Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi – City Tour & Transfer to Masai Mara
Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport or pick-up from your hotel, your adventure begins with an optional Nairobi city tour. You may visit the Nairobi National Museum and the Giraffe Centre to get a glimpse of Kenya’s natural and cultural heritage. Later, drive through the scenic Great Rift Valley to the Masai Mara Game Reserve. En route, enjoy dramatic landscapes and spot wildlife along the way. In the evening, relax at your lodge or optionally visit a local Masai Boma for cultural interaction and traditional dances.
Meals & Accommodation: Jambo Mara Lodge or similar
Day 2–3: Full Days of Wildebeest Migration Safari in Masai Mara
Spend two full days immersed in the heart of the Masai Mara ecosystem. Rise early and head out on extended game drives along the Mara River, the main stage for the famed wildebeest migration. Watch in awe as herds of wildebeest and zebra attempt to cross the crocodile-infested waters, closely followed by predators such as lions, leopards, and cheetahs. The plains are alive with elephants, giraffes, hyenas, and a myriad of birdlife that makes for spectacular photography and storytelling.
Meals & Accommodation: Jambo Mara Lodge or similar
Day 4: Cross Border into Tanzania – Transfer to Mugumu
Start your day early with a scenic drive through the Mara Triangle, exiting via Ololoolo Gate. Journey toward the Isebania border, stopping briefly at Migori for lunch. After clearing immigration, continue your drive through rural Tanzania to Mugumu town for overnight stay and a chance to rest before entering the Serengeti.
Meals & Accommodation: La’tonna Safari Hotel or similar
Day 5–6: Serengeti National Park – Big Cats & Wildlife Encounters
Depart Mugumu and head into the Serengeti via Ikoma Gate. This journey itself offers fantastic wildlife viewing and birding opportunities. Spend the next two days exploring the central Serengeti’s vast savannahs in search of lions, elephants, cheetahs, buffaloes, and more. Enjoy both morning and afternoon game drives and embrace the serenity and magnificence of the African wilderness.
Meals & Accommodation: Into the Wild Tented Lodge or similar
Day 7: Descend into Ngorongoro Crater
After breakfast, depart the Serengeti with picnic meals and stop at the iconic Naabi Hill Gate. Later, descend 600 meters into the Ngorongoro Crater—a true Eden of wildlife. The crater is a haven for black rhinos, hippos, zebras, flamingos, and predators. Spend the day inside the caldera with game drives and a packed lunch near a scenic picnic site before ascending by evening to the crater rim.
Meals & Accommodation: Ngorongoro Coffee Lodge or similar
Day 8: Community Tour & Wildlife in Tarangire National Park
Drive to Tarangire National Park, famous for its ancient baobab trees and dense elephant population. En route, stop at Mto wa Mbu village for a rewarding cultural tour. Participate in traditional cooking, local art, dance, and storytelling with community members. Proceed to Tarangire for an optional evening game drive or relaxation at your lodge.
Meals & Accommodation: Simba Lodge Tarangire or Burunge Tented Lodge
Day 9: Morning Safari & Transfer to Arusha
Begin your day with a final game drive in Tarangire National Park, taking in early morning wildlife activity. Spot birds, monkeys, and predators in action before heading to Arusha. Here, unwind and prepare for the Kilimanjaro trekking adventure ahead.
Meals & Accommodation: Green Mountain Lodge – Arusha or similar
Day 10–16: Mount Kilimanjaro Climbing Expedition
Your Kilimanjaro trek begins! A separate detailed itinerary will be shared based on your chosen route (e.g., Machame, Marangu, Lemosho). Over seven days, trek through different ecological zones—from rainforest to alpine desert—culminating at the summit, Uhuru Peak (5,895m). Professional guides, porters, and support staff will accompany you every step of the way. This is both a physical and spiritual journey that will leave lasting memories.
Day 17: Departure / Optional Zanzibar Extension
Depending on your post-hike plans, transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward flight. Alternatively, continue your journey to Zanzibar’s white-sand beaches and turquoise waters for a luxurious extension to your East African adventure.
Note:
Day 16 may be reserved as a rest day post-hike or used to transfer to the airport for your flight. Optionally, you can extend your trip to Zanzibar for beach relaxation.
Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi, Kenya
Welcome to Kenya! Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, you’ll be met by your Wild Compass Africa driver-guide and transferred to your hotel. After a safari briefing, enjoy a relaxing evening at leisure.
Accommodation: Mövenpick Hotel Nairobi
Meal Plan: Bed & Breakfast
Day 2: Nairobi – Masai Mara National Reserve (Kekorok–Sekanani Zone)
After an early breakfast, depart for the world-famous Masai Mara National Reserve, driving through the scenic Great Rift Valley. On arrival, check in and enjoy lunch at your lodge before heading out for an afternoon game drive in search of lions, elephants, giraffes, and more.
