Compare The Best of Kenya and Tanzania: A Classic Safari by Road Scholar vs Kenya & Tanzania in 11 days - From the Maasai Mara to the Serengeti - Charm by Exoticca

Day 1 Departures and Overnight flights to Kenya In Flight

Depart on overnight flights from the USA.

Day 2 Arrival in Kenya Nairobi

Arrivals in Nairobi in the late evening. Meet your Study Leader on arrival and check in to the hotel.

Day 3 Giraffe Conservation and Elephant Orphanage Nairobi

After orientation briefing, depart for the elephant orphanage and learn about the conservation efforts here. You will also have the chance to observe how the rangers feed the baby elephants.

During a special presentation, learn about the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife Kenya efforts to increase the numbers of endangered Rothschild Giraffe at the Giraffe Center, where you will have the rare treat of hand-feeding these gentle giants and face them eye-to-eye from an elevated viewing platform. Return to the hotel in early afternoon.

In the hotel.

Lunch at a local restaurant.

Your choice to explore local fare.

Day 4 Amboseli National Park / In the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro Amboseli National Park

The drive from Nairobi to Amboseli will take at least 4 hours and part of the road is unpaved. 2-3 hour game drives at sunrise and in the late afternoon. There are no toilet facilities outside of the lodge.

Depart this morning by Safari Van for the Amboseli National Park.

Meet your Study Leader for an orientation to game viewing and the wildlife of East Africa. Then put your new knowledge to work as you set out on your first game drive in the park.

In the hotel.

At the lodge in the Amboseli.

Be welcomed to the Amboseli National Park with a dinner at the lodge.

Day 5 Amboseli Big Game / The East African Elephant Amboseli National Park

As the sun rises, head out to continue the search through the varied wildlife habitats of the park. Later after a brief rest and before lunch join your Study Leader for a presentation: "Understanding the Tribes of Kenya and Tanzania" with a focus on the culture and customs of the Maasai.

After lunch, head back out in search of big game. Before dinner, meet with an expert from the Amboseli Elephant Trust to learn about the majestic East African Elephant.

In the lodge after the morning game drive.

In the lodge.

In the lodge.

Day 6 Twin peaks of Mt Meru and Mt Kilimanjaro/ the coffee country Arusha

The drive from the lodge in Amboseli to the border will take at least 3 hours and part of the road is unpaved and can be rough at some times of year. The drive from the border to Arusha will take 2 hours and is paved.

This morning we leave early, enjoying a scenic game drive through the western part of Amboseli to the Tanzanian border. Late in the morning we stop at the border for formalities and to change vehicles. We continue our drive from the border to the city of Arusha for lunch. the drive offers an excellent look into rural life in Kenya and Tanzania.

Located in the northern highlands of Tanzania, beneath the twin peaks of Mt. Meru and Mount Kilimanjaro, Arusha is the safari capital of the country. Guests embarking on the popular northern safari circuit all stop in the ‘Geneva of Africa’ to prepare for their journeys into the African bush. From its two-lane streets, the dramatic crater of Mt. Meru stands over the town like a majestic sentinel, its crater strewn with thick clouds, its slopes dark with verdant forest. Arusha’s ideal location near the major national parks and its highland setting make it a peaceful idyll of relaxation before the start of an exciting journey. Built by the Germans as a center of colonial administration in the early 20th century, Arusha was a sleepy town with a garrison stationed at the old boma and a few shops around a grassy roundabout. From its backwater status amidst the farmlands and plantations of northern Tanzania, today Arusha is one of the country’s most prosperous towns. The site for the United Nations Criminal Tribunal on the Rwandan genocide and the headquarters for the Tripartite commission for East African Co-operation, Arusha is a major center of Tanzanian diplomacy and international relations.

In the lodge.

In Arusha at a local hotel.

At the lodge near Arusha.

Day 7 Crossing the Great Rift Valley to Ngorongoro Crater Ngorongoro Conservation Area

The drive from the lodge in Arusha to Lake Manyara National Park will take at 3 hours and the road is paved except inside the park. The drive from Lake Manyara National Park to the Lodge in Ngorongo will take about 3.5 hours and is also paved most of the way except part of the road is unpaved and can be rough at some times of year. While long, this day offers some excellent scenic driving and a unique look into rural East Africa.

