When is the best time to travel for this safari in 2026/2027/2028?

This safari works year-round. July to October is popular for Masai Mara migration season, while Serengeti migration locations vary by month. We tailor Serengeti areas to your travel dates to maximize sightings.

What type of safari vehicle is used?

A 4x4 safari vehicle (often a Land Cruiser or equivalent) with a pop-up roof is used for comfort, better game viewing, and reliability on safari roads, especially on Kenya–Tanzania cross-border routes.

Are meals included and can you handle dietary requirements?

Meals are included as specified in the itinerary, often on a full-board basis on safari. Vegetarian, halal, allergy-friendly, and kid-friendly meal requests can be arranged if shared in advance.

What is included and excluded in the safari package?

Typically included are accommodation, meals as stated, park fees, game drives, safari transport, and a professional guide. Common exclusions are visas, international flights, tips, drinks, and optional activities such as balloon safari.

9 Days Tanzania Kenya Family Safaris 2026/2027/2028 (Nakuru, Mara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro & Manyara)

9 Days Kenya & Tanzania Family Safari (Route + Highlights)

Route: Nairobi → Lake Nakuru → Masai Mara → (Isebania border) → Serengeti → Ngorongoro Crater → Lake Manyara → Arusha
Best for: Families, first-timers, Big Five, Great Migration seekers (seasonal)
Top experiences: Rhino tracking in Nakuru, Mara predators, Serengeti endless plains, Ngorongoro Crater “natural zoo”, Manyara tree-climbing lions (seasonal)
Style: Private/family-friendly pacing, hand-picked stays, expert local guides

Welcome to our 9 Days Tanzania Kenya Family Safaris 2026/2027/2028, a carefully paced Kenya–Tanzania family safari package created by local experts for travelers who want iconic wildlife and a smooth cross-border journey. This trip combines the best of the north—Lake Nakuru safari (rhino country), the legendary Masai Mara safari tour (Big Five and seasonal Great Migration), the endless plains of a Serengeti family safari, the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater safari (a UNESCO World Heritage area), and the relaxed forests of a Lake Manyara safari—all in one seamless itinerary.

Unlike rushed group circuits, we build this as a kid-friendly safari itinerary with shorter game drives when needed, flexible meal times, and guides who know how to keep young explorers engaged. You’ll travel with a dedicated team, enjoy hand-picked lodges, and get transparent, family-ready planning from first inquiry to arrival. For a Kenya visa, visit ETA for more information.

What this tour offers (why families love it)

Two countries, one story: Rift Valley → Mara ecosystem → Serengeti plains → Ngorongoro Highlands.
Big Five focus with smart timing (early morning + late afternoon).
Family comfort: flexible pacing, bathroom stops, picnic options, and guide-led “junior ranger” style learning.
Migration-smart routing: we adjust Serengeti zones to your travel month for best wildlife density (a key advantage top brands highlight).
Eco-green travel touches: refillable water plan, reduced single-use plastics, respectful wildlife viewing distances, and support for local communities.

Price comparison table

Final pricing depends on travel month, room type (family / triple / interconnecting), and whether you choose road or flight hops.

Package Tier	Best For	Accommodation Style	Vehicle	From (USD) per adult*
Budget	Value-focused families	Good camps/lodges	4×4 safari vehicle	$2,450 – $2,950
Mid-Range	Comfort + great locations	Tented camps + lodges	4×4 safari vehicle	$3,150 – $3,950
Luxury	Premium service + top views	Luxury camps/lodges	4×4 safari Land Cruiser	$4,650 – $6,500

*Guideline “from” rates for 2026/2027/2028; child rates and single supplements vary by season.

Transparent booking info

Deposit: 30% to confirm reservations (customizable)
Balance: payable before arrival or on arrival (cash/card terms)
Family rooms: limited in peak season—reserve early for July–October and Dec–Feb windows
Travel documents: Kenya ETA + Tanzania eVisa options: https://etakenya.go.ke/ and https://visa.immigration.go.tz/
CTA (WhatsApp): +254 728 567 308

9-Day itinerary

Day 1: Nairobi → Lake Nakuru National Park (Rift Valley + rhinos)

After breakfast, depart Nairobi for the Great Rift Valley and arrive at Lake Nakuru National Park in time for a rewarding game drive. Nakuru is famous for rhino conservation, scenic acacia woodland, and classic viewpoints—perfect for families because wildlife sightings can be frequent without extremely long drives. Your guide will help kids spot zebra patterns, buffalo herds, and giraffe silhouettes while explaining animal behaviour in a fun, simple way. Settle into your lodge/camp, enjoy a relaxed dinner, and get a short briefing on the next day’s journey to the Mara.

