East African Explorer Safari (13 Days)

The East African Explorer Safari is our most popular combined East Africa safari. 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.

The tour departs from Nairobi on Sundays. Or, the East African Explorer Safari tour is available on a private basis. This makes traveling with 4 or more people more affordable plus you have your own vehicle. The private tour can be flexible so you can add an extra night at any of the lodges. Let us know the number of you traveling and we’ll send rates for the private tour.

The program is packed with game viewing from the shared safari bus in Kenya and shared 4×4 in Tanzania. A minimum of 2 passengers must be booked to operate. The scheduled East African Explorer Safari tour takes a maximum of 6 people per vehicle. For private departures, a maximum of 7 passengers can travel 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. See notes below.

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East African Explorer Safari Full Itinerary

Day 1 Nairobi

Arrive at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. You clear customs and immigration formalities and are met outside opposite the Arrivals Hall by our representative. They will assist you to your transfer vehicle for your transfer to the hotel. Afternoon at leisure.

Overnight: Eka Hotel in a Superior room on a bed and breakfast basis

Eka Hotel

Eka Hotel is ideally located along Mombasa Road, just minutes from Nairobi’s city center. Close to the International and Domestic Airports. A contemporary style hotel that provides all the comfort, convenience, and efficiency to the discerning traveler. The hotel offers tastefully decorated rooms, two restaurants, a stylish bar, a swimming pool, and a host of other facilities.

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 is 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 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 center.

Nai Nami Cultural Walking Tour

Nai Nami is a social enterprise organization that offers street tours in Nairobi, Kenya. The organization employs former street youth who act as tour guides. They will share their experiences of living on the streets of Nairobi.

The Nai Nami Street Tour takes visitors on a walking tour through some of Nairobi’s informal settlements. Where they can learn about the daily lives of the residents and gain an insight into the challenges faced by the urban poor in Kenya. The tour includes visits to community projects and local businesses. As well as interactions with residents and local children.

The Nai Nami Street Tour also explores the history and architecture of Nairobi. Including landmarks such as the Nairobi Railway Museum and the City Hall. The tour concludes with a visit to a traditional African eatery, where visitors can sample Kenyan cuisine.

Overall, the Nai Nami Street Tour provides visitors with an immersive and authentic experience of Nairobi’s vibrant street culture. While also supporting a local social enterprise that empowers former street youth.

Day 2 Nairobi – Masai Mara National Reserve

After breakfast (about 7.30am), 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 and the impressive Longonot Earth satellite station. Continue via Narok and across golden wheat and barley fields to the Masai Mara. Following lunch set off on your first exciting afternoon game drive. Returning to the lodge as the sun sets.

Overnight: Zebra Plains Mara Camp in hillside tents on a full board basis

Zebra Plains Mara Camp

Zebra Plains Mara Camp is a charming, tented safari camp located in the heart of Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve. Nestled amidst acacia dotted plains, the camp offers a blend of rustic authenticity and refined comfort. Creating the perfect base for exploring the region’s extraordinary wildlife. Guests can expect warm Kenyan hospitality, excellent guiding, and the chance to witness unforgettable sights. From roaming elephants and grazing antelope to the dramatic river crossings during the Great Migration. The main camp area includes a welcoming lounge, bar, and dining deck overlooking the savanna. Where guests can enjoy sundowners while watching zebras and giraffes pass by.

Perched slightly above the main camp, the hillside tents provide a more secluded and elevated experience. Offering sweeping views across the plains. Each spacious tent features elegant decor that combines natural tones with contemporary African design. They have en suite facilities, comfortable furnishings, and private verandas perfect for morning coffee or evening relaxation. Whether you stay in the main camp or hillside section, Zebra Plains Mara Camp offers an intimate, Eco-friendly safari experience. Designed for travelers who value both adventure and tranquillity.

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 kilometers 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 its 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.

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. You will also visit a 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 inflates 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.

Overnight: Zebra Plains Mara Camp in hillside tents on a full board basis

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.

Overnight: Lake Nakuru Lodge in deluxe room on a full board basis

Lake Nakuru Lodge

Lake Nakuru Lodge is a relaxed two hour drive from Nairobi. Through scenic forested highlands and past a chain of lakes. Located near the vibrant market town of Nakuru, the park is internationally renowned for its conservation efforts and diverse wildlife. Nestled in the park’s southeastern ecological zone, Lake Nakuru Lodge offers sweeping views of the lake and the flamingos (hopefully while you are there). The lodge and its cottages are surrounded by lush, well tended gardens, creating a serene and picturesque retreat. There is a good program of activities and evening entertainment.

Lake Nakuru National Park

Lake Nakuru National Park is a protected area (Ramsar site) located in the Rift Valley region of Kenya. It is approximately 160 kilometers northwest of Nairobi. The park covers an area of about 188 square kilometers. 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 lions, leopards, buffalo’s, and various antelope species. It is also home to Black and White rhinos as well as the endangered Rothschild Giraffe. The park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 400 bird species recorded within its boundaries.

