Kensington
12 Day Big Five Safari & Zanzibar Escape
12 Day Big Five Safari & Zanzibar Escape
Experience the thrills of an East Africa safari in Masai Mara, Serengeti and Ngorongoro, before finding sanctuary on the tropical beaches of Zanzibar.
Embark on the wildlife adventure of a lifetime and meet East Africa’s most awe-inspiring animals while staying in some of our favorite camps and lodges. Private guides and your own 4×4 vehicle will take you out each day into world-class parks and get you up close and personal with lions, elephants, giraffes and other big game.
Masai Mara Reserve is teeming with wonderful wildlife, and its classic natural beauty never fails to mesmerize its visitors. The Mara’s endless plains are home to an incredible year-round concentration of game as well as the two million animals that form the annual Great Migration. Cross into the romantic plains of the Serengeti to catch glimpses of gazelle and giraffe that roam its expansive landscape. Descend into the protected Ngorongoro Crater to witness a wildlife wonderland. Enjoy some post-safari relaxation on the exotic beaches of Zanzibar, explore incredible Stone Town and taste your way through a private guided tour of an exotic spice plantation. This bestselling tour expertly combines East African adventure and relaxation.
This trip offers unparalleled game viewing with evening relaxation in excellent quality tented camps and game lodges. Kensington Tours offers local support in each region you visit, another reason we deliver unbeatable value. Enjoy a personalized vacation that best suits your needs, developed by one of our experienced destination experts. Relax during your trip with our 24/7 support and expert local guidance.
| Day 1 |
Welcome to Nairobi, safari capital and the largest city in Kenya. At one time a simple hydration spot for the Maasai, this high-energy East African city now strikes a balance between the cosmopolitan and the natural. In its adjacent Nairobi National Park, visitors will see lions, zebras, giraffes and rare black rhinos. Key stops in Nairobi include the Elephant and Rhino Nursery as well as the Giraffe Centre, where these beautiful creatures are rescued. In the city itself, tourists visit "Out of Africa" author Karen Blixen's museum and discover wonderful restaurants, shops, and nightlife. |
| Day 2 |
One of Africa's most popular game reserves, Maasai Mara is located in Narok, Kenya, near the border of Tanzania. Named in honor of the Maasai people, this park is populated with wildlife including elephants, lions, zebras, and leopards. |
| Day 3 |
One of Africa's most popular game reserves, Maasai Mara is located in Narok, Kenya, near the border of Tanzania. Named in honor of the Maasai people, this park is populated with wildlife including elephants, lions, zebras, and leopards. |
| Day 4 |
One of Africa's most popular game reserves, Maasai Mara is located in Narok, Kenya, near the border of Tanzania. Named in honor of the Maasai people, this park is populated with wildlife including elephants, lions, zebras, and leopards. |
| Day 5 |
Serengeti, Tanzania, is a jewel of the African continent, renowned for its spectacular wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. This iconic destination is synonymous with the Great Migration, one of nature’s most awe-inspiring events. Each year, millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traverse the Serengeti’s vast plains in search of fresh grazing grounds, creating a dramatic and unforgettable spectacle. The Serengeti National Park is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site but also a treasure trove of biodiversity, where you can encounter the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino—in their natural habitat. Beyond the migration, Serengeti offers diverse experiences, from hot air balloon safaris providing panoramic views of the endless savannah to game drives that delve into the intricate web of predator-prey relationships. The park’s varied ecosystems, from open grasslands to acacia woodlands and riverine forests, host a rich array of wildlife. Visitors can also explore the Ngorongoro Crater, a nearby geological marvel that shelters an impressive concentration of animals within its caldera, including black rhinos and rare bird species. A fun fact about Serengeti is its role as the inspiration for Disney’s beloved animated film "The Lion King." The park’s landscapes and wildlife directly influenced the film’s depiction of the African savannah. The area’s remarkable scenery and animal behavior have captivated filmmakers and wildlife enthusiasts alike, cementing Serengeti’s place in popular culture. For the best experience, plan your visit during the dry season from June to October, when wildlife viewing is at its peak due to the concentration of animals around water sources. This period also offers clear skies and pleasant temperatures, making it ideal for both safari adventures and relaxation amidst the stunning scenery. Serengeti promises a profound and exhilarating connection with nature that will leave you with lasting memories. |
| Day 6 |
