~Zanzibar Safari~

Day 1: Get In and Get Some Rest!

Upon your arrival at the airport an English-speaking Explore-Kenya representative will greet you at customs and immigration. The representative will be holding a clearly marked page board with your name on it as you exit the arrivals hall. This representative will walk you through your welcome package documents and itinerary, and they will answer any questions you may have.

The representative will also facilitate the visa process for you if you need assistance. After completing the visa process, you will continue to the baggage claim hall and passenger pick up. Here you will be met by our driver for a private transfer to your hotel.

After arriving at your hotel and settling in, there will be a short meet and greet. At that time we will have welcome remarks, review the itinerary, answer any questions and prepare for day two. Upon completion of the orientation, you will have the option to explore the local shops, restaurants and markets (if time permits) with one of our expert tour guides.

Where you’ll be staying:

Radisson Blu Nairobi Upperhill (or similar)
Superior Room

About the neighborhood:

Perched just minutes from Nairobi’s city center, Upper Hill is the city’s modern business and lifestyle hub — a skyline of glass towers, luxury hotels, and sleek apartments rising above the bustle below. Once a quiet residential area, it’s now home to major banks, embassies, and global firms, yet still framed by leafy avenues and panoramic city views. With its vibrant mix of business, upscale dining, and cosmopolitan energy, Upper Hill captures the pulse of Nairobi’s new urban elegance.

What's nearby:

Nairobi National Museum - ‪3 min drive‬
Karura Forest - ‪8 min drive‬
Yaya Centre - ‪3 min drive‬
Uhuru Park - ‪3 min drive‬
David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust - ‪5 min drive‬
Nyayo National Stadium - ‪5 min drive‬
Many local market, shops, restaurants and bars within walking distance

Day 2 to 4: Off to the Magnificent Masai Mara!

On Day 2 you will take an early morning flight to the amazing Masai Mara National Reserve. Our representative will pick you up for transfer to the airport. Sit back and relax during this short flight from Nairobi to the Masai Mara. Approximate flight duration is 50 minutes. Your accommodations will be at the Mara West lodge.

Please note, strict luggage restrictions apply to this flight: 1) Maximum weight allowance of 32 lbs (15 kg) is permitted per person. 2) Baggage must be soft-shelled. 3) Additional baggage allowance can be arranged at additional cost, please speak to your Destination Expert for more information.

Flight to Masai Mara

The flight from Nairobi to the Masai Mara is one of the most scenic and memorable journeys in Kenya. Departing from Wilson Airport, the small bush plane soars over Nairobi National Park, where wildlife roams against the city skyline, before gliding westward across the lush Rift Valley highlands. Below, you’ll see Lake Naivasha’s shimmering waters dotted with hippos and fishing boats, and perhaps the pale pink shimmer of Lake Elementaita or Lake Nakuru in the distance. The terrain shifts dramatically — from green farmlands to rolling escarpments and vast acacia-dotted plains.

As the flight descends toward the Maasai Mara, the landscape transforms into a sweeping wilderness of golden grasslands. You may spot herds of elephants, wildebeest, or zebras even before you land. The small aircraft touches down on a remote dirt airstrip, greeted by safari guides and the warm scent of the African savanna — the adventure begins the moment your feet hit the red earth.

The Amazing Masai Mara!

The Masai Mara — Kenya’s crown jewel of safari destinations — is where Africa’s raw beauty and untamed spirit come vividly to life. Here, every moment feels cinematic. The first rays of dawn reveal lions sprawled lazily on the open grasslands, their golden coats glowing in the soft light. Elephants move silently through the mist, their silhouettes majestic against the rising sun, while giraffes browse gracefully at the treetops.

As the day warms, the plains come alive with zebras, gazelles, and wildebeest, their endless herds stretching to the horizon — a prelude to one of nature’s greatest spectacles: the Great Migration. Between July and October, more than two million wildebeest and zebra thunder across the Mara River, pursued by stealthy crocodiles and vigilant big cats, in a timeless display of survival and instinct that defines the very essence of Africa.

But the Mara’s magic extends beyond the migration. All year round, visitors are treated to extraordinary wildlife encounters — from cheetahs sprinting across the plains to leopards draped elegantly over fig tree branches, and rhinos grazing quietly in the thickets. Over 470 bird species, from lilac-breasted rollers to secretary birds, add flashes of color and sound to the landscape, making every game drive a feast for the senses.

