12 Day Serengeti & Maasai Mara Explorer

Tour by AVG Travels

English-speaking Naturalist Guides

Small Group Tour Max 12 Travellers

Adventure Itinerary
Day by Day Itinerary
Nairobi, Maasai Mara National Reserve, Lake Victoria, Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire National Park, Arusha
Highlights

- Traverse the Maasai Mara Game Reserve with three included game drives with an expert naturalist guide
- Immerse yourself in the local ways when visiting local villages and a Maasai tribe
- Marvel at the expanse and history of Lake Victoria
- Explore the open savannas of the Serengeti National Park with an afternoon & full day game drives
- Witness the incredible wildebeest migration with dedicated departures
- Stay on the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater at a 5-star lodge and take a game drive of the crater floor
- View Africa’s tallest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro
- Safari game drives through Tarangire National Park in search of wildlife and the famous tree climbing lions
Wanting to explore the island paradise of Zanzibar? – why not have a look at our 15 Day Serengeti & Maasai Mara Explorer with Zanzibar.
If you are wanting to travel in 2025 – please follow the link here.

Itinerary
Arrive Nairobi, Kenya
Welcome to Kenya!
On arrival at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) you will be warmly greeted outside the terminal and transferred to your hotel where the rest of the day is at leisure.
Meals: n/a
Accommodation: Emara Ole Sereni 4* or similar
Nairobi
Maasai Mara National Reserve
Leaving Nairobi in the morning, we traverse Kenya’s highlands and descend the rift escarpment via a road built by Italian prisoners of war during World War II. Passing the impressive Longonot earth satellite station, we cross the valley towards Narok, journeying through vast fields of wheat and barley before reaching the famous Masai Mara Game Reserve in time for lunch.
After enjoying a relaxed lunch, we set off on our first game drive through the stunning Masai Mara National Game Reserve. This reserve not only hosts the famous “Big 5” but also showcases a diverse array of wildlife roaming its picturesque plains.
Following the game drive, we return to our lodge for dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Mara Maisha Camp 4* or similar
Maasai Mara National Reserve
Following breakfast, enjoy a morning game drive through the National Reserve in search of game before returning to the lodge by mid-morning. After lunch, and time to relax, head out for another game drive and a visit to Maasai Village. As the sun sets, return to the lodge in time for dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Mara Maisha Camp 4* or similar
Optional tour: Hot Air Balloon Safari Over the Masai Mara & Champagne Breakfast
This is the ultimate way to view wildlife in Africa. You will be woken before dawn and then driven in the shared vehicle of the balloon company to the balloon staging area, often a remote location. You are provided a safety briefing by the pilot as the crew inflates the envelope. Taking off as the sun rises, you will drift quietly above plains, rivers and forests while gazing at spectacular scenery and with luck, take some incredible photographs. The flight is approximately one hour and gives a ‘birds- eye’ experience to game-watching which many find to be the climax of their safari. On landing in the middle of nowhere there will be a shared full bush-style breakfast set up served with Champagne, a table decked in silver cutlery, fresh Kenyan coffee, tea and fruits. It is a truly magical experience.
Maasai Mara National Reserve
Lake Victoria, Tanzania
Today, head south to the Kenya and Tanzania border with Lake Victoria in sights.
After clearing customs and immigration, continue to the shores of Lake Victoria where you will check into your accommodation.
This afternoon, enjoy a guided walk along the shores where you will learn about the history, geography, agricultural and political significance of the lake.
Meals: Breakfast, Pack Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Serenity on the Lake 4* or similar
Lake Victoria
Serengeti National Park
Depart Lake Victoria as you head towards one of the most famous national parks in the world – the Serengeti.
En route, there will be chances for game viewing so do let your driver guide know if you see anything worth stopping for!
On arrival into your accommodation, enjoy lunch and freshen up before heading out on the first of numerous game drives through the Serengeti National Park.
Serengeti National Park, located in northern Tanzania, is one of Africa’s most famous wildlife reserves. Known for its vast savannas and diverse ecosystems, it’s home to the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebras move annually. The park also hosts the “Big Five” and rich birdlife.
Ole Serai Luxury Camp (Turner Springs) – This particular camp lies right in the heart of central Serengeti. The spectacular and secluded location of this camp boasts all year round game which choose to graze around the camp due to its lagoon type contoured landscape, where the camp is surrounded on three sides by water catchments. There are also large acacia trees spread sparingly across the camp which adds on to create a tranquil feel of the camp and also helps provide natural shading assisting to keep the tents cool during the hot summer months.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Ole Serai Luxury Camp (Turner Springs) 5* or similar
Serengeti National Park
Today, we explore the legendary Serengeti with a full day of game drives across its expansive rolling plains, renowned for sparse vegetation that offers exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities. The park is a prime destination for sighting Africa’s iconic wildlife, including the largest lion population on the continent, as well as leopard, cheetah, elephant, giraffe, hyena, hippo, rhino, and a variety of antelope and bird species.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Ole Serai Luxury Camp (Turner Springs) 5* or similar