Serengeti, Tanzania, is a jewel of the African continent, renowned for its spectacular wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. This iconic destination is synonymous with the Great Migration, one of nature’s most awe-inspiring events. Each year, millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traverse the Serengeti’s vast plains in search of fresh grazing grounds, creating a dramatic and unforgettable spectacle. The Serengeti National Park is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site but also a treasure trove of biodiversity, where you can encounter the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino—in their natural habitat. Beyond the migration, Serengeti offers diverse experiences, from hot air balloon safaris providing panoramic views of the endless savannah to game drives that delve into the intricate web of predator-prey relationships. The park’s varied ecosystems, from open grasslands to acacia woodlands and riverine forests, host a rich array of wildlife. Visitors can also explore the Ngorongoro Crater, a nearby geological marvel that shelters an impressive concentration of animals within its caldera, including black rhinos and rare bird species. A fun fact about Serengeti is its role as the inspiration for Disney’s beloved animated film "The Lion King." The park’s landscapes and wildlife directly influenced the film’s depiction of the African savannah. The area’s remarkable scenery and animal behavior have captivated filmmakers and wildlife enthusiasts alike, cementing Serengeti’s place in popular culture. For the best experience, plan your visit during the dry season from June to October, when wildlife viewing is at its peak due to the concentration of animals around water sources. This period also offers clear skies and pleasant temperatures, making it ideal for both safari adventures and relaxation amidst the stunning scenery. Serengeti promises a profound and exhilarating connection with nature that will leave you with lasting memories. |
| Day 7 |
Ngorongoro, Tanzania, is a destination where breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife converge in a truly unique way. Nestled within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, this region is renowned for the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient caldera, formed by a volcanic eruption millions of years ago, creates a natural amphitheater teeming with wildlife. The crater's diverse habitats support a rich variety of animals, including the elusive black rhino, elephants, lions, and wildebeest. A visit to Ngorongoro offers unparalleled wildlife experiences. The crater’s floor is a paradise for safari enthusiasts, providing a chance to witness the Great Migration’s dramatic river crossings or to observe predator-prey interactions in their natural habitat. Additionally, the highland forests surrounding the crater offer opportunities for birdwatching and scenic hikes. The area is also home to the Maasai people. |
| Day 8 |
Ngorongoro, Tanzania, is a destination where breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife converge in a truly unique way. Nestled within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, this region is renowned for the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient caldera, formed by a volcanic eruption millions of years ago, creates a natural amphitheater teeming with wildlife. The crater's diverse habitats support a rich variety of animals, including the elusive black rhino, elephants, lions, and wildebeest. A visit to Ngorongoro offers unparalleled wildlife experiences. The crater’s floor is a paradise for safari enthusiasts, providing a chance to witness the Great Migration’s dramatic river crossings or to observe predator-prey interactions in their natural habitat. Additionally, the highland forests surrounding the crater offer opportunities for birdwatching and scenic hikes. The area is also home to the Maasai people. |
| Day 9 |
Zanzibar Island, off the coast of Tanzania, is a captivating destination where history and natural beauty converge. The island’s Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a maze of narrow alleys, vibrant markets, and historical buildings. Wander through the bustling Darajani Market, where local spices, textiles, and crafts create a sensory feast. Key landmarks like the House of Wonders and the Old Fort offer rich insights into Zanzibar’s Swahili, Arab, and Portuguese heritage. The island is renowned for its stunning beaches, from the lively sands of Nungwi to the serene shores of Paje. These pristine locations are perfect for water sports, snorkeling, and relaxation. Zanzibar’s warm, turquoise waters teem with marine life, making it a diver’s paradise. Additionally, the Jozani Forest is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts, offering a chance to see the endangered red colobus monkey and explore lush tropical landscapes. A fun fact about Zanzibar is its significant role in the global spice trade, which earned it the nickname “Spice Island.” Visitors can immerse themselves in this heritage with a tour of local spice farms, where they can see and smell the cultivation of cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon. These tours offer a unique opportunity to experience the island’s agricultural legacy firsthand. To fully appreciate Zanzibar’s charm, plan your visit during the dry season from June to October. This period offers ideal weather conditions, fewer tourists, and more opportunities to enjoy the island’s attractions and natural beauty. Zanzibar’s blend of history, culture, and stunning scenery ensures an unforgettable experience for any traveler. |
| Day 10 |