Day 2: Lake Nakuru → Masai Mara (arrival + sunset game drive)

Today you travel to Kenya’s crown jewel: the Masai Mara. The drive is scenic and can be broken with comfort stops and a picnic lunch, making it manageable for families. Arrive, check in, and head out for your first Mara game drive—often the best time to meet the “characters” of the savannah: elephants moving in a line, topi and impala on the plains, and big cats beginning their evening hunt. We keep the pace gentle for children, with plenty of photo stops and learning moments. Overnight in the Mara.

Day 3: Full day Masai Mara (Big Five + Migration hunting grounds)

Wake up to the sounds of the wild and enjoy a full day exploring the Masai Mara ecosystem, home to year-round predators and seasonal Great Migration action (typically strongest July–October, though wildlife is excellent year-round). Your guide will plan the day around animal movement—early morning for cats, mid-day for relaxed sightings, and late afternoon for dramatic light and activity. For families, we can do a picnic lunch at a safe viewpoint, plus mini “tracks and signs” lessons that keep kids engaged. Optional extras can include a cultural visit or balloon safari planning (seasonal availability).

Day 4: Another full day in Masai Mara (photography + family-friendly tracking)

A second full day gives you what many competitors can’t guarantee in one day: time—time to revisit areas with yesterday’s sightings, to wait for the perfect leopard moment, and to enjoy wildlife without rushing. This is also when families often get their best photos because everyone is more comfortable with the rhythm of safari. Your guide focuses on ethical viewing (no crowding, respectful distances), explains predator-prey dynamics, and helps you create a “family safari story” with unforgettable scenes—elephant calves playing, lion prides resting, and (in season) dramatic river action. Trust-building detail and pacing is what top brands emphasize.

Day 5: Masai Mara → Serengeti (cross-border via Isebania + en-route wildlife)

Today is a true East Africa adventure: you’ll head toward the Isebania/Sirari border to enter Tanzania, then continue into the Serengeti. We handle the logistics carefully—early departure, border guidance, and a smooth handover so the family stays comfortable. The reward is huge: arriving into the Serengeti’s legendary plains, where wildlife viewing can start immediately as you enter the park zone. This route is widely used in top cross-border itineraries because it links Mara and Serengeti ecosystems naturally.

Day 6: Full day Serengeti National Park (migration-smart game drives)

A full Serengeti day lets your guide tailor game drives to your travel month—central Serengeti for reliable predator action, or specific areas if the Great Migration is your top goal. Expect big skies, endless grasslands, and iconic sightings: lions on kopjes, cheetahs scanning for a chase, elephants crossing open plains, and vast herds when conditions align. Serengeti is recognised globally for its outstanding wildlife values and is listed by UNESCO.
Family touch: we add short “stretch breaks” and keep camera/phone charging organised so everyone is ready when the action starts.

Day 7: Serengeti → Ngorongoro (scenic drive + highlands welcome)

After a final Serengeti morning moment, travel toward the Ngorongoro Conservation Area—a stunning shift from open plains to cool highlands. This day is designed as a comfortable transition: scenic stops, storytelling about Maasai culture and conservation, and an early arrival at your lodge/camp so the family can rest before the crater descent. Ngorongoro is world-famous and includes the spectacular Ngorongoro Crater, described by UNESCO as the world’s largest unbroken caldera—one reason it’s a must-do on premium itineraries.
External reference option:

Day 8: Ngorongoro Crater game drive → Lake Manyara (forest + lake shore wildlife)

Start early for the Ngorongoro Crater descent, maximizing wildlife sightings before mid-day. The crater floor is like a natural amphitheatre—often excellent for lions, buffalo, zebra, hyena, and (with luck) rhino. After your crater safari and a picnic lunch, continue to Lake Manyara, arriving in time for a gentle afternoon experience. Manyara is ideal for families: beautiful groundwater forest, birdlife, and a different feel from the big plains. Depending on conditions, you may spot the famous tree-climbing lions or large baboon troops near the forest edge.

