Compare Nairobi & Gameparks to Victoria Falls by African Trails vs Kenya and Tanzania Fly In Safari by Rothschild Safaris

Day 1 – 2: Leaving Nairobi we stop at the Rift Valley scenic lookout its 8,000 feet high and overlooks Mount Longonot and Lake Naivasha. We head south to Narok and on to Masai Mara National Reserve; camping on the edge of the park.

We head south to Narok and on to Masai Mara National Reserve; camping on the edge of the park. The sweeping plains evoke a picture of East Africa that most people hold in their minds and are rarely disappointed when confronted with the real thing. Great game viewing is assured all year round. The Mara offers us everything, amazing scenery and abundant wildlife including the big five.

The sweeping plains evoke a picture of East Africa that most people hold in their minds and are rarely disappointed when confronted with the real thing. Great game viewing is assured all year round. The Mara offers us everything, amazing scenery and abundant wildlife including the big five.

Day 3: Through the Highlands towards Nakuru on the way to the Rift Valley

Day 4: Spend the day at Lake Nakuru, viewing the game in a park; famous for its soda lake surrounded by thousands, sometimes millions of pink flamingos. The park is home to over 400 species of bird, and we should spot a leopard or black and white rhino among the zebra, waterbuck, impala, giraffe, and tree climbing lions.

Day 5: From Lake Nakuru area and head to Kericho and Kisi, passing through tea plantations beside the road

Day 6: We cross the border into Tanzania and spend the night on the shores of Lake Victoria at Musoma

Day 7 - 9: The Serengeti plains are the Africa of the movies. Immense herds of zebra and wildebeest migrate here too and from Kenya’s Masai Mara. Leopards and lions are often spotted. All the big five can be found in the park. Your campsite is rustic offering the rare opportunity to fall asleep (or lay nervous and sleepless awake) to the sounds of lions or hyenas. Breakfast and box lunches are provided during the day and dinner is prepared for you by your cook at night

After game driving in the park, you’ll head out, past Masai villages and Olduvai Gorge, to the Ngorongoro Crater.The next morning you’ll wake up early and do a game drive in the unique ecosystem of the crater where there are plenty of lions, black rhino, and elephant. We finish the day when we arrive at our campsite to the west of Arusha, the safari capital of East Africa

Day 10: We head towards the coast past Moshi town the capital city of the Chagga tribe. Skirting the base of snowy Mount Kilimanjaro we camp on the way to Dar es Salaam.

Day 11: We arrive in Dar es Salaam on the Indian Ocean coast. If you decide not to go to Zanzibar, the campsite at the beach is an ideal place to have a few lazy days.

Day 12: Ferry to Zanzibar Island (optional) - From Dar es Salaam you can take the ferry to Zanzibar Island. Here is the old stone capital of the Omani Sultanate, sandy beaches, spice tours, snorkeling, diving and trips to other nearby islands. Zanzibar is a fascinating place to visit and to take it all in. Over a thousand years trade between Africa and Arabia has resulted in the blending of Arabs and Africans into a beautiful Swahili coastal culture with; wooden sailing dhows crossing the ocean, coconut plantations and fishing villages with mosques on the beaches. Nungwe beach resort on the north of the island has the most beautiful beaches.

Day 13 & 14: Stone Town in Zanzibar Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the old slave market, the spice growing areas, Jozani Forest with Red Colobus Monkeys and in the evening the seafood cafes on the wharf.

Day 15: Return to Dar es Salaam on the ferry.

Day 16: We head south through Tanzania; our route takes us through Mikumi National Park where we may well see giraffe or elephant grazing beside the road. The road from Mikumi National Park to Malawi takes us through the southern highlands passing Baobab Valley to Iringa.

Day 17 - 19: Crossing the border into Malawi, we reach the shores of its huge lake. We spend the night at Chitimba Beach Camp. The campsites and small resorts along Lake Malawi offer sandy beaches, swimming, and snorkeling, water-skiing, horse riding or walking in the surrounding countryside. Markets sell carved Malawi chairs, tables, and wood carvings

Kande Beach. We head south through the hills and drop down to the lake and Kande Beach resort. Very relaxed and just the sort of beach place you need in Africa.

