9-Day Kenya & Tanzania Safari: The Great Migration & Big Five Trail
The Ultimate East African Odyssey
Embark on the definitive East African circuit with Sunup Adventures. This 9-day journey is meticulously crafted to showcase the crown jewels of two nations: Kenya’s legendary Masai Mara and Tanzania’s iconic Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. By bridging these world-class ecosystems, we provide our guests with the highest statistical probability of witnessing the “Big Five” and the Great Wildebeest Migration in a single, seamless expedition. From the sprawling golden savannahs to the prehistoric depths of the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera, this is more than a vacation—it is a deep immersion into the rhythm of the wild.
Why Book This Adventure?
DETAILED ITINERARY
Day 1: The Gateway to Adventure – Nairobi to Masai Mara
Your journey begins at 07:00 AM with a private pickup by your Sunup Adventures guide in Nairobi. Leaving the bustling city behind, we descend into the Great Rift Valley, stopping at a panoramic viewpoint to witness the sheer scale of the African continent. We arrive at the Masai Mara National Reserve in time for lunch and a brief period of relaxation at your luxury safari camp.
As the equatorial heat begins to fade in the late afternoon, we head out for your first game drive. The Mara is famous for its resident prides of lions and graceful giraffes silhouetted against the setting sun. We return to camp for a multi-course dinner under the stars, falling asleep to the distant calls of hyenas.
Day 2 & 3: Immersion in the Masai Mara Ecosystem
Spend two full days exploring the diverse habitats of the Masai Mara. Our expert guides utilize a vast network of radio communication and local knowledge to position you in the heart of the action. We focus on the “Big Five”—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and the elusive black rhino.
During the migration season (July–October), our primary focus shifts to the Mara River, where thousands of wildebeest and zebras gather, nervously preparing to brave the crocodile-infested waters. You will have the option of a “Picnic in the Wild,” allowing us to stay out for a full day of tracking predators. For those seeking an aerial perspective, an optional sunrise hot air balloon safari can be arranged on Day 3.
Day 4: Crossing the Frontier – Masai Mara to Western Serengeti
After an early breakfast, we bid farewell to Kenya and head toward the Isebania border. After a seamless transition through customs and immigration, you will meet your Tanzanian Sunup Adventures team. We enter the Western Corridor of the Serengeti National Park.
This region is distinct for its lush vegetation and the Grumeti River, home to some of Africa’s largest Nile crocodiles and hippos. The afternoon game drive offers a chance to see the “Migration in Transition” as herds move through the tall grasses. We settle into a secluded camp tucked away in the acacia woodlands.
Day 5 & 6: The Endless Plains – Central Serengeti Safari
We move deeper into the heart of the Serengeti, arriving in the Seronera Valley. This “Central Serengeti” region is widely regarded as the “Big Cat Capital of the World.” The presence of permanent water sources means wildlife is abundant year-round.
Over these two days, we explore the iconic kopjes—massive granite rock formations that serve as lookout points for leopards and cheetahs. You will witness the vastness of the Serengeti, which translates from the Maasai language as “The Land That Runs Forever.” We track massive herds of elephants, watch for the rare serval cat, and enjoy the incredible birdlife that inhabits the acacia canopies.
Day 7: The Path of Human Origins – Serengeti to Ngorongoro
We depart the Serengeti with a final morning game drive, heading toward the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. En route, we make a significant stop at the Olduvai Gorge. Known as the “Cradle of Mankind,” this archaeological site is where the Leakey family discovered some of the earliest hominid remains, dating back millions of years.
After a guided tour of the museum, we continue to the Ngorongoro Crater rim. The change in scenery is dramatic—shifting from dry plains to lush, high-altitude rainforest. We arrive at your lodge in time for a “Sundowner” overlooking the 600-meter drop into the caldera floor.
Day 8: Africa’s Eden – Full Day Ngorongoro Crater Floor
At dawn, we descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a true natural wonder. This self-contained ecosystem hosts over 25,000 large mammals. Because of the enclosed nature of the crater, wildlife viewing is exceptionally close and frequent.
This is your best opportunity to see the endangered Black Rhino in the wild. We spend the day traversing the soda lakes (often pink with flamingos), the Lerai fever tree forest, and the open plains where lions hunt in the open. After a scenic picnic lunch near the hippo pool, we ascend the steep crater walls as the shadows lengthen, returning for a final celebratory dinner.
Day 9: The Journey Home – Ngorongoro to Arusha/Kilimanjaro
Enjoy a final leisurely breakfast with views of the mist rising off the crater. We begin our descent from the highlands, passing through the vibrant red-soil villages of the Karatu district. We arrive in Arusha by mid-day for lunch and a chance to browse local Maasai markets for souvenirs.
Finally, we provide a private transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport for your departure, marking the end of your 9-day Sunup Adventures odyssey.
✅ What is Included in Your Sunup Adventure
Professional Guiding and Expertise
Certified Silver-Level Guides: Access to our highly trained, English-speaking professional driver-guides with deep knowledge of African flora, fauna, and local Maasai/Tanzanian culture.
Cross-Border Logistics: Complete handling of the logistics at the Isebania border, including the vehicle and guide transition from Kenya to Tanzania.
