The East African Explorer Safari is our most popular combined East Africa safaris. Discover the wonders of Tanzania and Kenya on this 13 day/12 night package. Visiting Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru, Amboseli, Tarangire National Park, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater, and Serengeti.
There are 2 budget options that depart from Nairobi on Saturdays. Or, the East African Explorer Safari tour is available on a private basis. The options visit the same great parks and only vary in style of accommodation. Each program is also packed with game viewing from the shared safari bus in Kenya and shared 4×4 in Tanzania.
A minimum of 2 passengers must book in order to operate. A maximum of 7 passengers in each vehicle. Travel throughout is by road with border formalities at Namanga.
The East African Explorer Safari departs from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, Nairobi, Kenya. It returns to the same airport. If you want to add on some beach time and go to Zanzibar, you can finish the tour at Arusha Airport. Or, finish at Kilimanjaro International Airport.
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East African Explorer Safari Full Itinerary
Day 1 Nairobi
Upon arrival, clients will be transferred to the Nairobi Serena Hotel. Remainder of the day at leisure.
Option A: Nairobi Serena Hotel on bed and breakfast basis (excludes other meals, drinks and laundry)
Option B: Eka Hotel in a Superior room on a bed and breakfast basis
For those arriving early, we suggest an optional Nairobi Excursions. These are:
David Sheldrick’s Elephant Orphanage
Depart to Sheldrick Wildlife Trust situated on the outskirts of Nairobi. The Sanctuary is in the grounds of the late, Dame Daphne Sheldrick’s, house. An opportunity to view the orphaned wildlife and meet the people who handle and care for them. It’s a very interesting excursion. And the team who run the orphanage are always willing to spend time answering any questions guests may have.
Out of Africa Excursion
Follow in the footsteps of Karen Blixen. You feel swept onto the film set of Out of Africa the moment you arrive. The old colonial farmhouse is simple. Housing a few items that Karen Blixen chose and once enjoyed herself. There are also the colorful gardens to explore. Where several old coffee machines have laid untouched for decades. From here visit the Giraffe Centre, where the highly endangered Rothschild giraffe lives in peace. With an elevated viewing and feeding platform. Interact carefully with these gentle giants and learn more about them from the rangers positioned around the centre.
Day 2 Nairobi – Masai Mara National Reserve
After breakfast, you travel towards Kenya’s fertile highlands. Heading down the rift escarpment on the road built by Italian prisoners of war during World War II. On the way spot the charming chapel built at the foot of the escarpment. Pass the impressive Longonot earth satellite station as you head across the valley to Narok. Continue your travels across acres of wheat and barley, before reaching the Masai Mara in time for lunch. Following lunch set off on your first game drive, returning to the lodge as the sun sets.
Option A: Mara Serena Safari Lodge on full board basis (excludes laundry and drinks)
Option B: Keekorok Lodge on full board basis (excludes laundry and drinks)
Masai Mara National Reserve
Masai Mara National Reserve is a large wildlife reserve located in southwestern Kenya, bordering Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park. It covers an area of about 1,510 square kilometres and is named after the Maasai people who inhabit the area. The reserve is renowned for its diverse wildlife and is home to a vast array of animals including the “Big Five” (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino), as well as numerous other species such as zebras, giraffes, hyenas, wildebeest, and many others. Masai Mara is also known for the annual wildebeest migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles cross the Mara River in search of fresh grazing. The reserve offers a range of activities for visitors including game drives, hot air balloon rides, and cultural experiences with the Maasai people.
Mara Serena Safari Lodge
A masterful interpretation of a traditional Masai village, Mara Serena Lodge seemingly floats on a sea of savannah. A beautiful pool looks out over the wide plains. The rooms are Masai-influenced in style yet extremely comfortable. The main dining room, has three large domes and three small ones. Depicting Maasai manyattas (villages). Occasionally an African al fresco barbecue is available by the pool overlooking the Mara plains. Fresh fruit juices and cocktails, wines, spirits or liqueurs are available at the bar until late in the evening. At Serena, the views are stunning. It is on this very terrain, stretching endlessly before the lodge, that the annual migrations take place. Millions of wildebeest, zebra and gazelle pass through on their way to and from their alternative feeding grounds in Tanzania.
