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Ultimate East Africa: Mountains & the Masai Mara

24 days, Nairobi to Stone Town

Map of the route for Ultimate East Africa: Mountains & the Masai Mara
Day 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24

When arranging your transportation, such as flights, please take into consideration the below time restrictions for joining and departing from your group. With these times, we have taken into account travel time to/from the airport in the given destination and required time for check-in or baggage collection/immigration.

Your flight must arrive by or before: Arrive at any time.
Your flight must depart no earlier than: 14:30 on Day 24

Itinerary

Day 1Nairobi

Arrive at any time.

Prepare for tomorrow’s early morning by checking out the hotel bar with your newest friends. Travelling can take a lot out of you so sit back, fill those food and drink needs, and spend a chill night becoming familiar with your group and CEO.

Please make sure you have all of the necessary visas for this tour by the time of the welcome meeting. It is very important to read the visa section in our trip details to make sure you have the ones you will need, if any. Please note that not all nationalities are able to obtain a visa on arrival at the border.

Your First Night Out Moment: Connect With New Friends

Connect with new friends on your first night out in a new destination. Only available on 18-to-Thirtysomethings tours.

Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group

Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.

5

Optional Activities - Day 1 HideShow

The Carnivore Restaurant
Nairobi
130USD per person

Feast on a range of familiar and exotic meats roasted over an open flame barbecue pit. Ever wanted to try ostrich or crocodile? Here's your chance to do so (at a world-renowned restaurant, at that). Price includes the price of a meal (without a beverage) and hotel pick-up.

Bomas of Kenya Tour
Nairobi
120USD per person

This tour gives you a glimpse into the life of 42 different tribes of the country that make up Kenya's rich culture. Get a better understanding of village life by visiting homesteads and enjoy a display and sounds of folk dances performed. Entrance fee and hotel pick-up included.

Karen Blixen Museum
Nairobi
34-75USD per person

Converted from the former home of pioneer coffee farmer and acclaimed writer Karen Blixen, this museum provides visitors insight into life of a Danish settler in pre-Independence Kenya. Take a walk through the home, and magnificent gardens that provide a stunning view of the Ngong hills. Hotel pick-up and entrance fee included.

Railway Museum
Nairobi
6-34USD per person

Adjacent to the Nairobi railway station, this museum contains exhibits from the East African Railways opened in 1971.

National Museum
Nairobi
53--3USD per person

Take a stroll through this museum to get a better understanding of Kenya's rich heritage through a range of cultural and natural-history exhibits. Learn more about the region's bird population at the Birds of East Africa exhibit, a huge gallery of at least 900 stuffed specimens. Get a refreshing take on Kenyan history counterpoint to colonial historiographies at the Historia Ya Kenya display. Entrance fee and hotel pick-up included.

Accommodation

Below is an example of the hotel we may use in this city. For the actual hotel your specific departure will be using, please check your voucher.

The Heron Hotel Nairobi (or similar)
Hotel

Day 2Nairobi/Masai Mara

Hit the road and journey through the Great Rift Valley today on the way to one of the most famous national parks in Africa and Kenya’s premier wildlife reserve.

Stretch those legs and take in your surroundings before heading on a late afternoon wildlife safari drive with excellent chances of seeing the “big five”. This natural environment coupled with the park’s varied wildlife provides for a spectacular safari experience.

Safari Vehicle
Nairobi – Masai Mara7h386km

Get a better view and take better snapshots aboard this off-road ride.

Maasai Mara Wildlife Safari Drive
Masai Mara Afternoon

Maasai Mara is one of the world’s top safari destinations, known for its abundance of big cats – cheetahs, leopards and lions – as well as the two million wildebeest, Thomson’s gazelles and zebra that migrate annually across the vast grasslands in search of water. Set off on safari with our driver/guide and keep your eyes and ears peeled for movement and memories. Watch elephants and giraffe grazing, photograph zebras and wildebeest and, with a little luck, you'll even spot animals feasting on a recent kill.

Accommodation

Kenia Safari Camp (or similar)
Campground

Meals included:

Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 3Masai Mara

Grab those cameras and jump in the safari vehicle with your driver/guide to spot wildlife in the Masai Mara National Reserve. Listen to your guide describe the African bush as you traverse one of the world’s top safari destinations. Masai Mara is known for its abundance of big cats and wildebeest (see if you can capture a picture of one)!