This morning we leave early, enjoying a scenic game drive through more of rural Tanzania and the Baobab Tree countryside. Lake Manyara National Park: We will visit this park located beneath the cliffs of the Manyara Escarpment, on the edge of the Rift Valley, to discover it’s varied ecosystems, rich in wildlife and incredible numbers of birds. The alkaline soda of Lake Manyara is home to an incredible array of bird life that thrives on its brackish waters. Pink flamingo stoop and graze and give colorful specks against the grey minerals of the lake shore. Yellow-billed storks swoop and corkscrew on thermal winds rising up from the escarpment, and herons flap their wings against the sun-drenched sky. Even reluctant bird-watchers will find something to watch and marvel at within the national park. Lake Manyara’s famous tree-climbing lions are another reason why we will visit the park however we can not guarantee their sightings. The only kind of their species in the world, they make the ancient mahogany and elegant acacias their home during the rainy season, and are a well-known but rather rare feature of the northern park. In addition to the lions, the national park is also home to the largest concentration of baboons anywhere in the world — a fact that accounts for interesting game viewing of large families of the primates.

We climb the escarpment and continue to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, where agriculture, wildlife conservation and tourism co-exist in one of Africa’s first experiments of multiple-land use. Upon arriving at the park gates learn more about the larger conservation area from your Study Leader. Prior to dinner take the time to enjoy the view of the crater floor from your rooms or from the terrace. The crater rim is a perfect viewpoint to observe the constellations of the Southern Hemisphere.

In the lodge.

On the way at a local restaurant.

Dinner in the lodge.

Day 8 The Wildlife of the Ngorongoro Crater Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Descend the slope into the Ngorongoro Crater in 4-wheel-drive vehicles to spend the morning observing wildlife on the floor of the crater. The 102 square miles of the Ngorongoro Crater are home to 25,000 mammals, many of which are resident due to the geographically enclosed nature of the crater. The crater is also home to the last population of black rhino in northern Tanzania.

Continue your time in the unique Ngorongoro crater on an afternoon game drive before returning to the lodge. Watch the unmissable Ngorongoro Crater sunset. The sun makes a dramatic exit as it sinks below the crater rim. Later enjoy an early evening Presentation: "The Crater Ecosystem and Conservation."

In the lodge.

Stop for an adventurous picnic lunch in the Ngorongoro Crater.

In the lodge.

Day 9 Early History at Olduvai Gorge / The Plains of the Serengeti Serengeti National Park

The drive from Ngorongoro Crater Lodge to Olduvai Gorge is 2 hours on a non-paved, very dusty road. The drive from Olduvai Gorge to Seronera Wildlife Lodge varies according to how much game is seen en route. Depending on the time of year, roads can be very rough and dusty.

Depart early, with luggage, leaving the Crater Rim and make your way to the Serengeti. En route, visit the Olduvai Gorge Museum and learn about the Leakey’s research and discovery of the earliest known species of humanoids.

As you continue driving to the lodge enjoy a game drive though the plains of the Serengeti. In February, this area can get very crowded with Zebras, Wildebeest and Gazelles often with young newborns, be on the lookout for wildlife, as this unfenced land is all part of the Serengeti ecosystem.

Late evening Presentation: Stargazing – A Unique Night Under the African Sky led by your Study Leader. (weather permitting).

In the lodge.

A box lunch is provided to eat at the Serengeti Visitor center picnic area. The area also has a nice walking path up rocky outcrops known as ‘kopjes’ for those looking to stretch their legs.

At the camp.

Day 10 Into the Heart of the Serengeti Serengeti National Park

Get out early to search for game and perhaps a fresh kill just as the sun rises over the Serengeti. Look for fresh tracks and see the Park come to life.

In the Afternoon before going back out on safari, stop at the Serengeti Visitor Center to experience an illustrated presentation about the "Circle of Life". After the presentation, return to the plains to follow the watering holes along the Seronera creek in search of antelope, and other creatures gathering to re-hydrate.

At the camp after the morning game drive.

Boxed lunch en route.

Dinner at the camp in the Serengeti National Park.

Day 11 On the shores of Lake Victoria Speke Bay

The drive between Moru Kopje and Speke Bay Lodge takes 4 to 5 hours and the roads could be particularly rough and dusty. There are no toilet facilities outside the camps, your Group leader will schedule a couple of stops to break this enduring journey.

In the early morning depart the camp to enjoy a scenic drive through the Western Corridor to the shores of Lake Victoria. As we drive west watch for the abundant resident wildlife stopping along the way to observe new sightings. Keep a lookout for animals as you finish the drive to Lake Victoria. Arrive at your lodge on the shores of Lake Victoria.

Enjoy a bird spotting walk around the grounds of the lodge led by an expert guide. During sunset, both sky and lake explode with light.

In the lodge.

At the Lodge

Enjoy dinner in the lodge.