Keekorok Lodge
Keekorok Lodge lies at the southern end of the Masai Mara National Reserve. Approximately 280 kilometers from Nairobi. It is sited in the direct path of the annual migration. At the height of the migration, Keekorok is surrounded by a swarming mass of animals. And there is hardly a need to go on a game drive.
Keekorok’s charm lies in the liberal use of local building materials. Sandstone, cedar wood and other indigenous materials are used in all rooms and public areas. In front of the lodge there is a elevated walkway that meanders through a small riverine forest to a small bar. This overlooks a dam with resident hippo and other game. There are no fences around Keekorok Lodge. Therefore, it is not uncommon to see elephant and buffalo on the perimeter of the grounds or even strolling in. Though there are watchmen on the constant look out!
Day 3 Masai Mara National Reserve
Following an early breakfast, depart on a morning game drive, returning to the lodge mid-morning. After lunch, and perhaps a siesta, set off on another game drive and visit to the Masai Village. Returning to the lodge as the sunsets.
OPTIONAL Shared Hot Air Balloon Safari
Early morning shared transfer in the balloon company vehicle to the balloon staging site. You meet the pilot who provides a safety briefing. While the crew inflate the hot air balloon. At sunrise, your shared hot air balloon lifts off over the African plains. At times, your pilot will ascend to a higher altitude to give you an overview of the ecosystem. Then you descend to treetop level to silently observe the wildlife from above. After about 50 minutes, you land and enjoy your shared bush breakfast. You then return to your camp or lodge.
Please note that the cost is NOT included in the tour cost.
Option A: Mara Serena Safari Lodge on full board basis (excludes laundry and drinks)
Added value Mara Serena Hippo Pool Breakfast (not available to clients doing a Balloon Safari. Instead they will have a Bush breakfast as part of the Balloon Experience):
Crown your game viewing experience in the Mara with a “Bush Breakfast” by the Mara River Hippo Pools! One cannot resist the charming “Jambo” from the chefs and Masai warriors as they welcome you to a wonderfully set breakfast buffet. The hippos keep you company and only say “Kwaheri” (goodbye) after you have had enough.
Option B: Keekorok Lodge on full board basis (excludes laundry and drinks)
Option A: Day 4 Masai Mara – Lake Nakuru – Lake Elementaita
Leaving the Masai Mara after breakfast travel across the ‘breadbasket’ of Kenya. Where acres of wheat and barley litter the landscape as you head north to Narok. Now travel across the vast plains on the floor of the Rift Valley, stop en route for a picnic lunch. Keep an eye out for herds of giraffe and gazelle as you head up the Mai -Mahiu. Before arriving Lake Nakuru National Park for a game drive. The national park, known for its birdlife, offers a possibility to view flamingos. It is also home to Black and White rhinos. As well as the endangered Rothschild Giraffe. Late afternoon, depart to your camp situated in Soysambu Conservancy.
Option A: Elmenteita Serena Camp on full board basis (excludes laundry and drinks)
Option B: Day 4 Masai Mara – Lake Nakuru
Leaving the Masai Mara after breakfast travel across the ‘breadbasket’ of Kenya. Where acres of wheat and barley litter the landscape as you head north to Narok. Now travel across the vast plains on the floor of the Rift Valley, arriving at Lake Nakuru around midday. Once in the park, view game en route to the lodge. Following lunch and a siesta, there is an afternoon game drive returning to the lodge as the sun sets. The national park, known for its birdlife, offers a possibility to view flamingoes. It is also home to Black and White rhinos as well as the endangered Rothschild Giraffe.
Option B: Lake Nakuru Lodge on full board basis (excludes laundry and drinks)
Lake Nakuru National Park
Lake Nakuru National Park is a protected area located in the Rift Valley region of Kenya. It is approximately 160 kilometres northwest of Nairobi. The park covers an area of about 188 square kilometres. Lake Nakuru is a shallow soda lake that dominates the area. The lake is sometimes home to large flocks of flamingos. Which are attracted to the alkaline water and feed on the lake’s algae. In addition to the flamingos, the park is also home to a diverse array of wildlife. Including white rhinos, lions, leopards, buffalos, and various antelope species. The park is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 400 bird species recorded within its boundaries.