Day 9: Lake Manyara → Arusha (final game viewing + airport transfers)

Enjoy a relaxed morning in Lake Manyara National Park (or nearby areas, depending on your flight timing). This final safari is perfect for a family wrap-up: easy wildlife viewing, beautiful scenery, and time to reflect on highlights—rhinos in Nakuru, dramatic Mara plains, Serengeti vastness, and the Ngorongoro “Garden” experience. After check-out, drive to Arusha for lunch and transfers to your onward flight. We’ll assist with final planning details, including packing guidance, border/visa reminders, and a smooth handover to your airport team so your journey ends stress-free.

Key aspects that make this package

Complete headline circuit in 9 days (Nakuru + Mara + Serengeti + Ngorongoro + Manyara)
Family-first pacing (comfort stops, flexible meal timing, shorter game drive blocks on request)
Migration-smart Serengeti planning (location adjusted to month—this is what top luxury planners emphasise)
Private guide option (higher sighting quality + better family experience)

Safari Package Inclusions

1. Accommodation (as per itinerary)
Carefully selected family-friendly lodges and tented camps in Lake Nakuru, Masai Mara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro area, and Lake Manyara. Rooms are booked on a sharing basis unless otherwise requested (family room / triple / interconnecting available on request).

2. Meals as specified (BB / HB / FB / All Inclusive where applicable)
All meals during safari days are included, starting from lunch on Day 1 (depending on arrival time) up to breakfast or lunch on the last safari day as per itinerary plan.

3. Private or Shared 4×4 Safari Vehicle
Professional safari vehicle with pop-up roof for game viewing and photography. Vehicle includes comfortable seating, charging ports (where available), and a cooler box / mini fridge for drinking water.

4. Professional English-Speaking Safari Guide
Highly experienced local driver-guide with deep wildlife knowledge, family-friendly approach, and strong cross-border safari experience (Kenya & Tanzania operations).

5. Park Entry Fees (All Parks & Conservation Areas)
Includes conservation and park fees for:

Lake Nakuru National Park
Masai Mara National Reserve
Serengeti National Park
Ngorongoro Conservation Area (including crater entry fee)
Lake Manyara National Park

6. Game Drives (Unlimited within park regulations)
Morning, afternoon, and full-day game drives as per itinerary schedule to maximize wildlife viewing and photography opportunities.

7. Bottled Drinking Water During Game Drives
Complimentary drinking water provided daily in safari vehicle (eco-friendly refill policy encouraged where possible).

8. Cross-Border Assistance (Kenya → Tanzania or vice versa)
Full support at Isebania / Sirari border including vehicle and guide coordination for smooth transition.

9. Airport Transfers (Where Applicable)
Pick up and drop off at airport or hotel according to itinerary start and end points.

10. Government Taxes & Levies
All applicable tourism taxes and VAT included (subject to government changes).

11. Emergency Evacuation Cover (Flying Doctors – Ground Support Coordination)
Emergency evacuation coordination support (Note: insurance premium itself may be optional depending on package tier).

12. Safari Briefing & 24/7 Ground Support
Pre-safari travel briefing and full time support from operations team throughout the safari.

Safari Package Exclusions

1. International Flights
Flights to/from Africa are not included unless specifically quoted.

2. Visa / ETA Fees
Travel authorization and visa costs for Kenya and Tanzania are paid directly by travelers.

3. Travel Insurance (Highly Recommended)
Personal travel insurance covering medical, cancellation, and baggage is not included.

4. Optional Activities (Unless Specified)
Examples include:

Hot Air Balloon Safari
Maasai Cultural Village Visit
Night Game Drives (where available)
Guided Walking Safaris
Zanzibar or Beach Extensions

5. Alcoholic & Premium Drinks (Unless Staying All-Inclusive Property)
Soft drinks usually included at meals depending on lodge; premium drinks normally excluded.

6. Personal Expenses
Laundry, spa treatments, souvenirs, gifts, and personal shopping.

7. Tips & Gratuities
Recommended but optional:

Guide: USD 10 – 20 per person per day
Lodge staff: USD 5 – 10 per person per stay

8. Extra Meals Not Mentioned in Itinerary
Meals outside safari program (example: Nairobi dinners unless included).

9. COVID / Health Tests (If Required by Authorities)
Any health tests or vaccination costs if required by destination country.

