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12-Day Kenya and Tanzania Safari: Amboseli, Lake Nakuru, Masai Mara, Northern Serengeti (Kogatende Mara River), Central Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater & Tarangire Tour

Private 12-day safari · Amboseli · Lake Nakuru · Masai Mara · Serengeti · Ngorongoro Crater

NBO 01°19′S 36°56′EJRO 03°26′S 37°04′E
★★★★★5.0(based on 9 reviews)
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IOverview

12-Day Kenya & Tanzania Safari Overview & Tour Highlights

This 12-Day Kenya and Tanzania Safari brings together Mount Kilimanjaro elephant herds in Amboseli, Lake Nakuru rhinos, Mara River migration crossings from both Kenya and Tanzania, full day in Northern Serengeti (Kogatende), full day in Central Serengeti (Seronera), dedicated full day in Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire giant baobabs.

Every day is private — your own safari guide and 4×4 Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof. The route starts in Nairobi and crosses from Kenya into Tanzania, and you choose budget, mid-range or luxury accommodation.

Rhinos with a calf crossing a dirt track
Rhinos with a calf crossing a dirt track
Trip Highlights & Details
from$3,875/pp
Tour Length
12 Days / 11 Nights
Country
Kenya & Tanzania
Start / End
Nairobi → Arusha / JRO
Accommodation
Budget, Mid-range or Luxury
Tour Type
Private Safari
Group Size
1–6 Guests
Meal Plan
Full board on safari
Best Travel Period
July – October
Activity Level
Moderate–Active
Major Attractions — 6
  1. Amboseli National Park
  2. Lake Nakuru National Park
  3. Masai Mara National Reserve
  4. Serengeti National Park
  5. Ngorongoro Crater
  6. Tarangire National Park
IIThe Map

12-Day Kenya and Tanzania Safari Itinerary Highlights

Day 1Nairobi – Amboseli National Park
Day 2Full Day Amboseli National Park
Day 3Amboseli National Park – Nairobi
Day 4Nairobi – Lake Nakuru National Park – Masai Mara National Reserve
Day 5Full Day Masai Mara National Reserve
Day 6Masai Mara – Northern Serengeti (Kogatende) via Isebania Border (Overland or Flight)
Day 7Full Day Northern Serengeti (Kogatende)
Day 8Northern Serengeti – Central Serengeti (Seronera Valley)
Day 9Full Day Wildlife Safari in Central Serengeti
Day 10Central Serengeti – Ngorongoro Conservation Area / Karatu Highlands
Day 11Full Day Ngorongoro Crater Floor Safari (Big Five Caldera)
Day 12Karatu – Tarangire National Park

Safari Route Map – 12-Day Kenya and Tanzania Safari

Safari Route Map – 12-Day Kenya and Tanzania Safari
IIIRates

12-Day Kenya & Tanzania Safari Cost & Price Breakdown (2026 / 2027)

Includes game drives, park fees, accommodation, transport and professional guiding. Per person, no booking fees.

Mid-rangeGreat comfort and value
LuxuryPremium experience with top-tier lodges and service
Important information

All prices are per person and do not include international flights. Final rates may vary based on travel dates, seasonal park fee adjustments, and lodge availability.

Budget 12-Day Kenya and Tanzania Safari: Amboseli, Lake Nakuru, Masai Mara, Northern Serengeti (Kogatende Mara River), Central Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater & Tarangire Tour Prices

Single Supplement $390 per person
Group size 1 Person2 Persons3 Persons4 Persons5 Persons6 Persons7 Persons
Prices From 2026 $4,500 $3,100 $2,880 $2,670 $2,570 $2,450 $2,360
Rooms 1 Room 1 Room 2 Rooms 2 Rooms 3 Rooms 3 Rooms 4 Rooms

Mid-range 12-Day Kenya and Tanzania Safari: Amboseli, Lake Nakuru, Masai Mara, Northern Serengeti (Kogatende Mara River), Central Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater & Tarangire Tour Prices

Single Supplement $770 per person
Group size 1 Person2 Persons3 Persons4 Persons5 Persons6 Persons7 Persons
Prices From 2026 $6,610 $4,560 $4,240 $3,920 $3,780 $3,600 $3,470
Rooms 1 Room 1 Room 2 Rooms 2 Rooms 3 Rooms 3 Rooms 4 Rooms

