17-Day Kenya & Tanzania Safari – Masai Mara, Serengeti & Kilimanjaro Hike Adventure

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Safari Overview

Embark on a 17-day East African adventure, combining two of the continent’s most iconic experiences: the spectacular Masai Mara–Serengeti wildebeest migration and the ascent of Africa’s highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro. Traverse Kenya’s sweeping savannahs and Tanzania’s ancient plains, explore the legendary Ngorongoro Crater, and follow the scenic trails of Kilimanjaro’s Machame Route.

This journey offers unforgettable encounters with Maasai communities, immersive Big Five game drives, and the awe-inspiring spectacle of thousands of migrating wildebeest. Every step of the way is guided by seasoned safari and mountain experts, with stays in carefully selected lodges and camps, complemented by locally inspired cuisine. Designed for adventure seekers and wildlife enthusiasts alike, this safari blends high-impact wildlife viewing with the thrill of a high-altitude climb—creating a definitive East African experience.

Tour Highlights

Great Wildebeest Migration

Experience the drama of over a million wildebeest and zebras as they surge toward the Masai Mara’s riverbanks, braving crocodile-infested waters in one of nature’s greatest mass movements.

Big Five Game Drives

Roam Mara Triangle, Central Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater in search of lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards and rhinos. Each park offers its own mosaic of habitats, from rolling hills to open grasslands.

Maasai & Local Culture

Visit a Maasai boma, learn traditional dances, try your hand at bead-making and join a community tour in Mto wa Mbu—allowing for authentic exchange with villagers along the Tarangire route.

Tarangire’s Baobabs & Birdlife

Marvel at boabab-dotted landscapes and enormous herds of elephants. Over 500 bird species, from lilac-breasted rollers to kori bustards, make every game drive a birdwatcher’s dream.

Ngorongoro Crater Safari

Descend into this UNESCO World Heritage Site for up-close views of black rhinos at work, flamingos on the soda lake and prides of lioness in fertile crater pastures.

Mount Kilimanjaro Machame Route

A seven-day trekking masterpiece that climbs through five climatic zones, culminating at Uhuru Peak (5,895 m). Enjoy expert guides, personalized porter support, and remote high-camp wilderness before descending through tropical forest.
• Optional Extensions: Zanzibar
Upon descent, unwind on pristine Indian Ocean beaches in Zanzibar, dive into spice-farm tours or simply relax in a seaside villa.

Your Itinerary

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.

What's Included?

• Professional English-speaking guide & support staff
• Accommodation in well-appointed lodges, tented camps and mountain huts
• All meals on safari; full board during Kilimanjaro trek
• Park fees, conservancy fees and camping fees
• 4×4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof for unobstructed game viewing
• Drinking water throughout the safari
• Transport between destinations as per itinerary

What's not Included?

• International and domestic flights
• Visa fees and travel insurance
• Tips for guides, porters and lodge staff
• Personal expenses and souvenirs
• Additional optional activities (e.g., balloon safari, spa treatments)
• Alcoholic beverages (wines, spirits, beers)

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