East Africa Adventure – 1 night Nairobi | 3 nights Masai Mara National Reserve | 3 nights Serengeti National Park | 3 nights Zanzibar

Itinerary

Accommodation

Experiences

Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, you are met after disembarking from the aircraft by our Customer Service Manager who will assist you with customs and immigration formalities and proceed to the arrivals lounge.
In the Arrivals Lounge, you are met by your driver who will transfer you by road to your Hotel located in the heart of the Westlands in Nairobi’s commercial, retail and entertainment suburb. (Road Transfer Time: approx. 30 minutes)
Arriving at your hotel, you are met and assisted to your Superior Room for an afternoon and evening at leisure.
Kenya’s capital city, Nairobi is one of the largest and most influential cities in Africa, an important commercial and financial regional hub. The only city in the world with a national park on its doorstep, Nairobi is the hub of East Africa and is packed with unique attractions, from bustling markets to fascinating historical sites such as the Karen Blixen Musuem. Named after a Maasai watering hole, ‘enkare nyarobi’, which means ‘place of cool waters’, the city is also known for its leafy streets and parks. A modern city with towering skyscrapers and imposing architecture, Nairobi also boasts a beautiful skyline.

Day 2 :

Nairobi to Masai Mara National Reserve

Once you have enjoyed an early morning breakfast, you are met by your driver and transferred by road to Wilson Airport for your connecting Light Aircraft Transfer to Keekorok Airstrip in the Masai Mara National Reserve.

Light Aircraft Transfer Time: approx. 40 minutes

Arriving at the Keekorok Airstrip, you are met by your Guide who will transfer you by road to your Luxury Camp on the banks of the Sand River. Upon arrival at your Camp, enjoy a leisurely check in and lunch before you are assisted to your Tented Suite for your 3-night stay. Enjoy time at leisure before departing on your afternoon game drive. The evening is spent overlooking the Sand River while you enjoy a dinner under the stars.

Day 2-5 :

Masai Mara National Reserve

The Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya covers an area of 1 510 square km. This vast protected landscape is one of the top wildlife destinations in Africa and is Kenya’s flagship conservation area. It has fenceless borders with several private conservancies, as well as with Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park, forming the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem. The lack of fences allows one of the greatest wildlife spectacles on earth take make place unfettered – the great migration.
The Masai Mara was named for the Maasai people who inhabit the area, and for the Mara River, which flows through this great reserve. In addition to the abundant wildlife in the reserve, no Masai Mara safari would be complete without a cultural experience with the Maasai people.

Day 5 :

Masai Mara National Reserve to Serengeti National Park

Wake up as dawn breaks and enjoy a leisurely breakfast overlooking the River before your guide transfers you by road to the Keekorok Airstrip to connect with your Light Aircraft Transfer to the Kogatende Airstrip.

Breakfast at the camp. After breakfast, check out with packed lunch and transfer back to Keekorok Airstrip for your scheduled flight to Nairobi. On arrival you will be assisted to connect to your next scheduled flight to Kilimanjaro Airport. On arrival you will immediately be assisted to connect to your next schedule flight departing to The Serengeti National Park. On Arrival at the Kogatende Airstrip you will be met by our driver/guide at the Airstrip and transferred to the camp for check in and relaxation.

Settle into your Luxury Tented Suite before you set off on your afternoon game drive in the Serengeti National Park. Returning to your lodge in time for dinner before retiring for the evening.

Day 5-8 :

Serengeti National Park

Settle into your Luxury Tented Suite before you set off on your afternoon game drive in the Serengeti National Park. Returning to your lodge in time for dinner before retiring for the evening.

The plains of the Serengeti literally seem to go on forever, stretching to the horizon and only interrupted by bizarre rock formations. The vast Serengeti ecosystem encompasses an almost continuous wildlife area of over 30,000 square kilometres, comprising the Serengeti National Park itself, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Maswa Game Reserve, the Loliondo, Grumeti and Ikorongo Controlled Areas and the Maasai Mara National Reserve in neighbouring Kenya.

It is a world heritage site and is home to the Big Five, as well as over 70 smaller mammal species and more than 540 bird species, both residents and migrants.

Day 8 :

Serengeti National Park to Zanzibar

Today enjoy your final breakfast on safari, pick-up from your lodge and transfer by road to Kogatende Airstrip to catch your schedule flight departing to Zanzibar. Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to your beach resort located along the Bwejuu- Paje beach of Zanzibar.