Accommodation: Sentrim Mara Camp
Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 3: Masai Mara – Full Day Game Drive | Optional Balloon Safari
Rise early for a full-day safari in the Mara Triangle. Enjoy spectacular wildlife sightings — lions on the hunt, hippos in the Mara River, and herds of wildebeests grazing. Stop for a picnic lunch in the wild before continuing your adventure.
(Optional: Hot-air balloon safari at sunrise, followed by champagne breakfast in the bush.)
Accommodation: Sentrim Mara Camp
Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 4: Masai Mara – Sand River Area Exploration
After breakfast, head out for another day of game viewing in the lesser-explored Sand River area near the Tanzania border. This region offers a more secluded safari experience with excellent chances of spotting predators.
Accommodation: Sentrim Mara Camp
Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 5: Masai Mara | Optional Maasai Village Visit
Spend your final morning in the Mara with a game drive or an optional Maasai village visit to learn about traditional culture and lifestyle. Afternoon at leisure to relax and enjoy the lodge facilities.
Accommodation: Sentrim Mara Camp
Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 6: Masai Mara – Lake Nakuru National Park
After breakfast, drive to Lake Nakuru National Park, famous for its birdlife and rhino population. Enjoy an afternoon game drive around the lake’s shores to see pelicans, flamingos (seasonal), and other wildlife.
Accommodation: Sopa Resort Nakuru or Similar
Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 7: Lake Nakuru – Amboseli National Park
Depart after breakfast for Amboseli National Park, known for its dramatic views of Mount Kilimanjaro. After check-in and lunch, head out for an evening game drive to watch elephants silhouetted against the sunset.
Accommodation: Sopa Lodge
Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 8: Amboseli National Park – Full Day Safari
Spend the day exploring Amboseli’s vast plains and wetlands, home to elephants, lions, cheetahs, buffaloes, and numerous bird species. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park before returning to your lodge in the evening.
Accommodation: Sopa Lodge
Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 9: Amboseli National Park – Leisure & Short Drives
Enjoy a relaxed morning with optional short game drives or time at the lodge soaking in Kilimanjaro views.
Accommodation: Sopa Lodge
Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 10: Amboseli – Cross Border to Tanzania (Arusha)
After breakfast, drive to the Namanga Border, complete immigration formalities, and continue to Arusha. The afternoon is free to rest and prepare for your Tanzanian adventure.
Accommodation: Planet Lodge Arusha
Meal Plan: Half Board
Day 11: Arusha – Tarangire National Park
After breakfast, drive to Tarangire National Park for a full-day safari. Known for its iconic baobab trees and large elephant herds, Tarangire also offers sightings of lions, zebras, and oryx.
Accommodation: Tarangire Simba Lodge
Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 12: Tarangire – Serengeti National Park
Depart for the legendary Serengeti National Park, driving through scenic landscapes. Arrive in time for an afternoon game drive in the endless plains teeming with wildlife.
Accommodation: Into Wild Africa Tented Lodge
Meal Plan: Full Board
Days 13–14: Serengeti (Central – Seronera Region)
Spend two full days exploring the central Seronera area, home to some of Africa’s highest concentrations of predators. Game drives reveal lions, leopards, elephants, and wildebeests in their natural setting.
Accommodation: Into Wild Africa Tented Lodge
Meal Plan: Full Board
Days 15–16: Southern Serengeti (Ndutu Plains)
Travel to Ndutu, part of the Southern Serengeti ecosystem, where the Great Migration congregates between December and March. Watch herds of wildebeests and zebras alongside predators such as cheetahs and hyenas. Excellent birdwatching too!
Accommodation: Ndutu Wilderness Camp (or similar)
Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 17: Ngorongoro Crater
After breakfast, descend 600 meters into the Ngorongoro Crater, the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera. Spot black rhinos, lions, elephants, hippos, and flamingos along the lake shore. Enjoy a picnic lunch before returning to your lodge.
Accommodation: Ngorongoro Coffee Lodge – Karatu
Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 18: Maasai Boma Visit | Return to Arusha / Departure
After breakfast, visit a Maasai Boma for a cultural encounter before returning to Arusha. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for souvenir shopping before transfer to the airport.
Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch
Day 1–2: Arrival in Nairobi – Urban Welcome & Local Culture
Arrive in Kenya’s bustling capital, Nairobi, and settle into your boutique hotel. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy optional visits to:
- Giraffe Centre – Feed endangered Rothschild giraffes.
- David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust – Visit orphaned baby elephants.
- Karen Blixen Museum & Kazuri Beads – Explore colonial history and support local artisans.
Dine at one of Nairobi’s top restaurants or unwind after your flight.