Luxury 12-Day Kenya and Tanzania Safari: Amboseli, Lake Nakuru, Masai Mara, Northern Serengeti (Kogatende Mara River), Central Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater & Tarangire Tour Prices

Single Supplement $1,760 per person
Group size 1 Person2 Persons3 Persons4 Persons5 Persons6 Persons7 Persons
Prices From 2026 $12,230 $8,440 $7,850 $7,250 $7,000 $6,660 $6,410
Rooms 1 Room 1 Room 2 Rooms 2 Rooms 3 Rooms 3 Rooms 4 Rooms

High-end 12-Day Kenya and Tanzania Safari: Amboseli, Lake Nakuru, Masai Mara, Northern Serengeti (Kogatende Mara River), Central Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater & Tarangire Tour Prices

Single Supplement $2,750 per person
Group size 1 Person2 Persons3 Persons4 Persons5 Persons6 Persons7 Persons
Prices From 2026 $19,840 $13,680 $12,720 $11,760 $11,350 $10,810 $10,400
Rooms 1 Room 1 Room 2 Rooms 2 Rooms 3 Rooms 3 Rooms 4 Rooms

Child Policy

Children are welcome on safari. Discounts apply for children aged 3–11 years when sharing with adults. Children aged 12 years and above are charged as adults. Please contact us for exact child rates based on accommodation and room configuration.

Not sure which option suits you best? Contact us and we’ll help you choose the perfect safari based on your budget and travel style.

Ready to plan your safari? Send us your request and get a customized quote within 24 hours.

IV

The Days

Detailed 12-Day Kenya & Tanzania Safari Day-by-Day Itinerary

12 days, 6 parks and reserves — every day private, with your own guide and 4×4.

Start of Tour

Pre-safari accommodation can be arranged upon request for an additional fee. Please note that it is not included in the package.
Upon arrival, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel prior to the start of the tour. This airport transfer is included in your package.

01

Elephant walking across golden grassland

02°39′S 37°15′E

Day 1

Nairobi → Amboseli

Your 12-day grand African safari begins with a morning pickup from your hotel or Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi. Journey south along the Mombasa highway through Maasai countryside to Amboseli National Park, renowned worldwide as the best place in Africa to view free-ranging elephants against the snow-capped peak of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Check in and enjoy a hot lunch at your safari lodge. In the mid-afternoon, set out on your first game drive across Amboseli’s open plains and lush groundwater springs.

Spot massive ‘tusker’ elephants wading through marshes, along with lions, cheetahs, zebras, giraffes, and wildebeests. Return to your lodge at sunset for dinner and views of Kilimanjaro under the starlight.

Highlights: Giant bull tuskers, Mount Kilimanjaro photography, lions, cheetahs, waterbirds

Meals & Drinks

Meals included: Lunch & Dinner.
Bottled drinking water is provided during game drives.

Drive

4 to 4.5 hrs

Route

240 km

Meals

L · D

Night

Amboseli National Park

Night 1 · Amboseli National Park

Example properties by comfort level; your exact lodge is confirmed with your quote.

02

Elephant among green woodland

02°39′S 37°15′E

Day 2

Full Day Amboseli

Spend a full day exploring Amboseli’s diverse habitats, starting with an early dawn game drive when the morning skies are clearest, revealing the majestic snow peak of Mount Kilimanjaro. Journey toward Observation Hill, ascending the gentle stone steps for panoramic 360-degree views overlooking the Enkongo Narok swamp teeming with bathing elephants and hippos.

Savor an outdoor bush picnic lunch before continuing your afternoon safari along the acacia woodlands and dried Pleistocene lake basin. Track bat-eared foxes, hyenas, yellow baboons, and abundant birdlife (over 400 species recorded).

Return to lodge at dusk for dinner and cultural storytelling around the campfire.

Highlights: Tusker herds in swamps, hippos, pelicans, lions, spotted hyenas

Meals & Drinks

Meals included: Breakfast, Bush Picnic Lunch & Dinner.
Bottled drinking water is provided during game drives.

Drive

Full day in park

Route

Game drives

Meals

B · L · D

Night

Amboseli National Park

Night 2 · Amboseli National Park

Example properties by comfort level; your exact lodge is confirmed with your quote.

