Kenya & Tanzania · Kenya, Tanzania
Kenya & Tanzania Safari Itinerary: The Great Migration Experience
Experience East Africa's greatest wildlife spectacle with a 10-day safari itinerary through Kenya's Masai Mara and Tanzania's Northern Serengeti.
Published September 26, 2026
The Great Migration Route Overview
The Great Migration sees nearly 1.5 million wildebeest and zebras moving across the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem in search of fresh grazing. Between July and October, the herds move into the northern reaches of the ecosystem, creating dramatic river crossings at the Mara River.
A complete cross-border safari requires balancing timing, park logistics, and travel between sites. This 10-day itinerary combines Kenya's Masai Mara and Tanzania's Serengeti for the most thorough view of the migration.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
- Days 1–2: Arrival in Nairobi & Amboseli National Park: Land in Nairobi and head south to Amboseli. Spend time observing large elephant herds against the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro.
- Days 3–5: Masai Mara National Reserve: Travel to the Masai Mara. Focus your game drives on the Mara Triangle to watch for dramatic river crossings.
- Day 6: Border Crossing to Tanzania: Travel overland through the Isibania border post and enter the northern Serengeti.
- Days 7–9: Northern Serengeti (Kogatende): Explore the Kogatende region along the Tanzanian side of the Mara River, where river crossings occur with fewer surrounding vehicles.
- Day 10: Departure: Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport or fly back to Nairobi for your onward flight.
Choosing Your Camps and Lodges
Accommodation options fall into three distinct tiers:
- Budget: Permanent public campsites or basic lodges outside park gates.
- Mid-Range: Tented camps offering all-inclusive packages that cover meals, accommodation, and guided game drives.
- Luxury: Mobile tented camps that follow the migration movement throughout the year.
Staying within private conservancies adjacent to national parks offers additional flexibility, such as night game drives and guided walking safaris.
Essential Practical Logistics
- Visas: Travelers visiting both countries should apply for the East Africa Tourist Visa or separate single-entry eVisas in advance.
- Health Requirements: Malaria prophylaxis is strongly recommended, and Yellow Fever vaccination certificates may be checked at border crossings.
- Best Booking Window: Book 3 to 6 months in advance for peak migration months (July–August).