Safaris by design
CLASSIC EAST-AFRICA SAFARI
2025
INGE & NORKIE
DAYS BEFORE THE MAGIC STARTS!
Day(s)
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Hour(s)
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USD $ 8,997 / pps*
THE GREAT MIGRATION!
THE ANNUAL GREAT MIGRATION
Migration details
WHEN TO GO?
The allure of the Serengeti and Masai Mara extends throughout the year, offering a captivating wildlife experience regardless of the season. Contrary to popular belief, the Great Migration isn't a one-time event; it's a perpetual cycle that unfolds year-round. The vast Serengeti ecosystem is a dynamic landscape, and while the migration's location may vary, the spectacle of animals on the move is a constant. The wildebeest, zebras, and other herbivores engage in a continuous circular migration, following the availability of fresh grass and water. This means that visitors can witness the breathtaking phenomenon of migration at different stages, from river crossings to calving seasons, providing a unique and immersive experience at any time. Whether it's the lush greenery of the rainy season or the dramatic river crossings during the dry season, the Serengeti and Masai Mara offer a year-round invitation to explore the unparalleled wonders of East Africa's wildlife.
PEAK "MIGRATION SEASON"
In late July and early August, the Masai Mara region transforms into a theater of nature's grandeur as the annual Great Migration reaches its climax. This extraordinary spectacle unfolds along the Mara River, where hundreds of thousands of wildebeest, zebras, and other herbivores undertake the perilous journey from the southern Serengeti in Tanzania to the lush plains of the Masai Mara in Kenya. The Mara River crossings become the focal point of this awe-inspiring event, as the migrating herds face the daunting challenge of navigating through crocodile-infested waters. The air is charged with anticipation as the animals gather on the riverbanks, hesitating before plunging into the currents. The heart-stopping moments of river crossings are both a testament to the instinct for survival and a dramatic display of the circle of life. It's a riveting chapter in the natural history of East Africa that draws wildlife enthusiasts and adventurers alike, seeking to witness the raw beauty and drama of the animal kingdom in its most primal state.
A year-round invitation to explore the unparalleled wonders of East Africa's wildlife!
WHY YOU’D LOVE IT!
Enter classic safari country: edless, beautiful & wild – plains teeming with the Big-5, zebras, giraffe, countless rare species and so much more…
First up: Amboseli National Park:Famous for big herds of elephants, dramatic views of Kilimanjaro (the highest free standing mountain in the world) and the highest peak on the African continent!
Next up: Olerai Conservancy, nestled in the heart of Kenya’s breathtaking landscapes, offers a sanctuary for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Spanning across vast stretches of pristine wilderness, this conservancy presents a unique opportunity to witness Africa’s diverse ecosystems and iconic wildlife up close, from majestic elephants to elusive big cats. Beyond its stunning natural beauty, Olerai is committed to sustainable conservation practices, providing visitors with an immersive experience that not only educates but also fosters a deep appreciation for the importance of preserving our planet’s biodiversity.
Adventure is next on the menu!
Journey through the home of almost half of the world’s population of mountain gorillas, the extraordinary Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
Become enchanted with Bwindi’s incredible scenery, from its steep mountains to its verdant jungles. You’ll also be surrounded by animal life, as the park abounds with over 120 mammal species and 350 bird species.
Finaly, sun well deserved sun & sand! Zanzibar is the ultimate Indian Ocean experience, with its fascinating history, incredible nature, enchanting sunset and magnificent beaches!
Get ready to be amazed!
OVERVIEW
Itinerary at a glance
◽️ DAY 1-2 | Kenya
Arrival in Nairobi
◽️ DAY 3-4 | Tanzania
Amboseli NP
◽️ DAY 5-7 | Tanzania
Olerai Conservancy
◽️ DAY 8 | Kenya
Nairobi overnight
◽️ DAY 9 | Ugandga
Entebbe
◽️ DAY 10-11 | Ugandga
Bwindi Impenetrable forest
◽️ DAY 12-16 | Tanzania
Zanzibar – Ningwi
◽️ DAY 17 | Tanzania
Zanzibar. -Stone Town
◽️ DAY 18 | Departure
Return home
MAP
MAP
Visualize your journey!
DAY 0
DEPARTURE
Travel
DEPARTURE
Your adventure starts now!
Embark on an African safari and anticipate breathtaking landscapes, encountering diverse and majestic wildlife in their natural habitats, and immersing yourself in the rich cultural experiences of the continent.