Please note: if you have pre-booked the Masai Mara Balloon Safari, today's likely the day for this activity! Your CEO will give you final confirmation when it will take place, as it is subject to change. You will miss the included morning wildlife safari drive with the group, but you will have a much better view from above!

Safari Vehicle
Masai Mara

Get a better view and take better snapshots aboard this off-road ride.

Maasai Mara Wildlife Safari Drive
Masai Mara Full Day

Maasai Mara is one of the world’s top safari destinations, known for its abundance of big cats – cheetahs, leopards and lions – as well as the two million wildebeest, Thomson’s gazelles and zebra that migrate annually across the vast grasslands in search of water. Set off on safari with our driver/guide and keep your eyes and ears peeled for movement and memories. Watch elephants and giraffe grazing, photograph zebras and wildebeest and, with a little luck, you'll even spot animals feasting on a recent kill.

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Optional Activities - Day 3 HideShow

Maasai Mara Balloon Safari
Masai Mara

The adventure begins just before dawn and lasts an hour in the sky. Fly over the Mara River, plains, and forests of the Maasai Mara. Toast your return to earth with a champagne breakfast, cooked wherever you land.

Please note that single passengers can book on this activity, the balloon will require a minimum of two passengers to take flight. In the rare case that this minimum is not reached by the time of your flight, passengers will be refunded for this activity.

Accommodation

Kenia Safari Camp (or similar)
Campground

Meals included:

Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 4Masai Mara/Lake Nakuru National Park

Awake to the sounds of the bush as your alarm clock before jumping in your 4x4 safari vehicle. Today, the group is heading to Lake Nakuru, known for harbouring flocks of pink flamingos and a rich variety of bird species.

Before reaching the safari lodge inside Lake Nakuru National Park, you’ll stop at the G Adventures-supported Ubuntu Cafe where you will meet up with the Lando, enjoy a meal, and have the opportunity to shop for locally and internationally sold products as memorable and impactful souvenirs.

Later, the group will go on an afternoon wildlife drive through the area.

Safari Vehicle
Masai Mara – Maai Mahiu6h210km

Get a better view and take better snapshots aboard this off-road ride.

Your G for Good Moment: Café Ubuntu 3-Course Farm-to-Table Lunch

On this trip, you'll experience the warmth of Ubuntu Cafe, where every meal you enjoy contributes to a circle of empowerment and supports the creation of impactful souvenirs you'll treasure forever. Your visit also extends support to Ubuntu School, championing the rights and education of children with special needs through therapeutic and vocational training programs.

Lando
Maai Mahiu – Lake Nakuru National Park3h70km

Climb aboard our custom built ride …. overlanding G-style!

Lake Nakuru Wildlife Safari Drive
Lake Nakuru National Park

Search for, buffalo, impalas, hyenas, and even lions and leopards on the wildlife safari drive in this renowned national park. Head to the shores of Lake Nakuru to see pelicans and cormorants. The park is also rich in other bird life, including grebes, white winged black terns, stilts, avocets, and ducks.

Accommodation

Nderit Campsite (or similar)
Campground

Meals included:

Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 5Lake Nakuru National Park/Eldoret

Another day, another chance to see more wildlife and live your African safari dream. After your morning safari drive around Lake Nakuru keeping your eyes wide open in search of buffalo, impala, and the elusive leopard. The group will bump along in the Lando sharing photos of your day on the road to Eldoret.

Lake Nakuru Wildlife Safari Drive
Lake Nakuru National Park

Search for, buffalo, impalas, hyenas, and even lions and leopards on the wildlife safari drive in this renowned national park. Head to the shores of Lake Nakuru to see pelicans and cormorants. The park is also rich in other bird life, including grebes, white winged black terns, stilts, avocets, and ducks.

Lando
Lake Nakuru National Park – Eldoret3h-4h170km

Climb aboard our custom built ride …. overlanding G-style!

Accommodation

Greenwoods Resort and Campsite (or similar)
Campground

Meals included:

Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 6Eldoret/Kampala

It’s time to cross another country off of those travel lists as you cross the border from Kenya into Uganda. Drive along reminiscing on inside jokes and experiences from the trip before camping in Kampala (the country's capital) where you will arrive in the late afternoon.

