12 Day Masai Mara & Serengeti Safari - Kenya & Tanzania…

12-Day Masai Mara & Serengeti Safari – Kenya & Tanzania

Embark on an unforgettable Masai Mara & Serengeti Safari that captures the essence of East Africa’s wildlife and landscapes. This 12-day overland safari journey explores the best of Kenya and Tanzania, from the iconic plains of the Masai Mara and Serengeti to the volcanic wonders of Ngorongoro Crater and Mount Longonot.

Quick Itinerary Overview

This affordable adventure kicks off in Nairobi, heading into the world-renowned Masai Mara for thrilling game drives. Hike Mount Longonot and camp beside Lake Naivasha, explore Hell’s Gate National Park, and enjoy a boat cruise and high tea at Elsamere. Cross into Tanzania for safaris in Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater. Experience authentic Maasai culture before ending your journey in Arusha and returning to Nairobi.

Detailed Masai Mara & Serengeti Safari Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Nairobi – Kenya

Your Masai Mara & Serengeti Safari begins in Nairobi. Settle into your hotel and join an evening briefing. Optional activities in the city are available if you arrive early.

Accommodation: Hotel in Nairobi
Meals: At own expense

Day 2: Nairobi to Masai Mara National Reserve

Travel west to the famed Masai Mara, enjoying panoramic views of the Great Rift Valley. Spend the next two nights camping near the reserve, preparing for exciting wildlife encounters.

Included: Great Rift Valley
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping / Optional Upgrade
Distance: 225 km

Day 3: Full-Day Masai Mara Safari

Enjoy extensive game drives across the Masai Mara’s open plains in search of the Big Five and big cats. Enjoy a riverside picnic beside the Mara River, home to hippos and crocodiles.

Included: Masai Mara game drives, Mara River
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping / Optional Upgrade

Day 4: Masai Mara to Mount Longonot & Lake Naivasha

Hike the crater rim of Mount Longonot for sweeping views, then camp on the shores of Lake Naivasha for a peaceful evening under the stars.

Included: Mount Longonot hike, Great Rift Valley, Lake Naivasha
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping / Optional Upgrade
Distance: 225 km

Day 5: Hell’s Gate National Park, Boat Safari & Elsamere

Walk or cycle through the dramatic gorges of Hell’s Gate National Park, spot wildlife, and enjoy a scenic boat cruise on Lake Naivasha. Later, indulge in high tea at Elsamere, home of George and Joy Adamson.

Included: Hell’s Gate hike, Lake Naivasha cruise, Elsamere visit
Optional: Bicycle rental
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping / Optional Upgrade

Day 6: Lake Naivasha to Arusha – Tanzania

Cross the border into Tanzania, passing Mount Meru and, weather permitting, catching views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Reach Arusha, Tanzania’s safari capital.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel or lodge
Distance: 375 km

Day 7–8: Serengeti National Park Safari

Spend two exhilarating days on safari in the legendary Serengeti. Experience extensive game drives across the vast plains in search of big cats, elephants, giraffes, and more. Camp within the national park under the starry skies of Tanzania.

Included: Serengeti game drives
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (both days)
Accommodation: Camping
Distance: 300 km

Day 9: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater

Morning game drive in Serengeti before ascending to the Ngorongoro Crater rim. Visit a traditional Maasai settlement along the way and camp at Simba Camp, overlooking the crater floor.

Included: Serengeti game drive, Masai encounter
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping / Optional Upgrade
Distance: ~130 km

Day 10: Ngorongoro Crater Safari & Maasai Village

Descend into Ngorongoro Crater in 4×4 safari vehicles for prime wildlife viewing. After lunch, head to a rural Maasai village and spend the evening immersed in local culture and traditions.

Included: Ngorongoro Crater safari, Maasai village tour
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Distance: 65 km

Day 11: Return to Arusha – Tanzania

Return to Arusha for the final evening of your Tanzania & Kenya Safari. Visit local markets and celebrate your adventure with a meal out in town (own expense).

Included: Arusha, local markets
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Camping
Distance: 130 km

Day 12: Arusha to Nairobi – Kenya

Cross back into Kenya via shuttle or tour vehicle, enjoying scenic views of Mount Kilimanjaro. The Masai Mara & Serengeti Safari concludes in Nairobi, either at the airport or the city center.

Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 295 km

Important Notes

Itinerary subject to change due to weather or road conditions
Bring a sleeping bag, towel, and pillow
Kenya and Tanzania visas are required
Malaria precautions are strongly recommended
US Dollars (in small denominations) recommended for spending money

About the Wildebeest Great Migration

The Great Migration is a seasonal and unpredictable wildlife phenomenon that sees millions of wildebeest, zebra, and antelope move between the Masai Mara and Serengeti. Although sightings are not guaranteed, this natural spectacle is one of Africa’s most dramatic experiences. Speak with our safari experts to find out the best time to witness it on your Masai Mara & Serengeti Safari.