Safari Overview

The 9 Day Maasai Mara, Serengeti & Zanzibar Safari is one of East Africa’s most popular safari and beach combinations, bringing together two of the world’s greatest wildlife destinations with the tropical paradise of Zanzibar.

This carefully designed itinerary is ideal for travelers who want more than just game drives. It combines thrilling wildlife encounters in Maasai Mara and Serengeti with the opportunity to relax on Zanzibar’s stunning coastline. Guests enjoy exceptional Big Five viewing, world-famous migration landscapes, luxury safari lodges, and unforgettable Indian Ocean beaches.

Perfect for honeymooners, couples, families, photographers, and first-time visitors to East Africa, this safari offers the ideal balance between adventure and relaxation.

From the predator-rich plains of Maasai Mara to the endless savannahs of Serengeti and the turquoise waters of Zanzibar, every day delivers a completely different experience.

Why Choose This Safari?

Many travelers struggle to choose between a safari holiday and a beach vacation.

This itinerary allows you to enjoy both.

Key benefits include:

• Maasai Mara wildlife experience
• Serengeti National Park safari
• Zanzibar beach holiday
• Big Five viewing opportunities
• Great Migration ecosystem
• Luxury safari lodges and beach resorts
• Exceptional wildlife photography
• Romantic honeymoon option
• Family-friendly adventure
• Relaxing Indian Ocean escape

This package consistently ranks among the most booked safari combinations because it combines East Africa’s top wildlife destinations with one of the continent’s most beautiful beach destinations.

Safari Highlights

• Explore Maasai Mara National Reserve
• Discover Serengeti National Park
• Search for the Big Five
• Experience the Great Migration ecosystem
• Stay in world-class safari lodges
• Fly to Zanzibar Island
• Relax on white-sand beaches
• Enjoy turquoise Indian Ocean waters
• Explore Stone Town
• Combine wildlife, culture, and beach experiences

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Nairobi to Maasai Mara

Depart Nairobi and travel to Maasai Mara National Reserve.

Arrive in time for lunch before enjoying your first afternoon game drive.

Wildlife commonly seen includes:

• Elephants
• Lions
• Buffalo
• Zebras
• Giraffes

Overnight in Maasai Mara.

Day 2: Full Day Maasai Mara Safari

Spend the day exploring one of Africa’s most famous wildlife reserves.

Maasai Mara is renowned for:

• Big Five sightings
• Predator populations
• Seasonal migration activity
• Spectacular photography opportunities

Enjoy morning and afternoon game drives.

Overnight in Maasai Mara.

Day 3: Maasai Mara to Serengeti

After breakfast, depart Maasai Mara and proceed toward the border crossing before continuing into Serengeti National Park.

Arrive with opportunities for wildlife viewing en route.

The transition between these connected ecosystems offers excellent game viewing throughout the journey.

Overnight in Serengeti.

Day 4: Full Day Serengeti Safari

Spend the day exploring the vast plains of Serengeti National Park.

The park is famous for:

• Predator-rich landscapes
• Wildebeest migration routes
• Large elephant populations
• Cheetah sightings
• Diverse wildlife habitats

Overnight in Serengeti.

Day 5: Full Day Serengeti Wildlife Experience

Enjoy another full day in Serengeti to maximize wildlife encounters.

Depending on the season, you may witness:

• Migration herds
• Predator activity
• River systems
• Open grassland wildlife

A second day significantly improves opportunities for photography and wildlife observation.

Overnight in Serengeti.

Day 6: Serengeti to Arusha

After a morning game drive, depart Serengeti and travel to Arusha.

Enjoy scenic views through the highlands before arriving at your accommodation.

Overnight in Arusha.

Day 7: Arusha to Zanzibar

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Zanzibar.

Upon arrival, transfer to your beach resort.

Spend the remainder of the day relaxing by the ocean.

Overnight in Zanzibar.

Day 8: Zanzibar Beach Experience

Enjoy a full day at leisure.

Optional activities include:

Stone Town Tour

Discover the island’s rich history, culture, and architecture.

Spice Farm Tour

Learn why Zanzibar is known as the Spice Island.

Snorkeling Excursions

Explore coral reefs and marine life.

Dolphin Tours

Experience Zanzibar’s coastal waters.

Beach Relaxation

Enjoy the pristine beaches and warm Indian Ocean.

Overnight in Zanzibar.

Day 9: Zanzibar Departure

Enjoy breakfast at your resort.

Transfer to Zanzibar Airport for your onward flight, marking the end of your safari and beach holiday.

Wildlife You May Encounter

Big Five

• Lion
• Leopard
• Elephant
• Buffalo
• Rhino

Predators

• Cheetah
• Hyena
• Jackal
• Serval

Plains Wildlife

• Wildebeest
• Zebra
• Giraffe
• Topi
• Eland
• Gazelle

Birdlife

• Secretary Bird
• Ostrich
• Crowned Crane
• Vultures
• Eagles

Zanzibar Experience

Zanzibar offers a completely different side of East Africa.

Visitors enjoy:

White-Sand Beaches

Some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

Indian Ocean Waters

Ideal for swimming, snorkeling, diving, and water sports.

Stone Town

A UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with history and culture.

Luxury Resorts

Perfect for relaxation following a safari adventure.

Romantic Escapes

One of Africa’s leading honeymoon destinations.

Best Time to Travel

July to October

Peak wildlife season with excellent game viewing.

January to March

Outstanding wildlife activity and pleasant beach conditions.

June to October

Dry season with ideal safari conditions.

December to March

Excellent Zanzibar beach weather.

Estimated Safari Price Range

Prices vary based on season, accommodation category, room type, and Zanzibar beach resort selection.

What’s Included

• Professional safari guide
• 4×4 safari vehicle
• Park entrance fees
• Accommodation throughout the safari
• Meals as specified
• Daily game drives
• Flight from Arusha to Zanzibar
• Airport transfers
• Bottled drinking water
• Cross-border assistance

What’s Excluded

• International flights
• Travel insurance
• Visa fees
• Optional excursions
• Alcoholic beverages
• Personal expenses
• Tips and gratuities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Zanzibar included in the safari price?

Yes. The itinerary includes flights to Zanzibar and accommodation as specified.

Is this safari suitable for honeymooners?

Absolutely. This is one of the most popular safari and beach combinations for couples and honeymoon travelers.

Can I extend my Zanzibar stay?

Yes. Additional beach nights can be arranged.

Can I see the Big Five during this safari?

The safari visits destinations that collectively offer excellent opportunities to see the Big Five.

What is the best time for this itinerary?

July to October and January to March are particularly popular periods for wildlife viewing and beach holidays.