03

Safari vehicle on the savannah at sunset — Day 3 of the 12-Day Kenya and Tanzania Safari

01°17′S 36°49′E

Day 3

Amboseli → Nairobi

Enjoy a sunrise breakfast while taking in final views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Embark on a morning game drive as you exit Amboseli, tracking morning grazers and predators returning from nocturnal hunts.

Drive north along smooth tarmac highways back toward Nairobi, stopping for an en-route lunch. Arrive in Kenya’s capital in the mid-afternoon and check into your hotel.

Guests can choose to relax at the hotel or enjoy an optional afternoon visit to the Giraffe Centre or Karen Blixen Museum, followed by dinner at a local restaurant before tomorrow’s Great Rift Valley expedition.

Highlights: Morning elephant safari, Mount Kilimanjaro departure views, evening city relaxation

Meals & Drinks

Meals included: Breakfast & En-Route Lunch (Dinner own account or at hotel).
Bottled drinking water is provided during game drives.

Drive

4 to 4.5 hrs

Route

240 km

Meals

B · L · D

Night

Nairobi

Night 3 · Nairobi

Example properties by comfort level; your exact lodge is confirmed with your quote.

04

A lioness walking in the masai mara — Day 4 of the 12-Day Kenya and Tanzania Safari

01°29′S 35°08′E

Day 4

Nairobi → Lake Nakuru → Masai Mara

Depart Nairobi early in the morning and descend the dramatic Great Rift Valley escarpment to Lake Nakuru National Park. Spend a high-impact morning safari driving along the alkaline lake shores, famous as a sanctuary for endangered white and black rhinos, rare Rothschild’s giraffes, and thousands of flamingos.

Following an en-route lunch, continue west past the Rift Valley town of Narok and ascend into the rolling golden grasslands of the Masai Mara National Reserve. Arrive in the late afternoon at your safari camp for sunset sundowners and dinner around the campfire, ready for your full-day migration adventure.

Highlights: White and black rhinos, Rothschild’s giraffes, flamingos, first views of Mara savannas

Meals & Drinks

Meals included: Breakfast, En-Route Lunch & Dinner.
Bottled drinking water is provided during game drives.

Drive

3 hrs

Route

Masai Mara

Meals

B · L · D

Night

Masai Mara National Reserve

Night 4 · Masai Mara National Reserve

Example properties by comfort level; your exact lodge is confirmed with your quote.

05

A cheetah walking in the masai mara — Day 5 of the 12-Day Kenya and Tanzania Safari

01°29′S 35°08′E

Day 5

Full Day Masai Mara

Spend an entire day immersed in the legendary Masai Mara, home to Africa’s highest density of lions, cheetahs, and leopards. Begin with a dawn game drive when predators are active in the cool morning air (optional sunrise hot air balloon flight with champagne bush breakfast available).

Journey south toward the Kenyan banks of the Mara River, where giant Nile crocodiles and pods of hippos inhabit the waters. During the peak migration season (July–October), watch for gathering herds of wildebeests preparing for dramatic river crossings.

Savor an acacia-shaded bush picnic lunch in the wild. Continue your afternoon safari tracking leopards in riverine thickets, towering elephant herds, and black rhinos before returning to camp at dusk for dinner.

Highlights: Mara River crossings, Nile crocodiles, lion ambushes, cheetah sprints, elephants

Meals & Drinks

Meals included: Breakfast, Bush Picnic Lunch & Dinner.
Bottled drinking water is provided during game drives.

Drive

Full day in park

Route

Game drives

Meals

B · L · D

Night

Masai Mara National Reserve

Night 5 · Masai Mara National Reserve

Example properties by comfort level; your exact lodge is confirmed with your quote.

06

Wildebeest running in river in the serengeti — Day 6 of the 12-Day Kenya and Tanzania Safari

01°35′S 34°53′E

Day 6

Masai Mara → Northern Serengeti (Kogatende) via Isebania Border (Overland or Flight)

Today you cross the international border from Kenya into Tanzania, traveling directly to the northern crossing sector of Serengeti National Park (Kogatende). For the overland journey, depart early after breakfast and drive west to the Isebania border.