Day 20: Leaving the beach we go inland to spend the night in the capital Lilongwe or camp on route to Zambia after crossing the border. In Zambia, we head along the Great North Road – a sparsely settled countryside with few people or villages for hundreds of miles.

Day 21: South Luangwa National Park is well worth the visit. Recent trips have seen: - wild dogs, leopards, lions, and buffalo. We camp by the park and you can game drive into the park. Though the park is open all year, but during the rains; which are normally from Jan and Feb to March, the road in can be flooded and we can’t visit the park.

Day 22: We leave the park and continue to head west. Passing through the beautiful Luangwa Valley we arrive at the fastest expanding capital city on the continent, Lusaka. At camping Eureka, you may have zebra or antelope grazing by your tents while you sleep.

Day 23: Victoria Falls - the Zambezi River plunges 100 meters down a mile wide chasm, creating one of the most incredible natural wonders of the world. The local name for the falls is 'Mosi- oa-Tunya' which means 'the smoke that thunders' and you'll soon find out why.

Day 24: After an early start and a stunning drive we cross the Zambezi River on the Kazangula Ferry into Botswana. The country becomes lush and forested as we approach Chobe River. In Chobe National Park you can take an optional overnight game drive; a wild experience - excellent game viewing is a must.

Day 25: After returning to camp we head to Zimbabwe and over the border to Victoria Falls. When the river is in full flow, the falling water causes a huge roar and sends a cloud of spray up to 500 meters into the air.

Day 26: We stay beside Victoria Falls in Victoria Falls town, there are lots to see and do. Adventure activities abound - you can bungee jump, white water raft, and go game viewing on horseback or walking with lions. More sedate excursions include canoeing, light aircraft or helicopter flights over the Falls and the sunset cruise on the Zambezi. Though the Falls themselves are the main attraction, you can walk in the rain forest along the cliff opposite for an excellent view.

Day 1: Nairobi Palacina Residence & Suites, Accommodation, Standard Room

Today you will fly into Nairobi. On arrival, proceed to the arrivals halls where our representative will be waiting with your name on a sign board. Once you connect with your Rothschild Safaris representative, you will be escorted to your vehicle for transfer to your hotel, a drive of approximately one hour. Check into your hotel and take some time to relax and settle in. Your time here is at your leisure – whether you’d like to lounge by the pool or venture out to some of Nairobi’s top attractions.

Accommodation

Enjoy an oasis of peace and calm amidst the bustling city of Nairobi. As a family owned establishment, the core emphasis is on making you feel right at home with warm hospitality. Offering a world of luxury, personalized service, a relaxed atmosphere and attention to detail you will be staying in one of 14 luxury hotel suites or a fully serviced and beautifully decorated apartment with, one, two, or three bedrooms. Soak in the hot tub, cool off with a dip in the pool, relax and unwind with a spa treatment or enjoy a refreshing cocktail at the bar.

Palacina residence & suites

Nice to know:

Children of all ages are welcome

Accommodation meal inclusions:

Full English Breakfast

Activities available at additional cost:

A visit to the Daphne Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage 11am-noon ($7 per person entrance fee). During this time the orphan elephants arrive for their midday mud bath and feeding. As a foster parent (a donation of $50 per person is required) you can visit the Nursery at both 11am as well as by appointment at 5pm (must be booked in advance).

Karen Blixen Museum, the original home of Karen Blixen. The house was used during the filming of Out of Africa and is open to public with much of the original furniture on display in the house with encompassing views of the Ngong Hills.

Giraffe Centre, here you get to feed and photograph the giraffe and warthogs and also wander through the adjoining primeval forest to view the bushbuck, dik dik and more than 180 species of birds.