Day 5 Lake Elementaita – Amboseli National Park
Following an early breakfast, proceed to Nairobi for an early lunch (or picnic lunch dependent on road conditions). Continue south towards Amboseli, arriving at your lodge by late afternoon.
Option A: Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge on full board basis (excludes laundry and drinks)
Added Value Lake Elementaita Serena Camp Bird walk
With over 450 bird species on the Soysambu conservancy, enjoy a bird walk led by an experienced resident naturalist.
Option B: Ol Tukai Lodge on full board basis (excludes laundry and drinks)
Amboseli National Park
The park covers an area of about 392 square kilometres and is famous for its spectacular views of Mount Kilimanjaro. The highest peak in Africa. The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, lions, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, and various antelope species. It is also home to over 400 bird species, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers. Amboseli is known for its large elephant herds, which are some of the largest in Africa. You can observe these majestic animals up close on game drives. The park also offers stunning landscapes, including swamps, savannah, and acacia woodlands. Visitors can enjoy hot air balloon rides for a bird’s eye view of the park and Mount Kilimanjaro.
Day 6 Amboseli National Park
Morning and afternoon game drives in Amboseli, returning to the lodge as the sun sets.
Option A: Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge on full board basis (excludes laundry and drinks)
Added Value Amboseli Tree Planting
‘’Plant a tree for Africa and invest in the Earth’s future’’
Option B: Ol Tukai Lodge on full board basis (excludes laundry and drinks)
Day 7 Amboseli – Tarangire National Park
Following an early breakfast, catch your last views of the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro as you depart Amboseli. Travel by road to the Namanga border where you will say goodbye to your Kenya driver/guide. And perhaps some of your fellow travellers who will return to Nairobi. You meet your Tanzanian transfer driver and travel by road to Arusha where you have lunch (excludes drinks). You meet any other travellers joining the trip in Arusha and continue to Tarangire National Park. Once you pass the park gate, you begin game viewing as you make your way to the lodge. Arriving for dinner and overnight.
Option A & B: Tarangire Sopa Lodge on full board basis (excludes laundry and drinks)
Tarangire National Park
The park gets it’s name from the Tarangire River which runs through it. It is known for its large herds of elephants and diverse wildlife. Tarangire covers an area of 2,850 square kilometers. It is home to over 550 bird species. As well as lions, leopards, zebras, wildebeest, giraffes, and many more animals. The park is also known for its baobab trees and picturesque views of the Maasai Steppe and the Rift Valley. It is a popular destination for wildlife safaris and outdoor adventure activities.
Tarangire Sopa Lodge
Hidden among the kopjes, lies Tarangire Sopa Lodge, surrounded by ancient baobab trees. Spacious and airy with marble floors, the lobby has glass sliding doors that open out to a veranda. Where one can relax and enjoy the view. The ceiling has a wooden finishing. And the décor with plants in strategic places, gives it a feeling of total relaxation. Much needed after the long and dusty drive to the lodge. There is also a swimming pool for those that want to take a refreshing dip.
The lodge boasts 75 spacious rooms, all with a private lounge on entering with a mini bar. Each room has 2 queen size beds with a mosquito net around them. Ceiling fans keep the rooms cool and glass sliding doors open out onto a balcony. With a great view of the landscape beyond, and sometimes, wildlife.
Day 8 Tarangire National Park to Lake Manyara National Park
Morning game drive and lunch at the lodge in Tarangire. Then depart to Lake Manyara National Park. Arriving at your lodge perched above the Rift Valley escarpment overlooking the park for dinner and overnight.
Option A & B: Lake Manyara Serena Lodge on full board basis (excludes laundry and drinks)
Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara is a shallow alkaline lake that is a prominent feature of Lake Manyara National Park. It covers an area of 330 square kilometers and is known for its diverse wildlife. Including large herds of elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, baboons. And various species of antelope. Also home to tree-climbing lions, a behavior that is rarely observed in other areas of Africa. In addition to its wildlife, it is a bird watchers paradise. With over 400 bird species recorded, including flamingos, pelicans, storks, and various birds of prey. The terrain varies from dense forests to open grassy plains. And the views of the Great Rift Valley and the surrounding landscapes are breath-taking. It is a popular destination for wildlife safaris and bird watching tours.
