African Overland Tours
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Worldwide
African Overland Tours
Length
12 days
Tour SKU
CAE0303
Starts
Nairobi
Comfort Level
Classic
Ends
Nairobi
Age Range
18 - 55 Years and older
Tour Type
Smaller Group Tours
Operated in
English Guided
Group Size
Max 16
Nothing can compare to encountering the legendary wildlife of the Serengeti and Masai Mara in the flesh. That’s why we’ve dedicated 12 full days to exploring this iconic safari circuit.
Traverse incredible national parks where golden grasslands stretch onto the ends of the earth, watch wildebeest kick up the rich African dust as they migrate in their millions, and venture off track to isolated regions to meet local tribes world apart. The road is as diverse as it is unpredictable, so be prepared for adventure.
Our East African adventure ignites in Nairobi, Kenya’s vibrant capital city! Imagine bustling streets, modern energy, and a contagious buzz. We’ll meet at our centrally located hotel – your launchpad for exploring this dynamic metropolis.
Early arrivals? No worries! A variety of optional tours await, allowing you to tailor your experience. These exciting adventures can be easily arranged upon arrival at the hotel.
As the sun sets, we’ll gather for a pre-tour briefing, getting acquainted with your fellow explorers and the thrilling itinerary ahead. Later, join us for a delicious dinner (own expense) at a local restaurant – the perfect opportunity to tantalize your taste buds with Kenyan cuisine and bond with your travel companions over shared stories and laughter! This is where the magic begins!
No meals included on this day
La Mada Hotel
Buckle up for an epic adventure as we embark on a thrilling journey towards the Masai Mara National Reserve! Our route takes us on a scenic climb, reaching the majestic edge of the Great Rift Valley. Prepare to be awestruck by panoramic vistas that embody the essence of Africa – a sight straight out of your dreams!
Famed for the annual wildebeest and zebra migration, the Mara is a haven teeming with life. Here, witness the drama unfold as these creatures navigate the Mara River, where crafty crocodiles lie in wait. The sheer power of numbers, however, ensures most animals persevere on their incredible journey.
Upon arrival in the afternoon, we’ll settle into our comfortable campsite for the next two nights, nestled right next to the park. For those seeking an upgrade, options are available – be sure to book in advance to secure your dream accommodation!
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Oseki Camp, Camping two-person dome tents
± 225 km
Sunrise ignites the horizon as we embark on an unforgettable full-day game drive in the Masai Mara! This renowned reserve boasts an abundance of plains game, with the thrill of ever-present predators like lions and cheetahs keeping the herds on edge. Following the seasonal migrations whenever possible, our safari vehicle transforms into your personal viewing platform, offering unparalleled vistas across the sprawling plains.
As the sun climbs higher, we’ll break for a delicious picnic lunch amidst the wilderness. After a thrilling afternoon of wildlife encounters, we’ll return to camp, satiated by adventure and ready to unwind. Imagine sharing stories and laughter around a crackling campfire as you savor a hearty meal – the perfect end to an unforgettable day in the Masai Mara!
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Oseki Camp, Camping two-person dome tents
Masai Mara National Reserve Game Drive
Hot air ballooning
Bid farewell to the Masai Mara’s drama and set course for Mount Longonot National Park! This captivating landscape is dominated by a dormant volcano, Mount Longonot. Here, we’ll trade our safari truck for a thrilling hike, led by our expert guide. As we ascend towards the crater rim, prepare to be mesmerized by the jagged caldera and the lush forest nestled within – a true geological marvel. Don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for breathtaking panoramic views of the Great Rift Valley!
The last eruption may have occurred in the early 1900s, but wispy steam vents might still be visible, adding an otherworldly touch to the scenery. Keep your camera handy, as our hike offers sightings of diverse plains game along the way. A delicious picnic lunch awaits, enjoyed with a million-dollar view atop the crater rim. Reunited with our trusty vehicle, we’ll embark on a short drive to our campsite nestled on the shores of Lake Naivasha – our haven for the next two nights!
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Carnelley’s Campsite or similar, two-person dome tents
Mount Longonot, Hike in National Park, Lake Naivasha
± 225 km
This morning, a short drive takes us to the legendary Hell’s Gate National Park, named for its dramatic cleft carved by nature through towering basalt cliffs. This dramatic landscape wasn’t just a marvel to 19th-century explorers – it served as the inspiration for the iconic movie “The Lion King”! Lace up your walking shoes and explore this scenic wonderland, where sightings of zebras, giraffes, buffalo, and a variety of antelope species are practically guaranteed. Feeling adventurous? Opt for a thrilling bike ride through the park (local rentals available, own expense).
