9-Day Big Five Kenya Safari and Zanzibar Beach Holiday (2026 Itinerary)
Tour Overview – 9-Day Big Five Kenya Safari and Zanzibar Beach Holiday (2026)
Experience the ultimate East African adventure with this 9-day itinerary that perfectly blends the excitement of a Big Five safari in Kenya with the serene luxury of a tropical Zanzibar beach holiday. Designed for travelers who crave both adventure and relaxation, this tour offers an extraordinary journey through some of Africa’s most iconic landscapes, wildlife habitats, and cultural experiences, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Your journey begins in the world-renowned Maasai Mara National Reserve journey continues to the pristine beaches of Zanzibar
9-Day Big Five Kenya Safari and Zanzibar Beach Holiday (2026 Itinerary)
Upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, you will be met by your safari guide and transferred to Masai Mara National Reserve, one of Africa’s premier wildlife destinations. After settling into your lodge or tented camp, embark on an afternoon game drive, where you may encounter the famous Big Five — lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos. The day ends with dinner and overnight stay amidst the stunning savannah landscape.
Spend a full day exploring the vast plains of the Masai Mara. Early morning and late afternoon game drives provide the best chances to observe predators in action and herds of wildebeest, zebra, and elephants roaming freely. Optional experiences such as a hot-air balloon safari offer breathtaking aerial views of the Mara ecosystem. Evenings are for relaxation at your lodge or camp, enjoying the sounds and sights of the African wilderness.
Continue your safari adventure with another day in Masai Mara. Explore different areas of the reserve to maximize wildlife sightings, including cheetahs, giraffes, and a variety of bird species. You can also choose to visit a local Maasai village to learn about traditional Maasai culture, crafts, and lifestyle. Return to your lodge in the evening for dinner and overnight stay.
Depart Masai Mara in the morning and head to Lake Nakuru National Park, famous for its flamingo-filled lakes and rhino populations. On arrival, enjoy an afternoon game drive around the lake, spotting wildlife such as baboons, hippos, and water birds. The evening is spent relaxing at your lodge, with the spectacular African sunset as a backdrop.
After breakfast, drive to Amboseli National Park, set at the foot of the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro. Amboseli is renowned for its large elephant herds and panoramic views of the snow-capped Kilimanjaro. Enjoy an afternoon game drive exploring the park’s swamps, plains, and woodlands. Overnight stay at a lodge with stunning views of the mountain and wildlife.
Spend a full day in Amboseli, taking morning and afternoon game drives to capture the perfect photographs of elephants, lions, and other wildlife against the backdrop of Kilimanjaro. Explore different park areas including marshes and open plains to observe the rich biodiversity. Evening relaxation at your lodge offers a peaceful end to another exciting day on safari.
After a morning game drive in Amboseli, return to Nairobi and catch a flight to Zanzibar, Tanzania. Upon arrival, transfer to your beachfront hotel or resort where you can unwind after days of safari adventure. Spend the evening enjoying the white sand beaches, the turquoise Indian Ocean, and a relaxing dinner by the sea.
Enjoy a full day of leisure in Zanzibar, soaking up the sun on pristine beaches or exploring local attractions. Optional activities include snorkeling, diving, spice farm tours, or a sunset dhow cruise. You may also explore Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its rich history, architecture, and vibrant markets. Evening at the resort offers a tranquil end to your day.
Spend your final morning on Zanzibar at leisure, taking in the beaches or doing some last-minute sightseeing and shopping in Stone Town. After breakfast, transfer to Zanzibar International Airport for your onward flight home, carrying memories of Kenya’s wildlife and Zanzibar’s serene beaches.
9-Day Big Five Kenya Safari and Zanzibar Beach Holiday (2026 Itinerary)
cost included
- Accommodation in safari lodges/camps (Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru, Amboseli).
- Accommodation in a beach resort/hotel in Zanzibar.
- Airport transfers in Nairobi and Zanzibar.
- Safari transfers in a 4×4 vehicle with professional driver/guide.
- Domestic flights (optional) between Nairobi → Masai Mara or Nairobi → Zanzibar.
- Morning and afternoon game drives in all national parks.
- National park entrance fees (Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru, Amboseli).
- Optional Maasai village visit.
- Full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner) during safari days.
- Breakfast at Zanzibar resort.
- English-speaking professional safari guide.
- Porterage at lodges/camps.
- Bottled water during game drives.
cost excluded
- International flights (to Nairobi / from Zanzibar).
- Kenya or Tanzania visa fees.
- Travel insurance (medical, evacuation, trip cancellation).
- Optional activities (hot-air balloon safari, snorkeling, diving, dhow cruise, spice farm tours).
- Tips for guides, drivers, or lodge staff.
- Personal expenses (souvenirs, shopping, drinks).





