African Safari: Kenya and Tanzania

African Safari: Kenya and Tanzania with Collette Tours 

February 9 – 23, 2028

 

In the shadow of Mt. Kilimanjaro, embark on 7 lively safaris to seek out the elusive “Big 5” - Africa’s “bucket list” of animals. Spend time at the famous farmhouse from Out of Africa and have giraffes eat directly out of your hand. Connect with locals at a bead factory, where single mothers are employed and trained as jewelry artisans. Get a glimpse into the traditions of native communities when you visit with two tribes at Lake Eyasi. From the picturesque savanna in Kenya to the renowned Serengeti in Tanzania, this is the wild Africa of your dreams.

 

Day 1: Wednesday, February 9, 2028 Overnight Flight

You’re on your way to Africa, where sprawling grasslands and cultural traditions intersect into a land like no other. In the shadow of Mt. Kilimanjaro, discover a natural wonderland of curious giraffes, playful elephants, and wandering lions. From the picturesque savanna in Kenya to the renowned Serengeti in Tanzania, this is the wild Africa of your dreams.

 

Day 2: Thursday, February 10, 2028 Nairobi, Kenya

Arrive in Nairobi, the capital of Kenya. Serving as the gateway to Africa’s sought-after wildlife, Nairobi is the ideal place to get acclimated to the Kenyan lifestyle. As travelers’ arrival times will vary greatly, we have no group activities planned during the day. Dinner tonight will be on your own.

 

Day 3: Friday, February 11, 2028 Nairobi

Visit the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, which rehabilitates young or injured elephants. See the gentle giants up close as they are fed and bathed by their caretakers. Head to Karen Blixen’s Out of Africa farmhouse for lunch before stepping outside to visit the sanctuary’s inquisitive Rothschild giraffes. Visit the Kazuri Beads Factory, where mothers are employed and trained as jewelry artisans. In the evening, toast to the start of your African adventure at a savory welcome dinner. (B, L, D)

 

Day 4: Saturday, February 12, 2028 Nairobi - Amboseli National Park

Make your way to Amboseli National Park, nestled along the border of Tanzania and looking out on the great Mt. Kilimanjaro. After lunch, get a glimpse into Kenyan culture and interact with locals at a Masai village. Settle into your accommodations for the next two nights – a tented camp with the comfortable amenities of a traditional lodge. (B, L, D)

 

Day 5: Sunday, February 13, 2028 Amboseli National Park

Embrace your wild side on a full-day game drive in Amboseli National Park. This is your first chance to seek out Africa’s elusive “Big 5” – the safari “bucket list” of animals includes lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and water buffalo. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the open plains, watching for herds of wildebeest and grazing zebras. (B, L, D)

 

Day 6: Monday, February 14, 2028 Amboseli National Park - Arusha, Tanzania - Karatu

Enter Tanzania, a country devoted to harmony among its people and animals. Today will be an Impact Moment as you visit Shanga, a local jewelry workshop that trains and employs citizens with disabilities. Your day ends in Karatu, a humble town located on the precipice of untamed nature. Overnight in a charming lodge where colorful gardens meet welcoming hospitality. (B, L, D)

 

Day 7: Tuesday, February 15, 2028 Karatu - Ngorongoro Crater - Karatu

Make the most of more opportunities to spot the local wildlife with a full-day game drive in Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Containing one of the densest mammal populations in the world, this “African Eden” is one of the best places to seek out the “Big 5.” Allow the sheer magnitude of the area to wash over you as you enjoy a picnic lunch in the highlands, taking in the flourishing habitat around you. (B, L, D)

 

Day 8: Wednesday, February 16, 2028 Karatu - Serengeti

Your path continues to the renowned Serengeti, a Masai word meaning “endless plains.” Enjoy lunch and venture out on your first Serengeti adventure on an afternoon game drive, returning to camp at dusk. Relax in your exclusive safari abode, your home for the next three nights. The camp includes all the amenities of a lodge but allows you to remain immersed in nature. (B, L, D)

