Your 10-Day Kenya & Tanzania Trip: Nairobi National Park & Beyond

Arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA, NBO) in Nairobi. Proceed through immigration and customs, then collect your luggage.

"Jika Airport in Nairobi is truly a well-organized and efficiently managed airport. From my first visit, I was impressed by the cleanliness and the high level of security in place. The staff are professional, friendly, and always ready to assist passengers, even during busy hours with long queues. You can tell that the airport management puts real effort into improving services and ensuring customer satisfaction. The location of the airport is convenient and easy to access, especially for travelers arriving by car or taxi. There is plenty of parking space, and the area feels safe and well-maintained. Inside the terminal, there are several food outlets and small cafés offering quality meals and drinks at reasonable prices. Although the airport is primarily used for cargo and business flights, it still provides a safe, comfortable, and reliable experience for anyone traveling through. I also appreciate the airport's commitment to cleanliness and environmental care. The cleaning staff are constantly working to keep every area spotless. Free Wi-Fi is available in some sections of the airport, which is very helpful for travelers who want to work or stay connected with their families while waiting for their flight. Overall, Jika Airport is a place I would highly recommend to anyone looking for efficient, secure, and comfortable air travel services. It is one of the most organized airports in Nairobi, and I hope the management continues to improve and expand its facilities to reach even higher international standards."— Zechariah Jabane

Get up close and personal with the endangered Rothschild's giraffes. Hand-feed them from a raised platform and learn about their conservation from the expert staff.

"What a sight to see! These giraffes are beautiful animals and to go get up close is amazing. Entry costs 1,500 Kenyan Shillings per non resident adult and they only accept credit card. You can walk in and purchase your ticket at the ticket window. You only need 1 hour or so. Small information centre and cafe. Kid friendly. Staff here are very nice and helpful. There are drivers available outside if you need to hire one afterwards. Gets crowded on weekends, best to come early. Giraffe Centre is next to Giraffe Manor. Absolutely recommend Giraffe Centre and couldn’t miss this before my first flight out of Kenya!"— Danielle W

Explore the historic farmhouse of Danish author Karen Blixen, offering a glimpse into colonial life in Kenya and the inspiration behind her memoir 'Out of Africa'. The serene grounds also offer a touch of nature.

"I was aware of the movie but had not seen it. So I found the information given interesting. We had a guide that lead us around the property and gave us insight into her life. The guide was very good. She told us about her life during the time of this part of her life. The coffee roaster was interesting. Also her house with replica pictures she had drawn was interesting. I will now go home and watch the movie you were not supposed to take pictures in the house although I did see some doing it"— Elizabeth Scheuer-Murphy

Visit this social enterprise workshop that empowers disadvantaged women by employing them to create beautiful, handmade ceramic beads and pottery. Browse their unique, colorful products.

"Such an amazing program for women coming out of abusive relationships or widowed. A source of income and a sense of family since 1975! Beautiful beads, jewelry, key chains and you are able to make your own creations! Second time.being here and highly recommend!"— Heidi Bauer

Embark on an early morning game drive in Nairobi National Park, Kenya's only wildlife park within a capital city. Spot lions, rhinos, giraffes, and buffalo with the city skyline as a backdrop. An essential 'urban wildlife' experience.

"This was our first park on our safari trip. We were not disappointed. Our drivers stayed with through our whole time on safari so we got to know then and the we're extremely knowledgeable both had college degrees. The park is located right in the city of Nairobi. Plan for dust during the dry season it is manageable though. The baboons are waiting for you as you enter every animal experience will be different it's was fantastic first day we saw many animals"— Elizabeth Scheuer-Murphy

Visit the renowned elephant orphanage, where you can watch baby elephants being fed and learn about their rescue and rehabilitation efforts. A moving experience highlighting conservation.

"It was great to come here to enjoy the elephants. We were able to pet some of the young elephants while the staff were sharing about the day to day activities and also the history of the Wildlife Trust and also the stories of the elephants. A great way to kick off our safari adventure."— Andrew McDonald

Immerse yourself in Kenya's rich cultural diversity at Bomas of Kenya. Explore traditional homesteads representing various tribes and enjoy vibrant cultural dance performances starting in the afternoon.

