12-Day Kenya & Tanzania Budget Group Safari — Maasai Mara to Serengeti on a Budget
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
12 days
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers in average physical condition; expect long vehicle days and some short walks in parks and at viewpoints.
Overview
A 12-day budget group safari that threads Kenya and Tanzania’s greatest wildlife areas from Maasai Mara to the Serengeti and Ngorongoro. Expect long drives, communal camps, and prime chances to witness the great migration and concentrated big-game populations.
12-Day Kenya & Tanzania Budget Group Safari — Maasai Mara to Serengeti on a Budget
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Dust from the road rises in a slow ribbon as the van crosses the rim of the Rift Valley and the first acacia silhouettes slide past the windows. The guide taps the radio, scans the horizon, and the group leans forward as if the landscape itself might offer a clue to where the next lion will appear. This is a safari paced by migration and geography—long drives broken into bursts of intense attention when a distant shape resolves into a herd, a tower of elephants, or the flash of a cheetah.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Start early for best sightings
Game drives begin before sunrise—pack a headlamp, warm layers, and have cameras ready by the van at first light.
Hydrate and reuse
Bring a large reusable water bottle; bottled water is provided but carrying your own reduces waste and keeps you hydrated on long drives.
Protect against dust and sun
Light scarves, a wide-brim hat, and sunglasses help on dusty roads and open-vehicle drives.
Respect wildlife distances
Always follow the guide’s instructions and avoid sudden movements or noise that can disturb animals and ruin sightings for others.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Wildebeest
- African elephant
History
The itinerary traverses areas near Olduvai Gorge, where fossil discoveries reshaped knowledge of early hominins and human evolution.
Conservation
Parks depend on entrance fees and community partnerships; choose operators that support local guides and follow strict waste and wildlife disturbance rules.
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Adventure Hotspots in Nairobi
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Binoculars (8x-10x)
Brings distant wildlife into clear view without relying on vehicle proximity.
Light waterproof jacket
Protects against short rains and early-morning chills on drives.
spring specific
Sturdy walking shoes
Needed for short walks, uneven campsite terrain, and standing on game-drive roofs.
Telephoto lens (200mm+)
Useful for photographers to capture distant predators and crossing rivers without disturbing animals.