 

Day 9: Thursday, February 17, 2028 Serengeti

Say good morning to the Serengeti! After breakfast, set out and enjoy a full day of animal-seeking safari adventures with a picturesque picnic lunch. (B, L, D)

 

Day 10: Friday, February 18, 2028 Serengeti

Lions. Gazelles. Cheetahs. Hippos. There’s no telling what you might spot on your full-day game drive. Under the careful guidance of an expert, discover the savanna’s wild residents and get a glimpse into the untamed animal kingdom. (B, L, D)

 

Day 11: Saturday, February 19, 2028 Serengeti - Lake Manyara

You’re on your way to Lake Manyara, a lesser-known corner of Tanzania nestled between the plains and escarpments. Pause for a picnic lunch along the way, providing more chances to view the local wildlife. Enjoy some downtime at the lodge, perhaps enjoying the pool’s sweeping views across the escarpment towards Lake Manyara. (B, L, D)

 

Day 12: Sunday, February 20, 2028 Lake Manyara

See how native communities live in harmony with the environment. Start your morning with the Hadzabe tribe, hunter-gatherers who strive to leave no lasting impact on their surroundings. After lunch back at your lodge, continue with a visit to the Datoga tribe – another community based at Lake Eyasi – and see how their vast farms contribute to day-to-day life. (B, L, D)

 

Day 13: Monday, February 21, 2028 Lake Manyara - Tarangire National Park

Decide how you spend the morning because it’s your choice! Learn from a local fruit vendor in Mto Wa Mbu village about their trade -OR- spend time with a local craftsman who will show you current projects at African Galleria. Then, head to Tarangire, the forested national park known for its giant baobab trees and elephant migration. After lunch, embark on a thrilling game drive. Don’t be surprised if you see a pride of lions lounging in the shade, a herd of buffalo wading into the water, or a parade of elephants passing by. (B, L, D)

 

Day 14: Tuesday, February 22, 2028 Tarangire National Park

Enjoy a full-day game drive, venturing out in the morning on your quest for animal sightings with a break for a picnic lunch in between. Make sure you look to the skies because Tarangire is an aviary paradise, home to more than 500 bird species. Keep your eyes peeled for various starlings, weavers, and guinea fowl. Wish Africa goodbye at a farewell dinner with your fellow travelers. (B, L, D)

 

Day 15: Wednesday, February 23, 2028 Tarangire National Park - Arusha - Tour Ends

Return to Arusha on the final day of your African adventure. Settle into a dayroom* to relax before lunch. Depart with memories of the endless plains and unparalleled

 

$ 9,999 per person, double occupancy, includes flight from Boston

$ 11,799 single occupancy, includes flight from Boston

 

To Sign Up - Call or Email our office to get a sign up form or visit HERE to sign up and get additional information

Includes Round-trip airfare from Boston

Pricing is valid until May 10, 2027

Package Includes:

2 Nights at Ole Sereni Hotel, Nairobi 

2 Nights at Kilima Safari Camp, Amboseli Game Reserve

2 Nights at Endoro Lodge, Karatu

3 Nights at Serengeti Heritage Camp, Serengeti

2 Nights at Lake Manyara Serena Lodge, Lake Manyara

2 Nights at Tarangire Nature Camp, Tarangire

13 Breakfasts, 13 Lunches, 12 Dinners

All described touring

Deluxe Motorcoach Transportation

Roundtrip Airfare from Boston

 

Important Payment Information:

Book Now rates valid until May 10, 2027, valid on air inclusive packages only.

A deposit of $698 per person is due upon reservation.

Reservations are made on a first come, first served basis.

Reservations made after the seat reduction date of May 3, 2027 are based upon availability.

Final payment due by November 1, 2027.

Deposits are refundable up until May 10, 2027.

