8 Days Masai Mara and Serengeti Fly-in Safari Itinerary
Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO): Welcome to Tanzania! Upon arrival, you'll be met by your guide or representative who will assist with immigration and baggage collection.
Transfer to Arusha Airport: After clearing immigration, you’ll be driven to Arusha Airport for your domestic flight.
Flight to Seronera Airstrip in Central Serengeti: Enjoy a scenic flight over Tanzania's vast landscapes, which offers a bird’s eye view of the beautiful terrain as you head toward the Serengeti.
Transfer to Camp/Lodge: After a short transfer, you’ll reach your luxury tented camp or lodge, nestled in the heart of the Serengeti, where you can take in the surrounding wilderness.
Lunch at the Lodge/Camp: Enjoy a delicious lunch at the lodge, with a mix of local and international cuisine, and prepare for your afternoon adventure.
Afternoon Game Drive: After lunch, head out for your first exciting game drive through the Central Serengeti. The area is teeming with wildlife, including large populations of predators, grazers, and a variety of bird species.
Early Morning Wake-Up Call: Start the day with a pre-dawn wake-up call to catch the beautiful sunrise over the Serengeti. The early hours offer the best chance to spot predators at their most active and the plains coming to life with wildlife.
Sunrise Game Drive: Embark on a thrilling early morning game drive to explore the vast savannah of Central Serengeti. At this time, the wildlife is often abundant, with lions, cheetahs, and leopards on the hunt, as well as wildebeests, zebras, and elephants grazing in the cool morning light.
Breakfast at the Camp/Lodge: After your morning safari, return to the camp/lodge for a well-deserved breakfast. Enjoy a selection of hot and cold options, such as fresh fruit, pastries, eggs, and local specialties, all served with a side of beautiful views.
Full-Day Game Drive: Head out for a full-day game drive, delving deeper into the Serengeti’s landscapes. The Central Serengeti is renowned for its high concentration of wildlife, from the Big Five (lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, and rhinos) to migratory herds, hyenas, and abundant birdlife. Your guide will lead you to the best spots for sightings, including river crossings, kopjes (rock outcrops), and wide plains dotted with animals.
Picnic Lunch in the Wilderness (or return to the lodge): Depending on your preference, you can enjoy a picnic lunch in the wild, surrounded by the Serengeti's natural beauty. Alternatively, you can return to the camp for a relaxed meal.
Optional Activities:
Hot Air Balloon Safari (extra cost): For an unforgettable experience, you can take a hot air balloon ride over the Serengeti. As the sun rises and illuminates the plains below, you'll drift silently over the landscape, getting a bird's-eye view of the herds, rivers, and the vast expanse of the park.
Guided Nature Walk: If you're interested in exploring the Serengeti on foot, a guided nature walk offers a closer connection with the environment. Led by an experienced guide, you'll learn about the smaller details of the ecosystem, such as tracks, plants, and insects, and gain insights into the land’s history and conservation efforts.
Dinner and Overnight Stay: After a full day of adventure, return to your luxury camp or lodge for a leisurely dinner. Reflect on your day while enjoying a delicious meal, accompanied by the sounds of the African night.
Breakfast at the Camp/Lodge in Central Serengeti: Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at your camp/lodge in the heart of the Serengeti. Enjoy a wide selection of local and international dishes, fueled by the anticipation of your upcoming adventure to the northern part of the park.
Morning Game Drive en Route to Northern Serengeti: After breakfast, embark on a scenic game drive as you make your way to Northern Serengeti. The journey itself offers more opportunities to spot wildlife, and your guide will take you through diverse landscapes. Depending on the season, you might be able to witness part of the Great Migration as it passes through this region, with thousands of wildebeest and zebras crossing the plains. You'll also have the chance to observe lions, giraffes, elephants, and a variety of bird species as you travel north.
Arrival at Your Luxury Camp/Lodge in Northern Serengeti: Upon reaching the Northern Serengeti, you will be welcomed at your luxurious camp/lodge, where you'll be greeted with refreshing drinks and a warm welcome from the staff.
Lunch at the Camp/Lodge: Enjoy a sumptuous lunch at your new location, with fresh and flavorful dishes prepared using local ingredients. Take time to unwind and enjoy the stunning surroundings of the Northern Serengeti, known for its quieter atmosphere and abundant wildlife.