Safari experiences in the Masai Mara are as diverse as the land itself. Guests can embark on thrilling game drives guided by expert Masai trackers, float silently over the plains in a hot air balloon as the sun rises, or enjoy an intimate bush breakfast overlooking the sweeping savannah. For a deeper connection, walking safaris and cultural visits to local Masai villages offer a glimpse into the traditions of one of Africa’s most iconic communities, whose deep respect for the land has helped preserve it for generations.

Morning Tours

Morning game drives in the Masai Mara burst with life as the sun rises over the vast savannah. Here’s what you’re likely to encounter:

Lions lounging near riverbanks or open plains after a night of hunting.
Cheetahs perched on termite mounds, scanning the grasslands for early prey.
Large herds of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles grazing across the rolling plains.
Majestic elephants and towering Masai giraffes feeding on acacia trees.
Buffalo moving in groups through the grass, often shadowed by oxpeckers.
The occasional leopard retreating into the thickets after a night’s activity.
A dazzling variety of birdlife, from secretary birds striding through the grass to lilac-breasted rollers flashing their colors in the early light.

Here are some of the most popular morning activities in and around the Masai Mara that make the most of the cool air and golden sunrise light:

Early morning game drive — The prime activity of the day, offering the best chance to spot predators such as lions, cheetahs, and leopards before they retreat from the heat.
Hot air balloon safari — Lift off just before sunrise and glide over the savannah as the first light touches the plains, revealing herds of elephants, wildebeest, and giraffes below.
Guided bush walk — Explore on foot with a Maasai guide, learning to identify animal tracks, plants, and birds while experiencing the landscape up close.
Birdwatching along the rivers and grasslands — The cooler hours draw out a remarkable variety of species, from lilac-breasted rollers to crowned cranes and raptors taking flight.
Bush breakfast — Enjoy a freshly prepared breakfast set up in the wild, often following your early game drive, surrounded by the sounds of the waking savannah.

Afternoon Tours

Afternoon game drives in the Masai Mara offer a slower, more atmospheric experience as the heat softens and the savannah glows in golden light. Here’s what you’re likely to encounter:

Elephants gathering at rivers and waterholes to drink and cool off.
Lions resting in the shade, occasionally stirring as the temperature drops toward evening.
Cheetahs becoming more active, using the lower sun and tall grass for cover while hunting.
Herds of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles moving lazily across the plains.
Hippos emerging near the Mara River and crocodiles basking along its banks.
Graceful Masai giraffes and topis silhouetted against the setting sun.
A sky alive with raptors, rollers, and hornbills catching the day’s final light.

Here are several excellent afternoon activity options in or near the Masai Mara National Reserve that complement a game drive and broaden your safari experience:

Hot air balloon safari at sunset — Soar above the plains in the later afternoon for panoramic views of wildlife and river crossings from the sky.
Walking safari in a nearby conservancy — After your vehicle drive, take a guided walk to explore the bush on foot, see tracks, small animals, and learn about the ecosystem.
Maasai village cultural visit — Spend the later part of the afternoon visiting a local Maasai community, learn about their traditions and crafts, and enjoy a sundowner with views of the plains.
Sundowner viewpoint / scenic stop — As the day cools, drive to a high ridge or vantage point for twilight photographs, drinks, and sweeping views across the Mara.
Bird‐watching and wetland viewing — Visit riverine areas or marshes in the afternoon to spot waterbirds, raptors, and wildlife gathering at the water’s edge.

Where you’ll be staying

Mara West (or similar)
Tent Room (Package)

Days 5 to 6: Ngorongoro National Park

On Day 5 you will take an early morning flight to the amazing Ngorongoro National Park. Our representative will pick you up for transfer to the airport. Sit back and relax during this short flight from Masai Mara to Ngorongoro National Park. Approximate flight duration is about 2 hrs and 15 minutes. Your accommodations will be at the Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge (or similar).

