National Reserve. The drive itself is an opportunity to witness the breathtaking landscapes of Kenya, with its rolling hills, vast savannahs, and diverse wildlife. As you enter the Maasai Mara, keep your eyes peeled for your first glimpse of the Big Five – lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinoceroses. Arrive at your lodge or campsite in the Maasai Mara, where you'll spend the night surrounded by the sounds of the African wilderness.
Day 2: Maasai Mara Full Day
Today is dedicated to exploring the wonders of the Maasai Mara in depth. Embark on morning and afternoon game drives, led by experienced guides who will navigate you through the reserve's diverse ecosystems. Marvel at the vast herds of wildebeest, zebras, and antelopes as they roam the plains in search of fresh grazing grounds. Keep your camera ready to capture sightings of predators such as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas as they prowl the savannah in search of prey. In between game drives, take a moment to relax and soak in the beauty of the Maasai Mara, perhaps with a refreshing drink overlooking the expansive landscape.
Day 3: Maasai Mara – Lake Nakuru
Bid farewell to the Maasai Mara as you journey towards Lake Nakuru National Park, renowned for its spectacular birdlife and stunning scenery. Upon arrival, embark on a game drive around the shores of Lake Nakuru, where you'll encounter flocks of flamingos, pelicans, and other water birds gathered in the shallows. Keep an eye out for sightings of the park's resident rhinos, both black and white, as well as other wildlife such as giraffes, zebras, and baboons. After a day of exploration, retire to your accommodation near the park for a restful evening.
Day 4: Lake Nakuru – Amboseli National Park
Today's journey takes you from the shores of Lake Nakuru to the vast plains of Amboseli National Park, situated at the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's tallest peak. En route, enjoy breathtaking views of the Great Rift Valley as you traverse the Kenyan countryside. Upon arrival in Amboseli, settle into your lodge or campsite and prepare for an afternoon game drive in search of the park's renowned elephant herds, as well as other wildlife such as lions, giraffes, and buffalo. As the sun sets behind Kilimanjaro, savor the tranquility of the African bush.
Day 5: Amboseli National Park
Today is dedicated to exploring the wonders of Amboseli National Park in depth. Embark on morning and afternoon game drives, traversing the park's diverse landscapes ranging from savannah plains to marshy swamps. Keep your eyes peeled for sightings of Amboseli's famous elephant herds, known for their large tusks and majestic presence. With Mount Kilimanjaro providing a stunning backdrop, capture unforgettable moments as you observe the park's rich wildlife in their natural habitat. In between game drives, take a moment to relax and enjoy the serenity of Amboseli, listening to the sounds of the bush echoing across the plains.
Day 6: Amboseli National Park – Arusha
Today marks the transition from Kenya to Tanzania as you journey towards the vibrant city of Arusha, the gateway to Tanzania's northern safari circuit. Cross the border between Kenya and Tanzania, enjoying scenic views of the East African countryside along the way. Upon arrival in Arusha, take some time to explore the city's bustling markets and cultural attractions, perhaps picking up some souvenirs to commemorate your journey. Tonight, relax and unwind at your accommodation in Arusha, reflecting on the incredible experiences of the past days.
Day 7: Arusha – Serengeti National Park
Embark on an unforgettable adventure as you journey from Arusha to the world-famous Serengeti National Park. After an early morning departure, traverse the rugged landscapes of northern Tanzania, passing through traditional Maasai villages and scenic countryside. As you enter the Serengeti, prepare to be mesmerized by the sheer abundance of wildlife that calls this iconic park home. Embark on a game drive en route to your lodge or campsite, keeping your eyes peeled for sightings of lions, cheetahs, elephants, and other iconic African species. As the sun sets over the Serengeti plains, soak in the magic of this legendary wilderness.
Day 8: Serengeti – Ngorongoro Crater
Today's journey takes you from the endless plains of the Serengeti to the awe-inspiring Ngorongoro Crater, often referred to as the "Eighth Wonder of the World." Descend into the crater floor, where you'll encounter an unparalleled concentration of wildlife in a natural amphitheater setting. Keep your camera ready as you explore the crater's grassy plains, acacia woodlands, and soda lakes, home to a diverse array of species including lions, elephants, hippos, and endangered black rhinos. After a day of exploration, ascend from the crater floor and journey to your accommodation on the crater rim, where you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Day 9: Ngorongoro Crater – Arusha
As your journey draws to a close, bid farewell to the Ngorongoro Crater and embark on the final leg of your safari adventure back to Arusha. Take one last opportunity to soak in the sights and sounds of the East African bush as you journey through the countryside. Upon arrival in Arusha, transfer to the airport for your onward journey or extend your stay to explore more of Tanzania's attractions. As you depart, carry with you memories of incredible wildlife encounters, stunning landscapes, and the warm hospitality of East Africa.