"My visit to the Bomas of Kenya in Nairobi was exceptional and unforgettable. The vibrant traditional dances, showcasing Kenya’s diverse cultures, were mesmerizing, with colorful costumes and rhythmic drumming that left me in a state of awe. I loved the reconstructed traditional homesteads that gave me a fascinating glimpse into the lifestyles of Kenya’s various ethnic groups. The attention to detail in architecture and cultural artifacts was impressive. All in all, my experience was both educational and enjoyable. This place is a must-visit for anyone wanting to connect with Kenya’s rich heritage!"— S. K. Hill

Begin your first thrilling game drive, exploring the rich wildlife of the Maasai Mara. This is your chance to spot Africa's 'Big Five' and many other fascinating animals in their natural habitat, offering an unparalleled wildlife and nature adventure.

"Loved the game experience 😁. Saw the heart of wildlife at it's most natural 😊. it's a splendid place to spend the day. I recommend an August visit of it's an occasional thing so as to see the wildebeest migration and the sweetness of your experience is fully dependent on two things your guide's or driver's experience and your attitude 😁"— Myles Mumo

Embark on an exhilarating early morning game drive, the best time to spot predators such as lions, leopards, and cheetahs, as they are most active before the heat of the day. Explore the vast savanna in search of the Big Five and other iconic African wildlife.

"Loved the game experience 😁. Saw the heart of wildlife at it's most natural 😊. it's a splendid place to spend the day. I recommend an August visit of it's an occasional thing so as to see the wildebeest migration and the sweetness of your experience is fully dependent on two things your guide's or driver's experience and your attitude 😁"— Myles Mumo

Immerse yourself in the rich traditions of the Maasai people with a visit to a local village. Learn about their daily life, cultural practices, traditional dances, and unique architecture. This experience offers a glimpse into the harmonious coexistence of the Maasai with the wilderness.

"Nice educational visit which included meeting the village, hearing their welcome songs, practicing your jump, a tour of their homes and way of life. A visit to their handmade items. Be prepared to spend a little money buying something in support of their village and don’t be afraid to negotiate on prices. And remember No is a complete sentence. Enjoy this visit and be prepared to jump!"— canyoudoanybetter

Continue your wildlife adventure with an afternoon game drive. This time of day can reveal different animal behaviors and species, with the golden hour light providing fantastic photographic opportunities.

"Loved the game experience 😁. Saw the heart of wildlife at it's most natural 😊. it's a splendid place to spend the day. I recommend an August visit of it's an occasional thing so as to see the wildebeest migration and the sweetness of your experience is fully dependent on two things your guide's or driver's experience and your attitude 😁"— Myles Mumo

Embark on a final exhilarating early morning game drive in the Maasai Mara. Witness predators on the hunt and various wildlife species active during the cooler hours, offering superb photographic opportunities.

"Loved the game experience 😁. Saw the heart of wildlife at it's most natural 😊. it's a splendid place to spend the day. I recommend an August visit of it's an occasional thing so as to see the wildebeest migration and the sweetness of your experience is fully dependent on two things your guide's or driver's experience and your attitude 😁"— Myles Mumo

Embark on an early morning game drive to witness the Serengeti's diverse wildlife as they become active. This time offers prime opportunities to spot predators such as lions, leopards, and cheetahs on the hunt, as well as vast herds of herbivores.

"Our stay at the lodge during our safari was truly exceptional. What made the experience even more memorable was the staff. They were consistently attentive, friendly, and genuinely committed to making our stay perfect. I especially appreciated how thoughtful they were about my dietary needs, especially the chef Daniel. Living with celiac disease can make travel challenging, but the team went above and beyond to ensure that every meal was safe and satisfying. They prepared gluten-free options with care, double-checked ingredients, and always reassured me that my well-being was a priority. Thanks to the combination of remarkable design, comfort, and truly exceptional service, this lodge became one of the highlights of our trip. I would wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking for an unforgettable safari experience."— Elisabetta Veli

Continue your full-day exploration with an afternoon game drive across the vast plains of the Serengeti, seeking out different wildlife species and experiencing the changing landscapes. This extended immersion into the wilderness offers ample 'adventure' as you track animals and traverse the wild.