Transport and Logistics
Custom 4×4 Safari Land Cruisers: Use of a specially modified 4×4 vehicle featuring a pop-up roof for 360-degree wildlife viewing and photography.
Guaranteed Window Seat: We limit occupancy to ensure every guest has a clear, unobstructed view of the wild.
Airport Transfers: Private meet-and-greet and round-trip transfers from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi and to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport.
All Fuel and Maintenance: Unlimited mileage for game drives within park operating hours.
Park Entry and Conservation Fees
National Park Fees: All daily conservation and entry fees for the Masai Mara National Reserve and Serengeti National Park.
UNESCO Site Fees: Entry fees for the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Crater Service Fee: The specific government vehicle fee required to descend into the Ngorongoro Crater floor.
Olduvai Gorge: Entrance fees and a guided tour of the archaeological site and museum.
Accommodation and Meals
8 Nights Luxury/Mid-Range Lodging: Full accommodation in hand-picked safari camps and lodges as specified in your final itinerary.
Full Board Meal Plan: Three meals per day, including hot breakfasts, gourmet picnic lunches for full-day game drives, and multi-course dinners at the lodges.
Hydration: Unlimited supply of chilled bottled mineral water provided in the safari vehicle throughout the duration of the trip.
❌ What is Excluded from Your Safari
Travel Documentation and Entry
International Airfare: Flights to Nairobi (NBO) and departing from Kilimanjaro (JRO) are not included.
Visa Fees: The cost of the Kenya Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) and the Tanzania Tourist Visa ($50–$100 depending on nationality).
Travel Insurance: We strongly recommend comprehensive medical, evacuation, and trip cancellation insurance.
Optional Activities and Experiences
Masai Village Visit: Optional cultural tours to a traditional Maasai Boma (usually $30 per person paid locally).
Hot Air Balloon Safari: Sunrise flights over the Masai Mara or Serengeti (approx. $490–$600 per person, including champagne breakfast).
Night Game Drives: Where available and if requested outside the standard itinerary.
Personal Expenses and Gratuities
Tips and Gratuities: Tips for your professional driver-guide, camp staff, and porters (we provide a tipping guideline upon booking).
Beverages: Alcoholic drinks (wine, beer, spirits) and specialized soft drinks/sodas at the lodges, unless specified as an “all-inclusive” property.
Laundry Services: Available at most lodges for an additional fee.
Personal Items: Souvenirs, telephone calls, and any items of a personal nature.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Planning Your Arrival & Departure
Where should I book my international flights? For this 9-day circuit, you should book your arrival flight into Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi, Kenya. For your journey home, book your departure from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK) in Tanzania.
Do I need two different visas for this trip? Yes. Since you are visiting both Kenya and Tanzania, you will need to apply for the Kenya Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) and the Tanzania Ordinary Tourist Visa. We recommend applying for both online at least three weeks before your departure.
The Safari Experience
What is the “Big Five” and will I see them? The Big Five consists of the Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Buffalo, and Rhino. While nature offers no guarantees, this specific 9-day route visits the] highest-density wildlife areas in Africa. The Ngorongoro Crater is your best chance for the rare Black Rhino, while the Serengeti and Mara are world-famous for big cats.
What is the best time of year for the Great Migration? The migration is a year-round cycle. From July to October, the herds are typically in the Masai Mara (Kenya). From December to March, they are in the Southern Serengeti (Tanzania) for calving season. The “Central Serengeti” offers spectacular resident wildlife viewing 365 days a year.
What kind of vehicles do you use? We use custom-built 4×4 Toyota Land Cruisers specifically designed for the rugged East African terrain. Each vehicle features a pop-up roof for 360-degree viewing, charging ports for your cameras, and a cooler box for drinks. We guarantee a window seat for every guest.
Logistics & Safety
How does the border crossing work? Sunup Adventures makes the crossing at the Isebania border seamless. Your Kenyan guide will assist you with exit procedures, and your Tanzanian guide will be waiting on the other side of the “no-man’s land” to welcome you. We handle the vehicle and luggage transfer so you can focus on the scenery.
Is it safe to go on safari? Absolutely. Your safety is our primary concern. Our guides are experts in animal behavior and will always maintain a safe distance. Our partner lodges and camps are guarded 24/7 by professional security and local Maasai morans.
What vaccinations do I need? We recommend consulting a travel clinic at least six weeks before departure. Generally, Yellow Fever vaccination is required for cross-border travel between Kenya and Tanzania. Malaria prophylactics are also highly recommended as most parks are in malarial zones.
Life on the Road
What is the food like at the lodges? Expect high-quality, international cuisine. Breakfasts are usually buffet-style with cooked-to-order eggs; lunches are often gourmet “bush picnics” to maximize game-viewing time; and dinners are three-course affairs at the lodge. We easily accommodate vegan, gluten-free, and halal diets with advance notice.
Is there Wi-Fi and electricity? Most lodges and permanent camps offer Wi-Fi in the common areas and 24-hour electricity (often solar-powered) in the rooms. Please note that Wi-Fi in the bush can be slower than what you are used to at home—it’s the perfect excuse to unplug!
How much should I tip the guides? Tipping is a customary way to show appreciation in East Africa. For a professional safari guide, we recommend $15–$20 per guest, per day. For general lodge staff, a communal tip box is usually available (we suggest $5–$10 per guest, per day).