Day 12 From the Shores of Lake Victoria and into the Maasai Mara Masai Mara National Reserve

The drive between Speke Bay Lodge and the Kenyan border takes 3 hours and the roads are tarmac. The border crossing procedures could take up to one hour. There are no toilet facilities outside the camps, your Group leader will schedule a couple of stops to break this journey.

After breakfast continue north to Kenya. As you drive on the main road, you will notice completely different local architecture passing through local villages. After crossing the border, continue to local air strip in Kenya where a charter flight awaits to bring you to the Maasai Mara. When you arrive in the Maasai Mara, the trip to the lodge is a game drive. Search for the creatures of the Mara before arriving at your lodge.

In the afternoon set out on a game drive from your lodge/camp keeping a watch for many resident lion prides or the fastest of all cheetah.

Tracking the Big Five in the Maasai Mara.

At the lodge in the Maasai Mara.

Enjoy dinner in the lodge.

Day 13 Tracking the Big Five in the Maasai Mara. Masai Mara National Reserve

As the light brightens over the Mara, head toward the river to observe hippo, crocodile and birdlife. Depending on the migration, you may see wildebeest attempting the dangerous crossing. Later in the morning before lunch join a local Masai Moran on a nature walk through the edges of the Maasai Mara Park. Learn about local plant life and maybe observe some insects and lizards.

There is a possibility that you will visit a Maasai Village en route today. It is truly a journey into timelessness, back to the way things have been for thousands of years. Some Road Scholars remain forever touched by the experience, the apparent purity, hopefulness, discipline, and pride of the Maasai people they share this time with. However, we would like to prepare you for the reality of this visit. We hope you will understand that there is a chance you will be asked to buy their wares, trinkets, wood carvings, etc. at an improvised village market. The goods offered do not have prices on them. The offered prices could be much higher for similar items found elsewhere. We have asked the Maasai elders to price the goods several times, however, they have not done so yet and do not understand why we are asking them to - to the extent where they think we are trying to westernize them. At this time, we want to preserve the experience, however, we ask that you resist the selling pressure and stand firm and refuse purchase of any goods if you feel uncomfortable at any time. In the afternoon set out on your final game drive. Enjoy the sounds and sights as you say farewell to the Maasai Mara. Later join your Study Leader for a final wrap-up session and presentation.

At leisure

In the camp after the morning game drive.

At the camp.

Final dinner in the Maasai Mara at the lodge.

Day 14 Return to Nairobi Nairobi

Today you will fly from Maasai Mara back to Nairobi. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Please be in touch via the Road Scholar Social Network, where you can share memories, pictures, and comments. Best wishes for all your journeys!

At dawn, embark on a drive toward the river to observe hippo, crocodile and birdlife. Depending on the migration, you may see wildebeest attempting the dangerous crossing. Late Morning - Board a small plane back to Nairobi.

Enjoy an afternoon at leisure to rest and pack prior to your flight. You have the use of your day room until 6 PM. We will be leaving for the airport shortly after this time.

Coach departs to the airport with luggage.

In the camp after the morning game drive.

In the hotel restaurant on arrival in Nairobi.

Your choice to explore local fare.

Day 15 Return Flights to U.S. In Flight

Day 1: US - Night on board

Ready for a wildlife adventure of a lifetime? Arrive at your US departure airport to check in for a flight to Nairobi *. Night on board. * If either your outbound or inbound flights depart in the early hours (before 4:00 a.m.) you must arrive at the airport the night before the indicated departure day.

Day 2: Nairobi

Arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, meet your guide and transfer to the hotel. The rest of the day off in the dynamic capital of Kenya, known as "the Green City in the Sun". We recommend visiting the National Museum or one of the many markets for a taste of the local culture. Overnight stay in Nairobi.

Day 3: Nairobi - Maasai Mara National Reserve

Breakfast at the hotel. Set off early this morning towards the famous Maasai Mara Natural Reserve, named after the unique Maasai tribe that inhabits the area and the Mara River that crosses it. Every year, it plays witness to the great migration, considered one of the seven wonders of the natural world. Driving west, ascend to the edge of the Great Rift Valley and soak up the dramatic views as you take a photo stop at a viewing point. Continue into the valley before arriving at the lodge in time for lunch. In the afternoon, head out for your first game viewing drive in the spectacular Maasai Mara Reserve. Dinner and overnight stay in the Maasai Mara.