Afternoon Relaxation or Optional Activities: Relaxation: Spend the afternoon unwinding at the camp or lodge. Take in the stunning views of the surrounding plains, and enjoy the facilities available at your accommodation, such as a pool, spa, or lounge area. The Northern Serengeti offers a peaceful environment for those seeking rest and a closer connection with nature. Optional Bush Walks: If you’re looking to get a more intimate experience with the Serengeti, consider taking a guided bush walk. These walks are led by trained Maasai or other local guides, who will share their knowledge about the smaller elements of the ecosystem, such as plant life, animal tracks, and survival techniques in the wild. Cultural Interactions: Many lodges in Northern Serengeti offer cultural experiences, where you can interact with local Maasai or other tribes. These experiences allow you to learn about traditional customs, daily life, dances, and songs, giving you a richer understanding of the culture that thrives alongside the wilderness.
Dinner and Overnight Stay in Northern Serengeti: After a relaxing afternoon, enjoy a delicious dinner at your camp/lodge. The evening is perfect for reflecting on your journey so far, listening to the sounds of the African bush, and perhaps even catching sight of nocturnal animals as you dine under the stars.
Early Morning Game Drive in Northern Serengeti: Start your day early with a thrilling morning game drive. The Northern Serengeti is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, and at this time, the wildlife is active and abundant. Depending on the season, you may be able to witness the Great Migration, with thousands of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traversing the plains in search of fresh grazing grounds. Early mornings also present an opportunity to spot predators such as lions, leopards, and cheetahs in action.
Breakfast at the Camp/Lodge: After an exciting morning safari, return to your camp or lodge for a hearty breakfast. Enjoy fresh fruits, pastries, eggs, and local Tanzanian specialties as you prepare for another adventurous day ahead.
Full-Day Game Drive in Northern Serengeti: Your guide will take you on a comprehensive game drive through the northern section of the Serengeti, which is famous for the spectacular annual migration of wildebeest and other herbivores. You may be fortunate enough to witness large herds of wildebeest and zebras on the move. The Northern Serengeti is one of the key points of the Great Migration, especially around the Mara River, where dramatic river crossings take place.
Picnic Lunch in the Bush (or Return to Camp): Depending on the location of your game drive, you can enjoy a picnic lunch in the bush, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the Serengeti. Your guide will set up a safe and comfortable spot where you can savor a packed lunch while taking in the wilderness around you. Alternatively, if you prefer, you can return to the camp or lodge for a leisurely lunch.
Explore the Mara River for Potential Wildebeest Crossings: One of the highlights of the northern Serengeti is the Mara River, which plays a central role in the Great Migration. If your timing is right, you may witness the thrilling spectacle of wildebeest crossing the river, often with crocodiles lurking in the waters below, ready to strike. This dramatic crossing is one of nature's most awe-inspiring events and a must-see experience when visiting the Serengeti.
Dinner and Overnight Stay in Northern Serengeti: After a full day of wildlife encounters, return to your luxury camp or lodge for dinner. Relax and recount the day's adventures over a delicious meal, perhaps with a glass of wine as you enjoy the serene atmosphere of the Serengeti.
Breakfast at the Camp/Lodge in Northern Serengeti: Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your luxury camp or lodge in Northern Serengeti. This morning marks the start of a new adventure as you prepare for your transfer to the iconic Masai Mara in Kenya.
Transfer to Kogatende Airstrip for Flight to Masai Mara: After breakfast, you will be driven to Kogatende Airstrip, where you’ll board a scheduled flight to the Masai Mara. The flight offers stunning aerial views of the African savannah, with sweeping vistas of plains, rivers, and rolling hills that will give you a taste of what’s to come.
Arrival at Mara Triangle: Upon arrival at the Mara Triangle airstrip, you’ll be met by your driver or camp representative and transferred to your luxury camp or lodge in the Masai Mara. The Mara Triangle is a part of the Greater Masai Mara Reserve, renowned for its abundant wildlife, diverse landscapes, and proximity to the famous Mara River.
Lunch at the Camp/Lodge: Arrive at your luxury camp or lodge and settle in. Enjoy a delicious lunch with panoramic views of the Mara. Many camps and lodges in this area are located in prime wildlife areas, giving you a sense of serenity and immersion in nature.
Lunch: Return to the lodge/camp for lunch, followed by some leisure time to relax or enjoy a swim (if available).