Zanzibar is known as the spice island, which once produced most of the world’s cloves. The sultans of Oman ruled this ancient Arab isle. The islands are still bathed in the rich heady aromas of cloves and cinnamon. The opulence of this period can still be sensed. Pirates and explorers considered it their stepping-stone into African interior.

Day 8-11 :

Zanzibar

Located along the Bwejuu – Paje beach that was named as one of the top 30 Island beaches in the world by the prestigious Condé Nast Traveler magazine, Baraza is Zanzibar’s most exclusive boutique resort. Baraza Resort and Spa is 5 star all inclusive hotel voted as one of the 60 best new hotels in the world by Condé Nast Traveler, a prestigious world wide travel magazine. With just 30 villas, this stunning fully inclusive resort evokes the heritage of Zanzibar dating back to the era of the Sultans. A fusion of Arabic, Swahili and Indian design, with Swahili arches, intricate hand carved cement décor, beautiful antiques, handmade furniture and intricate brass lanterns; Baraza offers unparalleled standards of luxury on the Island of Zanzibar.

The “spice island” of Zanzibar, located 26 miles off the coast of Tanzania, is a prime location from which to enjoy the Indian Ocean’s clear turquoise waters. Combine this with the stirring slave-trade history that comes alive in Stone Town, and you have the perfect complement to your African safari adventure.

Your days on Zanzibar will be leisurely ― you can enjoy snorkeling, swim with dolphins, try your hand at windsurfing, indulge in a luxurious spa treatment or two, walk through a forest filled with monkeys, or simply relax on the beautiful white-sand beaches. Enjoy the many amenities of your beautiful Indian Ocean beach resort. Optional activities include snorkeling, scuba diving, windsurfing, and enjoying the full-service spa (some activities are at additional expense).

Day 11 :

Departure

Enjoy breakfast and time at leisure overlooking the Indian Ocean before you are transferred by road to Zanzibar Airport. Arriving at Zanzibar Airport, you bid farewell to the Resort Member before connecting with your International Flight Home.

Wishing you a safe journey!

Accommodation

Nairobi | Mövenpick Hotel

Experience Nairobi in a hotel that charms with African design, uplifting atmosphere, open spaces, cool features and panoramic views. Situated in the popular Westlands district, Mövenpick Hotel & Residences Nairobi is the perfect base to explore Kenya’s capital.

From authentic African specialities to international flavours, guests at Mövenpick Hotel & Residence Nairobi are spoilt for culinary choice. There are 2 main restaurants within the hotel. Dine at the signature revolving restaurant The View, which offers Mediterranean and brand signature dishes from Switzerland, with 360-degree views of the city, while Baluba restaurant the all-day dining, welcomes you for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Enjoy cocktails and music at the elegant Kijani Bar, with pool views from the open terrace. Don’t forget to join the complimentary Chocolate Hour from 4 pm – 5 pm daily at the hotel lobby!

The Rooms, Suites and Apartments are all Spacious, with a true African touch. Superior, Deluxe and Executive Rooms and Suites come with a mixture of city or pool views. All guest rooms feature a large walk-in wardrobe, bathroom, TV, complimentary tea & coffee facilities, laptop safe, individual air conditioning, work desk and minibar. Step into the haven of relaxation after a busy day of touring. Relax at the spa with a massage or enjoy a workout with panoramic views of the city at the fully equipped gym of Mövenpick Hotel & Residences Nairobi in Westlands.

Masai Mara National Reserve | Sand River Mara Camp

Set in the legendary Masai Mara National Reserve beneath a grove of towering and shady trees, Sand River Masai Mara overlooks its namesake, the Sand River. This picturesque location has been sensitively developed with a design aesthetic that reflects the glamorous heyday of the 1920s when ‘safari’ was a dreamy Out of Africa experience but with a modern ‘low impact’ philosophy.

Communal lounges, dining and entertainment areas serve just 16 elegant canvas suites, which are divided into two camps of six and 10 tents, each set-in glorious seclusion with private views over the river. Your private butler is on hand to ensure your stay is tailored to your preferences. The camp’s 16 canvas suites are built on raised hardwood decking that extends into a spacious veranda with private river views. The sumptuous décor is a nod to the elegance of long-past safari days with mosquito-netted 4-poster beds, carved writing desks and richly textured fabrics. Generous en suite bathrooms feature large bathtubs as well as delightful outdoor showers.

Morning and afternoon game drives provide thrilling Big 5 encounters year-round and access to one of the greatest spectacles in Africa during the Wildebeest Migration, in which hundreds of thousands of gnu (Wildebeest) and Zebra pass through from July to November.

