Embark on a captivating 13-day Kenya and Tanzania Safari, immersing yourself in the essence of these two East African nations. Your adventure kicks off in the vibrant city of Nairobi, Kenya, where your knowledgeable guide will provide a comprehensive briefing on the upcoming 13-day expedition. This carefully curated safari showcases the very best that East Africa has to offer, Highlighting:

• Loisaba Conservancy: Nestled in Laikipia County, Kenya, this conservancy is renowned for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and conservation efforts.
• Masai Mara: Explore this iconic wildlife conservation area, boasting the largest lion population in Kenya and forming an integral part of the Serengeti ecosystem.
• Serengeti: Witness the world-famous Wildebeest migration, a spectacle that unfolds across the vast plains of the Serengeti National Park.
• Ngorongoro Crater: Experience the unique Ngorongoro Crater, recognized as the only intact caldera in the world, teeming with a rich diversity of wildlife.
• Tarangire National Park: Uncover Tanzania’s hidden gem, Tarangire National Park, known for its abundant wildlife and picturesque landscapes.

This comprehensive safari promises a once-in-a-lifetime journey through East Africa, showcasing the extraordinary natural wonders and wildlife diversity that make these destinations truly exceptional.

Included:

• Professional Guide
• Comfortable 10-seater Safari vehicle
• 12 Nights’ Accommodation as per Itinerary
• All Transfers, Domestic Flights and Activities as per Itinerary
• Park and Concession Fees
• Meals as per Itinerary (B – Breakfast, L – Lunch, D- Dinner)
• Daily Drinking Water

Excluded:

• Restaurant Meals as indicated
• Visa’s, Airport Transfers, Curios and Tips
• Optional Excursions as indicated
• Balloon Safaris
• Pre and/or Post Accommodation

Day 1: Nairobi (Hemingway’s Nairobi Hotel) (D)

Upon landing at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, you will receive a transfer to your hotel for relaxation and an overnight stay. At the hotel, a brief overview of the safari will be provided by our safari specialist upon your arrival. Subsequently, enjoy dinner and spend the night at Hemingway’s Nairobi. Situated just 40 minutes’ drive from Nairobi’s international airport and nestled between Nairobi National Park and the foot of the Ngong Hills, Hemingway’s Nairobi Hotel is positioned to the South West of the city in the serene suburb of Karen

Day 2: Nairobi – Loisaba Conservancy (Elewana Loisaba Tented Camp) (B, L, D) (Fly-In)

Embark on a morning flight from Nairobi to Loisaba Conservancy, situated on the expansive Laikipia Plateau—an area surpassing the size of several of Kenya’s major national parks. To the south, the plateau’s grassy plains give way to valleys, cliffs, and escarpments that offer breathtaking vistas of the snow-capped Mount Kenya.

Savour lunch at the camp, and then partake in an afternoon game drive, culminating in a scenic sundowner. Later, return to your lodge for a delightful dinner and an overnight stay at Elewana Loisaba Tented Camp.

Day 3: Loisaba Conservancy (Elewana Loisaba Tented Camp) (B, L, D)

Embark on an early morning game drive to fully immerse yourself in the rich biodiversity of Loisaba Conservancy, home to over 250 bird species and 50 wildlife species. Keep a keen eye out for iconic creatures like elephants, buffalo, Grevy’s zebras, big cats, and the elusive wild dogs. Following a bush breakfast, experience a traditional mode of transport in the region by Riding Like a Local on a camel.

Choose from a variety of Design Your Day activities, such as taking a Walking Safari led by a Samburu Guide to intimately explore the diverse landscapes of Loisaba. Opt for a serene Horse Ride, allowing you to approach plains and forest animals like zebras, giraffes, and even elephants gently. Visit an Anti-Poaching Dog Unit to gain insights into their daily routines and witness an anti-poaching demonstration. Return to your camp for lunch and enjoy a leisurely afternoon.