"Serengeti National Park is truly one of the most breathtaking places on Earth. Experiencing its vast open plains, endless skies, and untouched wilderness was both humbling and unforgettable. Every game drive felt different, with incredible wildlife sightings that exceeded all expectations. We were especially fortunate to witness part of the Great Migration in January, where we saw large herds of zebras and wildebeest moving together across the plains. Watching thousands of animals migrate freely in their natural habitat was an extraordinary and emotional experience something that must be seen to be truly appreciated. The scale of the Serengeti is simply overwhelming. The silence, golden grasslands, and the feeling of being completely immersed in nature create a deep sense of peace and wonder. Sunrises and sunsets were magical, painting the sky with stunning colours while wildlife roamed peacefully nearby. The park offers a truly authentic safari experience, especially with open vehicles that provide uninterrupted views and excellent photography opportunities. Every moment felt raw, real, and deeply meaningful. This is not just a destination it’s a once in a lifetime experience. The Serengeti leaves a lasting impression on your heart and soul. Highly recommended for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a truly unforgettable safari experience."— GS

Embark on an early morning game drive to catch predators at their most active and witness the breathtaking sunrise over the vast Serengeti plains. Explore new areas of the park, keeping an eye out for the 'Big Five' and other incredible wildlife.

"Our stay at the lodge during our safari was truly exceptional. What made the experience even more memorable was the staff. They were consistently attentive, friendly, and genuinely committed to making our stay perfect. I especially appreciated how thoughtful they were about my dietary needs, especially the chef Daniel. Living with celiac disease can make travel challenging, but the team went above and beyond to ensure that every meal was safe and satisfying. They prepared gluten-free options with care, double-checked ingredients, and always reassured me that my well-being was a priority. Thanks to the combination of remarkable design, comfort, and truly exceptional service, this lodge became one of the highlights of our trip. I would wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking for an unforgettable safari experience."— Elisabetta Veli

Continue your exploration of the vast Serengeti plains, focusing on different ecosystems or following up on wildlife sightings from the morning. Look for migratory herds (seasonal) and predators resting in the shade.

"Serengeti National Park is truly one of the most breathtaking places on Earth. Experiencing its vast open plains, endless skies, and untouched wilderness was both humbling and unforgettable. Every game drive felt different, with incredible wildlife sightings that exceeded all expectations. We were especially fortunate to witness part of the Great Migration in January, where we saw large herds of zebras and wildebeest moving together across the plains. Watching thousands of animals migrate freely in their natural habitat was an extraordinary and emotional experience something that must be seen to be truly appreciated. The scale of the Serengeti is simply overwhelming. The silence, golden grasslands, and the feeling of being completely immersed in nature create a deep sense of peace and wonder. Sunrises and sunsets were magical, painting the sky with stunning colours while wildlife roamed peacefully nearby. The park offers a truly authentic safari experience, especially with open vehicles that provide uninterrupted views and excellent photography opportunities. Every moment felt raw, real, and deeply meaningful. This is not just a destination it’s a once in a lifetime experience. The Serengeti leaves a lasting impression on your heart and soul. Highly recommended for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a truly unforgettable safari experience."— GS

Enjoy a final early morning game drive, seeking out predators and other wildlife as they are most active during the cooler hours. This last experience in the Serengeti offers more opportunities for wildlife photography.

"Our stay at the lodge during our safari was truly exceptional. What made the experience even more memorable was the staff. They were consistently attentive, friendly, and genuinely committed to making our stay perfect. I especially appreciated how thoughtful they were about my dietary needs, especially the chef Daniel. Living with celiac disease can make travel challenging, but the team went above and beyond to ensure that every meal was safe and satisfying. They prepared gluten-free options with care, double-checked ingredients, and always reassured me that my well-being was a priority. Thanks to the combination of remarkable design, comfort, and truly exceptional service, this lodge became one of the highlights of our trip. I would wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking for an unforgettable safari experience."— Elisabetta Veli

Explore the 'Cradle of Mankind' at Olduvai Gorge, a paleoanthropological site critical for understanding early human evolution. Visit the museum to see fossil displays and learn about the groundbreaking discoveries made here.