With an authentic safari experience, superb cuisine, a well-stocked cellar, sparkling pool, hot-air ballooning and your private viewing deck, Sand River Masai Mara offers a winning combination.

Serengeti National Park | Serengeti Migration Camp

The Serengeti Migration Camp is hidden amongst rocky outcrops in the northern part of the Serengeti National Park. The Serengeti is rich in game throughout the year and provides the stage for the world’s largest animal migration, when up to two million wildebeest, zebra and gazelle make their way north into Kenya’s Masai Mara.

You can explore this spectacular area on game drives in specially designed 4×4 vehicles, and on bush walks conducted by armed, highly trained and knowledgeable guides. Between game viewing activities, you can take a refreshing dip in the pool and enjoy a sundowner on the deck.

The split-level lounge, cigar bar, restaurant, sundecks and swimming pool are perched among the outcrops and overlook the vast and rugged landscape. At Serengeti Migration Camp, you can enjoy elegant dining overlooking the river, with inventive dishes using, wherever possible, locally sourced produce. Menus draw on international themes with a modern twist on classic dishes.

Comprising of 20 luxurious elevated tents, each with spacious and richly furnished bedrooms, Serengeti Migration Camp blends seamlessly into the environment. Each of the tents is surrounded by its own 360-degree veranda deck, which in turn creates your very own private sanctuary to enjoy the constant game sightings and the ever-present sounds of the bush.

Zanzibar | Baraza Resort and Spa

The idyllic Baraza Resort and Spa is situated on the renowned Bwejuu-Paje Beach on the south-eastern shoreline of Zanzibar. Just 30 villas draw on Zanzibar’s fascinating heritage for their architecture, with elegant Swahili arches, intricate hand-carved décor, magnificent antiques and intricate brass fittings. Spacious terraces make the most of the balmy, tropical setting, while gracious interiors feature every modern convenience.

The resort’s many dining venues are inspired by local spices, combining Arabic, Persian, Asian and Swahili flavours with continental fare. Guests can choose from a casual open-air Livingstone Terrace, light lunch fare in the Ocean Lounge or the decadent Sultan’s Dining Room, ending their day with a nightcap in the Dhahabu Bar. A variety of treatments and therapies are available in the Frangipani spa, complete with a lap pool, fitness centre and tennis court. The Water Club offers a vast array of water and land activities, from beach games and bikes to kite surfing, kayaks and paddle boarding, while the Dive Centre offers exclusive dives and dive courses for enthusiasts of every level.

Experiences

INCLUDED IN PRICE: Masai Mara National Reserve | Daily Safari Programme at Sand River Camp

Blessed with an astounding year-round concentration of animals and site of the Great Wildebeest Migration, Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve provides an unsurpassed wildlife experience. Covering an area of 1,510 km² (583 square miles), the Masai Mara is a land of breathtaking vistas, abundant wildlife and endless landscapes. With abundant elephants, buffalo, giraffes, lions, and cheetahs alongside migratory wildebeests and zebras, the reserve is a photographer’s and naturalist’s paradise.

Leopards are frequently encountered; endangered black rhinos find shelter in dense thickets, and rafts of hippo and enormous crocodiles are found in the Mara River. The reserve is also home to over 450 bird species.

Sand River Camp is situated in a secluded area of the Masai Mara National Reserve. This allows guest to enjoy an exclusive safari during their stay. The Sand River is quite literally on the Migration route, and guests are often fortunate to be able to watch wildebeest and zebra crossing the Sand River from the comfort of their tent veranda. Daily activities at Sand River Camp include 4×4 game drives, Bush Meals or Sundowners, and optional activities include a visit to the local school, Cultural Visits and Hot Air Balloon Safaris.

SUGGESTED: Masai Mara National Reserve | Hot Air Balloon Safari

Some things are worth getting up early for, and this is certainly one of them. Rising before the birds and heading out in the silence of the pre-dawn towards the launch site is all part of the anticipation. Perhaps one of the Mara’s more elusive inhabitants will be caught in the headlights on this nocturnal game drive.

Your pilot takes you through the important safety briefing ahead of your flight as the sky begins to lighten and the crew inflates the balloon – an envelope of savannah gold and acacia green billowing into the cool morning, lit by the flames of the burners. You climb into the basket and prepare to lift into the dawn.