Overnight: Nairobi
Day 3–4: Samburu National Reserve – Wild Beauty & Rare Wildlife
Head north to Samburu National Reserve, a remote wilderness along the Ewaso Ng’iro River. Discover the Samburu Special Five and admire dramatic landscapes where elephants gather at the riverbanks. Visit a Samburu village for an authentic cultural experience and enjoy spectacular morning and evening game drives.
Overnight: Sarova Shaba Samburu
Day 5–7: Masai Mara National Reserve – Big Cats & The Great Migration
Fly or drive to the Masai Mara, Kenya’s most iconic safari destination and part of the Serengeti ecosystem. Spend three days exploring its sweeping grasslands, where big cats rule and wildlife abounds.
During the Great Migration (July–October), witness thousands of wildebeest and zebra crossing the Mara River — one of nature’s most thrilling spectacles.
Overnight: Sopa Lodge Mara
Day 8–10: Diani Beach – Coastal Paradise on the Indian Ocean
After your safari adventure, fly to the Kenyan coast and unwind at Diani Beach, often voted Africa’s best beach.
Spend your days relaxing on the sand or exploring optional activities such as:
- Snorkeling or scuba diving in coral-rich marine parks
- Sunset dhow cruises along the coast
- Swahili cooking classes and spice market tours
- Visiting the Colobus Monkey Sanctuary
Whether it’s romance or relaxation you seek, Diani offers the perfect tropical finale.
Overnight: Boutique beach resort or luxury beachfront hotel
Day 11: Departure – Farewell to Kenya
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast and final stroll along the beach before your transfer to Ukunda Airstrip or Mombasa International Airport for your onward flight — leaving Kenya with memories of wild savannahs and ocean breezes.
Why Travel with Wild Compass Africa
- Handpicked eco-conscious lodges in prime wildlife and coastal locations
- Seamless logistics with expert local guides
- Personalized service with flexible, customizable itineraries
- Small group or private departures available
- Add-ons available for Amboseli, or Uganda Gorilla Trekking
Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi, Kenya
Airport pickup and overnight at a boutique photography-friendly lodge
Welcome dinner & pre-trip photography briefing with your guide
Accommodation: Emara Ole Sereni or similar
Focus: Street scenes, Nairobi skyline, sunset silhouettes
Day 2–4: Ol Pejeta Conservancy – Big Cats & Rhinos
Transfer to Laikipia and settle into a private tented camp in Ol Pejeta
Daily game drives focusing on black & white rhinos, lions, cheetahs, and elephants
Visit the last northern white rhinos under 24/7 armed guard
Optional low-angle rhino photography sessions from hides
Accommodation: Kicheche Laikipia Camp
Focus: Endangered species, golden hour predators, black & white conversions
Day 5–7: Loisaba Conservancy – Wild Dogs & Walking Perspectives
Transfer to Loisaba, home of some of Kenya’s most successful wild dog populations
Use of custom low-roof photography vehicles
Track carnivores with experienced scouts and get up-close perspectives on foot
Night drives for Astro, spotlight, and nocturnal wildlife photography
Accommodation: Loisaba Lodo Springs
Focus: Wild dogs in action, astrophotography, low-light big cats
Day 8–10: Lekurruki & Community Conservancy
Visit a Maasai-run conservancy that blends wildlife and cultural storytelling
Community photography sessions: portraits, daily life, and traditional ceremonies
Sunrise shoots in dramatic escarpments, acacia-studded backdrops, and river valleys
Option to fly drones (with permits) for aerial wildlife and landscape compositions
Accommodation: Sarara Camp
Focus: Cultural portraiture, landscape layers, community conservation visuals
Day 11–12: Private Hide & Conservation Storytelling
Use of exclusive waterhole hides for low-angle wildlife photography (elephants, buffalo, hyenas)
Photo storytelling workshop with Jaz Abaho: editing, composing for conservation, and building a visual narrative
One-on-one portfolio review sessions and creative feedback
Accommodation: Elewana Loisaba Starbeds
Focus: Behavioural photography, intimate angles, story composition
Day 13: Return to Nairobi – Departure or Extension
Optional photo walk in Nairobi (markets, wildlife-art community, street scenes)
End of tour with post-processing wrap-up and departure assistance
Option to extend to:
Masai Mara (Great Migration, river crossings, lion pride)
Amboseli (elephants with Kilimanjaro, dust storms, flamingos
Best Time to Go
January–March: Calving season, strong colors, fewer tourists
June–October: Dry season with best visibility, dramatic light, predator action
November: Post-rain greens, active wildlife, perfect for dramatic skies
Book Your Spot
This is a limited-space, high-demand experience curated for those who want to come home with more than just snapshots. Come away with a world-class portfolio, unforgettable memories, and a deeper connection to African wildlife and communities