Complete dual-country customs and immigration formalities (approx. 1 to 1.5 hours), switch from your Kenyan 4×4 to your Tanzanian Land Cruiser, and enter Northern Serengeti. [Flight Upgrade Option]: Skip the 7-to-9-hour overland journey by boarding a morning scheduled flight from Masai Mara to Migori, transferring across the border by road (30 min) to Tarime Airstrip, and flying directly into Kogatende Airstrip (KOG) in Northern Serengeti by midday. Embark on an afternoon game drive along the Tanzanian bends of the Mara River before checking into your migration tented camp for dinner under the stars.

Highlights: Moving migration columns, riverbank herds, lions on granite kopjes

Flight upgrade: Approx. 2.5 to 3 hours total transit (Mara ➔ Migori ➔ Border ➔ Tarime ➔ Kogatende KOG)

Meals & Drinks

Meals included: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch & Dinner.
Bottled drinking water is provided during game drives.

Drive

7 to 9 hrs

Route

Serengeti

Meals

B · L · D

Night

Northern Serengeti / Kogatende

Night 6 · Northern Serengeti / Kogatende

Example properties by comfort level; your exact lodge is confirmed with your quote.

07

Massive wildebeest herd migrating through thick — Day 7 of the 12-Day Kenya and Tanzania Safari

01°35′S 34°53′E

Day 7

Full Day Northern Serengeti (Kogatende)

Dedicate an entire day to tracking the heart-stopping spectacle of the Great Migration along the Tanzanian banks of the Mara River in Kogatende. Position your 4×4 near prime crossing points where hundreds of thousands of wildebeests and zebras hesitate on steep rocky slopes before plunging into torrential waters fraught with giant Nile crocodiles.

Witness apex predators (lions, leopards, hyenas) staking out ambush positions along the shoreline thickets. Explore the Lamai Wedge and Wogakuria kopjes where resident prides of lions sun themselves on granite boulders.

Enjoy a secluded bush picnic lunch surrounded by wild nature. Return to your migration camp at sunset for dinner and storytelling around the campfire.

Highlights: Spectacular river crossings, giant Nile crocodiles, big cat hunts, immense herds

Meals & Drinks

Meals included: Breakfast, Bush Picnic Lunch & Dinner.
Bottled drinking water is provided during game drives.

Drive

Full day in park

Route

Game drives

Meals

B · L · D

Night

Northern Serengeti / Kogatende

Night 7 · Northern Serengeti / Kogatende

Example properties by comfort level; your exact lodge is confirmed with your quote.

08

Leopard on a tree in the serengeti national

02°20′S 34°50′E

Day 8

Northern Serengeti → Central Serengeti (Seronera Valley)

Depart Northern Serengeti after breakfast and journey south into Central Serengeti (Seronera River Valley). This transition takes you from rugged riverine woodlands into the boundless golden grasslands that make Serengeti famous.

As you approach Seronera, track resident prides of lions resting atop towering granite kopjes, cheetahs scanning open plains, and leopards lounging in yellow fever trees. Explore the winding Seronera River circuit, observing pods of hippos and basking crocodiles.

Arrive at your central wilderness camp or lodge in the late afternoon for sundowners, dinner, and a peaceful evening under the starlit sky.

Highlights: Central resident lion prides, leopards, cheetah sprints, hippo pools, gazelles

Meals & Drinks

Meals included: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch & Dinner.
Bottled drinking water is provided during game drives.

Drive

4 to 5 hrs

Route

130 km

Meals

B · L · D

Night

Central Serengeti / Seronera

Night 8 · Central Serengeti / Seronera

Example properties by comfort level; your exact lodge is confirmed with your quote.

09

African elephants in the serengeti national

02°20′S 34°50′E

Day 9

Full Day Wildlife Safari in Central Serengeti

Spend a full day exploring the endless horizons of Central Serengeti, Africa’s premier big cat capital. Begin with a dawn game drive when nocturnal predators (leopards, spotted hyenas, lions) are finishing their hunts in the cool morning air.

Explore the winding Seronera River circuit, watching pods of hippos jockeying for position and Nile crocodiles basking on sandbanks. Journey toward the Moru Kopjes in search of the elusive black rhino and ancient Maasai rock paintings.

Savor an outdoor bush picnic lunch under an acacia canopy before continuing your afternoon safari across the boundless grasslands, returning to camp at sunset for stargazing around the campfire.

Highlights: High predator density, lion prides, cheetah chase sprints, elephants, buffalo herds

Meals & Drinks

Meals included: Breakfast, Bush Picnic Lunch & Dinner.
Bottled drinking water is provided during game drives.

