This 6-day Northern Tanzania and Kenya safari combines the classic northern Tanzania safari circuit with Kenya’s world-famous Maasai Mara National Reserve. Starting in Arusha and ending in Nairobi, the itinerary is designed for travelers seeking a broader East African safari experience featuring diverse landscapes, wildlife ecosystems, and cross-border adventure.

The safari explores Tarangire National Park, known for elephant herds and baobab scenery, the wildlife-dense Ngorongoro Crater, and the expansive savannahs of Maasai Mara. Together, these destinations create a balanced safari route with excellent game viewing, scenic transitions, and varied ecosystems.

This itinerary is ideal for travelers who want to experience both northern Tanzania’s unique landscapes and Kenya’s iconic wildlife reserve within one safari.

SAFARI HIGHLIGHTS

• Explore Tarangire, Ngorongoro and Maasai Mara in one safari
• Northern Tanzania safari circuit experience
• Cross-border Kenya–Tanzania wildlife adventure
• Scenic savannah and Rift Valley landscapes
• Excellent elephant and predator viewing opportunities
• Balanced safari pacing across diverse ecosystems
• Strong photography and wildlife viewing opportunities

ROUTE OVERVIEW

Arusha → Tarangire → Ngorongoro Crater → Maasai Mara → Nairobi

DAY-BY-DAY ITINERARY

Day 1: Arusha to Tarangire National Park

Depart Arusha and travel to Tarangire National Park. Enjoy an afternoon game drive through landscapes known for giant baobab trees, elephant herds, and seasonal wildlife concentrations.

Day 2: Full Day Tarangire Safari

Spend the day exploring Tarangire’s varied ecosystems including river valleys, open grasslands, and woodland habitats rich in wildlife and birdlife.

Day 3: Tarangire to Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Morning game viewing before departing for the Ngorongoro highlands. Scenic landscapes and crater viewpoints characterize this route.

Day 4: Ngorongoro Crater Safari

Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a full-day safari experience with opportunities to spot lions, elephants, buffalo, zebras, wildebeest, hyenas, and rhinos.

Day 5: Ngorongoro to Maasai Mara

Cross into Kenya and continue to Maasai Mara National Reserve. Enjoy evening game viewing upon arrival.

Day 6: Maasai Mara to Nairobi

Morning game drive in Maasai Mara before departing for Nairobi for drop-off or onward travel connections.

TRANSPORT OPTIONS

• 4×4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
• Professional safari driver-guide
• Shared and private safari options
• Optional fly-in upgrades available
• Multilingual guides available on request

SAFARI EXPERIENCE

This safari is designed for travelers who want a wider East African safari experience without overextending travel time. The itinerary combines northern Tanzania’s scenic conservation areas with the wildlife-rich plains of Maasai Mara for a varied and rewarding safari circuit.

The experience is ideal for:

• Wildlife-focused travelers
• Cross-border safari enthusiasts
• Photography safaris
• Couples and families
• First-time East Africa safari travelers

ESTIMATED PRICE RANGE (USD)

Prices vary depending on season, accommodation type, and group size.

INCLUSIONS

• Transport in 4×4 safari vehicle
• Professional safari guide
• Park entry fees
• Accommodation and meals during safari
• Scheduled game drives
• Cross-border assistance

EXCLUSIONS

• International flights
• Kenya and Tanzania visa fees
• Travel insurance
• Tips and personal expenses
• Optional activities

FAQs

What is included in the Northern Tanzania circuit?

This itinerary includes Tarangire National Park and Ngorongoro Crater before continuing into Kenya’s Maasai Mara.

Is this safari suitable for first-time visitors?

Yes. It combines some of East Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations within a manageable timeframe.

Does Maasai Mara offer Big Five sightings?

Yes. Maasai Mara is one of Africa’s best wildlife destinations for Big Five viewing.

Can this safari be customized?

Yes. Accommodation levels, safari pacing, and transport options can be customized.