Trip Info
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Minivan & air transfer
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Suitable for solo travelers and groups alike
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Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour can be arranged for an extra cost DayAccommodation
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Can start any day
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This tour starts in Nairobi, Kenya and ends in Zanzibar, Tanzania
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Mid-range, private tour
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All meals included
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English
Overview
This luxury holiday is a spectacular safari tour to the Masai Mara in Kenya that involves moving through the reserve, in selected Jeeps, with local guides. You will be accommodated in comfortable tent at a specially selected camp, situated in a picturesque country perfect for filming at any time of a year. After this marvellous game viewing, you will be transferred to Zanzibar’s historical city-the Stone Town-to experience their enchanting culture and heritage. Spend your holidays lying down comfortably on Zanzibar’s exquisite white sandy beaches.
Highlights
- Private tour
- Mid-range tour
- Can start any day
- Can be customized
- Suitable for solo travelers
- Suitable for all ages
Itinerary
This holiday, we provide a ‘meet and assist’ service. When you arrive at your destination from an international flight you will be met by a pleasant gentleman who will help you in immigration , Customs formalities and collect your baggage. They will stick with you all that time until you get to the arrival point to meet your driver. You will then be transferred to the domestic airport where you will take a light aircraft flight to the Masai Mara National Reserve.
When arriving in the Masai Mara, you will be picked up by a guide and then transferred to Saruni Wild which is your accommodations for the next four nights.
We feature an array of luxury lodges and safari camps in the Masai Mara and in other nearby conservancies (including virgin limited offer of the guarantee of Sir Richard Branson’s 12-tent luxury safari camp in Olare Motorogi Conservancy). Don’t worry as Bisnow will match you to the right kind of$$$ or style of accommodation that is best for you.
Main Destination:
Masai Mara National Reserve (Kenya)
Recommended seasons to visit from June to October for general wildlife viewing, while from August to October for the wildebeest migration.
High SeasonJune to October and December to March
Best WeatherJune to October (Sunny, but not too hot)
Wildlife in Masai Mara NR
Elephant, Giraffe, Lion, Cheetah, Zebra, Wildebeest, Buffalo, Hippo, Hyena, Leopard, Black Rhino, Wild Dog, White Rhino
Accommodation:
Saruni Wild Camp
- Camp for rent on the border of the Masai Mara National Reserve which is in Kenya and has no fences.
Meals & Drinks:
- All meals included
- Alcoholic beverages (Some wines and spirits, mostly the premium brands could be restricted)
The following three days, morning and afternoon game drive on the plains of Masai Mara can be a great experience. This is an impressive reserve and you are almost certain to spot zebras, impalas, gazelles, wildebeest, rhinos, buffalo, elephants, lions, cheetahs and leopards in this park.
Saruni wild also has the option of night game drive, in which you will see animals like the Aardvark and the honey badger. For those who wish to take a tour at a slower pace and get to see some of the finer aspects of the bush, nature walks are also available.
Apart from game drives there also other activates that can be taken in the Masai Mara are the cultural activities such as visiting the Maasai people and their markets. You can opt for an early morning balloon soar across plains/forest of the Masai Mara for which you can also arrange a champagne breakfast at an extra cost.
Main Destination:
Masai Mara National Reserve (Kenya)
Accommodation:
Saruni Wild Camp
- Camp for rent on the border of the Masai Mara National Reserve which is in Kenya and has no fences.
Meals & Drinks:
- All meals included
- Alcoholic beverages (Some wines and spirits, mostly the premium brands could be restricted)
As the sun rises over the vast plains of the Masai Mara, the landscape awakens with the calls of birds and the distant roars of lions. A morning game drive offers a spectacular experience as you witness the wilderness come to life. The cooler temperatures make it an ideal time to spot wildlife, with herds of zebras, impalas, and gazelles grazing in the golden morning light. Wildebeests move in synchronized motions, while rhinos and buffalos roam the grasslands.
The big cats are also active in the early hours, and you may witness a pride of lions preparing for their morning hunt. Cheetahs scan the horizon for prey, and if you are lucky, you might spot a stealthy leopard resting on a tree branch. Elephants can be seen moving through the acacia trees, their tusks glistening under the morning sun.