Flight to Ngorongoro

The flight from the Masai Mara in Kenya to Ngorongoro National Park in northern Tanzania is a scenic and memorable journey, typically lasting about 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on routing and stops for customs or passenger drop-offs. Departing from one of the Masai Mara’s airstrips, you will fly over the golden plains of the Mara, where herds of wildebeest, zebra, and antelope often graze below. As you climb southward, the landscape unfolds into a mosaic of rolling savannas, acacia woodlands, and winding river valleys that mark the borderlands between Kenya and Tanzania.

After crossing into Tanzania, the aircraft usually lands briefly at Tarime or Migori for immigration formalities, then continues south toward the Serengeti — a breathtaking aerial expanse of endless plains dotted with wildlife. You’ll trace the Seronera Valley, the heart of the Serengeti, and may even spot elephants or giraffes from above.

As the flight continues southeast, the terrain rises toward the Ngorongoro Highlands.

The scenery transforms from open grassland to lush forests and volcanic ridges. Soon, you’ll catch your first glimpse of the Ngorongoro Crater — an immense, emerald bowl stretching 19 kilometers across. The plane lands at Lake Manyara or Ndutu Airstrip, where your safari guide awaits to drive you up into the misty highlands and along the crater rim — the gateway to one of Africa’s most extraordinary natural wonders.

Ngorongoro National Park

Cradled within the ancient embrace of a vast volcanic caldera, Ngorongoro National Park is one of Africa’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders — a living Eden teeming with life. Often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a safari experience unlike any other, where breathtaking scenery and extraordinary wildlife converge in perfect harmony.

From the rim of the crater, sweeping views reveal a mosaic of forests, grasslands, and shimmering soda lakes below. As you descend into the crater floor, the scene unfolds like a natural amphitheater — elephants wandering beneath ancient fig trees, lions stalking through tall golden grass, zebras and wildebeest grazing in their thousands, and the rare black rhino moving gracefully through the morning mist.

Beyond the crater, Ngorongoro’s highlands offer rich cultural encounters with the Maasai people, scenic hikes to hidden waterfalls, and panoramic vistas that stretch all the way to the Serengeti. Whether exploring on a game drive, standing at the crater’s edge, or watching the sunset ignite the landscape in fiery hues, Ngorongoro National Park is a place where the wild spirit of Africa feels timeless, raw, and profoundly alive.

Morning Tours

Morning game drives in Ngorongoro National Park begin with the soft light of dawn spilling over the crater rim, casting a golden hue across the mist-filled caldera below. Here’s what you’re likely to encounter:

Elephants and buffalo emerging from the forests to graze on the crater floor’s lush grasslands.
Lions and hyenas lingering near recent kills, while leopards retreat quietly into the trees after a night’s hunt.
Herds of zebras, wildebeest, and gazelles grazing together in the open plains.
Black rhinos roaming the crater floor — one of the best places in Tanzania to spot this rare species.
Hippos wallowing in the pools and flamingos feeding in the shallow soda lake at the crater’s center.
The air filled with the calls of crowned cranes, ibis, and eagles circling above the cliffs.

Here are some of the most popular morning activities in and around Ngorongoro National Park, perfect for starting the day amid the cool air and misty crater views:

Early morning game drive — The best time to spot predators like lions, hyenas, and leopards before they retreat from the rising sun, as well as grazing herds bathed in golden light.
Crater rim nature walk — Explore the forests and grasslands along the rim with a ranger, where you can enjoy sweeping views, spot birdlife, and learn about the area’s unique ecology.
Sunrise photography session — Capture breathtaking views of the Ngorongoro Crater as the mist lifts and sunlight spills across the caldera, revealing wildlife and distant volcanic peaks.
Visit to a Maasai village — Experience Maasai culture in the calm of morning, learning about traditional herding practices and community life before the day’s heat.
Birdwatching around the crater rim and highlands — The early hours bring out vibrant species like crowned cranes, sunbirds, and eagles gliding over the cliffs.
Bush breakfast or lodge terrace breakfast — Enjoy a hearty meal overlooking the crater or surrounding highlands as the wilderness comes to life around you.