Keep your eyes peeled for steaming reminders of the Earth’s fiery core – geothermal hot springs bubble nearby, while the nearby Olkaria Geothermal Power Station harnesses this natural power. After a delicious lunch back at camp, we’ll embark on an afternoon boat cruise on Lake Naivasha. Prepare to be captivated by gracfgeful hippos and over 400 bird species that call the lake home. As the day winds down, we’ll cap it off with a visit to Elsamere, the former residence of the legendary “lion whisperers,” George and Joy Adamson. Enjoy a delightful high tea and gain insights into their fascinating lives dedicated to wildlife conservation – the perfect ending to an unforgettable day!
As a final highlight of the day, a visit to Elsamere, the old house of George and Joy Adamson, the original “lion whisperers”, provides an opportunity to learn more about their fascinating lives.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Carnelley’s Campsite or similar, two-person dome tents
Guided Hike in Hell’s Gate National Park, Lake Naivasha Boat Cruise, Elsamere
Mountain Bike Trip in Hell’s Gate
± 60 km (return)
Leaving the beauty of Lake Naivasha behind, we embark on a journey towards Arusha, Tanzania. Our route takes us through the outskirts of Nairobi as we head south. As we cross the border between Kenya and Tanzania, keep your eyes peeled – you might catch a glimpse of the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro peeking through the clouds, Africa’s highest peak! We’ll also skirt the base of Mount Meru, the continent’s impressive fifth-highest mountain.
Our destination, Arusha, is aptly nicknamed Tanzania’s “safari capital.” This bustling town is a vibrant crossroads, teeming with safari operators and travelers from all corners of the globe. Beyond its safari prowess, Arusha also serves as the headquarters of the East African Community and a significant regional diplomatic hub. Get ready to immerse yourself in the exciting energy of this cosmopolitan town!
Breakfast, Lunch
Forest Hill Carnival Hotel Arusha or similar
± 375 Km
Brace yourself for quintessential Africa! Our Tanzanian adventure ignites as we enter the legendary Serengeti National Park. Imagine our route climbing the flanks of majestic Ngorongoro Crater before descending onto the vast Serengeti plains. Golden grasslands dotted with iconic flat-topped acacia trees unfold before you – a landscape straight out of a dream. This is the heart of the annual wildebeest migration, where millions transform the plains into a sea of hooves. But the drama doesn’t stop there – the Serengeti boasts an abundance of game year-round, with predators lurking in the shadows. For the next two nights, we’ll call the Serengeti our home, embarking on thrilling game drives by day and unwinding around a crackling campfire beneath a canopy of stars by night. Prepare to be enthralled by the raw beauty and untamed spirit of this unforgettable wilderness!
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Camping in Serengeti, two-person dome tents
Serengeti National Park Game Viewing Experience
± 300 km
An unforgettable day in the Serengeti awaits! As the first blush of dawn paints the sky, we’ll gather around a crackling campfire for coffee – the perfect prelude to an exciting adventure. Embark on a full-day exploration of the park, where your expert guide will unveil the fascinating behaviors and habits of the animals we encounter. Keep your camera at the ready – sightings of magnificent creatures are practically guaranteed! Our journey includes regular comfort breaks, and a delicious picnic lunch enjoyed amidst the wilderness. As the sun dips below the horizon, we’ll return to camp, sharing stories and photos by the warm glow of the fire while our crew prepares a scrumptious meal – the perfect end to an unforgettable day in the heart of the Serengeti!
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Camping in Serengeti, two-person dome tents
Serengeti National Park Full Day Game Drive
The Serengeti bids us farewell with a final dawn game drive! After an exhilarating morning filled with wildlife encounters, we’ll return to camp for a delicious brunch before dismantling our tents. Our adventure then takes us on a scenic climb up the Ngorongoro Crater’s slopes, where a unique sight awaits: Maasai tribesmen herding their cattle alongside wild animals – a testament to their enduring traditional lifestyle. Tonight, we rest our heads at the renowned Simba Camp, perched on the crater rim. Imagine gazing into the caldera’s breathtaking depths – the perfect prelude to tomorrow’s exciting exploration!