For those seeking a unique experience, an early morning hot air balloon safari is available. Floating above the Mara, you can take in breathtaking aerial views of the endless savannah. Upon landing, you can indulge in a champagne breakfast, making the experience even more special.
After an eventful game drive, return to the lodge for a relaxing brunch before planning the rest of your day.
As the day progresses and the sun begins its descent, the Masai Mara transforms into a golden paradise. An afternoon game drive presents an excellent opportunity to witness wildlife preparing for the evening. Herds of elephants gather around watering holes, and giraffes gracefully move through the trees, searching for fresh leaves.
Predators such as lions and cheetahs start becoming more active as the temperature cools. You may observe a thrilling chase as a cheetah sprints after its prey or watch a lioness strategizing for a successful hunt. The elusive leopard may emerge from its hiding place, moving stealthily through the tall grass.
For a more immersive experience, you can take a nature walk with expert guides who will introduce you to the finer details of the bush, from medicinal plants to animal tracks. Alternatively, you can explore the rich culture of the Maasai people by visiting a local village and learning about their traditions and way of life.
As the sun sets over the Mara, the sky is painted with hues of orange and pink, providing a breathtaking backdrop to your adventure. For those looking for an extraordinary experience, Saruni Wild offers a night game drive, where nocturnal creatures such as the Aardvark and honey badger can be spotted.
After an exhilarating afternoon, return to the lodge to unwind and enjoy a delightful dinner under the African sky.
Main Destination:
Masai Mara National Reserve (Kenya)
Accommodation:
Saruni Wild Camp
- Camp for rent on the border of the Masai Mara National Reserve which is in Kenya and has no fences.
Meals & Drinks:
- All meals included
- Alcoholic beverages (Some wines and spirits, mostly the premium brands could be restricted)
Begin your day in the Masai Mara with a leisurely breakfast, preparing for a day of exploration beyond the traditional game drives. For those who wish to take a tour at a slower pace and get to see some of the finer aspects of the bush, guided nature walks are available. Accompanied by experienced guides, you will learn about the unique flora and fauna, animal tracks, and the delicate ecosystem that sustains the wildlife.
A visit to a local Maasai village offers an enriching cultural experience. Engage with the Maasai people, learn about their traditional way of life, and explore their bustling markets filled with intricate beadwork, handcrafted jewelry, and unique souvenirs. Witness traditional Maasai dances and songs, gaining insight into their rich heritage.
For those looking to experience the Mara from a different perspective, you can opt for an early morning balloon ride soaring across the plains and forests of the Masai Mara. This breathtaking adventure provides a unique vantage point, allowing you to witness the expanse of the reserve from above. Upon landing, you can indulge in a champagne breakfast at an extra cost, enhancing the overall experience.
Wrap up your day by relaxing at the lodge, taking in the serene surroundings, and reflecting on the incredible experiences of the past two days. Enjoy a final dinner under the vast African sky, cherishing the unforgettable memories made in the Masai Mara.
Main Destination:
Masai Mara National Reserve (Kenya)
Accommodation:
Saruni Wild Camp
- Camp for rent on the border of the Masai Mara National Reserve which is in Kenya and has no fences.
Meals & Drinks:
- All meals included
- Alcoholic beverages (Some wines and spirits, mostly the premium brands could be restricted)
Today we will do an early morning game drive and then after lunch be dropped off at the airstrip in time for our light aircraft to Nairobi and then connect for a flight to the Island of Zanzibar.
You will be picked from the airstrip in Zanzibar and transferred to your luxury lodge in the World Heritage Site of Stone Town, where you will be staying for the next two nights. Your lovely hotel is set in the ‘Old Town’ with royal palaces of sultans, forts of the Portuguese, fishing boats called dhow and crowded local markets.
Main Destination:
Zanzibar Stone Town (Zanzibar, Tanzania)
Accommodation:
Zanzibar Palace Hotel
- Mid-range hotelin Zanzibar Stone Town (Zanzibar, Tanzania)
Meals & Drinks:
- Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
- Drinks not included
Today you will be able to lose yourself in the narrow streets of Stone Town and marvel at the houses of stone, doors of wood, Arab-style arches, wooden shutters and balconies that overhang the streets.
As for the cultural institutions – there are several interesting places to visit: the Portuguese Fort, the old Dhow Port, the Old Slave Market, the Sultan’s Palace, the House of Wonders, Livingstone House, the Hamamni Baths, the Persian Baths of Kidichi.
