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Migration

Kenya & Tanzania 12-Day Big 5 Safari: The Ultimate East African Expedition

4.8/5 (49 reviews)
Duration12 Days / 11 Nights
Group SizeMax 8 People
VehiclePrivate Vehicle
AccommodationLions Cave Camp, Buraha Zenoni Hotel & Resort, Wild Nest Mara Camp, African Kongoni Camp, Weru Weru River Lodge,
MealsFull Board
DestinationMasai Mara Safaris, Nairobi, Nakuru Safari, Samburu Safari, Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area , Mt Kilimanjaro Trekking
From $5,970 /per person sharing
Free Cancellation up to 14 days Secure Booking Instant Confirmation

Safari Overview

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with our tanzania 12-day big safari, a journey that promises some of the most rewarding experiences for any traveller. In this guide, we share expert tips and insights for your incredible East African exploration.

The Masai Mara National Reserve, nestled in Kenya’s Great Rift Valley, is a land of endless plains, abundant wildlife, and breathtaking natural spectacles. It’s a place where every sunrise promises a new adventure, from tracking elusive predators to witnessing vast herds graze under the African sky. A safari here, especially as part of a comprehensive tanzania 12-day big itinerary, is not just a trip; it’s an immersive journey into the heart of the wild, offering unparalleled photographic opportunities and memories that last a lifetime.

Our meticulously crafted itineraries are designed to immerse you in the raw beauty of the African wilderness. While this particular journey, our incredible tanzania 12-day big safari, spans both Kenya and Tanzania, the time spent in the Masai Mara is often cited as the highlight, offering an intimate glimpse into the circle of life.

Embark on a breathtaking tanzania 12-day big dual-country safari that captures the very essence of East Africa’s wild heart.

This meticulously crafted tanzania 12-day big itinerary bridges the iconic landscapes of Kenya and Tanzania, offering an unparalleled opportunity to witness the Big 5 in their natural habitats—from the arid springs of Samburu to the endless plains of the Serengeti. This truly is the ultimate tanzania 12-day big adventure.

Experience the Great Migration & Beyond on Your Tanzania 12-Day Big Safari

This journey, part of your unforgettable tanzania 12-day big safari, is headlined by the world-famous Masai Mara National Reserve and Serengeti National Park. You will spend dedicated days tracking the Great Wildebeest Migration, focusing on the dramatic Mara River crossings where nature’s rawest spectacles unfold.

Witnessing the Great Migration in the Masai Mara is an awe-inspiring event. Millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traverse the plains in search of greener pastures, creating a spectacle of unparalleled scale. The Mara River crossings, typically occurring between July and October, are particularly dramatic, as herds brave crocodile-infested waters and lurking predators like lions and leopards. Our expert guides position you for the best vantage points, ensuring you don’t miss a moment of this natural wonder during your tanzania 12-day big adventure.

Beyond the migration, this comprehensive tanzania 12-day big safari allows you to explore the “Special 5” in Samburu, the rhino sanctuary of Lake Nakuru, and the ancient caldera of the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site teeming with dense wildlife populations. This truly is a diverse tanzania 12-day big experience.

Unveiling the Wonders of Masai Mara on Your Tanzania 12-Day Big Safari

Even outside the migration season, the Masai Mara remains a wildlife paradise. Its resident populations of big cats – lions, leopards, and cheetahs – are among the highest in Africa, offering incredible opportunities for predator sightings. Elephants, buffalo, giraffes, and a myriad of antelope species roam freely across the savanna. Birdwatchers will also delight in the over 450 species recorded here, making every moment of your tanzania 12-day big safari truly special.

Beyond traditional game drives, consider enhancing your Masai Mara experience with a hot air balloon safari at dawn. Drifting silently above the plains as the sun rises, witnessing the landscape awaken from a unique perspective, is an unforgettable adventure. Later, enjoy a champagne breakfast in the bush, a perfect complement to your aerial journey on this exceptional tanzania 12-day big tour.

Adventure from Savannah to Summit on Your Tanzania 12-Day Big Safari

The expedition, a truly comprehensive tanzania 12-day big safari, concludes with a unique change of pace: a guided day trek on Mount Kilimanjaro. Experience the lush rainforests of the Marangu Route, reaching Mandara Hut for a taste of Africa’s highest peak before your departure.