As the day unfolds, relish a dinner under the stars in the serene ambiance of Elewana Loisaba Tented Camp

Day 4: Loisaba Conservancy – Masai Mara (Olare Mara Kempinski) (B, L, D) (Fly-In)

Following breakfast, you will be transported to Wilson Airport for an air transfer to the renowned Masai Mara Game Reserve. In the expansive plains of the Masai Mara, a haven for diverse wildlife, experience the highest concentration of species in the country.

The wildlife spectacle is continuous, with the Mara boasting the largest lion population in Kenya. After settling in, partake in an exhilarating game drive, complemented by a Scenic Sundowner.

Morning or afternoon safaris provide an excellent opportunity to explore the wider surroundings and encounter larger wildlife. Alternatively, guided walks offer a chance to delve into the world of smaller creatures, appreciate birdlife, and track animals through their footprints. In the later evening, return to your lodge for relaxation, followed by dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 5: Masai Mara (Olare Mara Kempinski) (B, L, D)

Embark on a morning game drive today to seek out any animals you might have missed during your initial excursion. Over the next two thrilling days at your camp, traverse the expansive savanna in pursuit of abundant wildlife in one of Kenya’s most spectacular game reserves. Bordering Tanzania, the Mara is an integral component of the Serengeti ecosystem.

Annually, as part of the Great Migration’s cycle, over a million wildebeest, accompanied by zebra and gazelle, journey north to graze on the lush grasses of the Mara. Follow the Mara River to witness crocodiles basking in the sun, hippos wallowing in muddy waters, and monkeys swinging wildly overhead through the trees. In the later evening, return to your lodge for relaxation, followed by dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 6: Masai Mara – Lake Victoria (Tanzania: Lukuba Island Lodge) (B, L, D) (Fly-in Transfer)

Following breakfast at your lodge, your guide will escort you to the nearest airstrip for an air transfer to Lukuba Island on Lake Victoria in Tanzania. This connection from Masai Mara to Tanzania is facilitated in collaboration with Safarilink Aviation in Kenya and Coastal Aviation in Tanzania, offering seasonal air transfers. The route is accessible through Migori on the Kenyan side and Tarime on the Tanzanian side, near the Isabania border point.

The transfer involves a short and scenic road journey between the two airstrips of Migori and Tarime, providing a convenient and time-saving option for those wishing to explore both sides. After the border process, you will be transported to Lukuba Island, situated 73 km from the Isabania border.

Upon arrival at the shores of Lake Victoria, a local boat will take you to the island for relaxation. Later, enjoy a boat sunset experience, followed by dinner and an overnight stay on Lukuba Island.

Day 7: Lake Victoria – Serengeti (Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge) (B, L, D) (215km)

In the early morning, following breakfast at your lodge, our boat rider will transport you offshore to meet your driver who will then proceed to drive from Lukuba to Serengeti National Park. Along the way, you will make a stop at the Mwalimu Nyerere Museums, the final resting place of the first President of Tanzania and the Father of the Nation. This visit serves as a mark of respect and an opportunity to delve into the history of his legacy before continuing the journey to Serengeti National Park.

The road trip, spanning approximately 4 hours on a bumpy and dusty road, will take you through the scenic route. Upon entering the Serengeti, enjoy an en-route game drive while gradually approaching your accommodations. A picnic lunch will be served along the way, and you will arrive at your lodge for relaxation, followed by dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 8-9: Serengeti (Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge) (B, L, D)

After breakfast in the morning, embark on a game drive in the expansive Serengeti, relishing the thrill of wildlife viewing in this vast and sun-soaked region. The park is crisscrossed by rivers that provide

habitats for a diverse array of birds, mammals, and reptiles, while antelope graze on the open plains. Keep your eyes peeled for Africa’s iconic Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and Cape buffalo), and also seek out the intriguing Little Five (ant lion, leopard tortoise, elephant shrew, rhinoceros beetle, and buffalo weaver), which may be concealed behind rocks or perched on acacia branches.