* See your safari itinerary for transfer logistics
DAY 1-2 | Nairobi arrival
NAIROBI (Kenya)
Nairobi overnight
📍 Karen Blixen Cottages
KAREN BLIXEN COTTAGES
Hotel Overview
Bed & Breakfast, drinks excl. | Wifi Available | No laundry service
Step into the enchanting embrace of history and elegance at the Historic Swedo House, nestled within the Karen Blixen Coffee Garden. This hallowed site was once the original farmhouse, and now, the meticulously designed cottages offer a unique opportunity to relive the past in splendid style. Located just half a mile away from the prestigious Karen Golf and Country Club, guests can revel in an array of activities, from golfing to tennis, squash, and more. The Coffee Garden spans 5 acres of captivating land adorned with majestic hundred-year-old trees and a blooming garden, home to an array of vibrant flowers and a delightful chorus of birdsong.
Be transported to a bygone era as you reside amidst one of Kenya's oldest formal gardens, graced by imposing jacaranda, candelabra, cactus, bottlebrush, and other magnificent trees. The cottages themselves exude timeless charm, boasting high-beam ceilings, inviting fireplaces, and rich wood and mazeras stone floors. Embrace indulgence in the spacious bedrooms, each featuring a grand bathroom complete with its own shower and bath. For those seeking extra privacy and space, three cottages offer two private suites accompanied by a separate dressing room.
Unwind on the verandah of your cottage, where you can bask in the beauty of the garden, surrounded by an exquisite array of birds, butterflies, and blooming flowers. Surrender to luxurious comfort with twenty-four-hour room service, catering to your every whim. For moments of utter relaxation, an inviting private swimming pool and garden bar await, providing the perfect setting for leisurely afternoons.
B&B
GUEST LODGE
TOURS
DAY 3-4
AMBOSELI NP
Safari Days
📍 Tawi Lodge
AMBOSELI NATIONAL PARK
Area Overview
Amboseli National Park: Its signature attraction is the sight of hundreds of big-tusked elephants set against the backdrop of Africa’s best views of Mt Kilimanjaro (5,895m). Africa’s highest peak broods over the southern boundary of the park, and while cloud cover can render the mountain’s massive bulk invisible for much of the day, you’ll be rewarded with stunning vistas when the weather clears, usually at dawn and/or dusk.The park was established as a national park IN 1974 in order to protect the biodiversity of species and this unique ecosystem and is now declared as a UNESCO world heritage site.
Declared a national reserve in 1968. It became a national park in 1974. However, in 2005, President Mwai Kibaki transferred control from the Kenya Wildlife Service to the Olkejuedo County Council and its residents, the Masai tribe. This is still being contested in the courts because of its implications that could jeopardize Kenya's other national parks.
Apart from guaranteed elephant sightings, you’ll also see wildebeest and zebras, and you’ve a reasonable chance of spotting lions, cheetahs and hyenas. Amboseli National Park offers some of the best opportunities to see African animals because its vegetation is sparse due to the long dry months. Amboseli National Park has over 80 different mammals to be found ranging from the tiny (and rarely seen) speckled elephant shrew to the huge bulk of the African elephant. The park is also home to over 370 bird species, both large and small, to see if you keep your eyes open and stop at every sighting.
ACTIVITIES
Game drives in the Amboseli National Park
A prime location for witnessing the majesty of Africa’s highest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro! The camp is named after the flat-topped, umbrella thorn tree, the Acacia Tortilis.
Activity: Safari days!
Each day on safari in Africa is a magical experience, whether you’re exploring the savanna on foot or in a 4x4 vehicle in search of the Big 5 or taking to the sky in a hot-air balloon to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration. Every single day is steeped in the promise of a unique adventure and cherished memories.
Although each day is unpredictable to a certain extent, based on the time of year or location, there is a general format or schedule that safaris tend to follow, but, as a rule, safaris do follow a familiar rhythm that combines thrilling game viewing with ample time to relax in between—a dream vacation in anyone’s book. One rule of thumb is that there are usually two game drives a day: one in the early morning and one in the late afternoon, when animals are at their most active.
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TAWI LODGE
Camp Overview
Tawi Lodge, situated on a vast private conservancy spanning 3,000 acres, lies just a brief five-minute drive from Amboseli National Park. Operating in an environmentally conscious manner, the lodge offers stunning vistas of Mt. Kilimanjaro from its position overlooking a watering hole. Amidst the arid surroundings of Amboseli, guests can unwind amidst the serene and verdant gardens of the lodge.