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Camping on the Crater Rim, two-person dome tents
Game Drive in Serengeti, Masai Tribal People, Ngorongoro Crater
± 130 km
Buckle up for a thrilling descent into Ngorongoro Crater at first light! Our trusty 4×4 vehicles will conquer the steep, winding paths that our larger safari truck couldn’t handle. Prepare to be awestruck by this natural wonder – a colossal caldera with dramatic forested slopes, fertile plains, a glistening lake, a vast salt pan, and a captivating fever tree forest. This “microcosm” of Africa’s safari havens concentrates the continent’s incredible wildlife diversity, offering the chance to spot an array of mammals, including the elusive black rhino! After an exhilarating morning exploring the crater floor, we’ll take the same scenic route back to Simba Camp for lunch. By early afternoon, we’ll bid farewell to the park, descending the escarpment to a captivating campsite nestled within a Maasai village. This afternoon, immerse yourself in a unique cultural experience. Join a Maasai guide on a village tour, where you’ll gain insights into their fascinating way of life, rich traditions, and remarkable adaptation to the modern world – an unforgettable conclusion to your Tanzanian adventure!
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Twiga Camp or similar, two-person dome tents
4×4 Safari inside the Ngorongoro Crater, Maasai Encounter
± 65 km
As the vibrant sounds of village life stir the morning air, enjoy a delicious breakfast before setting off on a tour through the village with a Maasai guide. We’ll break for a delightful lunch, followed by an afternoon dedicated to exploring the local markets. Prepare to unleash your inner bargain hunter as you browse unique curios – the perfect souvenirs to commemorate your unforgettable adventure and bring a touch of Africa back home to loved ones. Tonight, we’ll gather for a celebratory farewell dinner (own expense) at a local restaurant – a fantastic opportunity to reminisce about shared experiences and toast to the incredible memories made on this life-changing safari!
Breakfast
Twiga Camp or similar, two-person dome tents
Mto wa Mbu & Local Markets
± 130 km
Farewell, Tanzania! With a delicious breakfast fueling our journey, we depart for Nairobi, completing the circle of our adventure. Onward travel may be via our comfortable safari truck, or occasionally, a convenient shuttle bus. The route boasts breathtaking scenery – keep your eyes peeled for a possible second glimpse of the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s rooftop, on a clear day! As we travel towards Nairobi, those departing today will be dropped off conveniently at the airport. For everyone else, the adventure continues! We’ll take you directly to Nairobi’s city center, where you can delve deeper into the vibrant energy of this Kenyan metropolis. This is where your safari story ends, but the memories – and your African adventure – will undoubtedly last a lifetime!
Breakfast
± 295 km
Included in the Tour Price
Optional Activities available on this tour at your own expense
Chat to our experts to help you plan your dream trip.
Yes, most travelers require a visa to enter Kenya. You can apply for an e-visa online before your trip. It's advisable to check the latest visa requirements based on your nationality.
Yes, certain vaccinations are recommended or required, such as yellow fever, hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and malaria prophylaxis. Consult your nearest travel doctor or healthcare professional.
The Kenyan Schilling (KES) is the official currency. However, credit cards are widely accepted within the major cities and tourist areas. It is also advisable to carry some cash for more remote locations such as national parks and cultural regions.
Kenya is home to the Big Five: lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros. You may also encounter cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, and a diverse array of bird species.
Most travelers get a Tanzania visa on arrival (USD $50–$100, depending on nationality). Check requirements beforehand.
Aside from the Big Five, Tanzania is home to tree-climbing lions (Lake Manyara and Serengeti), the endangered wild dog (Selous/Nyerere), black-and-white colobus monkeys (Arusha & Usambara), and the largest wildebeest migration on Earth.
A custom built, comfortable, safe and self-sufficient Africa overland truck to withstand the rugged African terrain. Various vehicles are used on varying tours, with each offering comfortable seats with ample leg room. Each vehicle has large glass windows for uninterrupted views and perfect for game drives. Smaller 4×4 land cruiser type vehicles are used for game viewing in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, due to the roads being tougher and too narrow for the overland trucks. Each overland vehicle includes a passenger safe to safely keep money + passports + flight tickets + credit cards. The keys are kept with your Tour Leader who will advise of safety requirements in place concerning the safe.
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15 Day Unveiling Tanzania: Serengeti & Kilimanjaro Conquest
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