Serengeti National Park
Today, venture out on another full day of exploration through the Serengeti National Park.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Ole Serai Luxury Camp (Turner Springs) 5* or similar
Optional tour: Hot Air Balloon Over the Serengeti & Bush Breakfast
Experience the enchantment of a hot air balloon ride over the Serengeti National Park. As the first rays of sunlight illuminate the sky with golden hues, ascend into the air for a mesmerizing journey above this untamed African savanna. Enjoy unparalleled views of wildlife and landscapes that unfold below, capturing the essence of the Serengeti’s natural beauty from a unique perspective. Upon landing, your pilot pops enjoy a bush breakfast before returning back to your lodge.
Serengeti National Park
Ngorongoro Crater
After breakfast, depart with a packed picnic lunch for a day of game viewing along the way. Stop at the famous Olduvai Gorge, where you’ll tour the museum and receive a brief talk about this renowned archaeological site, known for its significant contributions to the understanding of early human evolution.
In the afternoon, cross over the Ngorongoro Crater and continue your journey to Karatu, where you will arrive at your lodge in time for a relaxing dinner.
The Ngorongoro Crater is renowned for its extraordinary wildlife population, estimated at around 30,000 animals, making it one of the most densely populated wildlife areas globally. In addition to its rich biodiversity, the area boasts breathtaking landscapes including the Ngorongoro Crater itself, Olduvai Gorge, and Empakai Crater. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it presents a unique biosphere that has remained virtually unchanged since ancient times.
Your accommodation for the next two nights is perched on the very rim of the majestic Crater where each room has its own balcony with uninterrupted views of the volcanic amphitheatre far below.
Ngorongoro Oldeani Mountain Lodge – A 5-star colonial lodge situated on a picturesque hill with spectacular views onto Oldeani Mountain and the Ngorongoro Crater Rim. The lodge is elevated with 360 degree views that extend all the way to Lake Eyasi and Lake Manyara. The property is set on 40 acres of pristine lush green gardens and local vegetation with over 130 species of birds.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Ngorongoro Oldeani Mountain Lodge 5* or similar
Ngorongoro Crater
Spend today exploring this geographical wonder on a full day game drive.
Game drives in Ngorongoro Crater offer an unforgettable safari experience within one of the world’s most unique ecosystems. Known as the “Garden of Eden,” the crater is home to diverse wildlife, including the Big Five. Visitors can explore lush landscapes, spotting lions, elephants, rhinos, and a variety of bird species.
Lunch will be a picnic within the crater.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Ngorongoro Oldeani Mountain Lodge 5* or similar
Ngorongoro Crater
Tarangire National Park
After enjoying breakfast, depart for Mto wa Mbu, where you’ll embark on a guided village walk. During the tour, you’ll learn about local culture, traditions, and daily life.
After the walk, savour a delicious village lunch, offering a taste of authentic Tanzanian cuisine.
Following lunch, continue your journey to Tarangire National Park, where you’ll check in to your lodge, situated in the nearby wildlife management area adjacent to the park, offering a serene and immersive natural experience.
Named after the Tarangire River that flows through its 2,850 square kilometers, the park is celebrated for its abundant elephant herds and diverse wildlife. With over 550 bird species, including lions, leopards, zebras, wildebeest, and giraffes roaming amidst iconic baobab trees, Tarangire offers panoramic vistas of the Maasai Steppe and Rift Valley, making it a preferred destination for wildlife safaris and outdoor enthusiasts.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Tarangire Roika Tented Lodge 3* or similar
Tarangire National Park
After breakfast, set out for a full day of adventure in Tarangire National Park, renowned for its impressive elephant herds and stunning landscapes. Enjoy a thrilling game drive, exploring the park’s diverse wildlife, including lions, giraffes, and zebras.
Midday, indulge in a delicious bush BBQ lunch amidst the scenic wilderness, offering a true taste of the African safari experience.
Continue your game viewing in the afternoon, making the most of this exceptional day in one of Tanzania’s most iconic parks.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Tarangire Roika Tented Lodge 3* or similar
Tarangire National Park
Depart Arusha
After breakfast, drive to Arusha where you will have lunch at Artisan Cafe.
At the relevant time, you will be transferred to Arusha Airport (ARK) or Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) in time for your onward flight.
Meals: Breakfast
Included
- Small group tour – maximum of 12 travellers
- 11 nights accommodation in 3 to 5-star accommodation including 2 nights in a 5–star safari hotel on the edge of the Ngorongoro Crater
- Daily breakfast, 10 lunches including a boxed lunch and a BBQ lunch & 9 dinners
- Airside meet and greet on arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO)
- Private transfers in Nairobi & Arusha
- 4×4 vehicle(s) on safari with the services of English-speaking driver/guides
- Park fees & government taxes
- Filtered & bottled water will be provided in the safari vehicle
- Flying Doctor Evacuation Cover
Excluded
- International flights
