Kenya, Tanzania · Safari

5-Day Masai Mara Serengeti and Ngorongoro Safari with Balloon Ride

5 Days Round trip from Nairobi Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Experience the Big Five across the Masai Mara and Serengeti
  • 02 Witness the Great Migration in the vast plains of the Serengeti
  • 03 Explore Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with diverse wildlife
  • 04 Enjoy a hot air balloon safari over the Serengeti
  • 05 Join thrilling game drives with an optional night safari in the Serengeti

This exciting 5-day safari takes you through some of Kenya and Tanzania's most iconic wildlife destinations, from the Masai Mara to Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Encounter the Big Five, witness the Great Migration, and explore diverse ecosystems across East Africa's most celebrated safari landscapes. With thrilling game drives, a balloon safari over the Serengeti, and comfortable lodge and tented camp stays, this journey blends adventure with memorable moments in the wild. The tour ends in Arusha after an unforgettable cross-border safari experience.

For an even more unforgettable experience, we have a Balloon Safari included in your package, offering you a unique aerial view of the Serengeti's vast plains and its wildlife.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 5 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Easy
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Wheelchair access Yes
Cities Arusha, Narok, Nairobi, Masai Mara, Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Languages English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Swahili

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Nairobi to Masai Mara via the Great Rift Valley

  • Your journey to the Masai Mara National Reserve begins with a pick-up from your hotel or the airport. As you drive towards the reserve, you'll be treated to stunning views, including a stop at the Great Rift Valley viewpoint, where you can admire panoramic vistas of this iconic landscape.
  • The drive continues through Narok Town, a bustling gateway to the Mara, before you arrive at your camp. After a warm welcome and a delicious lunch, you'll embark on your first thrilling afternoon game drive.
  • As the golden light of the African sun bathes the savannah, you'll have the opportunity to spot incredible wildlife such as lions, cheetahs, wildebeests, baboons, and more.
  • The rich diversity of the Mara ensures that every moment is filled with excitement. In the evening, you'll return to camp for a delightful dinner, followed by a relaxing overnight stay, with the sounds of the wild serenading you as you rest and prepare for the next day's adventure.
  • The Masai Mara National Reserve is best visited between June and October for general wildlife viewing, while August to October is the ideal period to witness the wildebeest migration. The high season for safari-goers is during June to October and December to March, when wildlife sightings are at their peak and the weather is generally sunny but not too hot. The Masai Mara is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including common species such as elephants, giraffes, lions, cheetahs, and zebras, as well as abundant herds of wildebeests. Though leopards are more elusive, they can occasionally be spotted as well.

For accommodation, you'll stay at Masai Mara Sopa Lodge, a comfortable mid-range lodge located within the Masai Mara National Reserve. The lodge offers excellent amenities such as a swimming pool, outdoor dining, and a welcoming reception. All meals are included during your stay, with non-alcoholic drinks available to keep you refreshed. This safari provides a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, ensuring you experience the best of the Masai Mara's wildlife and landscapes while enjoying comfortable accommodations.

2
Day 02

Full-Day Game Drive in the Masai Mara

  • Start your day with an early morning breakfast at the camp as you prepare for a full day of adventure in the Masai Mara National Reserve. After breakfast, you'll head out for a thrilling game drive, taking you deep into the heart of the reserve. The Mara's vast savannah and diverse landscapes offer an incredible opportunity to spot a variety of wildlife, including the Big Five - lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos. With the golden morning light casting a beautiful glow over the plains, you'll have the chance to witness predators on the hunt, large herds of wildebeests and zebras grazing, and perhaps even a cheetah sprinting across the savannah.
  • Throughout the day, your guide will share fascinating insights about the ecosystem, animal behaviors, and the unique wildlife of the Masai Mara. You'll enjoy a lunch break in the wilderness, perhaps by a scenic spot or picnic area, before continuing your game drive. The afternoon offers even more exciting wildlife sightings as the sun begins to dip lower, enhancing the beauty of the reserve and providing perfect conditions for spotting nocturnal animals starting to become active.
  • As the day winds down, you'll return to your camp for a delicious dinner, reflecting on the day's incredible encounters. The sounds of the wild and the peaceful surroundings will help you unwind before you rest up for the next leg of your journey.