"Located in middle of Serengeti plains. Cool breeze passes through the structure despite the heat I. Afternoon even without AC. The small cafe/restaurant at the place is good for relaxing a bit after a long drive across the ngongoro conservation area. There are mongoose families near by which make you feel enchanted. Amazing collection of evolution of the mankind and his journey to use tools. Do go only if you are interested in the history of evolution of mankind."— Dr Manas Parikh

Visit the stunning Ngorongoro Crater Viewpoint to witness the magnificent caldera from above. This panoramic vista offers a breathtaking introduction to the unique ecosystem you'll explore tomorrow.

"Discover the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, one of Africa’s most spectacular wildlife destinations and a true natural wonder of Tanzania. 🌍🐘 This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to an incredible concentration of wildlife, including lions, elephants, buffaloes, zebras, wildebeest, flamingos, and the rare black rhino. As you descend into the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera, you’ll experience a unique ecosystem where wildlife thrives against a stunning backdrop of green plains, soda lakes, and dramatic crater walls. A game drive in Ngorongoro Crater offers unforgettable moments—watch predators hunt, large herds graze peacefully, and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views at every turn. It’s truly one of the best places in Africa to witness the Big Five in a single day. Join Great Journey Safaris and explore the magic of Ngorongoro Crater for an unforgettable safari adventure in Tanzania."— Great Journey Safaris

Descend into the incredible Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site and natural wonder, for a full day of game viewing. This massive volcanic caldera is home to an astonishing concentration of wildlife, including the 'Big Five', often seen grazing on the open plains or by the central lake. Keep an eye out for lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalo, and leopards in this unique ecosystem.

"Absolutely staggering place. Going up and then down the crater as the same sensation as entering Jurassic Park, and it only gets more spectacular once the jungle parts to reveal the great plain. I’ll admit that many of the animas got dull quickly (you’ve seen one zebra and you’ve seen them all) but the Elephants never failed to impress. Also saw some lions out on a honeymoon (it’s a real thing, look it up…I don’t take pictures of the act though haha)"— Brendan Mc Kee

Enjoy a final invigorating walk along the Ngorongoro Crater rim, soaking in the last panoramic views of the spectacular caldera before departing for Arusha. This offers a different perspective and immersion than the previous game drive.

"It was a worthwhile adventure trip to Tanzania. It was very safe, and the driver was professional. We will definitely return, whether in summer or winter. There are many rare animal species to see in Tanzania's beautiful national parks. Beautiful places in East Africa, worth the price paid."— Nutthaporn Mary

A quick stop at the elegant Arusha Coffee Lodge's shop to browse for local Tanzanian coffee, crafts, and unique souvenirs from your trip, offering a glimpse into the region's coffee heritage.

"We stayed one night at the Arusha coffee lodge and we absolutely loved it! Our driver/ground guide (Nassoro) was extremely knowledgeable, friendly, and very helpful. We learned so much about coffee plants and various other plants and fauna around the lodge. He eventually told the staff my birthday was coming up and the whole kitchen came out singing (my first time hearing Jambo Bwana!) and an extra dessert. The rooms were absolutely gorgeous, luxurious, comfortable, and cozy. Keep in mind that it’s a lush area, and therefore mosquitoes, so definitely use the bug spray when you’re outside, especially at night. I would’ve loved to see more of Arusha, but this brief visit made me want to visit again! 😁"— Jenny Coombs

Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your international flight home to New York, NY. This activity includes the airport transfer from Arusha (approx. 1.5 hours), 3 hours for check-in and security, and time for dinner (e.g., Swahili Biryani) at the airport between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM before boarding.

"Small but extremely organized airport. Everything went smoothly on arrival and departure. You can also get a visa upon arrival without issues."— Elizabeth