Drive

Full day in park

Route

Game drives

Meals

B · L · D

Night

Central Serengeti / Seronera

Night 9 · Central Serengeti / Seronera

Example properties by comfort level; your exact lodge is confirmed with your quote.

10

Lion in the ngorongoro crater tanzania — Day 10 of the 12-Day Kenya and Tanzania Safari

03°10′S 35°35′E

Day 10

Central Serengeti → Ngorongoro / Karatu Highlands

Greet the morning with a sunrise game drive across Central Serengeti to catch predators during the cool morning hours. Return to camp for a hearty breakfast before packing up and taking an extended game drive heading southeast across the vast short-grass plains toward Naabi Hill Gate.

Exit the Serengeti and ascend into the lush volcanic highlands of Ngorongoro. Pause at crater rim viewpoints for sweeping vistas of the 600-meter caldera below bathed in late afternoon golden light.

Descend into the fertile Karatu Highlands to check into your lodge for dinner and a restful night’s sleep before tomorrow’s dedicated full-day caldera exploration.

Highlights: Morning predator search, panoramic crater rim vistas, relaxing evening in Karatu

Meals & Drinks

Meals included: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch & Dinner.
Bottled drinking water is provided during game drives.

Drive

3 to 4 hrs

Route

Ngorongoro Crater

Meals

B · L · D

Night

Karatu Highlands or Ngorongoro Crater Rim

Night 10 · Karatu Highlands or Ngorongoro Crater Rim

Example properties by comfort level; your exact lodge is confirmed with your quote.

11

Wildebeests in the ngorongoro crater tanzania — Day 11 of the 12-Day Kenya and Tanzania Safari

03°10′S 35°35′E

Day 11

Full Day Ngorongoro Crater Floor Safari (Big Five Caldera)

Depart early after breakfast and descend 600 meters (2,000 feet) down forested caldera walls onto the floor of the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater—a UNESCO World Heritage site and natural amphitheater sheltering over 25,000 large mammals. Because today is a dedicated full-day crater exploration without travel stress, you have maximum time to tour the open grasslands, Lerai fever-tree forest, and Lake Magadi lined with thousands of pink flamingos.

Track the critically endangered black rhino alongside giant bull elephants, dense lion prides, hyenas, and cheetahs. Enjoy a leisurely bush picnic lunch beside the hippo pool at Ngoitoktok Springs.

In the late afternoon, ascend the crater rim and return to your Karatu lodge for dinner and relaxation.

Highlights: Rare black rhino sightings, resident lion prides, hyenas, hippos, flamingos

Meals & Drinks

Meals included: Breakfast, Bush Picnic Lunch & Dinner.
Bottled drinking water is provided during game drives.

Drive

45 min

Route

Game drives

Meals

B · L · D

Night

Karatu Highlands

Night 11 · Karatu Highlands

Example properties by comfort level; your exact lodge is confirmed with your quote.

12

African elephant in the tarangire national park — Day 12 of the 12-Day Kenya and Tanzania Safari

03°50′S 36°00′E

Day 12

Karatu → Tarangire

After breakfast in Karatu, descend the Great Rift Valley escarpment into Tarangire National Park for a final morning safari. Renowned as the ‘Sanctuary of Elephants,’ Tarangire features dramatic baobab groves and a permanent river valley acting as a vital dry-season wildlife magnet.

Track massive elephant families feeding along the riverbeds alongside giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and warthogs. Savor a scenic picnic lunch overlooking the river valley before beginning the final 2-hour drive on smooth paved tarmac roads back to Arusha.

Arrive in Arusha in the late afternoon for hotel drop-off or transfer directly to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your flight onward, concluding the definitive 12-day dual-country safari.

Highlights: Gigantic baobabs, large elephant herds, lions, leopards, migratory birdlife

Meals & Drinks

Meals included: Breakfast & Picnic Lunch.
Bottled drinking water is provided during game drives.

Drive

1.5 hrs

Route

Tarangire

Meals

B · L

Night

End of tour — Arusha Hotel or Kilimanjaro International Airport

VThe Fine Print

What’s in the price — and what isn’t.

What is Included

What is Not Included

Interested in This Tour?