Afternoon Tours

Afternoon game drives in Ngorongoro National Park reveal a calmer, more atmospheric side of the crater as the sun softens and long shadows stretch across the plains. Here’s what you’re likely to encounter:

Elephants and buffalo making their way to the crater’s swamps and pools to cool off.
Lions resting in the shade, occasionally rising as the air cools and evening approaches.
Hippos emerging from the water to graze along the lush banks.
Herds of zebras, wildebeest, and gazelles moving lazily across the crater floor.
The chance to spot elusive black rhinos grazing in the distance or retreating toward the forest edge.
Birdlife thriving in the golden light — flamingos wading in the lake, raptors soaring above the cliffs, and storks and herons fishing in the shallows.

Here are some excellent afternoon activities to enjoy at or near Ngorongoro National Park (in the wider Ngorongoro Conservation Area):

Take a nature walk on the crater rim, with a park ranger leading you through forests and grasslands for panoramic views of the crater floor and surrounding highlands.
Visit a Maasai village nearby to learn about traditional customs, music, bead-work and local life as the day cools down.
Go bird-watching around the crater’s wetlands, soda lakes and marshes—late afternoon is a great time for raptors and waterbirds.
Enjoy a scenic sundowner stop, driving to elevated viewpoints at dusk to sip a drink as the day fades and the wildlife shifts.
Participate in a guided walk around a working farm or lodge estate within the Conservation Area—ideal for spotting smaller wildlife, plants and birds in a more relaxed pace.

Where you’ll be staying

Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge (or similar)
Suite Tent

Days 7 to 10: Zanzibar Paradise!

On Day 7 you will take an early morning flight to Zanzibar. Our representative will pick you up for transfer to the airport. Sit back and relax during this short flight from Ngorongoro National Park to Zanzibar. Approximate flight duration is about 1 hr and 45 minutes. Your accommodations will be at the Breezes Beach Club and Spa or similar).

Flight to Zanzibar

A flight from Ngorongoro to Zanzibar offers a stunning transition from highland wilderness to tropical paradise, typically taking about 1.5 to 2 hours.

Your adventure begins as the aircraft lifts off from the Ngorongoro Highlands, climbing over lush forests and the misty rim of the Ngorongoro Crater. The view reveals terraced farms, volcanic slopes, and the glinting waters of Lake Manyara below. After a short flight eastward, the plane may land briefly in Arusha or Kilimanjaro — common stops for refueling and customs and immigration clearance,

Soon, the terrain flattens into the Great Rift Valley, giving way to the open savannas around Arusha and Mount Meru’s majestic silhouette. On clear days, the snow-capped summit of Mount Kilimanjaro appears on the horizon — a breathtaking sight as you cruise toward the coast.

As the plane crosses the mainland and the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, the lush island of Zanzibar comes into view — palm-fringed beaches, coral reefs, and the historic charm of Stone Town unfolding below. Moments later, you touch down at Zanzibar International Airport, greeted by warm sea air and the promise of spice-scented breezes and white-sand shores.

Beautiful Zanzibar

Off the coast of Tanzania, where the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean shimmer against white sands and swaying palms, lies Zanzibar — the “Spice Island,” where history, culture, and paradise meet. This enchanting archipelago blends exotic beauty with centuries of storytelling, offering travelers a destination that feels both timeless and alive.

Along the east coast, the beaches of Paje, Bwejuu, and Jambiani stretch for miles — serene, sun-soaked, and kissed by trade winds perfect for kite surfing and paddleboarding. At low tide, stroll across shimmering sandbars, visit local seaweed farms, or explore hidden coral pools teeming with life. Offshore, vibrant reef snorkeling and diving excursions reveal a kaleidoscope of marine colors beneath the surface.

Further north, the lively shores of Nungwi and Kendwa pulse with energy. Here, beachgoers bask under golden sunsets, join dhow cruises at twilight, and dance barefoot under the stars as beach bars come alive with music. The Mnarani Marine Turtle Sanctuary offers a chance to connect with Zanzibar’s wildlife conservation efforts, while nearby Mnemba Atoll is world-renowned for snorkeling and diving amid crystal-clear waters.

To the west, tranquility reigns. Near Stone Town, the beaches invite quiet reflection, dhow sailing, and romantic dinners by candlelight. Spend your days wandering through Stone Town’s historic alleys — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — where spice markets, ancient mosques, and Swahili architecture tell stories of explorers and empires past. Then, venture inland to a spice plantation tour, where the island’s nickname, the “Spice Island,” comes to life in the scents of clove, cinnamon, and vanilla.