Lando
Eldoret – Kampala11h-13h350km

Climb aboard our custom built ride …. overlanding G-style!

Border Crossing (Kenya - Uganda)
Malaba

Ready for a little more ink in your passport? Grab your bags and get ready to check another country off your bucket list.

Accommodation

Red Chilli Hideaway (or similar)
Campground

Meals included:

Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 7Kampala/Lake Bunyonyi

Even though you get to do something pretty awesome everyday you’re going to cross the equator today in the Lando (which we think is a pretty cool thing to be able to add to a travel resume) and head off to Lake Bunyonyi.

The name Bunyonyi means ‘place of many little birds’ and it is undoubtedly the loveliest lake in Uganda. It’s winding shores encircle 29 islands and its surrounded by steep terraced hillsides that will have you wondering if you are somewhere in Asia. But the best part is that Lake Bunyonyi is a croc and hippo free lake (unlike many lakes in East Africa) so you can swim in its calm waters as much as you like… such bliss!

Lando
Kampala – Lake Bunyonyi12h520km

Climb aboard our custom built ride …. overlanding G-style!

Accommodation

Bunyonyi Overland Resort (or similar)
Campground

Meals included:

Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 8Gorilla Trek

Today’s the day that some of your dreams may just come true because you are going on a guided mountain gorilla trek in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (so insanely cool!) So get ready to embark on an unforgettable hike deep into the jungle through volcano forests alongside a park ranger to search for mountain gorillas. The treks can vary in length and difficulty so be prepared for a challenge, but know that if you spot these majestic creatures (we share 98% of our DNA with them) it will all be worth it.

Note: Ugandan authorities are fiercely protective of this natural treasure, and currently permit only a maximum of eight people, per day, to visit a given gorilla family. The group will be split into different sub-groups for the trek, and depending on the number of travellers, different sub-groups may do their trek on different days.

Depending on the date of our permits, it's possible that the gorilla trek will take place on the second full day in Lake Bunyonyi.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park has four areas; Rushaga, Buhoma, Nkuringo, Ruhija. Depending on permit availability your group could be tracking gorillas from different areas of the park, it is all still part of Bwindi.

Mountain Gorilla Trek
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park1h-6h

Take an unforgettable guided trek (1-6 hrs) deep into volcano forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for a wildlife encounter of a lifetime, and meet a family of mountain gorillas. One of Africa's major highlights, a close encounter with these amazing animals is simply breathtaking.

Get prepared before heading out: bring plenty of water and waterproof clothing (it can rain on only a few minutes’ notice), and be sure to bring protective bags for cameras and film. Dress in layers with long sleeves and long pants to protect against stinging nettles found in the forests. The trek’s often chilly, at first, until you start trekking.

Note: Ugandan authorities are fiercely protective of this natural treasure, and currently permit only a maximum of eight people, per day, to visit a given gorilla family. The group will be split into different sub-groups for the trek, and depending on the number of travellers, different sub-groups may do their trek on different days.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park has four areas; Rushaga, Buhoma, Nkuringo, and Ruhija. Depending on permit availability your group could be tracking gorillas from different areas of the park, it is all still part of Bwindi.

Accommodation

Bunyonyi Overland Resort (or similar)
Campground

Meals included:

Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 9Lake Bunyonyi

Let’s give Lake Bunyonyi some love today. Explore this magical place as the morning mist rises off of the gently lapping waters. With tons of optional activities to choose from like, swimming, hiking, canoeing, bird watching, a motorboat tour of the lake, or a scenic drive across the border to Kigali, Rwanda, there’s no time to be bored. Then relax together at the lodge in the evening talking about your group gorilla experiences.

Free Time
Lake Bunyonyi Full Day

Get out and do as much or as little as you'd like around Lake Bunyonyi.

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Optional Activities - Day 9 HideShow

Swimming
Lake Bunyonyi

Jump in and enjoy the water and magical surroundings.

Canoe Rental
Lake Bunyonyi3h-4h
10USD per person

Get in a boat and enjoy paddling around the many islands of Lake Bunyonyi.