This blend of intense wildlife viewing and active adventure ensures a truly comprehensive East African experience. From the thrilling game drives in the Masai Mara to the serene slopes of Kilimanjaro, every day brings a new discovery and a deeper connection to the continent’s natural grandeur, making this tanzania 12-day big safari truly unforgettable.

Highlights of Your Tanzania 12-Day Big Safari:
  • Comprehensive Big 5 Tracking: Expert-led game drives across Samburu, Masai Mara, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro.
  • Seamless Cross-Border Travel: Smooth transition through the Isebania border with professional guides in both Kenya and Tanzania.
  • Diverse Ecosystems: Visit semi-arid northern plains, Great Rift Valley soda lakes, and highland crater forests.
  • Iconic Landscapes: Views of Mount Kenya and a day hike on the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro.
  • Comfort & Style: Stay in hand-picked lodges and camps like Wildnest Mara and African Kongoni, traveling in private 4×4 Safari Land Cruisers.

Planning Your Masai Mara Safari

To make the most of your Masai Mara adventure, and indeed your entire tanzania 12-day big safari, consider the best time to visit. While the reserve offers excellent wildlife viewing year-round, the dry season (June to October) is ideal for the Great Migration and offers clearer visibility due to sparser vegetation. The short rains (November to December) and long rains (March to May) bring lush green landscapes and are perfect for birdwatching and seeing newborn animals, though some roads may be challenging for your tanzania 12-day big journey.

When preparing for your tanzania 12-day big safari, pack light, comfortable clothing in neutral colors, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen. Don’t forget a good pair of binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens to capture those incredible wildlife moments. Our team at Bison Safaris provides detailed packing lists and pre-departure information to ensure you’re fully prepared for your unforgettable journey into the heart of the Masai Mara and beyond on this incredible tanzania 12-day big experience.

Safari Route Map

Nairobi - Jomo Kenyatta International Airport
Samburu National Reserve
Lake Nakuru National Park
Masai Mara National Reserve
Isebania Border
Serengeti National Park
Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Moshi
Mount Kilimanjaro Day Trek
Kilimanjaro International Airport

Day-by-Day Itinerary

1

Day 1: Nairobi to Samburu

Depart 7:30 AM

Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), you will be warmly welcomed by our representative. After a short safari briefing, depart northwards toward Samburu National Reserve, enjoying scenic views of central Kenya and Mount Kenya region en route. Arrive at Lions Cave Camp in time for lunch and relaxation. In the late afternoon, enjoy your first game drive in Samburu, home to unique species such as the Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, and gerenuk. Return to camp for dinner and overnight stay.

Lions Cave Camp Lunch, Dinner Spotting the 'Special 5' of Samburu National Reserve
2

Day 2: Samburu National Reserve

Full Day

Enjoy an early breakfast before heading out for morning game drives in Samburu National Reserve. Explore the Ewaso Nyiro River ecosystem where wildlife frequently gathers. Return to the camp for lunch and leisure time. In the afternoon, proceed for another game drive, capturing stunning landscapes and wildlife sightings. Dinner and overnight at Lions Cave Camp.

Lions Cave Camp Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Spend the day tracking rare species along the Ewaso Nyiro River in Samburu National Reserve
3

Day 3: Samburu to Lake Nakuru

Full Day

After breakfast, depart Samburu heading south toward Lake Nakuru. Enjoy a stopover for lunch en route. Arrive at Lake Nakuru National Park in the afternoon for a game drive. The park is renowned for its rhino sanctuary, flamingos, giraffes and diverse birdlife. After the game drive, proceed to Buraha Zenoni Hotel & Resort for check-in, dinner and overnight stay.

Buraha Zenoni Hotel & Resort Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Travel to Lake Nakuru National Park for a premier rhino and flamingo viewing experience.
4

Day 4: Lake Nakuru to Masai Mara

Full Day

After breakfast, check out and drive toward the world-famous Masai Mara National Reserve. Arrive at Wildnest Mara Camp in time for lunch and check-in. In the afternoon, head out for an exciting evening game drive across the vast savannahs, home to lions, elephants, cheetahs and large herbivore herds. Dinner and overnight at Wildnest Mara Camp.

