This 11-day safari takes you through Kenya and Tanzania’s iconic wildlife destinations, including Amboseli, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti, and Masai Mara. Experience thrilling game drives, encounter the "Big Five," and witness spectacular wildlife migrations. Stay in luxurious lodges and camps, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, and immerse yourself in East Africa’s untamed beauty on this extraordinary safari journey.
Day 11 | Tanzania Safari
Explore Amboseli, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti, and Masai Mara, home to the "Big Five" and the Great Migration.
Experience exciting game drives, encountering diverse wildlife like elephants, lions, rhinos, and cheetahs across stunning African landscapes.
Stay at premium lodges and camps, offering comfort and breathtaking views, while immersing in the rich culture and natural beauty of East Africa.
6 lodges over 10 Nights/11 Days
5 Nights/6 Days Tanzania safari
Arrive early this morning and transfer to the Nairobi Serena Hotel (15 KM/approximately 30 minutes) for your overnight stay (standard room).
Overnight: Nairobi Serena Hotel (B,L)
Drive to the Amboseli National Park (240 KM/approximately 4 hours) for your stay at the Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge (standard room). This afternoon you enjoy your first game drive, across the game rich plains of one of East Africa’s most prolific wildlife areas. Lying within sight of the imposing shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro in neighbouring Tanzania, the expanse plains and infinite skies of Amboseli present us with a landscape that is truly African. Home to the proudly independent Masai, its dry savannahs thunder beneath the onslaught of the vast herds of wildebeest, zebra, impala and the elephants for which it is famed. Panoramas filled with lush swamplands and acacia forests provide ideal haven's for a myriad of birds and small mammals, including bee-eaters, kingfishers, caracals and warthogs, whilst cheetahs, lion and hyena hunt the open grasslands.
Overnight: Amboseli Serena Lodge (B,L,D)
Our morning and afternoon game drives see us in search of a staggering array of wilderness experiences, from the magnificent herds of game that sweep across these dusty plains, to the majestic sight of some of the 700 or so elephants for which Amboseli is justly famous. We may even be lucky enough to perhaps encounter the rare black rhino.
Overnight: Amboseli Serena Lodge (B,L,D)
After breakfast we check out and take a morning game drive en-route towards the border town of Namanga, where we cross into Tanzania and continue to Arusha (160 KM/approximately 2 ½ hours – this does not include any delays that may occur at the border). After lunch in Arusha, we resume our journey to the spectacular setting of the Ngorongoro Crater highlands (190 KM/approximately 4 hours) for our stay at the Ngorongoro Serena.
Overnight: Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge (B,L,D)
After breakfast we enter the magnificent natural amphitheatre of Ngorongoro’s volcanic crater, home to some 30,000 animals and the remarkable setting for one of the most breathtaking wildlife experiences on the planet. The scene is classic Africa, with seemingly endless herds of big game, large predators and the sweep of the African savannah. After lunch, there is an opportunity to visit a local village to learn something of life and tradition in these wild lands. Picnic lunches will be served by the Hippo Pool.
Dinner and Overnight: Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge (B,L,D)
This morning we proceed on to the vast Serengeti via a visit of Olduvai Gorge, the site of the discovery of some of the oldest human remains ever found, before continuing to the Serengeti National Park (160 KM/approximately 3 hours – travelling time depends on game viewing opportunities), where we stay 2 nights at the Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge
Dinner and Overnight: Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge (B,L,D)
The oldest of Tanzania’s game parks, the Serengeti is a staggering spectacle of incredible diversity, where magnificent herds of wildebeest and zebra form an uneasy alliance against the ever present threat of some of Africa’s most powerful predators.
Overnight: Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge (B,L,D)
Continuing through the Serengeti this morning, we head for the lofty heights of Kirawira Tented Camp (70 KM/travelling time depends on game viewing opportunities), where we are treated to glorious views across the wooded plains.