Day 2 - 3: Maasai Mara Game Reserve Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp, Accommodation, Superior View Tent

Nairobi Maasai Mara, Scheduled Flight

Today you will be transferred by road to Wilson Nairobi Airport and fly by scheduled flight into the Maasai Mara. On arrival, you will be met by one of our representatives at the airstrip and transferred to camp.

Accommodation

Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp is situated in the Kichwa Tembo private concession, which neighbors the Maasai Mara. Steeped in the aura of classical safari, Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp boasts 12 luxury tents and 28 superior tents, all of which give out onto magnificent views over the open grasslands or the shady forest surrounding the Sabaringo River. The superior tents feature beautiful Maasai-inspired interiors that showcase a simple and contemporary use of local materials. Oversized beds are perfectly positioned to make the most of the views, while stained cypress wood furniture combines with tribal decorative elements. The generously sized swimming pool is set among the trees and surrounded by lush lawns and spectacular views. Opening up onto incredible Maasai Mara views, the guest areas feature cozy split-level spaces decorated in a palette of stone and taupe. Celebrating the romance and nostalgia of the Mara, a double-story bar and lounge area feature oversized windows with spectacular panoramas. The split-level dining area has been designed around an interactive kitchen and vegetable garden, making food an integral part of the safari experience.

Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp

Nice to know:

Camp tents are equipped with Wifi, and hair dryers. Babysitting services are also available for families. Outlets are available for charging (220v.). The camp has a swimming pool.

Accommodation meal inclusions:

Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Activities included:

Twice daily game drives in open 4x4 vehicles with professional guides

Activities available at additional cost:

Bush walks

Night game drives

Bush breakfast and dinner

Sundowner cocktails

Hot air ballooning over the Maasai Mara

Maasai cultural/village visits

Day 4 – 5: Chyulu Hills Campi ya Kanzi, Accommodation, Luxury Tent

Maasai Mara Campi ya Kanzi, Private Charter

You will be transferred to the local airstrip in time to connect with your flight to the Chyulu Hills. Upon arrival at the local airstrip, you will be met by your guide for your transfer to the camp. Enjoy lunch surrounded by this fantastic scenery, followed by a brief orientation regarding the daily program. Then settle into your tented room. This afternoon you will enjoy a walk to Longido with a local Maasai tracker and guide. Sundowners will be served in the bush as you watch the sunset and if clear enough enjoy the spectacular views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Return to camp after your night game drive, arriving in time for dinner which is typically delicious home-made pasta and fresh produce from the gardens. You then retire to your tent for a peaceful night sleep surrounded by the stunning Chyulu Hills.

Accommodation

Campi ya Kanzi is situated at the foot of the legendary Chyulu Hills that have inspired the likes of Ernest Hemingway and near Tsavo National Park. Six luxury tented cottages and two luxury tented suites provide supreme comfort for up to sixteen guests. All tents have private en-suite bathrooms with hot & cold running water, showers and flushing toilets. The Kanzi House can be reserved exclusively for up to eight guests. The camp offers luxurious comfort, thrilling outdoor adventure, memorable wildlife encounters, and authentic connection to the Maasai people. Campi ya Kanzi is a pioneer in community ecotourism and is built with, owned and run by the Maasai community for the benefit of the local people. From the camp enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Enjoy game drives, walks and hikes among the solitude and privacy of 280,000 acres of land. Other activities include horse riding, mountain biking and scenic airplane flights (at additional cost). During activities you can spend time around the poolside or enjoy a professional massage (at extra cost). Enjoy delicious home made fresh Italian and African cuisine.

Campi Ya Kanzi

Nice to know:

There is 24-hour electricity for the entire camp. Children of all ages are welcome.

Accommodation meal inclusions:

Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Other accommodation inclusions:

Soft drinks, spirits, house wines, beer and water. Laundry services.