VI

Camps

Accommodation Options for this Dual-Country Safari

This itinerary is available with budget, mid-range and luxury accommodation. The camps and lodges for your chosen tier are listed below.

Typical choices — Budget: Kimana Campsite Amboseli, Miti Mingi Camp Masai Mara, Lobo Public Campsite North, Nyani Campsite Serengeti, Kizumba Campsite Karatu · Mid-range: Amboseli Serena Lodge, Mara Sopa Lodge, Kogatende Tented Camp, Serengeti Heritage Camp, Farm of Dreams Lodge · Luxury: Ol Tukai Lodge Amboseli, Mara Serena Safari Lodge, Sayari Camp Northern Serengeti, Four Seasons Serengeti, Neptune Ngorongoro.

Mid-range Accommodations During Safari

Luxury Accommodations During Safari

VIIAdd-Ons

Optional Safari Add-Ons – 12-Day Kenya and Tanzania Safari

Not included in the standard price — arranged on request.

Active Wonders Safaris on safari
Border day · Kenya to Tanzania

Mara to Serengeti Flight Upgrade

Fly Mara to Migori, cross the Isebania/Tarime border by road with a guide, then fly on into the Serengeti — saving most of a day of rough driving.

Rates on request
Hot air balloons in a clear blue sky — Hot Air Balloon Safari
Serengeti · at dawn

Hot Air Balloon Safari

A sunrise balloon flight over the Serengeti plains, followed by a champagne bush breakfast before you rejoin your guide.

USD 450–590 per person
Golden dusty track through acacia woodland — Maasai Village Cultural Visit
On the route

Maasai Village Cultural Visit

Visit a traditional Maasai community to learn about local culture, traditions and daily life.

USD 30–50 per person
Empty white-sand beach and turquoise sea — Zanzibar Beach Extension
After the safari (3 days)

Zanzibar Beach Extension

Fly from Arusha or Kilimanjaro to Zanzibar and add a beach stay. Mid-range USD 700–1,200 pp; luxury USD 1,500+ pp.

Budget USD 450–700 pp
Tip: The most requested add-ons on this route are the Mara to Serengeti Flight Upgrade and the Hot Air Balloon Safari. Ask us to build them into your dates.
VIIIThe Ground

Where the 12-Day Kenya and Tanzania Safari Takes You

6 destinations, one private route.

Lone acacia tree on the plains at sunset
01

Amboseli National Park

Big-tusked elephant herds crossing swamps and open plains beneath the snow-capped summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Giraffe beside an acacia tree at dawn
02

Lake Nakuru National Park

A Rift Valley soda lake and fenced rhino sanctuary, with black and white rhinos, Rothschild’s giraffes and flamingos along the shore.

An elephant in the masai mara
03

Masai Mara National Reserve

Kenya’s best-known reserve: rolling grassland with some of Africa’s highest lion and cheetah densities, and the Mara River crossings from July to October.

Dawn at serengeti national park tanzania
04

Serengeti National Park

Endless plains, granite kopjes and the Great Migration — a year-round cycle of more than 1.5 million wildebeest, with Seronera as the predator capital.

Lioness walking near safari jeep in ngorongoro
05

Ngorongoro Crater

A UNESCO World Heritage Site: the world’s largest intact caldera, with lions, elephants, hippos and one of East Africa’s most reliable chances of seeing black rhino.

Impala antelopes tarangire national park tanzani
06

Tarangire National Park

Ancient baobabs and some of the largest elephant herds on Earth, gathering along the Tarangire River in the dry season.

01°S · 35°E — Mara / Serengeti ecosystemThe big question

Can You See the Great Migration and Mara River Crossings on the 12-Day Kenya and Tanzania Safari?

Each year more than 1.5 million wildebeest, zebra and gazelle move between the Serengeti and the Masai Mara. From July to October the herds reach the Mara River — the most dramatic hour in the bush.

River crossings cannot be guaranteed: herds gather on the banks, sometimes for hours or days, and cross when they choose. Travelling in season with time at the river gives you the best possible odds, with excellent wildlife viewing either way.

1.5M+Wildebeest, zebra & gazelle on the move
Jul–OctPeak Mara River crossing window
6Parks & reserves in 12 days
IXSeason

Best Time of Year for this Itinerary: Why July to October is Essential

Timed for the Mara River — the season decides the experience.