This conservancy, managed in collaboration with the African Wildlife Foundation, serves as a testament to the partnership between wildlife preservation and the well-being of the Maasai community, fostering sustainable development along the corridor linking Amboseli and the Chyulu Hills.
Each cottage features its own wooden-deck veranda, offering breathtaking views of Africa's tallest mountain, even visible from the comfort of your bed or bathtub. All cottages boast en-suite bathrooms complete with both a bathtub and shower, as well as a cozy fireplace for added comfort and ambiance.
FULL BOARD
TENTED CAMP
GAME VIEW
DAY 5-6
NGORONGORO CRATER
Ngorongoro Crater experience
📍 Plantation Lodge
NGORONGORO CRATER
Area Overview
The Ngorongoro Conservation Area spans 8,300 square kilometres, stretching from the Rift Valley to the Serengeti. About 2.5 million years ago the young Ngorongoro Volcano became filled with molten rock that then solidified into a crust or roof. As the lava chamber emptied, the solid dome collapsed and from this was formed the largest caldera in the world. The Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA) offers one of the richest wildlife viewing experiences on the African continent.
Approximately 25,000 large animals live in the natural enclosure formed by the 200sq miles crater, while the greater conservancy surroundings are home to wildebeest and zebra migratory movement in the wet season. It is undoubtedly the best place in Africa to see the Big Five, and photo opportunities are superb. The mineral-rich floor of the crater is covered in nutritious grasses, attracting great herds of wildebeest, zebra, buffalo and Thomson’s and Grant’s gazelle that can even be seen from the crater rim, swarming across the landscape in great columns.The rainforests of the crater walls are home to elephant, buffalo, leopard and cheetah, making for spectacular game viewing.
It was recently voted one of the new Seven Natural Wonders of Africa. The Ngorongoro Crater is one of the last remaining areas in Tanzania where you can see the endangered Black Rhino. A small population is thriving in this idyllic environment, and it remains one of the few wild places where they continue to breed.
In the conservation area lives 56,000 Masai in harmony with the East African Wildlife. Seeing the Masai let their herds share the grazing areas with thousands of Wildebeests and Zebras is unique phenomenon.
Safari days
Ngorongoro Crater! Another great day in your safari adventure - Experience one of the world's most astonishing and renowned natural wonders, the Ngorongoro Crater! This volcanic crater forms stunning backdrops to some of the most fertile and richest grazing grounds in Africa. Based on fossil evidence, various hominid species have occupied the area for 3 million years.
Crater decent day schedule:
Descend into Ngorongoro Crater for a full-day game drive, exploring the panoramic, short-grass prairies along the floor of this ancient volcanic caldera. Home to rare black rhinos as well as lions, hyenas and gazelles, this incredible “Lost World” is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
7:00 am: Morning breakfast at the lodge.
7:30 am: Drive to Ngorongoro conservation area and descend in the crater for a game drive for the rest of the day. Lunch will take place at the picnic site inside the park.
4:00 pm: Depart Ngorongoro highlands and be transferred to lodge
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PLANTATION LODGE
Guest Lodge Overview
Bed & Breakfast, drinks excl.
Set on hills in Karatu area mid-way between Lake Manyara National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater Conservation area, a mere 20 minute drive from the Lodoare gate to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
The Lodge has a total of 22 rooms & suites coming in different categories and widely distributed in the flower gardens. Each room is individually designed with own style of decoration, some with verandahs and direct access to the garden, but all with bathrooms en-suite and comfortable beds with mosquito netting.
The restaurant offers fresh variety of vegetables, salads, herbs and fruits all untreated and organically produced in the lodge gardens. Other facilities include a swimming pool, internet café, curio shop / gift shop, guided walks to neighboring coffee plantation, visits to a local farm adjacent to the lodge, and the bountiful gardens of tropical plants and colorful flowers which are the center-piece of the lodge.
*Transfer to Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area, by road or plane - see your safari itinerary for details. Arrive, check-in and enjoy drinks in the main tent. Get ready for your next safari experience!*Please see your safari itinerary for transfer logistics
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B&B
GUEST LODGE
GAME VIEW
DAY 7-9
OLERAI CONSERVANCY
Safari Days
📍 Lerai Safari Camp
OLERAI CONSERVANCY
Area Overview
The Olerai Conservancy was founded on the generosity of tribal landowners in order to improve wildlife ranges and migration pathways. The entire spectrum of African wildlife may be found here, and it now boasts the highest concentration of giraffe and eland in the local eco-system. Masai Giraffes are distinguished by their characteristic jigsaw puzzle splotched pattern.