The following morning, after a hearty breakfast, you'll check out of your camp and begin your transfer to Serengeti National Park in Tanzania. The drive takes you to the Kenya-Tanzania border, where you'll switch vehicles and continue into Tanzania. Along the way, you'll have a chance to enjoy the scenic drive and stop for lunch. As you approach Serengeti, the excitement of the upcoming safari builds, and you'll begin your first game drive in the park, offering an introduction to its legendary wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. Upon arrival at your Serengeti camp in the evening, a warm dinner and comfortable accommodations await, providing the perfect end to a memorable day of exploration.

3
Day 03

Masai Mara to Serengeti National Park

  • Begin your day with an early morning breakfast before checking out of the camp for your journey to the iconic Serengeti National Park. The scenic drive takes you to the Kenya-Tanzania border, where you'll switch vehicles and continue your adventure seamlessly into Tanzania.
  • Along the route, enjoy the picturesque landscapes as they gradually transition into the endless plains of the Serengeti, with plenty of opportunities for photos and a delightful lunch en route.
  • Upon arrival, your first taste of the Serengeti's wildlife begins with an exciting game drive. This offers your first glimpse of the park's legendary animals - majestic lions, graceful giraffes, vast herds of wildebeests, and other iconic species.
  • The Serengeti is famous for its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes, and as the golden hues of the setting sun cast a magical glow over the savannah, the experience becomes even more captivating.
  • As the day comes to a close, you'll head to your comfortable camp, where a warm dinner awaits. After a day filled with incredible wildlife sightings and breathtaking landscapes, relax and unwind under the star-studded African sky.
  • The sounds of the Serengeti's vibrant nightlife will lull you into a peaceful rest, ensuring you're recharged for more adventures in the heart of this world-famous park.

Main Destination:

  • Serengeti National Park (Tanzania)
  • Moyo Tented Camp or Heritage Mara Camps
4
Day 04

Full Immersion in the Stunning Serengeti

  • After an early breakfast, embark on a journey to the world-renowned Serengeti National Park, a name synonymous with breathtaking beauty and unparalleled wildlife. The drive, though lengthy, is a feast for the eyes, with stunning landscapes unfolding along the way.
  • For first-time visitors, the vastness of the Serengeti is nothing short of awe-inspiring. The park's name, meaning 'endless plains' in the local Maasai language, comes to life as you travel deeper into its heart.
  • Covering an immense 6,900 square miles (18,000 square km), the Serengeti stretches endlessly to the horizon, challenging your perception of distance. As you venture into this remarkable wilderness, the landscape opens up to reveal an environment teeming with wildlife.
  • The Serengeti is not only home to breathtaking views but also the Great Migration, one of the most spectacular natural phenomena on Earth.
  • Over 2 million wildebeests, along with countless zebras and a variety of antelope species, make their way across the plains in search of fresh grazing. These herds create a dramatic and ever-changing spectacle, making the Serengeti a must-see for nature enthusiasts.
  • Additionally, the Serengeti is a haven for predators, including the iconic lions, cheetahs, leopards, and hyenas. The park's dramatic river crossings - where wildebeests must navigate the perilous waters, often facing crocodiles - have become some of the most memorable and cinematic wildlife scenes ever captured. The Serengeti's diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife offer a truly extraordinary experience for all visitors.

For an even more unforgettable experience, we have a Balloon Safari included in your package, offering you a unique aerial view of the Serengeti's vast plains and its wildlife. Drift above the park as you enjoy a bird's-eye perspective of the wildlife below, followed by a celebratory glass of champagne upon landing.

