14-Day Safari Adventure in Essential Kenya & Tanzania Wonders

Meal plan: Lunch & Dinner

07:00 hrs. Your driver/guide will pick you up from your Nairobi area hotel, Nairobi airport, or Nairobi area residence.

Get ready to head out on your two-week journey in your private 4 x 4 Jeep for Amboseli National Park on the Nairobi – Mombasa Highway.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Experience the enchanting tranquility of the early morning during your safari with Gaga Tours. As the gentle morning light bathes the fields, creating a serene atmosphere, wildlife emerges in search of their morning sustenance. Begin your day with a delightful breakfast before embarking on a 4x4 adventure, exploring Amboseli Park's diverse inhabitants, including elephants, lions, cheetahs, foxes, monkeys, baboons, and zebras.

Amboseli is renowned for its abundant and varied birdlife. Your experienced guide will skillfully point out the presence of egrets, crakes, herons, falcons, eagles, and Egyptian geese, accentuating the park's lakes and marshes. A scenic drive up Observation Hill awaits, providing an opportunity to step out of the 4x4 and scan the park for buffalo, hippos, pelicans, and, of course, the numerous elephants scattered across the landscape.

As the day unfolds and the sun begins to set, turn your gaze towards the majestic Kilimanjaro, attempting to catch a glimpse of its snow-capped summit emerging from the clouds. Delight in a full-day exploration that captures the essence of Amboseli Park's diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Start a captivating morning game drive through Amboseli, bidding farewell to this wildlife haven. Subsequently, our 4x4 will set its course northward, directing us towards the distinctive Aberdare Park.

Aberdare unfolds a unique landscape, deviating from the typical African safari scenes of sun-drenched savannahs and rolling hills. Here, we find ourselves amidst lush green forests, cascading waterfalls, and serene mountain lakes.

The accommodation experience in Aberdare is equally distinctive, offering a stay in a "Tree Lodge" perched high above the park's forests and moorlands. From the vantage point of your balcony, be on the lookout for elephants, hyenas, buffalo, warthogs, and playful monkeys as they make appearances near the forest's watering holes.

In this upcountry sanctuary, rare sightings are not unheard of, with the potential to encounter elusive creatures like the golden cat, giant forest hog, and the bongo – an unusually large antelope. Aberdare Park promises an extraordinary deviation from the conventional safari experience, immersing you in the wonders of verdant landscapes and unique wildlife encounters.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Parting ways with our "tree hotel" and the refreshing, temperate ambiance of Aberdare, our journey leads us towards the classic landscapes of expansive fields and the quintessential savannah setting of Samburu National Reserve.

Samburu is renowned for hosting abundant populations of majestic big cats, including the regal lion and swift cheetah, alongside the impressive presence of big-tusked elephants. As a park that doesn't draw overwhelming crowds, you'll relish the vast horizons without the hustle and bustle of larger tourist gatherings.

For a lush contrast, we have the option to explore two nearby reserves, Shaba and Buffalo Springs, revealing greener landscapes adorned with flourishing forests and woodlands. Samburu Park beckons with its untamed beauty, promising an authentic safari experience immersed in the allure of diverse wildlife against the backdrop of classic African scenery.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

It’s our fifth day on safari! You’re starting to get into the rhythms of our natural world, so you’re probably getting up earlier… even without your alarm. Let’s enjoy the soft light of the early morning and the first appearances of the wildlife.

We’ll be exploring for lions and elephants but also some of Samburu’s “Special Five” like the Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, and the beisa oryx.

The park is bisected by the Ewaso Ngiro River, cutting a green swash through the rugged terrain and making an excellent location to spot the thirsty wildlife.

If you desire, we can visit the local Samburu People, closely related to the Masai. We’ll visit their village and learn about their lifestyle up close.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Parting ways with our "tree hotel" and the refreshing, temperate ambiance of Aberdare, our journey leads us towards the classic landscapes of expansive fields and the quintessential savannah setting of Samburu National Reserve.

Samburu is renowned for hosting abundant populations of majestic big cats, including the regal lion and swift cheetah, alongside the impressive presence of big-tusked elephants. As a park that doesn't draw overwhelming crowds, you'll relish the vast horizons without the hustle and bustle of larger tourist gatherings.

For a lush contrast, we have the option to explore two nearby reserves, Shaba and Buffalo Springs, revealing greener landscapes adorned with flourishing forests and woodlands. Samburu Park beckons with its untamed beauty, promising an authentic safari experience immersed in the allure of diverse wildlife against the backdrop of classic African scenery.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Embarking on our next adventure, our reliable 4 x 4 vehicle will lead us to the enchanting Lake Naivasha, a serene freshwater haven surrounded by lush green landscapes teeming with antelope, zebra, and various wildlife.

For those seeking a distinctive safari encounter, the nearby Hell's Gate Park presents the exciting opportunity for a bicycling safari. Pedal through the park's scenic trails, observing zebra, giraffe, and antelope grazing just a few feet away—a truly unique perspective on the mesmerizing wildlife of the region. Lake Naivasha invites you to immerse yourself in its tranquil beauty, promising a delightful combination of relaxation and exploration.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Our day kicks off with a delightful boating safari on the serene waters of Lake Naivasha. Glide past curious hippos, all while enjoying the sight of impalas and buffalos grazing along the shores.