Activities included:

Game drives in open Land Rovers with your Maasai guide and tracker

Bush picnics: breakfast, lunch or dinner

Bush walks and forest walks

Tailored safaris for photographers/bird watchers

Maasai cultural village visits

School visit, dispensary, research center

Horseback riding

Star gazing with lectures

Activities available at additional cost:

Fly Camping on the plains in front of Mount Kilimanjaro

Kilimanjaro scenic flight, followed by a champagne breakfast

Air excursion to Tsavo National Park, fly over the geoglyph sculptures by Andrew Rogers

Air excursion to Amboseli National Park

Excursion to Ithumba camp where you can visit with orphan elephants

Spa treatments

Day  6 - 7: Ngorongoro Crater Plantation Lodge, Accommodation, Standard Room

After breakfast, you will be transferred to the local airstrip for your private charter flight to Namanga. On arrival you will be transferred by road to Kilimanjaro, Tanzania. Upon arrival at the Kilimanjaro airport, you will connect with a scheduled flight to Lake Manyara. Your local guide will meet you at the Manyara airstrip. Travel through an expanse of lush jungle-like forest where you may encounter hundred-strong baboon troops or blue monkeys. Arrive at the open grassy floodplain and enjoy the expansive views across the alkaline lake. Typically large buffalo, wildebeest, zebra herds and giraffe will congregate on these grassy plains. Your guide will find a picnic spot for you to enjoy your lunch. You then continue through the Park and on towards the Ngorongoro Crater. Most transfers arrive to the lodge in the late afternoon. We recommend you settle into your lodge and enjoy dinner.

Kilimanjaro - Lake Manyara, Scheduled Flight

Accommodation

The Plantation Lodge is an owner run lodge and rests on the red-brown hills at a height of 1,600 meters near the town of Karatu. The 15 rooms, seven suites and two family units are all individually furnished, melting harmoniously into the flowering garden offering comfort and relaxation. All rooms have private en-suite bathrooms, a verandah or terrace with a view of the gardens, and mosquito nets. Dinner is a four-course menu every evening and the bar is a popular place to gather prior to mealtimes. During activities you may enjoy downtime at the pool or afternoon tea, coffee and freshly baked cakes.

Nice to know:

WiFi is available throughout the property.

Accommodation meal inclusions:

Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 6: Notes

Today upon your arrival in Lake Manyara you will be met by your private vehicle and guide who will stay with you until your departure from Lake Manyara for the Serengeti.

Day 7: Ngorongoro Crater Drive

On your second day here, you will descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, one of Africa’s finest game haunts that plays host to almost every individual wildlife species in East Africa, including the Big Five, the rare black-maned lions, endangered black rhino and over 100 species of birds.

Day 8- 9: Serengeti National Park - Nasikia Mobile Migration Camp, Accommodation, Tent

This morning you will transfer to Lake Manyara Airport for your scheduled flight to Serengeti National Park. On arrival, you are met and transferred to your camp. Find yourself captivated on arrival at this traditional, seasonal camp.

Lake Manyara - Serengeti National Park, Scheduled Flight

Accommodation

Nasikia Mobile Camp has 8-12 tents that remain mobile throughout the year. There is a magical path of lanterns between the tents and also to the double-ended dining tent, with breeze corridor separating the areas. While the camp uses kerosene lanterns, you will also observe a mix of solar guide lights and scented beeswax candles to create an enchanting setting to unwind after the day’s adventures. Between activities you may enjoy time in the library. Before dinner, enjoy drinks around a roaring log fire under the stars. Meals are enjoyed communal style in the dining tent.

Nasikia Mobile Migration Camp

Nice to know:

From December to March, the camp is located on the southern Serengeti plains. From July to October the camp is in the far northern areas of the Serengeti. The generator is run in the evenings until 10pm for charging electrical equipment.

Accommodation meal inclusions:

Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Activities included:

Game drives

Bush walks

ACTIVITIES AVAILABLE AT ADDITIONAL COST:

Hot air ballooning

Day 10:

This morning you will transfer to the local airstrip for your flight to Kilimanjaro. Upon arrival in Kilimanjaro, connect with your international departure flight. Depending on your departure flight time, an optional day use room is available at additional cost.

Serengeti National Park - Kilimanjaro, Scheduled Flight