10 Days Kenya & Tanzania Safari Itinerary
Embark on a luxurious 10-day adventure through Kenya and Tanzania, experiencing the best of East Africa's wildlife and culture. From the bustling city of Nairobi to the breathtaking landscapes of the Masai Mara and Serengeti, culminating in the pristine beaches of Zanzibar, this journey promises unforgettable memories.
Duration
10 days
Budget
$15000-30000
Best Time
June to October (dry season and Great Migration in Masai Mara & Serengeti) or January to February (calving season in Serengeti)
Activities
68
Daily Avg
$2,250/day
Cities
Nairobi (1d), Masai Mara (2d), Serengeti (1d), Masai Mara (1d), Serengeti National Park (2d), Ngorongoro Conservation Area (1d), Ngorongoro (1d), Zanzibar (1d)
Pace
Fast
Combining Kenya and Tanzania provides the ultimate East African safari experience, allowing you to witness the Great Migration in both the Masai Mara and Serengeti. Ending the trip in Zanzibar offers a relaxing beach escape after thrilling wildlife encounters.
Your itinerary covers 8 of 12 must-have experiences
Wildlife Safari
Day 1: Transfer to The Safari Collection's Giraffe Manor
Cultural Immersion
Day 2: Visit a local Maasai village
Great Migration Viewing
Day 4: Witness the Great Migration in Serengeti
Ngorongoro Crater Exploration
Day 8: Transfer to Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Zanzibar Beach Relaxation
Day 9: Transfer to Luxury Beach Resort
Spice Farm Tour
Day 9: Zanzibar Spice Farm Tour
Stone Town Exploration
Day 10: Stone Town Exploration (Optional)
Hot Air Balloon Ride
Day 3: Hot Air Balloon Safari
Luxury Lodge Experience
Day 2: Transfer to Luxury Camp/Lodge
Scuba Diving/Snorkeling
Day 10: Scuba diving in Zanzibar
Bush Dinner
Day 1: Dinner at The Talisman Restaurant
Visit David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage (Nairobi)
Day 1: Visit the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
Kenyan and Tanzanian cuisine is a vibrant blend of African, Arab, and Indian influences. Expect flavorful stews, grilled meats, and plenty of fresh produce. Safari lodges often offer international cuisine, but venturing out to local restaurants provides a more authentic experience.
Must-Try Dishes
A staple food made from maize flour, cooked with water to a stiff dough-like consistency. It's often served with stews or grilled meat and eaten with your hands. It's filling and a must-try for experiencing local culture.
📍 Local restaurants, roadside eateries, safari camps
Grilled meat, usually goat or beef, seasoned simply with salt and pepper. It's a social food, often shared with friends and family. The crispy, charred exterior is the best part.
📍 Roadside grills, local restaurants, butcheries
Collard greens (or kale) cooked with tomatoes, onions, and spices. A common side dish that's both nutritious and flavorful. It's a great vegetarian option.
📍 Local restaurants, homestays, safari lodges
Fragrant rice dish cooked with spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves, often with meat (chicken or beef) or vegetables. A flavorful and aromatic alternative to plain rice.
📍 Restaurants, street food stalls, Swahili food vendors
Food Neighborhoods
Known for its Swahili and seafood cuisine
Bustling market with diverse street food options
Upscale restaurants with international and local cuisine
Diverse range of restaurants catering to different tastes
Vegetarian options are increasingly available, especially in tourist areas. However, it's helpful to learn the Swahili words for 'vegetarian' (mboga) and 'without meat' (bila nyama). Halal food is widely available, particularly in Muslim-majority areas like Zanzibar and coastal regions. If you have allergies, clearly communicate your needs to restaurant staff.
It's customary to wash your hands before eating, especially when eating with your hands. Using your right hand to eat is considered polite. Sharing food is common, so don't be surprised if you're offered a taste of someone else's dish. Tipping is generally expected in restaurants, around 10%.
Zanzibar International Film Festival (ZIFF)
JulyA major cultural event in Zanzibar, attracting filmmakers and tourists. Accommodation may be more expensive and crowded.
Sauti za Busara
FebruaryA music festival in Zanzibar showcasing African music. Expect increased crowds and higher prices.
🛣️Interesting Detours & Side Trips
- 🚶Private transferFREE
08:00 AM - Arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO)
Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel.
- 🚶Private transfer$100
09:00 AM - Transfer to The Safari Collection's Giraffe Manor
Enjoy a private transfer to the iconic Giraffe Manor, a unique boutique hotel where giraffes roam freely.
- 🚶N/AFREE
10:00 AM - Check-in & Giraffe Feeding Experience
Check into your luxurious suite and participate in the magical giraffe feeding experience. Interact with the friendly giraffes as they poke their heads through the windows.
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- 🚶N/A$150
12:00 PM - Lunch at Giraffe Manor
Enjoy a gourmet lunch at Giraffe Manor, savoring delicious cuisine while overlooking the beautiful grounds.
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- 🚶Private transfer$150
02:00 PM - Visit the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust
Visit the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, an elephant orphanage dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating orphaned elephants.