Day 5 Lake Nakuru – Amboseli National Park

Following an early breakfast, continue to Lake Naivasha for a boat ride. Leaving the Rift Valley behind, proceed to Nairobi for an early lunch (or picnic lunch dependent on road conditions) and continue south towards Amboseli. Arriving at your lodge by late afternoon.

Overnight: Ol Tukai Lodge in standard room on a full board basis

Ol Tukai Lodge

Ol Tukai Lodge lies at the heart of Amboseli National Park. At the foot of Mt. Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa. The cottage style accommodation spreads out on either side of the main lodge, where the architecture is unobtrusive. Each room has uninterrupted views of either the wetlands or of Mount Kilimanjaro. There is a great swimming pool shaded by acacia trees. In addition, there is a library, bars, gift shop, and spacious gardens to enjoy.

Amboseli National Park

The park covers an area of about 392 square kilometers 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. 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, savannas, 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.

Overnight: Ol Tukai Lodge in standard room on a full board basis

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 travelers 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 travelers 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.

Overnight: Tarangire Sopa Lodge on a full board basis

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 finish. 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 who 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.

Tarangire National Park

Tarangire National Park is a gem on the northern safari circuit. Teeming with wildlife, especially in the dry season, this area is a safari-goers dream. The park gets its 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.

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.

Overnight: Lake Manyara Serena Lodge on a full board basis

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. 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.

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, and baboons. Plus various species of antelope. It is 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. The views of the Great Rift Valley and the surrounding landscapes are breathtaking. It is a popular destination for wildlife safaris and bird watching tours.

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, game view en route to the lodge. Arriving for dinner and overnight.

Overnight: Serengeti Serena Lodge on a full board basis

Serengeti Serena Lodge

Serengeti Serena Lodge sits 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. It is the winner of numerous awards from the world travel press. The lodge is centrally located adjacent to the famous Western Corridor and Grumeti River. It 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 an infinity pool that looks out over the ‘endless plains’.

The lodge showcases cultural performances, heritage, and traditional art. Best illustrated by the lavish Makonde carvings that decorate both the rooms and the stunning domed dining room.

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. They have lived in the area for centuries and still practice their traditional way of life. Serengeti National Park is a popular destination for wildlife and hot air balloon safaris. Its stunning landscapes and wildlife attract visitors from all over the world.

Day 10 Serengeti National Park

Morning and afternoon game drives with meals and overnight at the lodge.

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 inflates 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.

Overnight: Serengeti Serena Lodge on a full board basis

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.

Overnight: Ngorongoro Serena Lodge on a full board basis (with picnic lunch box)

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 riverstone 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.

The lodge hugs the contours of the jagged Crater rim. The prehistoric site of Olduvai Gorge 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.

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.

Day 12 Ngorongoro Conservation Area (Ngorongoro Crater)

Early departure and descend to the floor of the Ngorongoro Crater. 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.

Overnight: Ngorongoro Serena Lodge on a full board basis (with picnic lunch box)

Day 13 Ngorongoro Conservation Area to Nairobi (or Arusha or Kilimanjaro)

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 at approximately 7pm for your departure flight. End of your East African Explorer Safari.

Please note:

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.

The tour arrives in Arusha at around 12.15 pm. If booking a domestic flight from Arusha Airport, please book a later departure time than 12.30 pm.

Travelers departing from Kilimanjaro International Airport on a domestic or international flight should book a flight departing later than 4.30pm.

Travelers departing from Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport on a domestic or international flight should book a flight departing later than 10.30 pm.

East African Explorer Safari Tour Rates

*Travelers departing between 17th June and 30th June pay an additional $145 per person.

Christmas and Easter supplements apply.

Children and third adults sharing

Children ages 7 to 17.99 at the time of travel have a reduction of the per adult price.
Children younger than 7 years of age are not permitted on the seat-in-vehicle safaris. However are most welcome on this program if booked on a private basis.
One child in own room pays full adult single rate.
Copies of the children’s passports are required before travel for the child rate to apply.
It is possible for 3 adults to share a room however there is no reduction to the per person cost.

Single travelers may need to pay a supplement for the airport transfers if there are no other people from the tour on their flight times.

East African Explorer Safari Cost Includes

Meet and greet services
Transfers as specified
Transport for the safari sector in 4×4 vehicles on a shared basis with a maximum of 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*
Filtered water will be provided in safari vehicles. Please bring reusable water bottles.

*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. We recommend budgeting an additional $150 for the Tanzania portion from 1st April 2026. This is an estimated amount and has NOT been included in the safari rates. These are per person for adults and children. We will advise the actual amounts once known. Should there not be an increase, we will not charge these amounts. Any increase will be advised and passed on.

We may have to re-route the itinerary or accommodate in similar lodges in case of non-availability.

East African Explorer Safari Cost Excludes

International and regional flights and airport taxes.
Passport and visa fees.
Hot air balloon safaris.
Driver-guide gratuities.
Dining room tips and porterage.
Personal travel, baggage, and medical insurance.
Drinks, Laundry, Telephone bills, and any items of a personal nature (except where specified).