Available Tours

This tour was designed on our "at you own pace" model to allow you the freedom not only to select the activities you want to participate in, but also to allow you more control over your time on Zanzibar's beautifully amazing beaches! You will be able to explore the lovely beaches via jet skis or explore inland on a small-group quad tour led by our expert guide. Pilot your own vehicle or pair up with a loved one and head out to explore with a guide to lead the way. Visit local villages and agricultural areas, see native flora and maybe even fauna. You may elect to participate in all, some or none of the following:

Safari Blue Tour – A full-day sea adventure featuring dhow sailing, snorkeling, a seafood lunch, and relaxation on pristine sandbanks surrounded by turquoise lagoons.
Kite Surfing and Watersports – Take advantage of calm winds and clear skies for kite surfing, paddleboarding, or wading in Paje’s tranquil lagoons.
Yoga or Meditation by the Sea – Begin your day with a sunrise yoga session or meditation on the beach, surrounded by the soothing sound of waves.
Nakupenda Sandbank Excursion – Enjoy a boat trip to a secluded sandbank near Stone Town for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing in the middle of the Indian Ocean.
Mnemba Atoll Snorkeling Tour – Venture to Zanzibar’s premier marine reserve for world-class snorkeling and a chance to spot dolphins, sea turtles, and vibrant coral reefs.
Jozani Forest Tour – Discover the island’s only national park, home to the rare red colobus monkey and lush mangrove ecosystems.
Dolphin Tour (Kizimkazi) – Set out early from Zanzibar’s south coast to spot pods of dolphins in their natural environment, with optional snorkeling in calm coastal waters.
Water Adventures – Try jet skiing, parasailing, or kayaking along the northern coast, where conditions are ideal and the views of the ocean are unforgettable.
Quad Bike or ATV Village Tour – Ride through rural villages, spice plantations, and scenic trails for an adventurous look at Zanzibar’s countryside.
Sunset Dhow Cruise – Sail along the west coast or near Stone Town as the sun sets, enjoying the gentle sea breeze and a truly romantic island experience.
Full-Day Combination Tour – Combine popular experiences like the Spice Farm, Stone Town, and Prison Island into one immersive cultural and historical excursion.
Horseback Riding on the Beach – Ride along the white sands of Nungwi or Pwani Mchangani, with options for swimming with the horses in shallow ocean waters.
Cooking Class & Spice Market Visit – Learn to prepare authentic Swahili dishes using local spices and traditional techniques guided by local chefs.
Deep-Sea Fishing Charter – Head offshore with local guides for a chance to catch tuna, marlin, or barracuda in Zanzibar’s warm tropical waters.
Village Cultural Tour – Visit coastal fishing villages to experience authentic Swahili life, local crafts, and traditional palm weaving.
Stone Town Walking Tour – Explore the UNESCO-listed heart of Zanzibar, discovering its labyrinthine alleys, historic Arab mansions, bustling markets, and ornate carved doors.
Prison Island Tour – Take a short boat ride from Stone Town to visit the famous island sanctuary for giant Aldabra tortoises and enjoy snorkeling in the surrounding crystal-clear waters.
Spice Farm Tour – Visit a working spice plantation and learn how cloves, cardamom, cinnamon, and vanilla are grown and harvested — a sensory journey through Zanzibar’s aromatic heritage.

Where you’ll be staying:

Breezes Beach Club and Spa (or similar)
Deluxe Room (F/B)

Until Next Time…

Your guide will pick you up in the early morning where you will travel to the nearby airstrip for your return to Nairobi. The approximate flight duration is 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Please note that strict luggage restrictions apply to this flight: 1) A maximum weight allowance of 32 lbs (15 kg) is permitted per person. 2) Baggage must be soft-shelled. 3) Additional baggage allowance can be arranged at an extra cost; please speak to your Destination Expert for more information.

When you arrive in Nairobi, you will have the opportunity to explore the local markets and shops so you can interact with the local vendors in search for the perfect handicraft or souvenir for yourself or your loved ones. Your guide will let you know what time you will need to be prepared to depart for the airport. Traffic can get tricky so it is recommended to be prepared to arrive at the airport early!