10 day itinerary for Africa

Itinerary

Oh, how exciting! A 10-day adventure in Africa, especially in September, is a fantastic choice! This time of year is perfect for witnessing the Great Migration in East Africa, particularly in Kenya and Tanzania. Let’s dive into an itinerary that combines thrilling safaris, wildlife sanctuaries, and the breathtaking landscapes of the African savannah.

## Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi, Kenya

• Morning: Arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. Welcome to Africa!
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel and freshen up. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant, perhaps trying some traditional Kenyan dishes.
• Evening: Visit the Giraffe Centre to meet and feed the endangered Rothschild giraffes. It’s a great way to kick off your wildlife adventure!
• Dinner: Enjoy a group dinner at a local restaurant, sharing your excitement for the days ahead.

## Day 2: Nairobi to Maasai Mara

• Morning: After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to the Maasai Mara National Reserve (about 5-6 hours).
• Afternoon: Check into your lodge or tented camp. Enjoy lunch with a view of the savannah.
• Evening: Go on your first evening game drive! Keep an eye out for the Big Five and the stunning landscapes.
• Dinner: Return to your lodge for a delicious dinner and share stories from your first safari experience.

## Day 3: Maasai Mara - Full Day Safari

• Morning: Early morning game drive to catch the wildlife at its most active. Look for wildebeest, zebras, and predators!
• Afternoon: Return to the lodge for lunch. Afterward, you can relax or take a guided nature walk with a Maasai guide to learn about local flora and fauna.
• Evening: Another game drive, this time focusing on the river crossings if the migration is happening.
• Dinner: Enjoy a bush dinner under the stars, a magical experience!

## Day 4: Maasai Mara - Hot Air Balloon Safari

• Early Morning: Rise before dawn for a hot air balloon ride over the Maasai Mara. Witness the sunrise and the wildlife from above!
• Breakfast: Enjoy a champagne breakfast in the bush after your balloon ride.
• Afternoon: Spend the day on a game drive, exploring different areas of the reserve.
• Evening: Visit a Maasai village to learn about their culture and traditions.
• Dinner: Return to your lodge for dinner and relax.

## Day 5: Maasai Mara to Serengeti, Tanzania

• Morning: After breakfast, drive to the border and cross into Tanzania.
• Afternoon: Arrive in the Serengeti National Park. Check into your lodge and have lunch.
• Evening: Go on a game drive in the Serengeti, famous for its vast plains and incredible wildlife.
• Dinner: Enjoy dinner at your lodge, sharing highlights from the day.

## Day 6: Serengeti - Full Day Safari

• Morning: Early morning game drive to catch the wildlife at dawn. Look for lions, cheetahs, and more!
• Afternoon: Return to the lodge for lunch. You can also opt for a picnic lunch in the park.
• Evening: Another game drive, perhaps focusing on the western corridor where the migration might be.
• Dinner: Enjoy a traditional Tanzanian dinner at your lodge.

## Day 7: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater

• Morning: After breakfast, depart for Ngorongoro Crater (about 4 hours).
• Afternoon: Check into your lodge and have lunch with a view of the crater.
• Evening: Descend into the crater for a game drive. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to a variety of wildlife.
• Dinner: Return to your lodge for dinner and relax.

## Day 8: Ngorongoro Crater to Tarangire National Park

• Morning: After breakfast, drive to Tarangire National Park (about 3-4 hours).
• Afternoon: Check into your lodge and enjoy lunch.
• Evening: Go on a game drive in Tarangire, known for its large elephant herds and baobab trees.
• Dinner: Enjoy dinner at your lodge, perhaps with a nightcap under the stars.

## Day 9: Tarangire National Park - Wildlife Sanctuary Visit

• Morning: Early morning game drive in Tarangire. Look for lions, leopards, and more elephants!
• Afternoon: Visit a nearby wildlife sanctuary or conservation area to learn about local efforts to protect wildlife.
• Evening: Return to Tarangire for a final evening game drive.
• Dinner: Celebrate your last night in the bush with a special dinner at your lodge.

## Day 10: Departure from Arusha

• Morning: After breakfast, drive back to Arusha (about 2 hours).
• Afternoon: Depending on your flight schedule, you can visit a local market or the Cultural Heritage Centre for some last-minute shopping.
• Evening: Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure flight.

Tips for Your Trip:

• Pack Wisely: Bring layers for varying temperatures, comfortable shoes, and binoculars for wildlife viewing.
• Stay Hydrated: Always carry water, especially during game drives.
• Respect Wildlife: Keep a safe distance and follow your guide’s instructions.

This itinerary is packed with adventure, wildlife, and cultural experiences, perfect for a group of friends or family! Enjoy every moment of your African safari! 🦁🌍✨