10. Additional Transfers Not Mentioned
Extra hotel nights, early check-in, late check-out, or extra city transfers.

Optional Add-Ons

Balloon Safari Experience
Private Photographer Guide Upgrade
Domestic Flights (Example: Mara → Serengeti or Serengeti → Arusha)
Beach Extension (Zanzibar / Diani / Mombasa)
Extra Night in Nairobi or Arusha

FAQ

1) What is the route for the 9 Days Tanzania Kenya Family Safaris 2026/2027/2028?

The safari route is Nairobi → Lake Nakuru → Masai Mara → Serengeti → Ngorongoro Crater → Lake Manyara → Arusha. It’s designed to start with easier wildlife viewing in Kenya (great for kids), then move into Tanzania’s iconic parks for big landscapes, high predator density, and unforgettable crater game drives.

2) Is this safari suitable for children and teens?

Yes. This is a family-first safari with flexible pacing, comfort stops, and guides who know how to keep children engaged with wildlife stories, tracking lessons, and safe viewing etiquette. We can also request family rooms, triples, interconnecting rooms, and kid-friendly meal preferences in advance.

3) When is the best time to travel for this safari (2026/2027/2028)?

This itinerary works year-round, but timing affects the Great Migration. Generally, July–October is popular for potential river crossing action in the Masai Mara, while Serengeti migration locations vary by month. If you share your travel month, we tailor the Serengeti zones to maximize wildlife density and sightings.

4) Will we see the Big Five on this itinerary?

You have an excellent chance. The parks included are strong for lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and (with luck) rhino—especially in Lake Nakuru and the Ngorongoro Crater region. Wildlife is never guaranteed, but this route is built to maximize probability through smart timing and park selection.

5) How long are the driving hours each day?

Drive times vary by day and border formalities, but this is planned to be family-manageable with breaks, restroom stops, and scenic viewpoints. The longest day is usually the cross-border transfer between Masai Mara and Serengeti; we handle it early with clear guidance to keep it smooth.

6) How does the Kenya–Tanzania border crossing work (Isebania/Sirari)?

We guide you step-by-step. You will clear immigration at Isebania (Kenya) / Sirari (Tanzania) with passports and required travel authorization/visa documents. Our team coordinates the vehicle/guide handover (or continuous arrangement where applicable) so the transition is comfortable and well-managed.

7) What documents do we need for Kenya and Tanzania?

Requirements depend on nationality. Most travelers need Kenya ETA and a Tanzania visa/eVisa (or visa on arrival where eligible). We send a checklist for your nationality and travel dates so everything is prepared before arrival.

8) What type of safari vehicle do we use?

A 4×4 safari Land Cruiser or equivalent with pop-up roof (ideal for families and photography). It offers better comfort on rough roads, higher viewing angles, and more reliable performance for cross-border safari routes.

9) Can we make the safari private for our family only?

Yes. We can offer a private family safari (recommended for families) for flexibility, comfort, and better wildlife time. Private safaris also allow you to pause longer at sightings, adjust start times, and take breaks when needed.

10) What accommodation styles are available (budget, mid-range, luxury)?

You can choose Budget / Mid-range / Luxury. All options are vetted for safety, cleanliness, good locations, and family suitability. In peak months, family rooms are limited—early booking gives the best choice.

11) Are meals included, and can you handle dietary needs?

Meals are included as per your itinerary plan (often FB on safari). We can arrange vegetarian, halal, allergy-friendly, and “not spicy” meals for kids—just inform us early so the lodges are prepared.

12) Is this safari eco-friendly?

Yes—our focus includes responsible wildlife viewing, minimizing plastic waste (refill strategy), supporting local staff and community supply chains, and partnering with properties that follow conservation standards and community benefit initiatives.

13) Is the Ngorongoro Crater safe for families?

Yes. It’s one of the most controlled and well-managed wildlife areas in Tanzania. Your guide follows park regulations, stays on approved routes, and plans stops in safe picnic areas.

14) Can we add a beach extension after the safari?

Absolutely. Popular add-ons include Zanzibar, Diani, or Mombasa/Watamu, depending on your route and flight plan. We can add 3–7 nights with family-friendly resorts and activities.

15) What is included and what is not included?

Included items typically cover accommodation, meals as stated, park fees, game drives, a professional guide, and safari transport. Exclusions usually include visas, international flights, tips, drinks, and optional activities like a balloon safari. (We can attach a detailed inclusion/exclusion list to your quote.)

