Kenya and Tanzania in 9 Days

  • Day 1: Nairobi, Kenya
    Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is 18 kilometers away from the city center, taking roughly 30 minutes by taxis.

    Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, head straight to your accommodations in Nairobi. Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, is an interesting mix of modern and traditional culture, with plenty of opportunities to explore. You can visit the Nairobi National Park, Giraffe Centre or the Kazuri Beads Factory.

  • Day 2: Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
    240 km away from Nairobi, and takes about 5 hrs drive.

    Leave early in the morning from Nairobi to Masai Mara National Reserve, one of the most incredible wildlife reserves in Africa. A safari tour in Masai Mara lets visitors witness the annual wildebeest migration spectacle.

  • Day 3: Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
    100 km away from Masai Mara National Reserve across the border to Tanzania, taking 3-4 hr drive.

    Head to Tanzania, cross the border and stop at Serengeti National Park, the ideal location for a safari experience. You can choose to stay overnight in one of the many lodges available.

  • Day 4: Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania
    200 km away from Serengeti National Park, taking around 4 hrs drive.

    If you didn't have enough safari experience, proceed to Ngorongoro Conservation Area, where you will find many wild animals, diverse plant life and impressive scenery. The park has a crater known as the world's largest caldera.

  • Day 5: Zanzibar, Tanzania
    A flight to Zanzibar is about an hour from Kilimanjaro International Airport

    Take a flight from Kilimanjaro International Airport to Zanzibar, an idyllic Island nestled in Tanzania's coast, famous for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich culture.

  • Day 6: Zanzibar, Tanzania
    Explore the Island on this day

    Spend the day to explore Zanzibar, stroll through the colonial buildings of Stone City, shop at the famed Darajani Market or visit the Forodhani Gardens for sunset views.

  • Day 7: Arusha, Tanzania
    Take a direct flight from Zanzibar to Arusha, taking around 1.5 hrs.

    Return to the mainland, and fly to Arusha, Tanzania. Arusha is a city located at the base of Mount Meru and the gateway to the northern circuit National parks in Tanzania. You can explore the city or visit the Arusha National Park for bird watching, hiking, or a canoe safari.

  • Day 8: Lake Manyara National Park, Tanzania
    126 km away from Arusha, taking around 2 hrs drive.

    Start the day early to visit Lake Manyara National Park, a park that's popular for tree-climbing lions, flamingos, majestic elephants and abundant birdlife. The park offers breathtaking views of the Great Rift Valley.

  • Day 9: Departure Day
    43 km from Arusha city center to Kilimanjaro International Airport taking a 40 min drive.

    Depart from Kilimanjaro International Airport, and catch the flight back home.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Nairobi National Park (4-6 hours, $50)
  • Giraffe Centre, Nairobi (1-2 hours, $11)
  • Kazuri Beads Factory, Nairobi (30 minutes - 1 hour, $10)
  • Hot Air Balloon Ride, Masai Mara ($420)
  • Game drive at Serengeti National Park (4-5 hours, $71)
  • Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti National Park (6-8 hours, $295)
  • Stone Town, Zanzibar (3-4 hours, free)
  • Spice tour or Beach time, Zanzibar (3-4 hours, $60-$100)
  • Arusha National Park (3-4 hours, $55)
  • Lake Manyara National Park (4-5 hours, $69)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $1061 in addition to flight and accommodation.

Transportation

Most of the locations are accessible only by road. You can use taxis or private cabs to get around. Local flights are available to save time on long travel days. Costs can vary depending on the type of transportation used. The flights require early booking and may cost up to $200.

Useful Tips

Spending an additional couple of days in Zanzibar can be refreshing since the Island has so much to offer. It’s great to travel with a local guide or book a local tour to save time and get knowledgeable insights about each place.

Airports

The main airports in Kenya are Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi (NBO), Wilson Airport (WIL) and Moi International Airport (MBA) in Mombasa. Tanzania's main international airport is Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam. Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) in Tanzania is the nearest airport for most safari routes.

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