Day 4: Maasai Mara National Reserve

Breakfast at the lodge. Today, choose either a full-day game viewing drive in the Maasai Mara Natural Reserve or a combination to morning and evening game viewing drives to observe the largest concentration of wildlife in the world. In the plains, you can find herds of zebras, giraffes and gazelles and in the savannah, mighty lions dominate the environment, as well as hyenas and cheetahs crouched in the long grass. In the forested areas, you can watch hundreds of varieties of birds and monkeys, whilst the rivers are full of hippos and crocodiles, as well as elephants and buffalo. If you're lucky, you might even spot all members of the famous 'Big 5'! Picnic lunch or lunch at the lodge included. Return to the camp for dinner. Overnight stay in the Maasai Mara.

Day 5: Maasai Mara National Reserve - Lake Naivasha

Breakfast at the lodge. Bid farewell to the endless plains of the Maasai Mara as you depart towards the shores of Lake Naivasha, arriving in time for lunch at the resort. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat ride on Lake Naivasha to admire the rich birdlife and groups of hippos. Soak up the breathtaking landscapes of Nakuru County for a relaxing end to your day. Dinner and overnight stay in Lake Naivasha.

Day 6: Lake Naivasha - Nairobi - Amboseli National Park

Breakfast at the resort. Leave the shores of Lake Naivasha behind as you drive to Amboseli National Park, passing through Nairobi along the way. Enjoy the impressive views of Mount Kilimanjaro as you journey through landscapes of typical African savannah, dotted with small communities of Maasai herdsmen. Arrive at the lodge in Amboseli in time for lunch. In the afternoon, set off on your first game drive in Amboseli National Park, known for its large herds of elephants, rich biodiversity and stunning backdrop of snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro. Return to the lodge at sunset. Dinner and overnight stay in Amboseli.

Day 7: Amboseli National Park - Namanga - Arusha - Tarangire National Park

Early breakfast at the lodge before setting off on a morning game viewing drive in Amboseli National Park. Afterwards, head to the Namanga Border Crossing where you'll clear customs and immigration formalities and cross the border into Tanzania. Arrive in the city of Arusha in time for lunch at a hotel. In the afternoon, the journey continues as you head to Tarangire National Park. Tarangire is famed for its large population of African elephants that congregate around the Tarangire River which crosses the park and provides a vital life source for the wildlife that lives here. Get settled at the lodge and enjoy a relaxing evening at your leisure. Dinner and overnight stay in Tarangire.

Day 8: Tarangire National Park - Serengeti National Park

Early breakfast at the lodge before setting off through the fertile grasslands of Tarangire for a captivating game viewing drive to discover the landscapes of baobab trees and grasslands as you look out for elephants, zebras, lions and giraffes! Afterwards, leave Tarangire and head towards the Serengeti National Park, home of the Great Migration! Picnic lunch before enjoying an afternoon game viewing drive in the Serengeti, known for its herds of blue wildebeest and zebras. Arrive at the camp in the late afternoon and spend a relaxing evening under the star-studded African sky. Dinner and overnight stay in the Serengeti.

Day 9: Serengeti National Park

Breakfast at the camp. Today enjoy sunrise and sunset game drives in the Serengeti National Park, with lunch at the lodge. The Serengeti National Park has the largest concentration of plains animals in Africa, with plentiful mammal and bird species. Savour the opportunity to spot the abundant wildlife, including the famous 'Big 5'. During the rainy season, you can witness the large scale migration of huge herds of wildebeest, zebras and other herd animals, an awe-inspiring sight! Return to the camp. Dinner and overnight stay in the Serengeti.

Day 10: Serengeti National Park - Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Breakfast at the camp. In the morning, set off for the Ngorongoro crater, descending to the bottom of the crater for a unique and unparalleled safari experience. This conservation area is famed for its rich concentration of wildlife, including the 'Big 5' as well as plentiful birdlife. The natural isolation of the crater creates a spectacular setting and unique ecosystem. Enjoy a picnic lunch in these amazing surroundings before returning to the top and to your lodge, located in the verdant Karatu Highlands. Dinner and overnight stay near Ngorongoro.

Day 11: Ngorongoro Conservation Area - Arusha

Breakfast at the lodge. Leave the wilds of Ngorongoro behind as you enjoy a leisurely drive back to Arusha, soaking up the landscapes of the African savannah one last time. Arrive in Arusha and get settled at the hotel before enjoying the remainder of the day at your leisure, perhaps shopping for last-minute souvenirs or sightseeing. Overnight stay in Arusha.

Day 12: Arusha - Kilimanjaro - US

Breakfast* at the hotel. At the indicated time, transfer to Kilimanjaro airport to catch a flight back to the US. Night on board. * Depending on the return flight schedule and the hotel breakfast service, you may not be able to enjoy the included breakfast on the last day.

Day 13: US

Arrive in the US and end your unforgettable safari trip!