Lake Manyara Serena Lodge
The lodge stands high on the edge of a towering terracotta escarpment. With panoramic views over the glittering alkaline waters of Lake Manyara. Offering a unique blend of tranquillity, wildlife discovery, and ornithological richness. And also an unprecedented range of high-adventure sports. These include mountain biking, canoeing and forest walks. While cultural choices include tours of the neighboring villages and dance displays by the local Iraqw and Sukuma people.
Grouped around a central pool, this highly unusual lodge features a simple timbered reception area, built in traditional African style. Beyond reception, lies the central dining room, bar, and veranda, below which lies the pool. Perched on the edge of the cliffs, with stunning views over the lake is the pool bar and observation point. Dotted around the grounds, are a series of circular two-story ‘rondavels’, which house the rooms. All with views over the lake.
Designed to reflect the brilliance of Lake Manyara’s unique birdlife, the architectural motif melds swooping avian curves with the gentle concentric patterns of traditional Maasai ‘Bomas’. While the vibrantly colored wall frescoes depict the colorful intricacy of bird migratory patterns.
Day 9 Lake Manyara National Park to Serengeti National Park
Morning game drive in Lake Manyara National Park. Return to the lodge for lunch. Depart for Serengeti National Park. Once you pass the Naabi Gate; the gateway to Serengeti National Park, you game view en route to the lodge. Arriving for dinner and overnight.
Option A & B: Serengeti Serena Lodge on full board basis (excludes laundry and drinks)
Serengeti National Park
Serengeti National Park covers an area of approximately 14,750 square kilometers. It is known for its vast Savannah grasslands, iconic wildlife, and annual wildebeest migration. The park is home to the “big five” animals. Lions, elephants, leopards, rhinoceros, and Cape buffaloes. As well as cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, zebras, and many other species of mammals and birds. The annual wildebeest migration is where over a million wildebeest and other herbivores migrate in search of greener pastures. It is one of the most spectacular natural events in the world. The park is also home to the Maasai people. Who have lived in the area for centuries and still practice their traditional way of life. Serengeti National Park is a popular destination for wildlife safaris and hot air balloon safaris. And its stunning landscapes and wildlife attract visitors from all over the world.
Serengeti Serena Lodge
Set high on the saddle of a tree-clad ridge, commanding panoramic views across the Serengeti. This lodge is the ultimate fusion of traditional African architecture and world-class style. And winner of numerous awards from the world travel press.
It is centrally located adjacent to the famous Western Corridor and Grumeti River. The lodge blends completely into the living landscape. A series of traditional domed ‘rondavels’ are widely spaced throughout the grounds. On the very edge of the ridge is a infinity pool that looks out over the ‘endless plains’.
The lodge showcases the cultural performance, heritage, and traditional art. Best illustrated by the lavish Makonde carvings which decorate both the rooms and the stunning domed dining room.
Day 10 Serengeti National Park
OPTIONAL Shared Hot Air Balloon Safari
Early morning shared transfer in the balloon company vehicle to the balloon staging site. You meet the pilot who provides a safety briefing. While the crew inflate the hot air balloon. At sunrise, your shared hot air balloon lifts off over the African plains. At times, your pilot will ascend to a higher altitude to give you an overview of the ecosystem. Then you descend to treetop level to silently observe the wildlife from above. After about 50 minutes, you land and enjoy your shared bush breakfast. You then return to your camp or lodge.
Please note that the cost is NOT included in the tour cost.
Morning and afternoon game drives with meals and overnight at the lodge.
Option A & B: Serengeti Serena Lodge on full board basis (excludes laundry and drinks)
Day 11 Serengeti National Park to Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Depart the lodge and game view as you make your way to Ngorongoro Conservation Area. A picnic lunch box is enjoyed en route. Arrive at your lodge perched on the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater for the afternoon at leisure, dinner and overnight.