Zanzibar Island, off the coast of Tanzania, is a captivating destination where history and natural beauty converge. The island’s Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a maze of narrow alleys, vibrant markets, and historical buildings. Wander through the bustling Darajani Market, where local spices, textiles, and crafts create a sensory feast. Key landmarks like the House of Wonders and the Old Fort offer rich insights into Zanzibar’s Swahili, Arab, and Portuguese heritage. The island is renowned for its stunning beaches, from the lively sands of Nungwi to the serene shores of Paje. These pristine locations are perfect for water sports, snorkeling, and relaxation. Zanzibar’s warm, turquoise waters teem with marine life, making it a diver’s paradise. Additionally, the Jozani Forest is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts, offering a chance to see the endangered red colobus monkey and explore lush tropical landscapes. A fun fact about Zanzibar is its significant role in the global spice trade, which earned it the nickname “Spice Island.” Visitors can immerse themselves in this heritage with a tour of local spice farms, where they can see and smell the cultivation of cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon. These tours offer a unique opportunity to experience the island’s agricultural legacy firsthand. To fully appreciate Zanzibar’s charm, plan your visit during the dry season from June to October. This period offers ideal weather conditions, fewer tourists, and more opportunities to enjoy the island’s attractions and natural beauty. Zanzibar’s blend of history, culture, and stunning scenery ensures an unforgettable experience for any traveler. |
| Day 11 |
Zanzibar Island, off the coast of Tanzania, is a captivating destination where history and natural beauty converge. The island’s Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a maze of narrow alleys, vibrant markets, and historical buildings. Wander through the bustling Darajani Market, where local spices, textiles, and crafts create a sensory feast. Key landmarks like the House of Wonders and the Old Fort offer rich insights into Zanzibar’s Swahili, Arab, and Portuguese heritage. The island is renowned for its stunning beaches, from the lively sands of Nungwi to the serene shores of Paje. These pristine locations are perfect for water sports, snorkeling, and relaxation. Zanzibar’s warm, turquoise waters teem with marine life, making it a diver’s paradise. Additionally, the Jozani Forest is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts, offering a chance to see the endangered red colobus monkey and explore lush tropical landscapes. A fun fact about Zanzibar is its significant role in the global spice trade, which earned it the nickname “Spice Island.” Visitors can immerse themselves in this heritage with a tour of local spice farms, where they can see and smell the cultivation of cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon. These tours offer a unique opportunity to experience the island’s agricultural legacy firsthand. To fully appreciate Zanzibar’s charm, plan your visit during the dry season from June to October. This period offers ideal weather conditions, fewer tourists, and more opportunities to enjoy the island’s attractions and natural beauty. Zanzibar’s blend of history, culture, and stunning scenery ensures an unforgettable experience for any traveler. |
| Day 12 |
Zanzibar Island, off the coast of Tanzania, is a captivating destination where history and natural beauty converge. The island’s Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a maze of narrow alleys, vibrant markets, and historical buildings. Wander through the bustling Darajani Market, where local spices, textiles, and crafts create a sensory feast. Key landmarks like the House of Wonders and the Old Fort offer rich insights into Zanzibar’s Swahili, Arab, and Portuguese heritage. The island is renowned for its stunning beaches, from the lively sands of Nungwi to the serene shores of Paje. These pristine locations are perfect for water sports, snorkeling, and relaxation. Zanzibar’s warm, turquoise waters teem with marine life, making it a diver’s paradise. Additionally, the Jozani Forest is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts, offering a chance to see the endangered red colobus monkey and explore lush tropical landscapes. A fun fact about Zanzibar is its significant role in the global spice trade, which earned it the nickname “Spice Island.” Visitors can immerse themselves in this heritage with a tour of local spice farms, where they can see and smell the cultivation of cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon. These tours offer a unique opportunity to experience the island’s agricultural legacy firsthand. To fully appreciate Zanzibar’s charm, plan your visit during the dry season from June to October. This period offers ideal weather conditions, fewer tourists, and more opportunities to enjoy the island’s attractions and natural beauty. Zanzibar’s blend of history, culture, and stunning scenery ensures an unforgettable experience for any traveler. |
| Travel Dates | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
12/01/23 - 12/31/26 |
Starting At $10,332 |
Get A Quote |
Prices are per person, based on double occupancy. Offer is subject to availability and change without notice. Some restrictions may apply.