 

Travel Requirements:

Passports and visas are required for this tour at your expense. Certain countries require a minimum of 6 months passport validity from date of return home. You are strongly urged to contact the appropriate consulate for details. Visit www.travel.state.gov for the U.S. State Department for the latest details about passports and visa requirements.

 

IMPORTANT: We recommend that our travelers take a photocopy of their passport and applicable visas. It should be packed separately from your actual passport and visa. We also recommend leaving a copy at home with your emergency contact.

 

A Tanzania visa is required for this tour at your own expense and can be purchased at the border for approximately $100 US Dollars, for US and Canadian citizens, payable in USD, cash only. It is highly recommended to secure your visa prior to arrival online at: https://visa.immigration.go.tz/. Rates are approximate and can be changed at any time based on governing authority.

 

Collette will provide all necessary information, updates, and supporting documents for your travel requirements, including visa and Electronic Travel Authorizations (ETAs), if required, approximately 60-90 days prior to your departure.

 

An eTA (Electronic Travel Authority) for Kenya is required for this tour at your own expense. Travelers are required to apply for the eTA prior to arriving in Kenya through the following website: www.etakenya.go.ke. You can apply for the eTA up to three months in advance, but no less than three days prior to departure, for an approximate fee of $30 USD, excluding a handling fee and credit card fee. Rates are approximate and can be changed at any time based on governing authority. An accommodation booking confirmation is required as supporting documentation for the eTA. Your Collette itinerary can be used as this confirmation.

 

Each traveler is responsible for proper documentation and inoculations that may be required and/or recommended to participate on this tour. Please contact your local travel clinic or personal physician for specific details on the destinations you are traveling to and from.

Upon departure from Kenya, you will need a Yellow Fever certificate to enter Tanzania.

 

Please be aware that if your flight schedule is via Dubai or if you are stopping over in Dubai and are carrying narcotic drugs, controlled or semicontrolled drugs, then you will be required to complete an electronic form prior to entering the country, to obtain approval to carry medication. Please use the link https://mohap.gov.ae/en/w/approve-emergency-drugsand-psychotropic-materials to view the guidelines. A user's guide is available to explain the application and the supporting documents required. For regular prescription or over-the-counter medication, no prior approval is necessary

 

 

Important Details:

The overall activity level of this tour is a level 3. This means you’re an onthe-go traveler. You don’t want to miss a thing, so walking and standing for longer periods of time (2-3 hours) isn’t a big deal. A moderately paced twoand-a-half-hour walking tour, covering several miles, hills, and uneven surfaces, is no problem for you. Walking four miles over the course of a day is very doable, as is climbing into and out of various modes of transportation (tuk-tuk, cable car, zodiac, etc.). You can climb three flights of stairs easily and handle altitudes between 6,000 and 9,000 feet. Expect some longer days with early mornings or late nights balanced with free time to recharge or set out on your own adventure. This level is not a fit for travelers who require mobility assistance devices.

 

Travel with an average of 14 people (maximum of 18).

 

For the safety and well-being of our travelers, children under the age of 13 will not be allowed to join us on this tour. Contact us with any questions at the time of booking.

 

This tour doesn’t involve extensive walking. Be prepared for long days in safari vehicles over bumpy and dusty roads with limited restroom access. You will frequently need to climb in and out of safari vehicles throughout the tour.

 

This tour includes several early mornings, warm temperatures, and sitting for extended periods, sometimes up to 6 hours. This tour is not suitable for travelers who have significant back, knee, or respiratory issues.

 

If you use a CPAP machine or other powered medical device, electricity may not be available overnight at some lodges. Devices must operate on rechargeable batteries. Travelers should plan to charge them during designated power windows shared by the Tour Manager.

 

If you require any special assistance while on tour, please make us aware at the time of reservation so the necessary request form can be sent to your attention.

 

Unfortunately, wheelchairs cannot be accommodated on this tour. In addition, travelers who require assistance walking or who travel with oxygen tanks will not fully enjoy this trip, and we strongly recommend a different tour.