Option A & B: Ngorongoro Serena Lodge on full board basis (with picnic lunch box) (excludes laundry and drinks)
Ngorongoro Conservation Area
The Ngorongoro Crater, ‘The eighth wonder of the world’, is home to an estimated 30,000 animals. Making it one of the most densely populated wildlife areas in the world. The area is also home to the Maasai people, who have lived in the area for centuries. And still practice their traditional way of life. In addition to the wildlife, the area is known for its stunning landscapes. Including the Ngorongoro Crater, the Olduvai Gorge, and the Empakai Crater. Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It offers a unique biosphere, which has remained virtually unchanged since the dawn of time. And is a popular destination for wildlife safaris and outdoor adventure activities.
Ngorongoro Serena Lodge
Regularly voted one of the best hotels in the world, this unique lodge clings to the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater. The largest and most perfect volcanic crater on Earth. Long and low, the lodge is built from local river stone and camouflaged with indigenous vines. It blends completely into the landscape, therefore, it is entirely invisible from the floor of the Crater 600 meters below.
Hugging the contours of the jagged Crater rim, the lodge takes its inspiration from the so-called ‘Cradle of Mankind’. The prehistoric site of Olduvai Gorge, which lies close by. Linked by arched stone passages and timbered decks, its walls are decorated with stylized prehistoric cave paintings. And lit by flaring torches. Decorated with cave paintings, the rooms are strung around the Crater rim. Each has its own rock-enclosed balcony and all enjoy completely uninterrupted views of the volcanic amphitheater far below.
Day 12 Ngorongoro Conservation Area (Ngorongoro Crater)
Early departure and descend to the floor of the Ngorongoro Crater. You game drive in this paradise. With a space of only 102 square miles and a resident wildlife population of more than 30,000 mammals, there is a great chance that you might see all of the big five. A picnic lunch box is provided at a scenic location with the floor of the crater. In the afternoon, you return to the rim of the crater and continue to your lodge for dinner and overnight.
Option A & B: Ngorongoro Serena Lodge on full board basis (with picnic lunch box) (excludes laundry and drinks)
Day 13 Ngorongoro Conservation Area to Nairobi (or Arusha or Zanzibar)
Those awake early enough will be able to enjoy the sunrise across the eastern rim of the Ngorongoro Crater. Following breakfast, you depart the lodge and begin your journey back to Arusha. Arriving in the city for lunch (excludes drinks). Then transfer to Nairobi and drop off at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your departure flight. End of your East African Explorer Safari.
Travelers wishing to extend to Zanzibar or depart from Kilimanjaro International Airport and not return to Nairobi; may do so at no extra charge. However there is no reduction for the unused transfer to Nairobi.
East African Explorer Safari Tour Option B Rates | Per Person Sharing | Single Supplement |
| 1st January to 29th February 2024 | $6075 | $880 |
| 1st to 31st March 2024 | $5300 | $620 |
| 1st April to 20th May 2024 | $4760 | $90 |
| 21st May to 19th June 2024 | $5565 | $390 |
| 20th June to 31st October 2024 | $6390 | $1020 |
| 1st November to 10th December 2024 | $5250 | $565 |
| 11th to 31st December 2024 | $6520 | $1045 |
Child rates available on request.
Christmas and Easter supplements apply.
Park, reserve, and concession fees used in these rates are based on current information. Should there be increases in these fees, the increase will be passed on to clients.
East African Explorer Safari Cost Includes
Landside meet and greet services
Transfers as specified
Transport for safari sector in 4×4 vehicles on a shared basis with maximum 6 passengers per vehicle
Guaranteed window seats
Services of experienced bilingual English-speaking driver-guides on the scheduled (seat-in-vehicle) safaris. Languages including Spanish, French, German and Italian are available on request and subject to availability
Game drives and activities as specified in the itinerary
All accommodation and meals as specified
All park fees and government taxes (except Zanzibar Infrastructure Tax where applicable)
Filtered water will be provided in safari vehicles. Please bring reusable water bottles.
East African Explorer Safari Cost Excludes
International and regional flights (except where specified)
Airport taxes except on tickets we issue
Passport and visa fees
Zanzibar Infrastructure Tax (where applicable)
Hot air balloon safaris
Driver-guide gratuities
Dining rooms tips and porterage
Personal travel, baggage, and medical insurance
Drinks, Laundry, Telephone bills and any items of a personal nature (except where specified)
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