Day Trip to Kigali
Lake Bunyonyi – Kigali

Take a scenic drive across the border and through the rolling hills to Kigali, Rwanda. Visit the Genocide Memorial Museum, the site where UN Belgian peacekeepers were killed, and pass by Hotel Rwanda. Take some time for lunch in the vibrant capital city and visit a local craft market. You will be crossing a border today, so we recommend applying for the East Africa Tourist Visa, which allows smooth travel between Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya without additional border fees.

Nature Walk
Lake Bunyonyi
5USD per person

Set out and discover the incredible landscape of the Lake Bunyoni area on foot, visiting villages and meeting local communities along the way.

Motorboat Tour of Lake Bunyonyi
Lake Bunyonyi15m-1h
40USD per person

Relax on a boat tour around the peaceful waters of Lake Bunyonyi and learn about the history of the surrounding islands.

Bird Watching Walk
Lake Bunyonyi
10USD per person

The word “Bunyonyi” means "the place of little birds" in the local language. Accompany a professional bird guide along the shore and view the wide range of bird species that inhabit the area around this lake. This is a can't-miss for birding lovers.

Accommodation

Bunyonyi Overland Resort (or similar)
Campground

Meals included:

Breakfast | Dinner

Day 10Lake Bunyonyi/Kalinzu Forest Reserve

Sit back, relax, and watch the Ugandan countryside slip past on today’s journey to Kalinzu Forest Reserve further north in the country.

The forest reserve is adjacent to Queen Elizabeth National Park and is characterized by open savannah, large area of swamp around Lake George, and the extensive Maramagambo Forest in the southeast. There’s a lot of landscapes to experience so what are you waiting for? Get started!

Lando
Lake Bunyonyi – Kalinzu Forest Reserve3h155km

Climb aboard our custom built ride …. overlanding G-style!

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Optional Activities - Day 10 HideShow

Kansenene Hill Hike
Kalinzu Forest Reserve2h-2h30m 4km
8USD per person

Experience a 2 hour hike to the summit of Kansenene Hill, also known as the "Hill of Grasshoppers", with a local guide. Starting from Craters Campground, this 4km round trip offers stunning views of Queen Elizabeth National Park, Mt. Rwenzori, the Kazinga Channel, and beautiful sunsets.

Local Coffee Tour
Kalinzu Forest Reserve
12USD per person

Explore the entire coffee-making process on this immersive community walk. Travellers can get hands-on with every step, from harvesting and roasting to pounding and brewing.

Accommodation

Craters Campsite & Country Lodge (or similar)
Campground

Meals included:

Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 11Kalinzu Forest Reserve/Lake Mburo National Park

You know that saying, “the early bird gets the worm” well in this case the early bird gets to see chimpanzees. Get up early for an included chimpanzee tracking excursion and explore the verdant Kalinzu Forest Reserve with a ranger while being on the lookout for these chimpanzee families.

Afterwards, the group will visit a tea plantation before setting off to Lake Mburo. Once you arrive there you can choose to book an afternoon boat cruise on the lake, or explore the local area on foot.

Chimpanzee Tracking Excursion
Kalinzu Forest Reserve1h-5h

Enjoy a chimpanzee tracking excursion through the scenic Kalinzu Forest Reserve. Trek along the ridges and valleys of the Rift Valley escarpment to visit chimpanzees in their natural habitat. Follow forest trails, which offer amazing views over the Rwenzori Mountains, Lake Edward, the Kazinga Channel, and the Congo. The Kalinzu Forest Reserve is steeped in mystery and rich with local legends. Learn about the folklore and uses of the forest from a local guide.

Tea Plantation Visit
Kalinzu Forest Reserve1h

Walk through a tea plantation with a local guide. View multiple varietals of tea, and learn about the process of growing tea plants from the harvesting stage to what goes into making the best cup of tea.

Lando
Kalinzu Forest Reserve – Lake Mburo National Park3h-4h150km

Climb aboard our custom built ride …. overlanding G-style!

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Optional Activities - Day 11 HideShow

Lake Mburo Boat Safari
Lake Mburo
30USD per person

Come face to face with crocodiles and hippos in their natural habitat, as well as many other animals as they come to the lake to drink. Keep a look out for the many water birds, including kingfishers, the Africa Fish eagle, and the rare shoebill stork.