Wild Nest Mara Camp Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Journey to the Masai Mara for an evening game drive across Kenya’s most famous savannah
5

Day 5: Masai Mara National Reserve

Full Day

After an early breakfast, depart for a full day of game drives in the Masai Mara with a picnic lunch in the wild. Today will be dedicated to tracking the Great Wildebeest Migration, focusing on the Mara River crossing points, where thousands of wildebeest and zebras attempt the dramatic crossing while predators lie in wait. In between migration sightings, enjoy exceptional predator viewing including lions, cheetahs, and crocodiles along the riverbanks. Return to camp in the evening for dinner and overnight stay at Wild Nest Mara Camp.

Wild Nest Mara Camp Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Track the Seasonal Great Migration and Mara River crossings during an immersive full-day safari.
6

Day 6: Masai Mara – Isebania Border - Serengeti

Full Day

After breakfast, depart Masai Mara and drive toward the Isebania border. Complete border formalities and meet your Tanzanian safari guide. Continue the journey into Serengeti National Park with game viewing en route. Arrive at African Kongoni Camp for dinner and overnight.

African Kongoni Camp Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Cross the Isebania border into Tanzania and enter the vast Serengeti National Park.
7

Day 7: Serengeti National Park

Full Day

Spend the entire day exploring Serengeti National Park with morning and afternoon game drives. The vast plains offer exceptional opportunities to spot lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants and the Great Migration (seasonal). Picnic lunch will be served during the game drive. Dinner and overnight at African Kongoni Camp.

African Kongoni Camp Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Explore the endless plains of the Serengeti.
8

Day 8: Serengeti National Park

Full Day

Another full day of game viewing in Serengeti, allowing deeper exploration of different regions of the park depending on wildlife movements. Enjoy a picnic lunch and later return to camp for relaxation, dinner and overnight at African Kongoni Camp.

African Kongoni Camp Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Wildlife game viewing drives in Serengeti
9

Day 9: Serengeti to Ngorongoro

Full Day

After breakfast, depart Serengeti and drive toward the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Enjoy scenic highland views and stop for photos en route. Arrive at Ngorongoro Coffee Lodge in the afternoon for check-in, dinner and overnight.

Ngorongoro Coffee Lodge Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Drive to the lush highlands of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area
10

Day 10: Ngorongoro Crater to Moshi

Full Day

After an early breakfast, descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a half-day crater tour. This UNESCO World Heritage Site hosts an incredible concentration of wildlife including black rhinos and lions. After the tour, drive to Moshi town. Dinner and overnight at Weru Weru River Lodge.

Weru Weru River Lodge. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Ngorongoro Crater half-day tour
11

Day 11: Mount Kilimanjaro Day Trek

Full Day

After breakfast, transfer to Marangu Gate for a Mount Kilimanjaro day trek. Hike through lush rainforest to Mandara Hut (5–6 hours return walk). Enjoy picnic lunch along the trail. Later descend and return to Weru Weru River Lodge for dinner and overnight.

Weru Weru River Lodge Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Mount Kilimanjaro with a day trek through rainforests to Mandara Hut.
12

Day 12: Departure

Return

After breakfast, transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward departure, marking the end of your unforgettable Kenya & Tanzania safari experience.

Breakfast Enjoy a final breakfast before your transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for departure.

What's Included & Excluded

Included in Your Safari

  • Park fees
  • All scheduled safari activities
  • Meals as specified in the itinerary
  • Professional English-speaking driver guide
  • Private safari Land Cruiser with pop-up roof & UHF radio
  • Bottled water during game drives
  • Pick up at JKIA & drop off at Kilimanjaro Airport

Not Included

  • International flights
  • Additional accommodation before/after safari
  • Personal expenses (souvenirs, visas, insurance)
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Drinks at hotels
  • Travel insurance

Frequently Asked Questions

International flights and visas are excluded; however, all ground transfers and airport pick-ups/drop-offs are included.

You will stay at premier lodges and camps, including Lions Cave Camp, Wildnest Mara Camp, Buraha Zenoni Hotel & Resort, African Kongoni Camp, Weru Weru River Lodge and Ngorongoro Coffee Lodge.

Yes, all park and conservation fees for both Kenya and Tanzania are covered in the package.

We facilitate a smooth transfer via the Isebania border, where you will switch to your Tanzanian guide and vehicle.

The Day Trek to Mandara Hut is a moderate 5–6 hour return walk through the rainforest, suitable for most fitness levels.

Traveler Reviews

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