12 Day Kenya and Tanzania Migration Safari

Kenya & Tanzania

Rates From $3,970

About This Tour

This extensive journey moves through the most significant wildlife corridors of East Africa. It begins in the vast plains of the Masai Mara and transitions through the Rift Valley before entering the iconic landscapes of Amboseli. The route then crosses into Tanzania to explore the Great Migration stages of the Serengeti and the unique ecosystem of the Ngorongoro Crater.

The rhythm of the trip is designed for deep immersion, featuring multiple full-day game drives in world-renowned reserves. Travelers experience a steady progression of changing terrains, from lakeside forests to volcanic calderas and open savannahs. This safari suits those seeking a comprehensive cross-border wildlife experience with a focus on natural cycles.

Comfort and reliability guide the movement between destinations. Each stage of the journey is supported by professional guiding and well-placed lodges that allow for restorative rest between active days. The pace remains intentional, ensuring ample time for observation in each distinct ecosystem.

Our Community Impact

Johnbow prioritizes partnerships with lodges that provide direct employment to local communities in Kenya and Tanzania. These collaborations support regional economies and help maintain traditional land management practices. We choose partners who contribute to local education and healthcare initiatives through sustainable tourism revenue.

Our Sustainability Promise

We focus on low-impact travel by utilizing professional guides who adhere to strict off-road driving and wildlife viewing regulations. Our selected lodges implement waste reduction measures and water conservation systems to protect the fragile savannah ecosystems. We support conservation efforts by ensuring all national park and conservancy fees are paid in full

Why This Safari Works

This itinerary follows a logical wildlife circuit that connects the most productive ecosystems in East Africa. It begins with the high-density wildlife of the Masai Mara and ends with the unique biodiversity of the Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Manyara. The structure allows for a natural build-up of experiences, moving from classic savannah scenes to dramatic volcanic landscapes.

The pacing avoids travel fatigue by incorporating multi-night stays in key locations like the Mara and Serengeti. This allows travelers to settle into the rhythm of the bush rather than moving every day. The mix of road transfers and extensive game drives provides a balanced view of the countryside and its wildlife. This works best for first-time visitors wanting a complete East African overview and dedicated wildlife enthusiasts.

Your Trip at a Glance

A snapshot of your entire experience, from key highlights to where you'll stay and what to expect each day.

  • 4x4 Land Cruiser
  • Big Five Experience
  • Bird Watching
  • Bush Breakfast / Bush Dinner
  • Children Allowed
  • Classic Safari
  • Couple
  • Cultural Visits
  • Family
  • Friends
  • Full Board
  • Game Drives
  • Great Migration
  • Group Travel
  • Hot Air Balloon Safari
  • Photographic Safari
  • Photography Safaris
  • Private Safari
  • Road Transfer
  • Spa & Wellness
  • Vegan Options Available

Trip Summary

  • Day 1: Nairobi to Masai Mara Game Reserve
  • Day 2: Full Day Migration Scenes Safari
  • Day 3: Extensive Game Drive at Masai Mara
  • Day 3: Extensive Game Drive at Masai Mara
  • Day 5: Lake Nakuru to Amboseli National Park
  • Day 6: Full-Day Safari at Amboseli National Park
  • Day 7: Amboseli National Park to Karatu
  • Day 8: Full Day Game Drive at Tarangire National Park
  • Day 9: Karatu to Serengeti National Park
  • Day 10: Full Day Great Migration Safari Serengeti
  • Day 11: North Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater
  • Day 12: Lake Manyara National Park to Arusha Airport

Destinations

  • Masai Mara Game Reserve
  • Lake Nakuru National Park
  • Amboseli National Park
  • Tarangire National Park
  • Serengeti National Park
  • Ngorongoro Crater
  • Lake Manyara National Park

Where You Stay

  • Mara Sweet Acacia Lodge (3 Nights)
  • Mara Sweet Acacia Lodge (3 Nights)
  • Ol Tukai Lodge (2 Nights)
  • Ol Tukai Lodge (2 Nights)
  • Serengeti Tortilis Camp (2 Nights)
  • Ngorongoro Wild Camp (1 Night)