Nature Walk
Lake Mburo National Park
25USD per person

Set out to discover the incredible landscape of the Lake Mburo area on foot with a guide. Witness zebras, warthogs and various species of birds in their natural habitats as you stroll through the valley.

Accommodation

Leopard Rest Camp (or similar)
Campground

Meals included:

Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 12Lake Mburo National Park/Jinja

Head back across the equator today in the Lando; Uganda is one of the few countries in the world where you can cross this imaginary geographical line on land.

Observe how water swirls in opposite directions on either side of the equator and then stop to enjoy a meal at the G Adventures-supported AidChild Equation Café & Gallery. With full stomachs and even more full hearts the group will continue on to Jinja, the adventure capital of Uganda.

Lando
Lake Mburo National Park – Jinja7h-8h325km

Climb aboard our custom built ride …. overlanding G-style!

Your G for Good Moment: AidChild Cafe & Gallery

Make a stop at AidChild’s Equation Café and Gallery, located at the equator. Surrounded by paintings and other crafts made by local artists, you'll enjoy a meal made with traditional Ugandan ingredients, with a modern twist. Your lunch here directly supports AidChild, a non-profit that provides support, medical care and education to children and youth living with HIV in Uganda.

Accommodation

Nile River Explorers River Camp (or similar)
Campground

Meals included:

Breakfast | Lunch

Day 13Jinja

Get out there, get active, and have some fun! Explore Jinja today solo or with your group by participating in the plethora of outdoor and adventure activities they have to offer.

Choose to raft down the White Nile River, break a sweat mountain biking up and down the hills surrounding the town, or for a more laid back day check out the local market. Keep your eyes ready to spot monkeys and other wildlife that can wander to the outskirts of this town.

Pre-book your rafting adrenaline rush on the checkout page to include the Jinja River Rafting optional activity on your tour or ask your GCO or travel agent for assistance.

Your Discover Moment
Jinja Full Day

There's plenty to see and do in Jinja, and we wanted to make sure that you had some time to take it all in. Feel free to relax or try optional activities like whitewater rafting, horseback riding, and quad biking. Your CEO has more ideas if you need them. Just ask!

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Optional Activities - Day 13 HideShow

Nile River Kayaking
Jinja5h-6h
140-160USD per person

Ride the whitewater of the Nile on a kayaking trip. Take an introductory whitewater kayaking course or dive right in with a tandem kayaking trip with an experienced guide.

Quad Biking
Jinja
105USD per person

Get ready for lots of fun on this exhilarating quad biking tour safari. Ride along the banks of the Nile River through forests, farms and villages.

Bungee Jumping
Jinja3h-4h
145USD per person

If adrenaline is your thing, strap in and leap off for a fantastic experience.

Nile River Sunset Cruise
Jinja
30USD per person

Nothing beats an African sunset over the Nile. Salute the end of another great day with good company, good food, and an ice cold cocktail.

Jinja River Rafting
Jinja
140USD per person

Looking for a change from wildlife to simply something wild? Wake up early and head out on the Nile River for a full-day navigating the whitewater. Enjoy an exciting day testing your paddling skills in the rapids while waves crash over into your eight-person raft. This activity is suitable for rafters of all experience levels. Enjoy an included meal and drinks with your group after conquering the rapids.

Mabira Forest Mountain Biking
Mabira Forest
55USD per person

Take to two wheels to see a different side of Jinja and the surrounding area. Cycle through villages and agricultural plantations to get a real of taste of rural Uganda before heading to the main forest in search of monkeys.

Accommodation

Nile River Explorers River Camp (or similar)
Campground

Day 14Jinja/Eldoret

Today is a bit of a travel day but you won’t mind because you could use the rest. The group will be leaving Uganda and crossing over into Kenya and travel to Eldoret. Hang out together as a group and enjoy a nice evening camping under the stars.

This is an overnight stop in between two long driving days.

Lando
Jinja – Eldoret7h270km

Climb aboard our custom built ride …. overlanding G-style!

Border Crossing (Uganda - Kenya)
Malaba

Ready for a little more ink in your passport? Grab your bags and get ready to check another country off your bucket list.