Each flight is a different journey dictated by the direction of the wind, where the sights and sounds rise from the ground to meet you. We know where we’ve started, but we don’t know where we will return to earth. This is part of the adventure. Sometimes the basket will gently brush the tips of the grass and then climb through the layers of air until you’re high enough to see the curve of the horizon, painted gold and pink by the early sun. Our pilots not only have years of experience in harnessing the African wind, but are also interpreters of the wild lives in the ebb and flow of the landscape below.

INCLUDED IN PRICE: Serengeti National Park | Daily Safari Programme at Serengeti Migration Camp

Whilst the annual migration is the Serengeti’s most famous attraction, the Park is also renowned for its lion, many of which have been fitted with radio-transmitter collars so that their movements may be tracked, and additionally for its wealth of cheetah, zebra, giraffe, Thomson’s and Grant’s gazelle, eland, impala, klipspringer, hippo and warthog.

Day-long game drives are a must in the Serengeti. You can set off early with a champagne picnic breakfast and stay out all day, carrying your delectable picnic lunch. You will be delighted and awed by the sheer number of game, including the big five.

Other activities at Serengeti Migration Camp are the romantic picnics as the camp has special permission from the park authorities to use a private picnic site on top of a hill offering stunning views over the Serengeti plains that can be enjoyed in total privacy.

SUGGESTED Zanzibar | Additional Activities

Jozani Bay National Park:
Jozani Forest lies 35 km South-East of Zanzibar Town with an area of about 1,000 hectares. It is the only remaining natural forest on Unguja island, where long ago you could find leopards and antelopes. At present, it is the habitat for the Red Colobus Monkey and the Blue Sykes Monkey. The Red Colobus monkey is one of the most endangered and rarest species on this planet. The Red Colobus monkeys that are found in this Forest are very friendly and love to be photographed and can be viewed at close quarters with the help of your guide. Other interesting features in this forest include the coastal evergreen bushland, mangrove forest, saline grassland and groundwater forest, though these may require longer walks to reach.

Prison Island & The Giant Tortoises:
The island is a short boat ride from Stone Town. Its buildings were designed as a prison but never actually used as such, although they were used as a quarantine hospital for a while. Four giant tortoises were brought here from the Seychelles in 1919, and there are now about 100 of the,m including one which purports to be 157 years old. The beach at Prison Island is especially beautiful.

Mtoni Palace Ruins & Sunset Concert:
Beit el Mtoni is one of the oldest buildings of Zanzibar, and it was the largest palace on the island during the reign of Sultan Sayyid Said, who moved the capital of his Omani empire from Muscat to Zanzibar during the first half of the 19th century. But around the 1880s, the palace was abandoned and fell into ruin. Although severely deteriorated, Mtoni Palace still offers visitors a glimpse into the world of the Arabian royalty who once lived there. Entering the palace from the coastline, one steps into the former reception hall. Most guests would not go any further when visiting Beit el Mtoni, since the women in the palace were not to be seen by strangers’ eyes. But now, visitors can step over the threshold and walk in the footsteps of the Omani household. A visit continues into the inner courtyard, the palace garden and the well-preserved bathing complex. One row of baths was used by the courtiers, whereas a separate domed aisle was uniquely reserved for the use of the Sultan and his first spouse. After the tour of the Palace and baths, enjoy a Traditional Taarab Concert and Zanzibari dinner followed by Spice coffee, Lemongrass Tea and traditional sweets like Halua and Kashata. All profits go to the Mtoni Palace Conservation Project.

SUGGESTED Zanzibar | Stone Town City & Spice Tour

Full Day Stone Town City Tour:
Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, grew out of Zanzibar’s historical trades, a metropolis built to harbour secrets in its labyrinthine alleyways. Emblems of a rich and tumultuous history survive today, depicted as Arabian Nights palaces, mournful Slave Markets, aromatic spice bazaars, ornate cathedrals and a historic fort that was the scene of the world’s shortest war, survive today. A walk through the narrow alleyways, past ornately carved doors and serene courtyards, is a journey along the paths of past existences.

Spice Tour:
On the Spice Tour, you will see a wide variety of spices being grown – cardamom, clove, nutmeg, cinnamon, black pepper, turmeric, and lemongrass, among others. Your guide will explain about the spices being grown. Watch a local man scale a coconut tree, singing at the top of his lungs the whole way. He brings down a couple of coconuts that they break open so you can drink the milk and eat the coconut flesh. Various fresh tropical fruits that are in season can be sampled, and local home-grown spices can be bought, which help support the farm and local community.