Overnight: Kirawira Serena Luxury Camp (B,L,D)
After an early morning game drive we continue to the border at Isabania (300 KM/approximately 5 hours), where we cross back into Kenya and head for the breathtaking beauty of the Masai Mara National Reserve (100KM/approximately 3 hours – travelling time depends on game viewing opportunities). On arrival transfer to the Mara Serena Safari Lodge for a stay of 2 nights.
Overnight: Lake Mara Serena Safari Lodge (B,L,D)
With almost every species of animal great and small in the park, this is one of Africa’s premier wildlife areas and today we enjoy both morning and afternoon game drives in search of the ‘Big Five’ (lion, leopard, buƯ alo, elephant and rhino). This is safari at its best and Africa at its most spectacular. Heartland of the Masai, southwest Kenya presents a landscape where Africa is laid bare in all its majesty. Here the endless struggle for survival is played out across the vast open plains and riverine forests of this captivating land. Each year the Mara explodes into life, as the annual migration of great herds of wildebeest journey from the Serengeti to fresh pastures in the north. Between July and October the Mara River becomes the setting for the crossing of some 1.3 million animals, bringing with them the inevitable predators and the inevitable dramas.
Overnight: Lake Mara Serena Safari Lodge (B,L,D)
After breakfast this morning DRIVE TO NAIROBI OR take a game drive en-route to the Serena airstrip for the flight back to Nairobi (1 hour) – WITH SUPPLEMENT COST AS SHOWN.
On arrival in Nairobi, we transfer to the city hotel for a day room. Evening to the Airport for your return flight back Home (B,L)
All the clients coming to Tanzania should have valid permits to enter Tanzania. Passports must be valid for at least six months after the date of entry and have at least one blank page available.
A tourist visa is also required for entry. An e-visa can be obtained online in advance by completing the e-visa application form and making payment online with a credit card or bank transfer at www.immigration.go.tz. Processing can take up to 10 days; please allow yourself sufficient time prior to travel. If the e-visa is approved, you will receive a “grant notice” via email. You must present a printed copy of the grant notice to the Immigration Officer on arrival at the airport in Tanzania.
All the clients must obtain a tourist visa upon arrival at the airport in Tanzania.
The fee is $100 each for USA and Canadian. Rest of the National, visa fees is US $ 50.00 each.
Please check with the Tanzanian Embassy for the requirements based on your
nationality.
Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous region in Tanzania. Be prepared to show your passport and explain your visa status when entering or departing Zanzibar. Additionally, travelers to Zanzibar must complete an online Public Health Surveillance Form within 24 hours before arrival. This form is available at: https://healthtravelznz.mohz.go.tz/traveller.
Effective October 1, 2024, all foreign visitors to Zanzibar must purchase mandatory inbound travel insurance prior to their trip. This insurance must be acquired from the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation, even if travelers already have other travel insurance.
The government will provide a QR code to access the purchase link. The insurance is USD $44 per person and is valid for 92 days. Failure to comply may result in denied entry at immigration checkpoints. Health Information .
The Centers for Disease Control recommends that all travelers be up to date on routine vaccinations such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria pertussis-tetanus vaccine, varicella (chicken pox) vaccine, and your yearly flu shot before every trip.
There are no vaccinations required for entry into Tanzania or Zanzibar, unless you are traveling from a country where yellow fever transmission is a risk, in which case proof of yellow fever vaccination is required.
Additionally, the CDC recommends inoculation against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid for most travelers to Tanzania.
Please consult your physician for additional information and recommendations based on your individual circumstances.
The CDC warns that travelers to Tanzania may be at risk for exposure to malaria. Malaria is caused by a parasite found in Anopheles mosquitos, which are active from dusk until dawn. Prevention is twofold: the use of anti-malarial drugs and the prevention of insect bites. If you choose to use an anti-malarial drug, as recommended by the CDC, see your physician for a prescription.