Accommodation

Greenwoods Resort and Campsite (or similar)
Campground

Meals included:

Breakfast | Lunch

Day 15Eldoret/Nairobi

After your adventurous experiences yesterday you’ll be glad to have a more low-key travel day to replenish your energy. So sit back and enjoy the ride as the group transfers through the Kenyan countryside to Nairobi. We’re thinking naps, story time, and then maybe a mini dance party in the Lando to get you through the day. (Toto’s Africa song anyone?)

Lando
Eldoret – Nairobi11h315km

Climb aboard our custom built ride …. overlanding G-style!

Accommodation

The Heron Hotel Nairobi (or similar)
Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 16Nairobi/Arusha

Hop in the shuttle and hit the road in style as you cross through the semi-arid lands of the Maasai people en route to Arusha, Tanzania. Marvel at the epic views of mighty Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance and swap stories with your road trip buddies!

Shuttle
Nairobi – Arusha7h-8h Full Day290km

Move efficiently from point A to point B aboard this dependable ride.

This is a shared shuttle and may include non-G Adventures travellers. A G Adventures CEO will be accompanying the shuttle to assist our travellers at the border and throughout the day.

Border Crossing (Kenya - Tanzania)
Namanga

Ready for a little more ink in your passport? Grab your bags and get ready to check another country off your bucket list.

Accommodation

Comfort Eland Hotel (or similar)
Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 17Arusha/Serengeti National Park

Well folks it’s time for the Africa you have all imagined, the experience that has been depicted over and over again in books, movies, and television. So grab those cameras, purchase a quirky bucket hat, and head out on a wildlife safari drive into one of the most famous national parks in Africa; the Serengeti.

Get ready for abundant wildlife, vast golden plains dotted with thorny acacia trees, and hippo-filled rivers as you begin a 3-day and 2-night excursion into the park itself and the great Ngorongoro Crater.

The Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater portion of the trip will make use of specialized 4x4 7-seater safari vehicles, with experienced safari driver/guides, who will ensure wonderful wildlife encounters. The safari vehicles each have sliding windows and a large pop-up roof, perfect for viewing animals and scenery. The group will split up among several vehicles and your CEO will spend time in each vehicle over the next three days.

7-Seat 4x4 Safari Vehicle
Arusha – Serengeti National Park8h320km

Get a better view and take better snapshots aboard this off-road ride with a pop-up top.

Serengeti National Park Safari
Serengeti National Park

This is the reason you came to Africa. Charge your camera, grab your binoculars, and set out on safari. Your eagle-eyed driver will keep an eye out for wildlife – buffaloes, elephants, lions, wildebeests, zebras, and more. Tanzania’s Serengeti tends to be less crowded than some of Kenya’s reserves, so enjoy the scenery, the vast expanse of the grasslands, the play of light and shadow, and the up-close look at wild Africa.

Accommodation

Seronera Campsite (or similar)
Campground

Meals included:

Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 18Serengeti National Park/Ngorongoro

Grab your buddies and jump aboard for one last morning safari in the Serengeti. As the sun rises higher in the sky watch the animal kingdom come to life in this grassland savannah before returning to break down camp.

Then it’s on to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, famous for Africa’s best wildlife viewing. Get ready for epic views from the crater rim and watch as animals meander around below drinking water from the permanent supply on the crater floor. You’ll be setting up camp in the late afternoon at a site near the crater rim and then you can spend the rest of the day enjoying one of the most beautiful wildlife havens on the planet.

Please note: if you have pre-booked the Serengeti Balloon Safari, today's the day for this activity! The CEO will give the final confirmation, as it is subject to change. You will miss the included morning wildlife safari drive with the group, but you will have a much better view from above! If you have not yet pre-booked, add it to your checkout page, or ask your GCO or travel agent for assistance.

Please note that due to the high-altitude location of our camp, temperatures can drop at night. We recommend bringing extra layers to wear during the evening and following morning.

7-Seat 4x4 Safari Vehicle
Serengeti National Park – Ngorongoro4h160km

Get a better view and take better snapshots aboard this off-road ride with a pop-up top.

Serengeti National Park Safari
Serengeti National Park

This is the reason you came to Africa. Charge your camera, grab your binoculars, and set out on safari. Your eagle-eyed driver will keep an eye out for wildlife – buffaloes, elephants, lions, wildebeests, zebras, and more. Tanzania’s Serengeti tends to be less crowded than some of Kenya’s reserves, so enjoy the scenery, the vast expanse of the grasslands, the play of light and shadow, and the up-close look at wild Africa.

