Embarking on a journey that intertwines Kenya’s Masai Mara and Tanzania’s Serengeti in August offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the Great Migration’s dramatic river crossings. This itinerary is meticulously crafted to maximize your chances of observing these awe-inspiring moments while immersing you in the rich tapestry of East Africa’s wildlife and culture.
Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi, Kenya
- Accommodation: Hemingways Nairobi, Karen
Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, you’ll be transferred to Hemingways Nairobi, a luxury hotel nestled in the serene suburb of Karen. This elegant retreat offers a peaceful respite after your journey, with spacious rooms overlooking the Ngong Hills.
Day 2: Exploring Nairobi’s Wildlife and Culinary Delights
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Morning: Visit the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust to meet and learn about orphaned elephants.
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Midday: Enjoy lunch at Cultiva Restaurant in Karen, renowned for its farm-to-table cuisine.
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Afternoon: Visit the Giraffe Centre to interact with endangered Rothschild giraffes.
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Evening: Dine at Talisman Restaurant, celebrated for its fusion menu and lush garden setting.
Day 3: Nairobi to Masai Mara
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Morning: Fly from Wilson Airport to Masai Mara.
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Accommodation: Mara Bushtops
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Afternoon: Settle into Mara Bushtops, a luxury tented camp offering panoramic views of the savannah. Embark on an afternoon game drive to acquaint yourself with the diverse wildlife of the Mara.
Days 4-5: Immersive Safari in Masai Mara
- Activities: Engage in morning and evening game drives to witness the Great Migration herds and potential river crossings. Optional activities include guided bush walks and visits to local Maasai communities to experience their vibrant culture.
Day 6: Masai Mara to Northern Serengeti
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Morning: Fly from Masai Mara to the Northern Serengeti via Tarime.
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Accommodation: Roving Bushtops
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Afternoon: Arrive at Roving Bushtops, a mobile camp strategically positioned to follow the migration. Enjoy an afternoon game drive to explore the new landscape and its inhabitants.
Days 7-8: Exploring the Serengeti
- Activities: Partake in daily game drives focusing on river crossings at the Mara River, where thousands of wildebeest and zebras face the perilous journey across crocodile-infested waters. The Northern Serengeti’s expansive plains also provide opportunities to spot predators like lions, cheetahs, and leopards.
Day 9: Serengeti to Kilimanjaro and Departure
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Morning: Fly from the Serengeti to Kilimanjaro International Airport.
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Afternoon: Connect to your international flight back to the United States via Nairobi.
This itinerary offers a seamless blend of cultural experiences in Nairobi and thrilling wildlife encounters in two of Africa’s premier safari destinations. Traveling in August ensures you’re strategically positioned to witness the Great Migration’s most dramatic moments, creating memories that will last a lifetime.