Afternoon at Leisure: After lunch, take some time to relax and unwind. Depending on the amenities offered at your accommodation, you can enjoy the swimming pool, spa services, or simply lounge in your tent or lodge with a view of the savannah.
Evening Game Drive in Mara Triangle: Later in the afternoon, set off for your first game drive in the Mara Triangle. This area is famous for its rich wildlife, including the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros), as well as cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, and an array of bird species. Your guide will take you through the best wildlife viewing areas, giving you the chance to spot predators, grazers, and other animals as they begin their evening activities.
Dinner and Overnight Stay in Mara Triangle: Dinner and Overnight Stay in Mara Triangle: After an exciting game drive, return to your camp or lodge for dinner. Enjoy a sumptuous meal, typically featuring a mix of international and local dishes, while listening to the sounds of the African night. The camp or lodge’s atmosphere will be perfect for unwinding after a thrilling day, as you prepare for the next day's adventures.
Early Morning Wake-Up Call for Sunrise Game Drive: Your day begins with an early wake-up call to catch the breathtaking sunrise over the Masai Mara. Early mornings are the best time to see wildlife as the animals are most active. The soft light of dawn provides perfect conditions for photography, and you’ll have a chance to see predators in action, such as lions hunting or leopards basking in the morning sun.
Morning Game Drive: After sunrise, embark on a thrilling game drive through the Mara Triangle. This part of the Masai Mara is known for its high concentration of wildlife. Depending on the time of year, you might encounter herds of wildebeest and zebras grazing, with predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas in close pursuit. The Mara River, home to crocodiles and hippos, is also a key highlight for game drives, as many animals gather around it for water.
Breakfast at the Camp/Lodge: After your morning game drive, return to your luxury camp or lodge for a satisfying breakfast. Enjoy fresh fruit, pastries, eggs, and locally inspired dishes while taking in the stunning views of the Mara's vast plains.
Full-Day Game Drive in Mara Triangle: Following breakfast, head out for a full-day game drive to further explore the incredible wildlife of the Mara Triangle. Your guide will take you to different areas of the reserve, including the Mara River (for potential river crossings, if you’re visiting during migration), open plains, and wooded areas, each with its own wildlife and unique scenery. The Mara is famous for its Big Five sightings, so you may encounter lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, and even rhinos. The landscape is equally diverse, with riverine forests, savannah, and kopjes (rocky outcrops) that are perfect for spotting animals.
Picnic Lunch in the Bush (or Return to Camp): For a more immersive experience, you can enjoy a picnic lunch in the bush, under the shade of a tree or with a view of a nearby river or plains. Alternatively, you can return to your camp or lodge for a relaxed lunch. The choice is yours, depending on your preference and location at midday.
Optional Activities: Maasai Village Visit: For a cultural experience, you can visit a nearby Maasai village. This visit offers a fascinating glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of the Maasai people. You’ll learn about their customs, social structure, and traditional crafts, and perhaps witness a Maasai dance or ceremony. It's a wonderful way to connect with the local community. Hot Air Balloon Safari (extra cost): For an unforgettable experience, consider a hot air balloon safari over the Mara. As the balloon gently floats above the plains, you’ll have a bird’s-eye view of the wildlife below and the vast landscape stretching as far as the eye can see. The experience often ends with a champagne breakfast in the bush, making it a memorable and luxurious activity. Guided Nature Walk: If you’re interested in a more intimate exploration of the Mara ecosystem, a guided nature walk is a great option. Led by an experienced Maasai or other local guide, you’ll learn about the smaller details of the environment—animal tracks, plant life, and the intricate relationships between different species in the ecosystem.
Dinner and Overnight Stay in Mara Triangle: After a day filled with adventure and discovery, return to your luxury camp or lodge for a well-earned dinner. Enjoy a delicious meal while recounting your day's experiences with fellow travelers, and relax as you listen to the sounds of the African night.
Inclusions
Park fees (For non-residents)
All activities (Unless labeled as optional)
All accommodation (Unless listed as upgrade)
A professional driver/guide
All transportation (Unless labeled as optional)
All Taxes/VAT
Roundtrip airport transfere
Meals (As specified in the day-by-day section)
Drinking water (On all days)
Exclusions
International flights (From/to home)
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
Tips
(Tipping guideline US$10.00 pp per day)
Personal items
(Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
Some meals
(As specified in the day-by-day section)