July – October (Mara River Crossings)

The herds gather along the Mara River between Kenya’s Masai Mara and Tanzania’s Northern Serengeti. Crossings can never be guaranteed, but this is the window when they happen.

December – March (Calving Season)

The herds move to the southern Serengeti plains around Ndutu to give birth. Resident wildlife stays excellent elsewhere — ask us about re-routing the northern days south.

April – May (Long Rains)

April and May bring the long rains. Some roads become muddy and slow and a few remote camps close, but the landscapes are green and quieter.

XFlights

Flight Recommendation – 12-Day Kenya and Tanzania Safari

Recommended Arrival Flight

Jomo Kenyatta International, Nairobi

Arrive in Nairobi the day before the safari begins, so you are rested and ready for the early Day 1 departure.

Recommended Departure Flight

Kilimanjaro International Airport

The safari finishes in Arusha, about an hour from Kilimanjaro International (JRO). Book international departures after 7:30 PM. Flights between Kilimanjaro and Nairobi take about an hour if you need to connect back to Kenya.

XIExtras

Supplementary (not included) costs

Below are the optional or personal expenses not included in your safari package. They are arranged in order of importance and impact on your trip.

This safari starts in Kenya and ends in Tanzania, so plan for both countries.

Kenya Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA)
  • Cost: approximately USD 30–50 per person
  • Apply online before travel
Tanzania Tourist Visa
  • USD 50 per person for most nationalities; USD 100 for U.S. citizens (multiple entry)
  • eVisa online, or on arrival for eligible passports

Border officials at Isebania ask for proof of yellow fever vaccination when you cross from Kenya into Tanzania.

Highly recommended. Choose cover that includes medical evacuation from remote parks.

Safari packages exclude international airfare. Book your arrival and departure around the start and end points shown in the Flights section.

Tipping is customary but always your choice. Our recommended guidelines:

  • $15–$25 per day for your Kenyan driver-guide (Days 1–6)
  • $15–$25 per day for your Tanzanian driver-guide (Days 6–12)
  • Camp tip boxes

Guide tips are per vehicle per day, not per person.

  • Soft drinks: USD $3 – $5
  • Local beer: USD $4 – $6
  • Wine/spirits: USD $7 – $20

Drinking water is provided in the vehicle during your safari; sodas, alcoholic beverages and specialty coffees are charged separately at the lodges.

Souvenirs, snacks, toiletries, sunscreen, insect repellent and other personal items are not included. Costs depend on your own needs and shopping choices.

XIIWhy Us

Why Book With Us

True local ownership and operation

As a safari company rooted in local ownership, we eliminate unnecessary costs associated with intermediary sales agents, providing you with direct savings.

Best Price Guaranteed

Crafting a safari that delivers unparalleled experiences, from exceptional wildlife viewing to luxurious lodgings and unforgettable moments. We strive to minimize your expenses, eliminating unnecessary costs.

24/7 Customer Service

We excel in providing personalized customer concierge services, ensuring your safari needs are taken care of from the moment you plan your trip until you board your homeward flight.

Expert Safari Guides

Our guides are very knowledgeable and experts in the field. They will be your moving encyclopedias for all the information that you may want while on safari.

5.0 from 9 reviews

Customer Reviews

★★★★★
Amazing Trip around Kenya and Tanzania

My wife and I did a 7-day safari with Active Wonders last August, visiting both Kenya and Tanzania, and honestly, we couldn’t be happier with how it all turned out. We got super lucky with our drivers and guides — Patrick in Kenya and Six in Tanzania were awesome. They really know their stuff, driving like pros without even needing GPS, and they were amazing at spotting animals and finding the best views.

D
Daniel BravoSpain 🇪🇸
★★★★★
Great 8-day safari in northern Tanzania

Overall, I had a great 8-day safari experience with Active Wonders Safari. Communication before and after the booking was always prompt and effective. The lodges during our trip ranged from decent to good, and the food was mostly good — sometimes even excellent.

M
Martin WGermany 🇩🇪
★★★★★
Fantastic Safari Experience in Tanzania

We booked our East Africa trip through Imara Africa Safaris, and the Tanzania portion was organized by their partner, Active Wonders Safaris. It was an unforgettable experience filled with adventure, incredible wildlife, and genuine hospitality. Our guide, Amiri (goes by the name Cheena), was absolutely exceptional — knowledgeable, patient, and passionate.