Additionally, for a truly adventurous touch, a Night Game Drive is available at an additional cost of USD 300 per person, offering you the opportunity to witness the Serengeti's nocturnal animals in their natural habitat and adding a thrilling dimension to your safari experience.

Upon your arrival in the Serengeti, you'll be settled into your accommodation at Moyo Tented Camps, a luxurious yet intimate tented camp offering a comfortable and immersive experience right in the heart of the park. The camp provides all the amenities you need for a relaxing stay while maintaining a strong connection with the surrounding wilderness.

Extras:

  • Balloon Safari: Inclusive in the package
  • Night Game Drive: Available at USD 300 per person
5
Day 05

Ngorongoro Crater Game Drive and Return to Arusha

  • Start your day with an early wake-up call, preparing for a memorable morning game drive, the perfect time to witness the park's active wildlife as the sun rises over the African savannah.
  • The early hours offer an incredible opportunity to see predators on the hunt and herds of animals moving across the plains, all bathed in the golden light of dawn.
  • After the exciting drive, return to the camp for a well-earned brunch, where you can relax and savor a delicious meal before continuing your journey to the next iconic destination.
  • Next, head towards the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, often referred to as the '8th Wonder of the Natural World.' Spanning an area of 102 square miles and surrounded by towering 2,000-foot-high walls, the crater is a natural sanctuary for an incredible diversity of wildlife.
  • This unique ecosystem includes rivers, swamps, a flamingo-filled soda lake, dense forests, and expansive open plains. It's one of the rare places where you can spot the critically endangered black rhino, along with majestic elephants and a host of other animals that make this UNESCO World Heritage Site so special.
  • As you explore the crater, you'll encounter an array of wildlife and enjoy the stunning landscapes that make this place so extraordinary.
  • After a day of exploration and marveling at nature's beauty, relax with a serene sundowner, soaking in the views before the journey comes to a close. In the evening, you'll be transferred to the airport for your departure, bringing your unforgettable African adventure to a perfect close.

If you're craving more wild adventures and unforgettable experiences, be sure to check out Bavuma Wild Quest. Whether it's the thrill of a safari, the serenity of nature, or discovering unique wildlife, Bavuma offers tailor-made experiences that will leave you with lasting memories of Africa's wonders.

This trip to Ngorongoro and beyond will surely be a highlight of your safari journey, offering an unmatched blend of wildlife encounters and breathtaking landscapes.

Masai Mara savannah, Great Rift Valley viewpoint, Serengeti National Park plains, Ngorongoro Crater rim

Where this trip takes you

Masai Mara savannah, Great Rift Valley viewpoint, Serengeti National Park plains, Ngorongoro Crater rim

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Nairobi 6 cities · 5 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Included in your safari package:

  • Park fees (for non-residents)
  • All activities (unless labeled as optional)
  • All accommodation (unless listed as an upgrade)
  • Professional driver/guide
  • All transportation (unless labeled as optional)
  • All taxes/VAT
  • Roundtrip airport transfer
  • Meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)

Complimentary extras:

  • Sundowner - enjoy a refreshing drink as you watch the African sunset
  • Bush breakfast - experience a unique breakfast in the wild, amidst nature's beauty
  • Hot air balloon safari - an unforgettable balloon ride over the Serengeti
  • Wine and champagne - toast to your journey with a glass of fine wine or champagne
  • Snacks and juices - refreshments provided throughout your trip for added enjoyment

This package ensures that every detail is covered, so you can focus on immersing yourself in the beauty of Africa. Let us take care of everything, from park fees to transportation, to make your safari experience truly unforgettable.