Safari Highlights

  • Morning light over the Masai Mara plains
  • Observing the Great Migration cycles in the Serengeti
  • Views of Mount Kilimanjaro from Amboseli
  • Exploring the enclosed ecosystem of Ngorongoro Crater
  • Birdlife and rhinos at Lake Nakuru
  • Giant elephant herds in Tarangire
  • Giant elephant herds in Tarangire
  • Golden hour game drives across the African savannah

Featured Destinations

Where You Stay

Route Map

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Itinerary Highlights

  • Scenic drive to the Masai Mara

  • Afternoon orientation game drive

Itinerary information

The journey departs Nairobi and moves toward the world-famous Masai Mara Game Reserve. The landscape shifts from urban outskirts to the vast, rolling grasslands of the Great Rift Valley. Upon arrival, the first game drive offers an introduction to the region’s high density of plains game and predators. The evening is spent settling into the quiet atmosphere of the reserve. Meals: Dinner Accommodation: Mara Sweet Acacia Lodge

Itinerary Highlights

  • Full day tracking migration movements

  • Picnic lunch on the Mara plains

Itinerary information

This day is dedicated to the vast scale of the Masai Mara. The focus is on the seasonal movements of the Great Migration, where thousands of wildebeest and zebra traverse the plains. Extensive tracking allows for patient observation of wildlife behavior and predator-prey dynamics. The day ends with a return to the lodge as the sun sets over the horizon. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Accommodation: Mara Sweet Acacia Lodge

Itinerary Highlights

  • Sunrise wildlife tracking

  • Deep exploration of the reserve

Itinerary information

The third day in the Mara allows for a deeper exploration of the reserve’s diverse sectors. With no rush to move destinations, the morning is spent following the sounds and signs of the bush. This extended time in one ecosystem provides a better understanding of the resident lion prides and cheetah territories. The afternoon offers a final opportunity to capture the iconic Mara light. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Accommodation: Mara Sweet Acacia Lodge

3-Day Tarangire, Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro Safari

Itinerary Highlights

  • Transition to the Rift Valley lakes

  • Birdlife and rhino tracking

Itinerary information

Leaving the Mara, the route heads to Lake Nakuru National Park, a haven for birdlife and endangered rhinos. The scenery changes from open savannah to fever tree forests and alkaline shorelines. An afternoon drive around the lake reveals a different variety of species, including flamingos and Rothschild giraffes. The day concludes at a lodge overlooking the park’s unique landscapes. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Accommodation: Lake Nakuru Lodge

Itinerary Highlights

  • Scenic drive toward the southern border

  • Evening views of Mount Kilimanjaro

Itinerary information

The safari moves south toward Amboseli National Park, famous for its large elephant herds and views of Mount Kilimanjaro. The drive showcases the diversity of the Kenyan countryside before arriving at the park gates. The afternoon game drive focuses on the swamps that draw wildlife from across the dusty plains. As the clouds clear, the massive peak of Kilimanjaro provides a dramatic backdrop. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Accommodation: Ol Tukai Lodge

Itinerary Highlights

  • Full day in the shadow of Kilimanjaro

  • Close encounters with tusker herds

Itinerary information

A full day in Amboseli allows for a steady pace of wildlife viewing. The morning is spent near the marshes where elephants congregate to feed and bathe. The open terrain makes wildlife spotting easier and provides clear vistas for photography. This day emphasizes the quiet power of the landscape and its resident giants under the equatorial sun. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Accommodation: Ol Tukai Lodge

Itinerary Highlights

  • Border crossing at Namanga

  • Transition to the Tanzanian highlands

Itinerary information

The journey crosses the international border into Tanzania and heads toward the Karatu highlands. This transition day marks a change in culture and geography as the route climbs toward the crater highlands. The cooler air and lush vegetation provide a restorative break from the dusty plains. The evening is spent at a lodge nestled in the verdant hills near the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Accommodation: Marera Valley Lodge

Itinerary Highlights

  • Full day exploring Tarangire

  • Iconic baobab tree landscapes

Itinerary information

Tarangire National Park is the focus of today’s exploration, known for its massive baobab trees and large elephant populations. The Tarangire River acts as a magnet for wildlife, especially during the drier months. The day is spent navigating the river circuits where lions and leopards are often found resting in the shade. The evening return to Karatu offers a chance to reflect on the day’s sightings. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Accommodation: Marera Valley Lodge