J
Jay TrivediUnited States 🇺🇸
★★★★★
An adventure beyond my expectations. Brilliant

This was such an amazing trip that covered the Ngorongoro crater area with all its wildlife roaming freely, the Serengeti and the migration of the wildebeest crossing over into Kenya. Wonderful varied accommodation from well equipped tents with all amenities to hotels and lodges. Zebras, lions with cubs, bathing hippos, leopards during the night safari and numerous birds. Elephants and giraffes were everywhere — all in all a fabulous tour.

C
ColleenAustralia 🇦🇺
★★★★★
Who could ask for more?

Being river crossing time of year our anticipation of this safari to begin our visit to Tanzania was high and was realised. We departed Arusha and headed for Tarangire National Park. As expected the elephants were prolific and backed up with many other wildlife to keep us happy as well. We stayed at Elephant Lodge which is constructed from old shipping containers. It was terrific — nice accommodation, food and lovely staff.

T
Truddy WaltonAustralia 🇦🇺
★★★★★
Allano was fun, prepared, and accommodating

If you’re looking for the ultimate safari experience, look no further than Active Wonders Safari! Our adventure in Tanzania and Kenya was nothing short of spectacular, thanks to the impeccable planning and guidance from Allano himself. From the moment we arrived, Allano took care of every detail, ensuring that our safaris, travel, lodging, and meals were perfectly coordinated.

L
Lindsey RobertsonGermany 🇩🇪
★★★★★
A dream come true for us, amazing safari trip!

We booked direct with Active Wonders (Allano) and from the very beginning, the communication has been great and he has been very transparent as well. We booked 5-nights Luxury Safari covering all parts of Serengeti all the way to the north. Thank you so much for accommodating our group since we kept adding people — we ended up with a group of 9! During the trip we got 2 cars and 2 drivers (Amini and Mariki), and Allano also came along.

J
JohannesIndonesia 🇮🇩
★★★★★
Safari with Wonderful Team

We had an amazing 10-day safari in Tanzania with our wonderful guide, Baraka. We learned so much from him about the country, its people, and the incredible wildlife. He was also a pleasure to be around! A special thanks to Active Wonders Safaris for organizing such a memorable trip. Everything was perfectly arranged.

B
Benoit RSpain 🇪🇸
★★★★★
We are definitely going back with them

If you’re looking for the ultimate safari experience, look no further than Active Wonders Safari! Our adventure in Tanzania and Kenya was nothing short of spectacular, thanks to the impeccable planning and guidance from Allano himself. His knowledge and passion for wildlife were evident throughout the journey.

W
Repeat guestUnited States 🇺🇸
Good to know

Frequently Asked Questions – 12-Day Kenya and Tanzania Safari

Everything travellers ask us about this route. Can’t find it here? We reply within hours.

The price depends on your group size, accommodation tier and travel dates. The rates table above shows the per-person price for every group size; send us your dates for an exact, all-inclusive quote with no booking fees.

July, August, September and October. These are the months when the wildebeest herds are concentrated in the Masai Mara and the Northern Serengeti (Kogatende) and cross the Mara River. Camps near the river fill up early, so book well ahead.

While wildlife viewing is year-round in Amboseli, Lake Nakuru, Masai Mara, Central Serengeti, and Ngorongoro, the herds are in the southern plains from January to March; recommends re-routing Day 6 & 7 to Ndutu during calving season.

Amboseli offers iconic views of Mount Kilimanjaro and legendary big tusker elephant herds, setting a dramatic opening tone before exploring the Great Rift Valley and big cat territories.

The upgrade runs in three short legs: a 30-minute flight from Mara to Migori, a 30-minute guided road transfer across the Isebania/Tarime border, and a 35-minute flight from Tarime into Kogatende (KOG), arriving by 12:30 PM. It turns a long day on rough roads into a morning journey; ask us for current fares.

Border health officials require proof of Yellow Fever vaccination when crossing from Kenya into Tanzania.

We recommend booking international departures from Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) after 7:30 PM.

XIIIYour Trip

Request Your Personalized Safari Proposal

Tell us how you like to travel and we will put together a personalised proposal for this route – dates, camps and a firm price per person. No payment is required at this stage.

No payment is required at this stage. We reply by email and WhatsApp, usually within a few hours.

from $3,875 / person
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