The Masai Mara National Reserve and the surrounding conservancies constitute one of Kenya’s most famous wilderness areas. The conservancies include: Olare Motorogi Conservancy, Mara North Conservancy, Lemek Conservancy, Ol Choro Conservancy, Olerai Conservancy, Naiboisho Conservancy, Ol Kinyei Conservancy, Siana Group Ranch and Ol Derkesi Conservancy.
These Maasai-owned conservancies are set aside for wildlife conservation and tourism, with land leased to safari companies that pay monthly fees. This income supports local communities, funding education and development, while the Maasai are allowed to graze cattle under strict conditions.
Tourist numbers and vehicle access are limited, ensuring exclusivity and reducing impact, which helps maintain abundant wildlife. Unlike traditional parks, fences keep wildlife out of the conservancies. Activities like guided walks, night drives, and off-road safaris are offered, with Maasai guides educating visitors about the ecosystem, wildlife, and the cultural uses of plants. Conservancy guests can also visit the nearby national park, but not the other way around.
Lions and cheetahs migrate in and out of the zone, but they are frequently seen since the Olerai plains are ideal hunting grounds. The reserve has an elephant corridor, and the elephants use it as a feeding site as well as a dispersal region because of the thick marshy grasses.
Safari days
Each day on safari in Africa is a magical experience, whether you’re exploring the savanna on foot or in a 4x4 vehicle in search of the Big 5 or taking to the sky in a hot-air balloon to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration. Every single day is steeped in the promise of a unique adventure and cherished memories.
Although each day is unpredictable to a certain extent, based on the time of year or location, there is a general format or schedule that safaris tend to follow, but, as a rule, safaris do follow a familiar rhythm that combines thrilling game viewing with ample time to relax in between—a dream vacation in anyone’s book. One rule of thumb is that there are usually two game drives a day: one in the early morning and one in the late afternoon, when animals are at their most active.
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LERAI SAFARI CAMP
Camp Overview
Full board, excl. premium drinks | No wifi | Laundry at addl. cost
A place unchanged by the passage of time, the Masai Mara is essential Africa. Sometimes raw, always dramatic, this is a wilderness of evocative splendor and inspiring grandeur. Often raw, sometimes violent, the drama of this wildlife theater is unmatched.. Nowhere on earth can you find a wilderness so breathtakingly beautiful and yet so serenely pristine.
This is one of the richest wild ecosystems in the world. A number of lion pride territories meet in the Olerai Conservancy which can make for some interesting encounters as the different groups battle for dominance.The camp is the only permanent safari accommodation in the 5,000 acre Olerai Conservancy.
The 6 safari suites are made from Canvas with interiors that express the beauty of traditional East African safari style. Charging facilities are available in all rooms at specific hours with solar lights lighting the atmosphere at night.The camp offers massages, Masai cultural immersion excursions, walking safaris, day and night game drives, hot air ballooning, horse riding and breakfast and lunch in the bush.
ACTIVITIES:
Big 5 Game Drives & Game Walks
Game viewing starts at your doorstep! Guests have access to the Conservancy’s thousands of acres of exclusive, low-vehicle density tourism land, home to extensive areas of important habitat for a vast number of wildlife species.
FULL BOARD
TENTED CAMP
GAME VIEW
DAY 10
RETURN
DEPARTURE
Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end! Goodbye to the safari life, feeling relaxed, mesmerizing scenery, great food, family time, and romantic memories.
Morning road transfer back to the airport for your outbound flight... dreaming of the trip of a lifetime!