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Optional Activities - Day 18 HideShow

Serengeti Balloon Safari
Serengeti National Park

Spirited aloft in a hot-air balloon, view the wildlife and terrain of the Serengeti that only the birds see. Enjoy a champagne breakfast and keep that shutter-finger good and limber—you’ll be using it plenty over the course of your hour in the air.

Accommodation

Simba Campsite (or similar)
Campground

Meals included:

Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Day 19Ngorongoro/Arusha

It’s time to experience “Africa’s Garden of Eden” on a more personal level. Today, venture down to the crater floor where the group will embark on a final safari experience. Have those cameras charged and at the ready because, let’s face it if you are going to see any wildlife this would be the place (and we are so excited for you)!

The animals are bound to this area by the crater walls and the enclosed nature of the crater means its own ecosystem has been created think; rich grasslands, swamps, acacia forests, and Lake Makat so get ready to see some magic.

With full camera rolls the group will exit the crater in the late morning and travel back to Arusha. Swap stories along the way, pick those favourite photos from earlier, or simply sit back and let yourself enjoy the passing scenery as you cruise along.

Ngorongoro Crater Wildlife Safari Drive
Ngorongoro Crater

Set the alarm and prepare for an early start to see the wonders of the Ngorongoro Crater. Masai herdsmen appear in the morning mist. Our driver/guide takes us down into the crater and drives us to all the best spots to view wildlife. Watch for zebra, gazelles, buffalo, and warthogs. The swamp and forest are home to hippos, rhinos, elephants, baboons, and monkeys. Keep your eyes peeled and camera ready to capture a pride of lions or a lone leopard walking along the savanna.

7-Seat 4x4 Safari Vehicle
Ngorongoro – Arusha4h-5h200km

Get a better view and take better snapshots aboard this off-road ride with a pop-up top.

Your G for Good Moment: Mto wa Mbu Community Visit and Lunch

Take part in a cultural walk to learn about life in this East African town. Mto wa Mbu has attracted some 18,000 residents from 120 different tribes. During the two-hour tour, visit the community's local market, go right to the farmer's fields, see how huts are constructed, and meet artisans in their shops.

Afterwards, sit down with our new friends and enjoy a traditional lunch of meat and plantains.

Accommodation

Comfort Eland Hotel (or similar)
Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast | Lunch

Day 20Arusha/Dar es Salaam

Leave Arusha early and be on the lookout for the mighty Mt Kilimanjaro—you might catch a glimpse on the road towards Dar es Salaam—and watch as the Tanzanian countryside passes by and the blue waters of the Indian Ocean make their debut.

The city started as a fishing village in the mid 19th century before becoming a port and trading centre. The group will spend the night here before embarking for the island beaches of Zanzibar.

Want to cut travel time in half and spend more time in Stone Town? Pre-book the Zanzibar Express on the checkout page to include this optional activity on your tour.

Zanzibar Express; transfer this morning from your Arusha hotel to the airport for a scenic flight to Zanzibar. Arrive in Stone Town and spend the afternoon exploring on your own. Enjoy an extra night in Stone Town and meet back up with the group the following day. Only breakfast included.

Private Vehicle
Arusha – Dar es Salaam12h-13h650km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

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Optional Activities - Day 20 HideShow

Zanzibar Express
Arusha – Stone Town

Looking forward to your trip but not as much to the long journey from Arusha to Zanzibar? Upgrade this part of your tour and fly instead! You’ll cut your travel time between the two cities to a fraction and enjoy an extra night in Stone Town, where you can wait (nice and relaxed) for the rest of your group to join you. Includes all transfers, local flight, and one additional hotel night in Stone Town, Zanzibar.

Accommodation

Kipepeo Beach Village (or similar)
Resort

Meals included:

Breakfast | Dinner

Day 21Dar es Salaam/Stone Town

After the jam packed last few days of this trip where you are going next is going to be just what you needed. Wake in Dar es Salaam before hopping on the ferry to the paradise of Zanzibar.