What's Not Included

Not included in your safari package:

  • International flights: the cost of flights to and from your home country to the safari destination is not included in the package. You will need to arrange and book your international flights separately, based on your preferred travel dates.
  • Additional accommodation: if you choose to stay in the destination before or after the safari, additional accommodation costs are not included in the package.
  • Should you need extra nights in the hotel before the tour or after it concludes, you can book these directly with the hotel or through a travel agent.
  • Tips: tipping is customary in many African countries, and for your driver/guide, we recommend a tip of US$10.00 per person per day.
  • This is not included in the package cost, and it is appreciated at the end of your safari for the services provided throughout the trip.
  • Additional tips for camp staff, restaurant personnel, or other services may also be expected.
  • Personal items: any personal expenses you incur during your trip, such as purchasing souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, laundry, or any other personal items, are not covered by the safari package.
  • It is essential to have appropriate travel insurance that covers unforeseen events such as trip cancellation, medical emergencies, or lost baggage.
  • Government-imposed increases: in the event of any increases in government taxes, park fees, or fuel surcharges, these costs will not be covered by the package.
  • Any such charges that arise during the course of your trip may be passed on to you, and we will inform you accordingly.

Please keep in mind that these expenses are separate from your package and will need to be accounted for in your overall travel budget.

What to bring

  • For your safari, pack lightweight, neutral-colored clothing, such as khaki or olive tones, to blend into the environment and avoid attracting insects. Comfortable walking shoes or sturdy sneakers are essential for game drives and walks. Bring a jacket or fleece for chilly mornings and evenings, along with a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses for sun protection. Don't forget sunscreen, insect repellent, and any personal medications you may need.
  • A small, lightweight backpack will be useful for day excursions, and a refillable water bottle is a must to stay hydrated throughout the day.
  • Make sure to bring binoculars (optional) and a camera with extra batteries to capture the stunning wildlife. Also, pack a flashlight or headlamp for nighttime, as well as snacks for longer drives.
  • Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months, and carry the necessary visas, travel insurance, and copies of important documents.
  • Credit cards and local currency are helpful, but it's a good idea to have some cash for small purchases and tips. Finally, consider bringing a journal to document your experience and a plastic zip bag to keep wet or dirty clothes organized.

Know before you go

What Clients Should Know Before Diving Into the Wild:

  • Wildlife Safety Rules:

    • Always stay inside the vehicle during game drives unless instructed otherwise by your guide.
    • Do not attempt to touch or approach animals. They are wild and can be unpredictable, even if they seem calm.
    • Never feed animals, as it disrupts their natural behavior and can be dangerous.
    • Follow your guide's instructions closely for your safety and to ensure the well-being of the animals.
    • Respect the distance between you and the wildlife, particularly big cats and predators.
  • Weather Considerations:

    • Mornings and evenings can be cold, so bring a jacket or sweater. Midday can be hot, so lightweight, breathable clothing is essential.
    • The rainy season (March-May) may bring heavy rainfall, which can affect road conditions and visibility, so pack waterproof clothing and be prepared for some delays.
    • Always check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly.
  • Health & Safety:

    • Bring insect repellent to avoid mosquito bites, especially in the evenings when they are most active.
    • Sunscreen is a must, as you'll spend a lot of time outdoors under the sun.
    • Be sure to take any prescribed medications you might need and consult your doctor about anti-malarial pills before traveling.
  • Tipping Etiquette:

    • Tipping is expected for guides and camp staff, typically $10 per day for your guide.
    • Keep in mind that tips are generally given at the end of your stay, in local currency or US dollars.
  • Wildlife Behavior & Expectations:

    • Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. The animals move freely, and their presence is never assured, so be prepared for some patience.
    • Respect wildlife: keep noise to a minimum, and never disturb or harass animals to get a better view or photo.
    • Stay calm in the presence of large or dangerous animals, like lions or elephants. Your guide will ensure you are in a safe spot.
  • Limited Connectivity:

    • Wi-Fi and mobile reception may be unavailable in many areas. Be prepared to disconnect and embrace the natural environment fully.
    • Safaris offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature without distractions.

By following these guidelines, you'll have a safe, respectful, and memorable safari experience while contributing to the protection and conservation of Africa's incredible wildlife.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Arusha Region, Tanzania
Tour start
Nairobi, Kenya
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 5 days finish where they began, in Nairobi.

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