- Visas
- Travel insurance
- Tipping
- Anything not mentioned in the itinerary
- Optional activities
- Personal expenses
Fine Print
How to book and Payments
AVG Travels offers you a “Instalment Payment Plan”, you will be required to settle a small deposit followed by a series of instalments when you select to book your departure tour.
- First payment: You will be required to settle a $300 per person deposit online through our website link
- Second payment: Will be due within 7 days of the deposit payment to the value of $2000 per person
- Third payment: Will be due within 40 days of the deposit payment to the value of $2500 per person
- Fourth payment: Will be due within 90 days of the deposit payment to the value of $2000 per person
- Final payment: Final payment will be collected 120 days before your departure.
However, you will have a 7-day cooling off period. Please refer to the “Flexible Cancellation” section.
Flexible Cancellation
If you change your mind within 7 days of making your booking online, you can request a refund of your initial deposit payment. Once your purchase date falls outside of the 7-day period, our standard terms and conditions will apply.
Please ensure that any request to cancel your booking is received via email to [email protected], including the reason for cancellation.
Flight Information
This is a land package only.
If you would like to add airfares to your booking, please select the departure city where we have the economy return flights add-on for your selection. If you would like to book the business class or premium class, please contact us anytime and our ticketing expert would assist you. Currently we use Emirates Airlines or similar.
Flight requests, amendments or preferences
We understand customers may wish to request changes to their included airfares. If you wish to fly with a certain airline, land at a certain time or change your flight in other ways we will gladly provide you with a personalized quote tailored to your specific requirements.
We would be more than happy to provide you with a quote for the following requests:
Airline Preferences – You may wish to fly with a particular airline
Cabin Preferences – These include upgrading to premium economy or business class
Extensions (start and end cities must remain the same) – You may request to extend your stay pre or post tour.
Meal Requests – You may request a specific meal for dietary requirements.
Seat Requests – If you would like to request particular seating. However please note, not all airlines allow the selection of pre-purchased seat arrangements.
Important Information
Tour by AVG Travels
Our AVG Travels Experts have crafted this itinerary, blending local insights and travellers preferences to create this unforgettable experience. We have considered attractions, logistics, and unique opportunities, ensuring each detail aligns perfectly. Our expertise transforms trips into seamless adventures, offering bespoke inclusions that will ultimately enhance your time touring with AVG Travels.
Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences however any changes are beyond our control.
Single Supplement
Single supplement is $2915 per person in addition to the twin share price.
Physical Requirements
A reasonable level of fitness is required. Participants should be comfortable navigating stairs, boarding and disembarking from the coach and ship, and walking reasonable distances, typically around 2 kilometres per day or more. Please disclose any physical conditions at the time of booking to assess suitability for the tour.
Tipping
A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package.
Industry standard is USD$10-15 per person per day – however the final amount you may wish to give, is completely at your discretion.
Group Size
Minimum: 4
Maximum: 12
Visa & Passport Information
It is the traveler’s responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return and must have more than 2 blank pages.
A visa is required for travel to Kenya. You now need to apply online for an electronic travel authorisation prior to travel. To apply for a visa before traveling to Kenya, please visit the following website: https://www.etakenya.go.ke/en
A visa is required for Tanzania. We recommend that visas are obtained prior to arrival in Tanzania to avoid lengthy queues and delays at the border. To apply for a visa before traveling to Tanzania, please visit the following website: https://visa.immigration.go.tz/
Proof of yellow fever vaccination may be required for entry to Tanzania if arriving from or transiting through a yellow fever risk country.
IMPORTANT: Visa requirements may change at any time without notice. You should always contact the nearest high commission/embassy or consulate for the latest details.
Children
Children under the age of 7 years will not be permitted to travel on this tour.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is recommended to protect yourself against the unexpected. In addition to the support that a policy may provide, you may be asked to present a copy of your travel insurance documentation while traveling. We have partnered with NibTravel Insurance to offer our customers competitive rates for their travel insurance. You can book Comprehensive or Essentials cover for your domestic, international or multi- trip journeys simply with us.
How to Extend Your Stay
You can enhance your holiday by arriving or departing before or after the tour. On this tour you can pay extra for arriving early or extending your trip.
Pre tour accommodation in Nairobi, including breakfast & arrival transfer – $337 per room, per night for double/twin/single.
Post tour accommodation is not offered.
Dates & Prices
Real Travelers Reviews
RESERVE YOUR SEAT NOW
Reserved your seat with a small deposit and you can change your mind in 7 days.
- Sign up
- |
- Log in