Itinerary Highlights

  • Scenic drive through Ngorongoro highlands

  • Descent into the Serengeti plains

Itinerary information

The route passes the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater before descending into the endless plains of the Serengeti. The transition from high-altitude forest to short-grass savannah is one of the most dramatic drives in Africa. Upon entry, the first Serengeti game drive introduces the vast scale of this ecosystem. The day ends at a tented camp, surrounded by the sounds of the Tanzanian wilderness. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Accommodation: Serengeti Tortilis Camp

Itinerary Highlights

  • Full-day migration tracking

  • Infinite horizons and predator action

Itinerary information

This day is dedicated to the heart of the Serengeti and its legendary wildlife populations. Depending on the season, the focus remains on the movement of the Great Migration across the central and northern plains. The vast open spaces provide a sense of true wilderness that is unique to this region. The evening is spent under the stars at the safari camp. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Accommodation: Serengeti Tortilis Camp

Itinerary Highlights

  • Descent into the volcanic caldera

  • High-density wildlife viewing

Itinerary information

The safari heads back toward the Ngorongoro Crater for a final wildlife highlight. The descent into the floor of this extinct volcano reveals a self-contained paradise of lions, rhinos, and hippos. The morning is spent exploring the varied habitats within the crater walls. In the afternoon, the route climbs back out for an overnight stay overlooking the conservation area. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Accommodation: Ngorongoro Wild Camp

Itinerary Highlights

  • Final morning game drive at Lake Manyara

  • Transfer to Arusha for flights

Itinerary information

The final morning includes a visit to Lake Manyara National Park, famous for its tree-climbing lions and groundwater forests. It is a compact and diverse end to the wildlife circuit. Afterward, the journey continues to Arusha Airport for the departure flight. The drive offers final views of the Tanzanian highlands before the safari concludes. Meals: Breakfast Accommodation: N/A

JohnBow Safari Expert Insight

❝ We designed this cross-border circuit to offer a seamless transition between Kenya and Tanzania, ensuring travelers experience the full scope of the migration and East Africa's diverse ecosystems ❞

~JohnBow Travel Consultant

Rates

Competitive rates for unforgettable experiences

Seasons2 Guest4 Guest6 Guest
April – May,2026USD 4945USD 4210USD 3970
July – Oct/22Dec – 2Jan,2027USD 5640USD 4905USD 4665
June -June/Nov – 21 Dec,2026USD 5345USD 4615USD 4370

Important Rate Notes

  • Rates are subject to availability and seasonal rooming variations.
  • Single room supplements apply for solo travelers or those requesting private rooms.
  • Child policies vary across lodges and will be confirmed at the time of booking.
  • Similar standard lodges may be substituted if listed properties are fully booked.

What's Included

  • All accommodations as listed in the itinerary
  • Private safari Jeep 4x4 transport
  • Game drives
  • Meals as specified for each day
  • All national park and conservancy entry fees
  • All lodge concession and crater services fees
  • Professional English-speaking driver-guide

Optional Addons

  • Professional English-speaking driver-guide
  • Hot air balloon safari in Masai Mara or Serengeti
  • Olduvai Gorge archaeological site visit
  • Night game drives where permitted

What's Not Included

  • International flight tickets
  • Tourist visas for Kenya and Tanzania
  • Travel and medical insurance
  • Tips and gratuities for guides and staff
  • Optional activities listed above
  • Drinks and extra snacks not specified

Ready to start planning your Safari? Tell us your travel dates, who you are traveling with, and what matters most to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

The migration is most active from July to October, but these regions offer excellent wildlife viewing year-round.
Yes, since this itinerary crosses the border between Kenya and Tanzania, a valid yellow fever certificate is mandatory.
We use a private 4×4 Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof to ensure comfort and visibility on both road and game drives.

See What Our Travellers Have To Say

info@johnbowtoursandtravel.com
Kenya Cinema Plaza, 3rd Floor Room 3-8. Moi Avenue, Nairobi