7 Day Kenya-Tanzania Big Five Safari

The 7 Day Kenya-Tanzania Big Five Safari is designed for travelers whose primary goal is to experience Africa’s most iconic wildlife species across two of the continent’s premier safari destinations. Combining Kenya’s Maasai Mara National Reserve with Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire National Park, this cross-border safari offers outstanding opportunities to encounter the legendary Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino—within a single journey.

Starting in Nairobi and ending in Arusha, this carefully crafted itinerary takes you through some of East Africa’s most wildlife-rich ecosystems. Maasai Mara is renowned for its predator populations and year-round game viewing, Ngorongoro Crater offers one of the highest wildlife densities in Africa, and Tarangire is famous for its large elephant herds and ancient baobab-dotted landscapes.

For wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, first-time safari travelers, and anyone seeking an authentic East African safari adventure, this itinerary delivers an exceptional balance of game viewing, scenery, and cultural richness.

Safari Highlights

  • Visit Maasai Mara, Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire National Park
  • Excellent opportunities to see the Big Five
  • Cross-border Kenya-Tanzania safari experience
  • Exceptional wildlife photography opportunities
  • Explore three distinct safari ecosystems
  • Witness large elephant herds in Tarangire
  • Experience one of Africa’s best predator habitats in Maasai Mara
  • Discover the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater
  • Scenic drives through the Great Rift Valley and northern Tanzania

Route Overview

Nairobi → Maasai Mara → Ngorongoro Crater → Tarangire National Park → Arusha

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Nairobi to Maasai Mara National Reserve

Your safari begins with departure from Nairobi and a scenic drive through the Great Rift Valley toward Maasai Mara National Reserve.

Arrive in time for lunch followed by an afternoon game drive. The reserve is home to a remarkable concentration of wildlife and offers excellent opportunities to spot lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and antelope species.

Overnight in Maasai Mara.

Day 2: Full Day Maasai Mara Safari

Spend the day exploring Maasai Mara’s vast grasslands and riverine habitats.

Highlights include:

  • Big cat sightings
  • Elephant herds
  • Buffalo populations
  • Hippo pools
  • Crocodile habitats
  • Exceptional birdlife

Maasai Mara is one of the most reliable destinations in Africa for wildlife viewing throughout the year.

Overnight in Maasai Mara.

Day 3: Maasai Mara to Ngorongoro Region

After breakfast, depart Maasai Mara and travel toward the Kenya-Tanzania border.

Following immigration procedures, continue through northern Tanzania toward the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

The journey provides changing landscapes, from Kenya’s open plains to Tanzania’s volcanic highlands.

Overnight near Ngorongoro.

Day 4: Full Day Ngorongoro Crater Safari

Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for one of Africa’s most rewarding safari experiences.

The crater’s enclosed ecosystem supports an extraordinary concentration of wildlife, making it one of the best places in East Africa to search for:

  • Black rhinos
  • Lions
  • Buffalo
  • Elephants
  • Hyenas
  • Zebras
  • Wildebeest

The fertile crater floor provides year-round wildlife viewing opportunities.

Overnight near Ngorongoro.

Day 5: Ngorongoro to Tarangire National Park

After breakfast, continue to Tarangire National Park.

Known as one of Tanzania’s hidden safari gems, Tarangire offers:

  • Massive elephant herds
  • Ancient baobab trees
  • Diverse birdlife
  • Seasonal wildlife migrations
  • Excellent photography conditions

Enjoy an afternoon game drive.

Overnight in Tarangire area.

Day 6: Full Day Tarangire Safari

Spend a full day exploring Tarangire’s varied landscapes.

Wildlife commonly seen includes:

  • Elephants
  • Lions
  • Leopards
  • Buffalo
  • Giraffes
  • Zebras
  • Wildebeest
  • Impalas

Tarangire’s river system attracts wildlife throughout much of the year, creating excellent game viewing opportunities.

Overnight in Tarangire area.

Day 7: Tarangire to Arusha

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast and a final game drive before departing for Arusha.

Arrive in Arusha where your Kenya-Tanzania Big Five Safari concludes.

Safari Experience

This itinerary is specifically designed around East Africa’s most sought-after wildlife encounters.

Unlike routes focused on migration viewing alone, this safari prioritizes destinations known for reliable Big Five sightings throughout the year.

Travelers can expect:

  • Diverse wildlife habitats
  • Excellent predator viewing
  • Significant elephant populations
  • Opportunities to see endangered black rhinos
  • Scenic landscapes ranging from savannah plains to volcanic craters
  • Rich photographic opportunities

 

Estimated Price Range (USD)

Accommodation CategoryEstimated Cost Per Person
Budget$2,800 – $4,300
Comfort$5,000 – $8,200
Luxury$9,000 – $17,000+

Prices vary based on travel season, accommodation choice, group size, and safari customization.

Inclusions

  • Transport in a 4×4 safari vehicle
  • Professional safari driver-guide
  • Park entry fees
  • Accommodation throughout safari
  • Meals as specified
  • Scheduled game drives
  • Cross-border assistance
  • Bottled drinking water during safari

Exclusions

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

Why Choose This Big Five Safari?

Many travelers search specifically for:

  • Big Five Safari Africa
  • Kenya Tanzania Big Five Safari
  • Maasai Mara and Ngorongoro Safari
  • East Africa Wildlife Safari
  • Best Big Five Safari Packages
  • Cross-Border Safari Tours
  • Kenya Tanzania Wildlife Tours

This itinerary is strategically designed around destinations that consistently deliver strong Big Five viewing opportunities while also showcasing East Africa’s diverse landscapes and ecosystems.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I see all Big Five animals on this safari?

While wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed, Maasai Mara and Ngorongoro Crater provide some of East Africa’s best opportunities to see all members of the Big Five.

Is this safari suitable for first-time visitors?

Yes. The itinerary combines iconic destinations with excellent wildlife viewing and manageable travel distances.

When is the best time for this safari?

The safari operates year-round, though wildlife movements and seasonal conditions vary throughout the year.

Can the itinerary be customized?

Yes. Accommodation level, safari pace, transport options, and additional destinations can be customized.

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Experience East Africa’s most celebrated wildlife destinations on a 7 Day Kenya-Tanzania Big Five Safari. Contact Horizon Explorer Africa Safaris to customize your safari and create a journey tailored to your interests, travel style, and budget.

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