Book on Klook - 🚶Private transfer$200
06:00 PM - Dinner at The Talisman Restaurant
Enjoy a fine dining experience at The Talisman Restaurant, known for its eclectic cuisine and beautiful ambiance.
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Karen
Karen is a leafy suburb known for its colonial-era houses and proximity to wildlife attractions like the Giraffe Centre and David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust.
📅 Best Time to Visit
June to October (dry season and Great Migration in Masai Mara & Serengeti) or January to February (calving season in Serengeti)
During the peak season, expect clear skies and warm temperatures during the day, with cooler evenings. Rainfall is minimal, making it perfect for game drives and outdoor activities. The humidity is generally low.
June to October is the dry season, ideal for wildlife viewing due to sparse vegetation and the Great Migration in Masai Mara and Serengeti. January to February is the calving season in Serengeti.
Check for public holidays in Kenya and Tanzania as they can affect travel arrangements and availability.
Getting Around
Matatus (minibuses) in Nairobi; SGR train to Mombasa
Use Uber/Bolt in Nairobi. Book SGR train tickets online for Nairobi–Mombasa.
Travel
2000-5000 USDAccommodation
500-2000 USD per nightFood
150-300 USD per dayActivities
3000-7000 USDConsider internal flights to save time, but be aware that they can be expensive.
Look for luxury eco-lodges that offer all-inclusive packages to manage costs.
Bargain respectfully when shopping for souvenirs, but avoid haggling excessively over small amounts.
- Pack light, focusing on neutral-colored clothing for safaris.
- Consult your doctor about necessary vaccinations and malaria prophylaxis.
- Book accommodations and tours well in advance, especially during peak season.
- Bring binoculars for optimal wildlife viewing.
- Respect local customs and traditions.
- Learn a few basic Swahili phrases.
- Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen.
- Keep a copy of your passport and visa separate from the originals.
- Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty theft.
- Negotiate prices before purchasing souvenirs.
- 1Lightweight clothing
- 2Hiking boots
- 3Sunscreen
- 4Insect repellent
- 5Camera with zoom lens
Visa applications for Kenya and Tanzania
Apply online (e-Visa) at least 1-2 months in advance to avoid delays.
International flights to Nairobi (NBO) or Kilimanjaro (JRO)/Dar es Salaam (DAR)
Book 6-12 months in advance for best prices, especially during peak season.
Safari tour operator and package
Book 6-12 months ahead, as popular lodges and itineraries sell out quickly, particularly for the Great Migration.
Travel Insurance (including medical evacuation)
Purchase immediately after booking your trip to cover unforeseen cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost luggage.
Required vaccinations and malaria prophylaxis prescription
Consult your doctor 4-6 weeks before departure for necessary shots (e.g., Yellow Fever certificate may be required).
Internal flights between parks or cities (e.g., Nairobi-Maasai Mara, Arusha-Serengeti)
Often included in safari packages, but if booking independently, secure 3-6 months in advance as planes are small and fill up quickly.
Pre- and post-safari accommodation in gateway cities (Nairobi, Arusha)
Book 3-6 months in advance, especially if you have specific preferences for hotels or guesthouses.
Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate
Mandatory for entry if you've traveled through a country with Yellow Fever risk. Ensure it's valid and easily accessible.
Note: Travel conditions, regulations, and local customs may change. We recommend verifying essential details — such as visa requirements, emergency contacts, and payment options — closer to your travel date.
SIM & Connectivity
SIM Options
📍 Airalo app or website
📍 Safaricom shops at airports or in major cities
📍 Vodacom shops at airports or in major cities
📍 Online rental services, airport pick-up/drop-off
WiFi is generally available in hotels, lodges, and cafes in major cities and tourist areas. However, internet speeds can be slow and unreliable, especially in remote areas and safari camps. Some lodges may charge for WiFi access. Don't rely on consistent WiFi for important tasks.
Useful Apps
Purchase a local SIM card upon arrival for the best data rates and coverage. Ensure your phone is unlocked before traveling. Download offline maps and translation apps before you go. Consider a portable power bank to keep your devices charged during long days on safari. Check roaming charges with your home provider, but local SIMs are almost always more cost-effective.
Electric Socket Guide
Socket Types
Three rectangular pins (UK style)
240V
50Hz
Tipping Etiquette
10% if no service charge
Round up or KES 100
KES 200–500 per bag
Tip safari guides KES 1,000–2,000/day.
Safety & Travel Advisories
Be aware of petty theft in urban areas. When on safari, follow your guide's instructions and maintain a safe distance from wildlife. Consult your doctor about necessary vaccinations and malaria prophylaxis.
Check official government advisories for the latest safety information, entry requirements, and travel warnings before your trip.
Emergency Numbers
999 or 112
999
999
Emergency response varies by area
Payments
M-Pesa mobile money is used everywhere
Accepted at hotels and upscale restaurants
M-Pesa QR codes common
M-Pesa is the primary payment method. Carry cash as backup.
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The best time is during the dry season, from June to October, for optimal wildlife viewing, especially the Great Migration. Alternatively, January to February is excellent for witnessing the calving season in the Serengeti.
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