How Do I Plan a 10-Day Kenya and Tanzania Safari?

A safari through Kenya and Tanzania is the ultimate East African adventure — a journey into the wild heart of the continent where nature reigns supreme. It’s a world of endless savannahs, thundering herds, golden sunsets, and the haunting calls of the wild echoing across the plains. From the iconic Maasai Mara in Kenya to the legendary Serengeti and the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania, these two countries together offer an unmatched safari experience.

Planning a 10-day Kenya and Tanzania safari requires careful thought, balancing time between destinations while ensuring you don’t rush through the magic. It’s about crafting an itinerary that captures both countries’ highlights — abundant wildlife, dramatic landscapes, and cultural encounters — while leaving room for moments of stillness and wonder.

Here’s a complete guide on how to plan the perfect 10-day Kenya and Tanzania safari, including the best routes, must-visit parks, travel tips, and what to expect on this extraordinary journey.

Why Combine Kenya and Tanzania?

Kenya and Tanzania share one of the richest ecosystems on the planet: the Serengeti-Maasai Mara ecosystem, where millions of animals migrate each year in one of the world’s greatest natural spectacles — the Great Wildebeest Migration. But beyond this shared marvel, each country adds its unique charm.

Kenya offers classic savannah landscapes and vibrant cultural experiences with the Maasai people. It’s also home to diverse wildlife reserves like Amboseli, Samburu, and Tsavo. Tanzania, on the other hand, offers vast wildernesses — from the endless plains of the Serengeti to the volcanic beauty of Ngorongoro Crater and the serene shores of Lake Manyara.

Combining the two allows travelers to witness a wide range of wildlife and scenery, often crossing the border at Isebania — a seamless connection between the Maasai Mara and Serengeti.

When to Go: Timing Your Safari

The best time for a Kenya and Tanzania safari depends on what you want to see, particularly the Great Migration.

• June to October: The dry season is ideal for game viewing. It’s when animals gather around water sources, and the weather is sunny and clear. From July to September, you can witness the famous Mara River crossings in the Maasai Mara — a breathtaking sight as thousands of wildebeest and zebras brave crocodile-infested waters.

• December to February: This short dry season is also excellent for wildlife viewing and photography, with fewer tourists and lush green landscapes.

• March to May: The long rains make some roads challenging, but the scenery is stunningly green, and it’s the best time for birdwatching and lower safari costs.

For a 10-day safari that includes both countries, July through October is the most popular and rewarding period.

Designing the Perfect 10-Day Kenya and Tanzania Safari Itinerary

A well-balanced itinerary should include Kenya’s top parks — such as the Maasai Mara and Amboseli — and Tanzania’s crown jewels — Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Lake Manyara or Tarangire. The following sample itinerary captures the very best of both countries while maintaining a comfortable travel pace.

Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi, Kenya

Your adventure begins in Nairobi, Kenya’s bustling capital and gateway to East Africa’s safari circuit. After landing at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, you’ll be met by your safari guide and transferred to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you can explore local attractions like the David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, the Giraffe Centre, or the Karen Blixen Museum.

Spend the evening relaxing and preparing for the journey ahead.

Overnight stay: Nairobi Serena Hotel, Hemingway’s Nairobi, or Tamarind Tree Hotel.

Day 2: Nairobi to Amboseli National Park

After breakfast, drive to Amboseli National Park, located at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro. The park is famous for its large herds of elephants and the stunning backdrop of Africa’s highest mountain. The drive takes about 4–5 hours, passing through scenic countryside and traditional Maasai villages.

Arrive in time for lunch and enjoy your first afternoon game drive. You’ll likely spot elephants, zebras, wildebeest, and possibly lions and cheetahs. The park’s open plains offer excellent photography opportunities, especially during sunset when Kilimanjaro’s snow-capped peak glows pink and gold.

Overnight stay: Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge or Ol Tukai Lodge.

Day 3: Morning Safari and Travel to Lake Naivasha

Begin the day with a sunrise game drive in Amboseli, capturing the early morning light as elephants wander against the silhouette of Kilimanjaro. After breakfast, depart for Lake Naivasha, located in Kenya’s Rift Valley region. The drive takes about 6–7 hours, with a stop for lunch along the way.

Lake Naivasha is a freshwater lake surrounded by acacia forests and is home to a variety of birdlife, including pelicans, kingfishers, and African fish eagles. Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the lake, watching hippos wallow and birds glide across the water.

Overnight stay: Lake Naivasha Sopa Lodge or Enashipai Resort.

Day 4: Lake Naivasha to Maasai Mara National Reserve

After breakfast, continue your journey to the Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya’s most iconic safari destination. The drive takes about 5 hours, bringing you to the rolling plains and dotted acacia trees that define the Mara’s landscape.

Arrive in time for lunch and embark on an afternoon game drive. The Maasai Mara is home to the “Big Five” — lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos — along with cheetahs, giraffes, and countless antelope. During migration months (July–October), the reserve teems with wildebeest and zebras, creating incredible photography opportunities.