Venturing further, we explore the nearby Crescent Island Game Sanctuary, a private reserve offering intimate encounters with waterbuck, wildebeest, gazelle, and more in this secluded and unique park. As we transition from a busy week of exploration, brace yourself for the highlight of our African safari—the renowned Masai Mara National Reserve. Upon arrival, an afternoon game drive awaits, allowing you to acquaint yourself with the vast, green expanse adorned with Africa's iconic acacia trees.

The Masai Mara boasts a bustling ecosystem, ranking among the richest in East Africa. Prepare for an immersive experience as you encounter a diverse array of wildlife in numbers unparalleled elsewhere.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today promises an abundance of safari excitement with unlimited opportunities for game drives. The Masai Mara, renowned for its prides of lions, leopards, cheetahs, and diverse grazers, unfolds its captivating wildlife panorama before you.

For those visiting during the Great Migration (July – October), brace yourself for an awe-inspiring spectacle—the colossal movement of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles surging into the park from the neighboring Serengeti. A visit to the Mara River awaits, a pivotal site for the herds' perilous crossing, navigating treacherous currents and lurking crocodiles.

While most animals successfully traverse this dramatic ordeal, the sheer intensity of the crossing is unmatched. Once within the park, the migrating masses must navigate the myriad big cats that rely on them for survival.

Elevate your safari experience with optional activities. Immerse yourself in Maasai culture with a visit to a local village, gaining insights into the lives of these pastoral people. Consider taking a hot air balloon safari for a unique perspective as the park awakens in the gentle light of the new day—a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience that your driver/guide can arrange.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Before bidding farewell to the bountiful Masai Mara, indulge in one final game drive through its rich expanse. As we embark on a seamless border crossing into Tanzania, our next destination awaits—Serengeti National Park, a renowned world-class wilderness.

Recall the mesmerizing herds of wildebeests and zebras in the Masai Mara? Serengeti is their origin, drawing them in search of greener pastures and vital water sources for survival.

The Serengeti unfolds as an expansive landscape teeming with an abundance of wildlife. Here, you'll encounter not only an array of big cats and elephants but also witness the staggering presence of millions of grazers.

Prepare for an immersive experience as we spend three days navigating this vast park, providing ample opportunities to marvel at the diversity and sheer volume of wildlife that defines the Serengeti.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Get ready for a full day of safari excitement at Serengeti National Park. We'll explore the vast landscapes, encountering the famous big cats, zebras, and wildebeests. Keep an eye out for a variety of wildlife, from playful otters to majestic elands. If you're visiting during the calving season (January – March), witness the incredible sight of newborns joining the Serengeti's diverse ecosystem. Optional explorations into the park's lush forests and marshlands may reveal hippos and crocodiles. Enjoy every moment of this immersive Serengeti experience.

Our adventure unfolds as we set our course for the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, home to the awe-inspiring Ngorongoro Crater. Along the way, we pause at Olduvai Gorge, an archaeological marvel revealing the traces of early human civilization.

Arriving at the Ngorongoro Crater, witness the grandeur of the world's largest intact volcanic caldera, spanning 263 sq km. This isolated ecosystem boasts lush woodlands, swamps, and grasslands, providing a haven for over 25,000 animals. Descend the crater walls in our Jeep for an exhilarating day of tracking big cats, black rhinos, buffalo, and even spotting pink flamingoes along Lake Magadi's shores.

As the day draws to a close, we ascend to the crater rim, capturing the breathtaking spectacle of a Ngorongoro sunset.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

As our journey unfolds, we venture towards either Tarangire Park or Lake Manyara, each offering its own unique charm.

**Tarangire Park**
Prepare for a safari experience in a park that boasts a harmonious balance of abundant wildlife and fewer tourists. Witness a smaller-scale migration of around 250,000 animals, including lions, leopards, elephants, impalas, warthogs, and ostriches. While on your game drives, marvel at the distinctive baobab trees – an extraordinary species with an inverted trunk and whimsical branches resembling an upside-down root structure.

**Lake Manyara Park**
Embrace the tranquility of Lake Manyara, celebrated for its picturesque flocks of vibrant flamingoes adorning the lake's edge in a sea of fluttering pink feathers. The park is a haven for diverse birdlife, featuring egrets, spoonbills, and herons. Explore wooded areas adorned with Africa's iconic acacia trees, and don't forget to cast your gaze upward – you might spot the park's renowned tree-climbing lions resting on the acacia branches.

*Please note: The choice between Tarangire Park and Lake Manyara will be made based on your preference, ensuring a tailored safari experience.*

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch

As the curtain falls on our remarkable safari adventure, we embark on our final game drive around the park, soaking in the last moments of wildlife encounters. Following this captivating farewell, we set our course for the Tanzanian town of Arusha.

It's hard to fathom that it's the concluding day of our fourteen-day odyssey – two full weeks packed with safari wonders. You've witnessed an extraordinary array of parks, diverse wildlife, and immersed yourself in the richness of original cultures during these eventful days.

Upon reaching Arusha, your dedicated driver/guide will accompany you to your chosen destination – whether it be your hotel, the airport, or another location of your preference.

For all of us at Gaga Tours Kenya Safaris, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for your enthusiasm, commitment, and the precious time you've shared with us. We cherish the memories created and aspire to maintain our connection. Until we meet again, safe travels and enduring friendships!