Why Book With Us

Licensed & Registered Safari Operator

Fully registered East Africa safari operator
Operates under official tourism and regulatory compliance
Works only with licensed lodges, camps, and conservation partners

✔ Legal & compliant operations
✔ Transparent pricing (no hidden costs)
✔ Verified ground operations team

Local Safari Experts (Real On-Ground Experience)

Our safaris are designed and operated by local East Africa safari specialists, not resellers.
This means:

Real-time wildlife movement updates
Migration tracking knowledge
Direct lodge relationships (priority room allocations in peak seasons)
Fast on-ground problem solving

Real Traveller Reviews & Ratings

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Rated Safari Experience

✔ Excellent wildlife sighting success rate
✔ Family-friendly safari planning
✔ Strong cross-border Kenya–Tanzania logistics
✔ Honest safari advice (not sales-driven)

Trusted by Global Travellers

Welcoming guests from:
USA • UK • Canada • Europe • Australia • Asia • Middle East • Africa

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Start Planning Your Dream Kenya & Tanzania Family Safari Today

Experience the Big Five, the Great Migration, and Africa’s most iconic landscapes with trusted local safari experts.
Our team will design your safari around your travel dates, family needs, and budget — with full ground support from arrival to departure.

✅ Local Expert Safari Planning
✅ Family-Friendly Lodges & Camps
✅ Migration-Smart Wildlife Routing
✅ Transparent Pricing — No Hidden Costs
✅ 24/7 On-Safari Support

Request Your Custom Safari Quote Today
WhatsApp Fast Response: +254 728 567 308

Limited family rooms available during peak migration months — early planning recommended.

Travel Responsibly. Explore Authentically.

Your safari supports:
✔ Local Communities
✔ Conservation Wildlife Areas
✔ Responsible Tourism Practices

Travel Africa the right way — with local experts who care.

Previous Traveller Reviews

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review 1 — Family Safari Experience (UK)

“Perfect family safari — exceeded all expectations”
We travelled with two children (ages 9 and 13) and everything was planned perfectly. The pacing was ideal for a family — not rushed, but still packed with wildlife experiences. Seeing rhinos in Lake Nakuru and lions in Masai Mara was unbelievable, but the Serengeti was on another level. The border crossing was smooth and well organized. Our guide was incredibly patient and knowledgeable. This was truly a once-in-a-lifetime family experience.

— Sarah M., United Kingdom

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review 2 — First Time Africa Travelers (USA)

“We felt safe, informed, and completely taken care of”
Booking a safari overseas felt scary at first, but communication was excellent from day one. Every lodge matched what we were promised. The Ngorongoro Crater was breathtaking and full of wildlife. We saw four of the Big Five in one day. The team checked on us throughout the trip. We would 100% recommend this safari company to anyone planning East Africa.

— James & Olivia R., USA

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review 3 — Migration Safari (Australia)

“Great Migration sightings beyond what we imagined”
We travelled in August and witnessed massive wildebeest herds in both Masai Mara and Serengeti. The guide clearly understood animal movement patterns. We never felt like we were just driving randomly — every game drive had purpose. The vehicle was comfortable and perfect for photography. This trip was worth every dollar.

— Daniel K., Australia

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review 4 — Luxury Family Safari (Germany)

“Luxury comfort combined with real wilderness experience”
The accommodation selection was outstanding — beautiful locations, great food, and very welcoming staff. Traveling with children can be stressful, but everything was smooth. The kids loved the Serengeti and Lake Manyara forests. The safari felt exclusive, personal, and very professional.

— Claudia & Markus T., Germany

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review 5 — Photography Focus Safari (Canada)

“A dream safari for wildlife photography”
Our guide positioned the vehicle perfectly for photography and was very respectful of wildlife distance. We captured incredible lion and elephant shots. Sunrise drives in Serengeti were magical. If you love wildlife photography, this team understands exactly what photographers need.

— Kevin L., Canada

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review 6 — Cross-Border Kenya Tanzania Safari (Netherlands)

“Smooth logistics across two countries — zero stress”
We were worried about crossing Kenya to Tanzania, but it was seamless. Everything was coordinated — vehicles, guides, timing, and paperwork. The safari itself was spectacular. Ngorongoro Crater was like a wildlife documentary in real life. Highly professional company with excellent planning.

— Eva & Thomas V., Netherlands