End your day watching the sun set over the savannah, followed by a hearty dinner at your lodge.

Overnight stay: Mara Serena Safari Lodge, Basecamp Explorer, or Mara Intrepids Camp.

Day 5: Full-Day Safari in Maasai Mara

Spend the entire day exploring the Maasai Mara on game drives across different parts of the reserve. Early morning is the best time to catch predators in action — lions and cheetahs are often active before the heat sets in.

If you visit during migration season, you might witness the dramatic Mara River crossings, where wildebeest leap into the waters, chased by crocodiles — one of the most thrilling wildlife spectacles on Earth.

Optional activities include a hot-air balloon safari at dawn for an unforgettable aerial view of the plains, followed by a champagne breakfast in the bush.

Overnight stay: Mara Serena Safari Lodge or Ashnil Mara Camp.

Day 6: Cross into Tanzania and Transfer to Serengeti National Park

After breakfast, drive to the Isebania border, where you’ll complete immigration formalities and meet your Tanzanian guide. From here, continue into the Serengeti National Park, Tanzania’s most famous wildlife reserve.

The Serengeti’s vast grasslands are synonymous with safari adventure. It’s the stage for the Great Migration and home to massive herds of wildebeest, zebras, elephants, and predators like lions, cheetahs, and leopards.

Arrive at your lodge in time for lunch and enjoy an afternoon game drive across the plains. As the sun sets, the Serengeti’s golden light transforms the landscape into pure magic.

Overnight stay: Serengeti Serena Lodge, Kubu Kubu Tented Camp, or Melia Serengeti Lodge.

Day 7: Full-Day Game Drive in Serengeti

Dedicate this day to exploring the Serengeti in depth. Morning and afternoon drives allow you to cover different areas — from open savannahs to river valleys where lions and leopards hunt.

If you’re visiting between June and October, you may witness the migration herds moving north; between December and March, they gather in the southern Serengeti for calving season, when predators abound.

The Serengeti’s timeless beauty lies in its vastness — the feeling of being surrounded by nothing but nature as far as the eye can see.

Overnight stay: Serengeti Serena Lodge or Kati Kati Tented Camp.

Day 8: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater

After breakfast, enjoy a final game drive in the Serengeti before driving to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the way, you’ll stop at Olduvai Gorge, an important archaeological site where early human fossils were discovered.

Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” This massive volcanic caldera shelters over 25,000 animals, including rhinos, lions, elephants, and flamingos. The crater floor offers one of the best game-viewing experiences in Africa, all within a breathtaking backdrop of steep crater walls.

Overnight stay: Ngorongoro Serena Lodge or The Highlands Ngorongoro.

Day 9: Ngorongoro to Lake Manyara or Tarangire National Park

Drive to either Lake Manyara or Tarangire National Park, both offering distinct experiences.

• Lake Manyara National Park is known for its pink flamingos, tree-climbing lions, and scenic beauty.

• Tarangire National Park is famous for its large elephant herds and towering baobab trees.

Enjoy a relaxed afternoon game drive in your chosen park, soaking in the tranquility of your final safari destination.

Overnight stay: Lake Manyara Serena Lodge or Tarangire Sopa Lodge.

Day 10: Return to Arusha and Departure

After breakfast, take a leisurely drive to Arusha, the safari capital of northern Tanzania. Depending on your flight schedule, you can enjoy a city tour or shop for souvenirs at local markets before transferring to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure.

Your 10-day Kenya and Tanzania safari comes to an end — but the memories of wildlife, landscapes, and sunsets will stay with you forever.

Travel Tips for a Seamless Safari

• Visas: Kenya and Tanzania each require separate visas. You can apply online or upon arrival.

• Health: Yellow fever vaccination may be required. Carry malaria prophylaxis and insect repellent.

• Luggage: Use soft duffel bags instead of hard suitcases to fit easily into safari vehicles.

• Currency: Carry both US dollars and local currency for convenience.

• Packing: Bring light, neutral-colored clothing, a hat, sunscreen, binoculars, and a good camera.

Experience the Best of Kenya and Tanzania with Muhiga Safaris

A 10-day safari across Kenya and Tanzania is more than just a holiday — it’s a journey through Africa’s wild soul. From the shadow of Kilimanjaro in Amboseli to the endless Serengeti plains and the depths of Ngorongoro Crater, every day offers a new story written in dust and sunlight.

With Muhiga Safaris, you can experience this adventure in comfort and style. Their team of expert guides, carefully selected lodges, and seamless logistics ensure your safari runs smoothly, allowing you to focus on what truly matters — the thrill of discovery. Whether you’re chasing the Great Migration, photographing elephants at sunrise, or sitting quietly as lions pass by your vehicle, Muhiga Safaris turns every moment into an unforgettable memory.

Book your 10-day Kenya and Tanzania safari with Muhiga Safaris today and let the call of the wild lead you into Africa’s most iconic landscapes — where adventure, beauty, and serenity come together in perfect harmony.