◽️ Preparing for your trip
PREPARING FOR YOUR
SAFARI
Pre-Travel Information
Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the return date of your arrangements and have a minimum of three blank visa pages excluding endorsement pages. Travellng with minors - in addition to having a valid passport and valid visa (if applicable), children under the age of 18, traveling through Botswana’s borders, must be in possession of a certified copy of their unabridged birth certificate (one that shows the particulars of a minor and those of both parents). A child under the age of 18 traveling to Botswana and/or South Africa with just one parent must carry an affidavit signed by the other parent consenting to such travel. Failure to produce the necessary documentation may result in travelers being turned away at port of entry. Insider Tips Zimbabwe and Mozambique visas each use up a full passport page. If you are visiting both countries we recommend a minimum of four blank pages. Post Covid passport renewals are taking much longer than in the past so don’t leave applying for a new passport until the last moment as there iust a chance you won’t receive it in time to travel. Keeping your passport safe is key as there is nothing worse than having to spend precious holiday time replacing it. Make at least two copies of the ID page of your passport, visa (if obtained in advance of travel), Covid-19 vaccine passport, travel itinerary, travel insurance, credit cards and any other travel documentation. One copy can be an image scan and the other a hard copy which you can give to a family member, business associate or close friend for safekeeping When it comes to health risks and medical precautions, Machaba Blue is only able to offer limited advice as outlined below. Those with underlying chronic conditions should ideally seek medical advice prior to planning their journey. Prior to traveling to Africa, we highly recommend you visit a medical professional such as your GP or local travel clinic for advice on what health precautions need to be taken. This visit should take place at least 4-8 weeks prior to departure as it will determine the need for any vaccinations and/or antimalarial medication as well as identifying any other medical precautions. Currently no mandatory vaccinations are required when entering Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and South Africa. Please check if this is still the case when visiting your GP or travel clinic. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required by visitors coming from a country where yellow fever occurs, or if they have been in transit for more than 12 hours at an airport in a country here yellow fever occurs. Malaria is present throughout southern Africa and in certain areas of South Africa. Insider Tips INCLUDED ____________ * As indicated on your detailed safari itinerary EXCLUDED ____________ * Unless otherwise indicated on your itineraryPASSPORTS
HEALTH
VISAS
GRATUITIES
PACKING LIST
BAGGAGE
TRAVEL INSURANCE
SAFETY GUIDELINES
INCLUDED & EXCLUDED
TRAVEL INFO
- Health & Vaccines, Visas & Passports, Connectivity, Power adaptors, Travel insurance, Credit Cards, Tipping guide,Packing list and more
GORILLA TREK PACKING LIST SUGGESTION
Kindly note that the packing list below is just a mere guideline as you may have your own preferences
- 1-2 long sleeved shirts
- 3 short sleeved t-shirts
- 2 –3 pairs of light weight slacks/trousers – that can dry quickly (if wearing on treks)
- 1 pair of shorts
- 1 sweater or sweatshirt
- A waterproof and windproof jacket
- 1 skirt ( for women)
- Gloves – gardening or similar (for gorilla trekking)
- Strong waterproof walking boots – pants should be tucked into socks and boots while trekking
- (heavy soled rain boots also work well)
- Pair of sports sandals like Tevas
- Hat-wide brim or with a visor for sun protection
- Sleepwear
- Underwear
- Lightweight wool socks
- Swimsuit (and a plastic bag)
Miscellaneous
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses with neck strap
- Insect repellent with DEET
- Small day pack
- Flashlight
- Binoculars
- Extra batteries
- Camera and extra lenses
- Film particularly fast film for the gorillas.
- Personal toiletries
- Prescription medicines and possibly prescription itself
First Aid Kit including rehydration sachets, anti-diarrhea medicine, aspirin, cold medication, antiseptic cream, band-aids, motion sickness pills, lip balm, eye drops and personal medication.
KENYA VISAS
- Note that your need to apply for a MULTIPLE ENTRY visa for Kenya
- Local host details to be used for Tanzania & Kenya applications
TANZANIA VISAS
- Note that your need to apply for a MULTIPLE ENTRY visa for Kenya
- Local host details to be used for Tanzania & Kenya applications
UGANDA VISAS
- Note that your need to apply for a SINGLE visa for Ugand
- Local host details to be used for Uganda applications
PASSPORTS
- Email or Whatsapp a clear color copy of your passport
- Expiration date valid at least 6 months past return dates
- Please check the number of blank Visa pages required by each country
CONTRACT
- Download the Safari Contract
- Take a picture with your phone of the first & last page and email back
- Include APPENDIX C / Indemnity for each person going on the safari
GUEST INFORMATION
- Download the Guest Information sheet
- Fill out for each person going on the safari and email back
PAPERWORK
PASSPORTS
- Email or Whatsapp a clear color copy of your passport
- Expiration date valid at least 6 months past return dates
- Please check the number of blank Visa pages required by each country
- Please note special requirements when ytravelling with a minor
CONTRACT
- Download the Safari Contract
- Take a picture with your phone of the first & last page and email back
- A signed APPENDIX C / Indemnity is required for each person going on the safari. Click here to print more copies if needed)
GUEST INFORMATION
- Download the Safari Guest Information sheet
- Fill out for each person going on the safari and email back
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