 

When traveling in Africa, you will encounter full days of sightseeing, frequently in warm temperatures.

Morning temperatures may range between 55 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit (13 and 16 degrees Celsius) from May to August.

Maximum Elevation: 7800 feet / 2377 meters.

 

This tour includes several early morning game drives with departures at 6:00 a.m. Full-day game drives require travelers to ride in a 4x4 vehicle for up to 6 consecutive hours, with a lunch break in the middle, often on dusty and bumpy roads.

 

There are six long transfer days with 3 hours or more of driving, including stops, with one particularly long transfer day of 8 hours of driving, including stops.

 

Personal audio devices (headsets) are not included on this tour.

 

Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed.

 

*The dayroom will be available until 6:00 p.m.

 

Accommodation on this tour offers a more rustic and authentic experience. These properties are smaller and may be simpler in amenities but are carefully chosen for their unmatched locations in national parks and proximity to wildlife, allowing you to wake up to the sounds of nature and immerse yourself fully in the region.

 

Single accommodations are extremely limited. Single rate subject to change based on availability.

 

Triple and child accommodations are not available.

 

If you have dietary restrictions or food allergies, please notify us at the time of booking. While we do our best to accommodate requests, options may be limited and cannot be guaranteed. Meals are prepared in shared kitchens, and we cannot guarantee they will be free from cross-contamination. Travelers with dietary restrictions or food allergies should be aware that included meals may feature pre-set menus showcasing local cuisine. Dietary needs may be shared with restaurant staff when possible; however, accommodations cannot be guaranteed. Travelers are encouraged to discuss their needs with their Tour Manager while on tour. Due to local ingredients and food preparation practices, options may be limited and cross-contamination may occur.

 

The roads in Kenya and Tanzania can be unpredictable, often consisting of dirt or gravel tracks that are significantly rougher and bumpier than what you may be accustomed to. Expect uneven terrain, dust, and some long days of driving on this tour. Specially-adapted 4x4 safari vehicles are used for the majority of this tour. They are designed for the terrain and to maximize game-viewing opportunities. They are not air-conditioned and do not have toilets. Frequent stops are made during travel periods.

 

Our transfers depart from Arusha to Kilimanjaro Airport. Traveling to and from Nairobi airport will require at least 1.5 hours of travel time, as there is always heavy traffic.

 

To complete your tour, we include round-trip airport-to-hotel transfers when purchasing our airfare with your tour. If you have arranged for your own air, we are pleased to provide you the option of purchasing these transfers. Please note that all transfers will leave at pre-scheduled times. If you’ve booked your own air, we kindly ask that you provide your full flight schedule. This helps us coordinate any additional services you may have purchased, such as hotel transfers, and ensures your Tour Manager knows when to expect your arrival. It also allows us to stay in touch in case of any emergencies. Please ensure your round-trip flights align with your tour itinerary, as scheduled activities may occur on arrival and departure days. If you have chosen our air-inclusive tour package, you’ve opted for us to handle your air travel from your home to the destination and back.

 

Our air travelers will depart from Kilimanjaro Airport. For air-inclusive reservations, the name provided at time of booking must match your government-issued ID that will be used during travel. Name changes are subject to penalties. If traveling internationally with a child under the age of 18, please check directly with the airline for the legal documentation that is required. It is the sole responsibility of the traveler to procure the proper documentation to travel, and many requirements vary by airline and destination. We will not be responsible for costs incurred for missed flights or canceled tours where a traveler fails to secure proper documentation.

 

Please be advised, many airlines do not provide advance seat assignments until check-in at the airport. Advance seating will be subject to the airline's terms and conditions.

 

Due to tour scheduling, return flights should not be scheduled prior to 3:00 p.m.

 

Prepaid tipping is not available on our tours therefore payment of customary end-of-trip gratuities for your Tour Manager, driver, hotel housekeepers, and cruise ship waitstaff should be handled individually when applicable during the course of your tour.

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