Main Destination:
Zanzibar Stone Town (Zanzibar, Tanzania)
Accommodation:
Zanzibar Palace Hotel
- Mid-range hotelin Zanzibar Stone Town (Zanzibar, Tanzania)
Meals & Drinks:
- Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
- Drinks not included
The morning will be spent transferring from your Stone Town hotel to your beach resort where you will spend the next 6 nights in comfort.
Pongwe is one of the most preferred beaches and it is located on the eastern coast of the island which is known for the best beaches. It was remodelled in 2017 and the following is a basic, peaceful, and low-key lodge that is ideal for unwinding and enjoying the sun. Book a room with sea view on bed and breakfast basis.
All accommodation options on Zanzibar and other islands will be considered, and we will advise on the best option based on your preferences and needs.
Main Destination:
Zanzibar Island (Tanzania Beaches, Tanzania)
Accommodation:
Pongwe Beach Hotel
- Mid-range hotelon Zanzibar (Tanzania Beaches, Tanzania)
Meals & Drinks:
- Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
- Drinks not included
Enjoy Zanzibar at leisure. Yes, you could engage in many activities while in Zanzibar such as visiting Jozani Forest, Prison Island, spice plantation, and cultural village tour.
There is also a vast array of other adventure activities that tourists can indulge in with ease such as mountain biking, hiking, bird watching, wind surfing, kite surfing, sea kayaking and sailing. It has wonderful coral gardens for snorkelling and SCUBA diving is also possible: perhaps one can meet dolphins and green turtles.
Main Destination:
Zanzibar Island (Tanzania Beaches, Tanzania)
Accommodation:
Pongwe Beach Hotel
- Mid-range hotelon Zanzibar (Tanzania Beaches, Tanzania)
Meals & Drinks:
- Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
- Drinks not included
Spend the day discovering the diverse ecosystems of Zanzibar. Begin your adventure with a visit to Jozani Forest, home to the endemic and rare red colobus monkeys. Stroll along the nature trails, enjoying the lush mangroves and spotting unique bird species. Later, take a boat trip to Prison Island, where you can learn about its intriguing history and interact with the giant Aldabra tortoises. End the day with a relaxing beach walk, taking in the breathtaking sunset over the Indian Ocean.
Main Destination:
Zanzibar Island (Tanzania Beaches, Tanzania)
Accommodation:
Pongwe Beach Hotel
- Mid-range hotelon Zanzibar (Tanzania Beaches, Tanzania)
Meals & Drinks:
- Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
- Drinks not included
Immerse yourself in Zanzibar’s rich history and cultural heritage. Take a guided tour through Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can explore the labyrinth of narrow streets, vibrant markets, and historical landmarks such as the House of Wonders and the Old Fort. Visit a local spice plantation to witness the cultivation of Zanzibar’s famous cloves, nutmeg, and vanilla. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Swahili dinner while watching live taarab music performances.
Main Destination:
Zanzibar Island (Tanzania Beaches, Tanzania)
Accommodation:
Pongwe Beach Hotel
Meals & Drinks:
- Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
- Drinks not included
For those who love adventure, today offers plenty of thrilling options. Take part in mountain biking or hiking through the island’s rugged landscapes, offering stunning coastal views. If you prefer water-based activities, indulge in windsurfing, kite surfing, or sea kayaking along Zanzibar’s crystal-clear waters. For an unforgettable experience, go snorkeling or SCUBA diving in the island’s vibrant coral gardens, where you may encounter dolphins and green turtles in their natural habitat.
Main Destination:
Zanzibar Island (Tanzania Beaches, Tanzania)
Accommodation:
Pongwe Beach Hotel
- Mid-range hotelon Zanzibar (Tanzania Beaches, Tanzania)
Meals & Drinks:
- Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
- Drinks not included
On your final day, unwind and soak in the beauty of Zanzibar at your own pace. Enjoy a leisurely morning by the beach, basking in the sun or taking a refreshing swim. You may opt for a tranquil dhow cruise along the coast, allowing you to savor the island’s scenic beauty one last time. Take a final stroll through a cultural village to appreciate the local way of life before bidding farewell to this tropical paradise, filled with unforgettable memories.