To protect against mosquitos and other biting insects, cover exposed skin with lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants, consider treating clothes with permethrin, and use an insect repellent containing an active ingredient like DEET or picaridin.
Apply sunscreen first, followed by the repellent (preferably 20 minutes later).
In addition to malaria, the CDC warns that travelers may be at risk for other illnesses transmitted by mosquitos, ticks, or sand flies, such as dengue fever, chikungunya, African tick-bite fever, and others. Travelers are advised to protect themselves against insect bites using the measures noted above.
After spending time outdoors, especially in grassy or wooded areas, the CDC recommends showering and conducting a full-body check for ticks. If you find a tick attached to your skin, safely remove it as soon as possible.
Follow all instructions from your guides regarding wildlife. Animals may become aggressive to protect themselves, their young or their mates, or to guard a food supply.
Do not make sudden movements either toward or away from them, as this may be interpreted as threatening or territorial. Avoid stray dogs, as they may carry rabies. In the unlikely event of being bitten, clean the wound and control bleeding. Seek medical attention immediately.
Avoid swimming or bathing in freshwater lakes or rivers. Some freshwater bodies contain disease-causing parasites or bacteria that may be contracted through contact with infected water.
The effects of the sun can be damaging to the eyes and skin. Spending time outdoors exposes you to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, even on cloudy days. To protect yourself from the sun, use a broad spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 15, protect skin with clothing, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and drink plenty of fluids.
Some safari lodges and tented camps in remote areas of Tanzania supply electricity through generators or solar power, and shut off electrical power during part of the night in order to conserve energy. If you use a CPAP machine, please be prepared to bring a battery pack (and any necessary cables) to power your equipment when electricity is not available. The battery pack can be charged during the day in preparation for night time use. Please be aware that if you do not have a battery pack, some lodges may assess a fee to run electricity Generators through the night.
The CDC warns that travelers’ diarrhea is one of the most common travel-related illnesses worldwide. Consumption of contaminated food and water may cause diarrhea. To avoid this, do not drink tap water, and use bottled water to brush your teeth. Avoid ice and uncooked vegetables or fruit without a peel. When in doubt, ask your guide. Restrict yourself to cooked food at restaurants, and avoid food sold on the streets. If you contract diarrhea, it is important to drink large quantities of purified water. Consult your doctor for appropriate medication should you experience diarrhea.
Please review our Respiratory Illness Protocols page, which explains our policy and procedures if you or another traveler should develop symptoms of a respiratory illness during your trip. Your participation in a Holbrook Travel program indicates that you are in agreement with these protocols.
The currency of Tanzania is the Tanzanian Shilling.
The electrical current in Tanzania is 220V 50Hz AC. Travelers from the United States need to use a converter.
The time zone of Tanzania is East Africa Time Zone (UTC+03:00).
Tanzania does not observe Daylight Saving Time.
Departures and arrivals on flight schedules are listed in the local time.
Communications
Tanzania’s country code is +255.
Please check with your cell phone provider if you’re unsure whether or not your cell
phone will work internationally. Be aware that you are likely to incur additional
charges for international use. It may be more affordable to purchase a local SIM card
upon arrival.
Internet is not reliable in Tanzania, but major cities often have cafes and hotels that
offer WiFi.
Open safari vehicles are available for use exclusively within the Serengeti, subject to a supplementary cost. This option is only applicable for safaris booked on a sole-use basis
Luxury safari vehicles are available for private bookings at an additional supplement cost, ensuring a personalized and exclusive safari experience.
In our hearts beats a deep love for Tanzania, a place we hold in the highest regard. Our mission is to share the warmth and friendly spirit of the Tanzanian communities with every guest who goes on this incredible journey. To achieve this, we've assembled a team of expert hosts, guides, and excursion managers who share our passion for this country. It's our dream and privilege to open its entrances to people from around the world. We eagerly anticipate the day we welcome you to Tanzania, to share the special gift that is this extraordinary land.
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