For an unforgettable experience, consider taking part in a hot air balloon ride—a must-do in the Serengeti. Drifting gracefully above the grassy plains in the soft light of dawn, spotting wildlife from the suspended basket is a memory that will stay with you forever. The experience concludes with a champagne breakfast upon landing, adding a delightful touch to this remarkable activity. Please note that this activity incurs an additional cost.

Day 10: Serengeti – Ngorongoro Crater (Ngorongoro Serena Lodge) (B, L, D) (145km)

Start your day with breakfast at your lodge before embarking on a departure from Serengeti National Park to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Prior to leaving the Serengeti, indulge in a morning game drive in the Seronera area. Following the game drive, proceed to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, with lunch served at a designated picnic area.

The journey spans approximately 4 hours of driving on a bumpy and dusty road, leading you to your lodge within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Upon arrival, a refreshing welcome drink awaits, providing a moment of relaxation at your lodge before enjoying dinner and settling in for an overnight stay at Serena Lodge.

Day 11: Ngorongoro Crater – Karatu (Karatu Acacia Lodge)  (B, L, D) (40km)

Commence today’s adventures with an early wake-up at 6:30 am. Following breakfast at your lodge, your drivers and guides will be prepared for a brief transfer to the world’s largest caldera, “The Ngorongoro Crater.” Today’s exploration involves descending to the crater floor for a 7-hour game viewing and drive.

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the crater was formed between two and three million years ago when a volcano erupted and subsequently collapsed into itself. Today, it spans approximately 100 square miles. Arriving at the crater around 8 am, you will commence the descent into the center, where you’ll discover a rich history of occupation by various tribes, including the Mbulu and Datoga until the Maasai took over in the 19th century. The crater has become a popular travel destination for visitors worldwide.

Home to around 25,000 larger animals, including Cape buffalo, rhinoceros, wildebeest, zebra, and a particularly dense population of lions, the crater offers a remarkable wildlife spectacle. At approximately 1 pm, a picnic lunch will be served at the hippo pool. Later in the day, exit the crater and head to your lodge in Karatu town.

Day 12: Karatu – Day excursion to Lake Eyasi (Karatu Acacia Lodge) (B, L, D)

Indulge in a morning breakfast served at your lodge. Following this, embark on a journey to Lake Eyasi for a series of cultural activities with the locals. Lake Eyasi, situated approximately 50 km from the town of Karatu, promises a unique and authentic cultural experience for those seeking fulfilment.

Engage with the descendants of the earliest inhabitants, individuals who maintain a symbiotic relationship with their environment—a pure example of an anarchistic society with no set rules. Spend a day with the Hadzabe people, participating in a hunting expedition. These Bushmen rely on bows and arrows for hunting and gather wild berries and fruits. They represent the last descendants of the ancestors who took their first steps along the Rift Valley about two hundred thousand years ago.

Additionally, explore the Datoga community, known for crafting copper and aluminium into bracelets, knives, and other tools. After a culturally enriching experience and lunch, return to Karatu at your lodge for relaxation, followed by dinner and an overnight stay.

Dy 13: Karatu – Tangerine National Park – Departure (B, L) (140km)

Embark on a journey to Tarangire National Park for a half-day game drive. Tarangire is often overlooked, yet it boasts the distinction of being the least visited park along Tanzania’s northern circuit—a fact that belies its incredible beauty. The park is a hidden gem, with its substantial elephant population, iconic Baobab trees, and diverse wildlife, making it one of the country’s most captivating destinations for breathtaking photos and immersing oneself in the splendour of the world’s largest land mammals.

Upon arrival, your guide will provide insights into the crucial ecosystem of this remarkable park before commencing a 6-hour game drive. The exploration will be followed by a picnic lunch, and subsequently, you will exit the park en-route to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward journey. The approximately 3-hour journey from Tarangire to the airport marks the conclusion of our enriching experience with you.

*Sandy Tracks reserves the right to amend the published accommodation in the itinerary at any time due to availability at the time of booking