Get ready for picturesque island beaches that will make you contemplate staying here and living off the grid. Few places on this planet are as entrancing and exotic as this Tanzanian archipelago so get ready to enjoy it, take loads of pictures, and relax in a place that has long lured backpackers and adventurers to it’s sandy shores.

Zanzibar is a Muslim society. Immodestly dressed women or men in shorts will get harassed and cause great offence in Stone Town. On the beach, customs are a little more relaxed, but travellers are encouraged to be respectful of the island's culture and cover up when walking around. Never try to take a photograph without asking permission.

Ferry
Dar es Salaam – Stone Town2h

Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.

Stone Town Orientation Walk
Stone Town

This orientation walk is just a brief introduction. If you'd like to learn more in depth information about Stone Town, we recommended going on a guided city tour.

Free Time
Stone Town Afternoon

Feel free to explore on your own, or join a guided tour.

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Optional Activities - Day 21 HideShow

Christ Church Cathedral & Old Slave Market
Stone Town
5USD per person

Tour the site of what was once one of East Africa's most notorious slave markets, and the Anglican cathedral that was constructed in its place.

Stone Town Walking Tour
Stone Town – Zanzibar
15USD per person

Enjoy a walking tour along the bustling narrow streets of Stone Town and admire the historical old buildings and homes that are part of a preservation program funded by UNESCO and the Aga Khan Foundation. Also, visit the historical site of the slave market and learn about this dark aspect of history. Continue to the local fruits and vegetable market, fish market, Tip tipu house, and National Museum.

Sultan's Palace Museum
Stone Town
3USD per person

Tour this opulent palace built by the second sultan of Zanzibar in 1883 as an extravagant Arab mansion.

Accommodation

Spice Palace Hotel (or similar)
Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 22Beach day in Zanzibar

Roll out of bed this morning in Stone Town and explore the heart of Zanzibar. Wander the winding historic unpaved alleyways of Stone Town passing by balconies and gigantic wooden carved doors along the way.

Get lost and spend hours exploring the streets and squares, drinking potent coffee from pavement vendors and buying sweetmeats from tiny cafes. Keep an eye out for tinga-tinga paintings, antique shops, beautifully printed cloths (kangas and kikois worn by local people), little carved chests with copper inlays, and spices – all beautiful presents or memories to take home. Transfer to the tropical haven of Jambiani for a relaxing few days as a group.

Private Vehicle
Stone Town – Jambiani1h30m60km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Free Time
Jambiani Afternoon

Settle into island life and explore during some free time.

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Optional Activities - Day 22 HideShow

Jozani Forest Tour
Jozani Forest3h-4h
36-160USD per person

Known for the red colobus monkeys, a visit Jozani forest is a highlight when in Zanzibar. Explore the nature trails while following in the footsteps of a guide who will inform about the impressive flora and fauna surrounding you.

Swimming
Jambiani

Grab your bathing suit and go for a refreshing swim.

Accommodation

S&S Hotel Jambiani (or similar)
Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 23Beach day in Zanzibar

Wake up in this island paradise and get ready to seize the day. You’ll be exploring one of the world’s great cultural crossroads… think Africa meets Arabia and add the Indian Ocean into the mix as the cherry on top.

The day is yours to spend as you choose; head out for a diving experience, grab some goggles and go snorkelling, hop aboard a sailing trip, or just lounge on the beach and relax. Zanzibar’s tropical setting, unique culture, and active beach-party scene make this place a very enjoyable East African Indian Ocean experience.

Free Time
Jambiani Full Day

Do as much or as little as you'd like on this island slice of paradise.

Accommodation

S&S Hotel Jambiani (or similar)
Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 24Stone Town

Your most difficult task today is going to be pulling yourself away from the beauty that surrounds you in Jambiani. Travel back to Stone Town on the other side of the island and explore the heart of Zanzibar.

The tour ends in the late morning.

Morning group transfer from the beach. Depart Stone Town upon arrival in the late morning. Onward travel should be booked no earlier than 2:30pm.

Private Vehicle
Jambiani – Stone Town1h30m60km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Departure Day
Stone Town

Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with any onward travel arrangements you require.

Meals included:

Breakfast

Ultimate East Africa: Mountains & the Masai Mara

| 24 days - Nairobi to Stone Town - from $6799 USD