Main Destination:
Zanzibar Island (Tanzania Beaches, Tanzania)
Accommodation:
Pongwe Beach Hotel
- Mid-range hotelon Zanzibar (Tanzania Beaches, Tanzania)
Meals & Drinks:
- Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
- Drinks not included
This is the last day, the last morning before you travel out of the beautiful island of Zanzibar. After your sumptuous breakfast, you will be transferred to Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) to wrap up your ‘Luxury Kenya Safari and Zanzibar Holiday experience.’
Main Destination:
Zanzibar Airport (Zanzibar, Tanzania)
Accommodation:
No accommodation (End of tour)
Meals & Drinks:
- Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
- Drinks not included
End of tour
- For a fee, we will be able to make arrangements for extra accommodation.
- You will be transported to the airport.
Includes/Excludes
Cost Includes
- • 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 flights during the tour
- • All Taxes/VAT
- • Roundtrip airport transfer
- • Meals (As mentioned under each day in the day-to-day activity section)
- • Drinks (According to the day-by-day section)
Cost Excludes
- • International flights (From/to home)
- • Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
- • Tips (No tip expected)
- • Personality effects (T-shirts and caps, insurance, visas, etc).
- • Government impose change in taxes and/or park fee
- • Certain dishes (As pointed out under the day by day tab)
FAQs
The 13-Day Masai Mara Safari and Zanzibar Getaway program is designed to give you a couple of days of thrilling wildlife experience in the famous Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya and then a couple of days of complete relaxation in Zanzibar. Complementarily you will do game drives in the Masai mara checking on the big five and the great migration depending on the time of the year. Days later, you will take a flight to Zanzibar where you can relax at the beaches and tour ancient Stone Town, as well as participate in water sport such as snorkeling and diving in the blue waters of the Indian Ocean.
The Masai Mara safari offers visitors a breathtaking view of the wild and amazing animal species among them the big five; lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos as well as the buffalos. Also, you will be able to visit and view some of the big cats such as the Cheetah, the Giraffe, Zebras, Hippos, Crocodiles, and lots of antelopes. If you are within the area between July and October, you may have the opportunity to watch the amazing event of the Great Migration when millions of wildebeest and zebras migrate from the Serengeti in search of pastures on the other side of the Mara River. This makes the Masai Mara Safari among the most ideal for wildlife enthusiast and photographers.
The Zanzibar segment of your trip after the Masai Mara Safari is further categorized depending on your interests in the following activities. One can sunbathe on white sandy beaches, take a water taxi to Mnemba Atoll for outstanding snorkeling and scuba diving, or go for a trek to Jozani Forest to observe the red colobus monkeys. History lovers will enjoy the Stone Town which is a World heritage site with a visit to a World Heritage Site which features Swahili buildings, spice markets, as well as other historical landmarks. In terms of sightseeing, you can visit Zanzibar spice farm where you get to learn more about spices that are produced in the area.
As for the 13-Day Masai Mara Safari and Zanzibar Getaway, the timing is relative to your preferences. If you wish to experience the Great Migration in the Masai Mara Safari then the best time is between the months of July and October. Wildlife viewing, on the other hand, can be done throughout the year despite the different seasons. Zanzibar is a year-round destination but the best time to visit would be from June to October and December to February as it is warm and dry. It is advisable to miss April and early May because it is the rainy season, with heavier rain experienced in these two months.
There are a lot of accommodation options in the Masai Mara that include luxury mobile camps, safari lodges, and mid range lodges that offer quality accommodation with a vantage view of the plains. Some of the daily activities include game driving, bush dinners, and interaction with the locals, the Maasai people. Tanzanian accommodation offers options for sea side resorts and luxury beach hotels and lodges that come with limitless views and landscape beauty. As for the places to stay, both destinations provide various types of accommodation for travelers with different tastes and wallets.
For the Masai Mara Safari one should pack light colored and loose fitting clothing, a hat, sunglasses, sun block lotion and comfortable walking shoes. If you go out, take binoculars and a camera to capture the animals, including bugs; repellents and other essentials that might be required. Since early morning game drives may be quite cold, layering is advisable.
For Zanzibar, pack beachwear, light and breathable clothing, sandals, and swimwear. For example, when to go to Stone town or cultural attractions, tourists are advised to dress appropriately by covering their shoulders and knees. Do not leave out the waterproof clothing for the water adventures and a book to laze around the sea shore with.
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