This 5-day Kenya–Tanzania safari combines two of East Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations in one cross-border journey. Starting from Nairobi, the safari explores the renowned Maasai Mara before continuing into Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park and ending in Arusha.

Designed for travelers seeking a shorter but rewarding safari experience, this itinerary focuses on strong wildlife viewing, efficient travel routing, and diverse safari landscapes across Kenya and Tanzania.

The safari is ideal for first-time visitors, wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and travelers looking to experience the classic East African safari circuit within a limited timeframe.

SAFARI HIGHLIGHTS

• Explore Maasai Mara and Serengeti in one safari
• Cross-border safari from Kenya to Tanzania
• Big Five wildlife viewing opportunities
• Scenic savannah landscapes and migration ecosystems
• Ideal short East Africa safari itinerary
• Flexible road and fly-in safari options
• Professional multilingual safari guides available on request

ROUTE OVERVIEW

Nairobi → Maasai Mara → Serengeti → Arusha

DAY-BY-DAY ITINERARY

Day 1: Nairobi to Maasai Mara

Depart Nairobi and travel through the Great Rift Valley toward Maasai Mara National Reserve. Arrive in time for lunch followed by an afternoon game drive.

Day 2: Full Day in Maasai Mara

Spend the day exploring Maasai Mara with morning and afternoon game drives. Wildlife sightings may include lions, elephants, buffalo, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, and other plains wildlife.

Day 3: Maasai Mara to Serengeti

Early departure toward the Kenya–Tanzania border crossing. After immigration formalities, continue into Serengeti National Park with game viewing en route.

Day 4: Full Day in Serengeti National Park

Enjoy a full day exploring Serengeti’s expansive plains and wildlife-rich habitats. The park is known for predator sightings, open savannahs, and year-round wildlife activity.

Day 5: Serengeti to Arusha

Morning game viewing before departing Serengeti and returning to Arusha for drop-off or onward travel arrangements.

TRANSPORT OPTIONS

• 4×4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
• Professional English-speaking driver-guide
• Optional fly-in safari upgrade available
• Shared or private safari options
• Multilingual guides available upon request

SAFARI EXPERIENCE

This safari is designed for travelers seeking a classic East African wildlife experience within a shorter timeframe. By combining Maasai Mara and Serengeti, travelers experience two globally recognized safari ecosystems connected by shared wildlife movement and diverse landscapes.

The itinerary offers:

• Excellent Big Five viewing opportunities
• Cross-border safari experience
• Balanced game viewing and travel time
• Scenic overland safari routes
• Flexible accommodation categories

ESTIMATED PRICE RANGE 

Prices vary depending on travel season, accommodation category, 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 transfer assistance

EXCLUSIONS

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

FAQs

Can I combine Maasai Mara and Serengeti in 5 days?

Yes. This itinerary is specifically designed to connect Maasai Mara and Serengeti efficiently within a shorter safari timeframe.

Is this safari suitable for first-time visitors?

Yes. It combines two of East Africa’s most famous safari destinations and offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

Are fly-in safari options available?

Yes. Fly-in upgrades can be arranged to reduce travel time between destinations.

Do I need visas for both Kenya and Tanzania?

Visa requirements depend on nationality, but most travelers require separate entry visas for Kenya and Tanzania.