Journey Details
- Start / End
- Jomo Kenyatta International Airport → Nairobi, Kenya
- Languages
- English, French, German (on request)
- Guide
- Expert Local Guide
- Group Size
- 2–12
- Accommodation
- Superior
About This Journey
Overview
Discover the cultural and natural diversity of Kenya on this 8-day journey through Nairobi, the Maasai Mara, Lake Nakuru and Amboseli. Combining wildlife safaris with authentic cultural encounters, the itinerary takes you beyond traditional game drives to experience local communities, traditional practices, crafts, food and stories.
Meet Maasai communities, explore Nairobi’s cultural landmarks, enjoy wildlife viewing across Kenya’s celebrated national parks and take in spectacular landscapes including views of Mount Kilimanjaro. This itinerary is ideal for international travellers seeking a more immersive Kenya safari that combines wildlife, culture and meaningful community experiences.
The Route Ahead
Every stop, stay and meal — laid out so you know exactly what each day holds.
Arrival in Nairobi
Upon arrival in Nairobi, transfer to your hotel and unwind after your journey. In the evening, embark on a city tour to discover Nairobi's bustling streets and vibrant atmosphere.
Nairobi Cultural Exploration
Explore Nairobi's cultural attractions, including the Karen Blixen Museum, Kazuri Beads Factory, and Maasai Market, experiencing the city's rich cultural heritage.
Maasai Mara Cultural Safari
Travel to the world-renowned Maasai Mara National Reserve and be welcomed by a traditional Maasai ceremony. Step inside a Maasai Manyatta (village) and gain insights into their fascinating way of life, traditions, and cultural practices. Gather around a crackling campfire for an evening of storytelling and traditional Maasai dances.
Maasai Mara Game Drive and Cultural Interaction
Embark on a morning game drive in the Maasai Mara, then visit a Maasai school or community project to engage with local children and participate in traditional activities.
Lake Nakuru Cultural Experience
Drive to Lake Nakuru National Park for a game drive, then visit a nearby village to interact with local communities, learn about their way of life, and enjoy a traditional Kenyan meal.
Amboseli Cultural Safari
Drive to Amboseli National Park, enjoying views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Visit a Maasai village near Amboseli, participate in a beadwork workshop, and learn about Maasai culture.
Departure from Nairobi
Transfer back to Nairobi, with an optional visit to the Bomas of Kenya for a cultural performance showcasing Kenya's ethnic diversity. Enjoy a farewell dinner with traditional Kenyan cuisine and performances.
Departure
Bid farewell to Kenya, taking with you memories of a cultural journey that has immersed you in the heart and soul of this beautiful country.
Departure Dates & Pricing
Available on request — tell us your preferred dates and we'll tailor a departure around them.
What's Included
- Accommodation in Nairobi and throughout the safari circuit
- Transportation throughout the tour
- Entrance fees to all parks and cultural sites mentioned
- Guided tours and activities
- Meals as specified in the itinerary
What's Excluded
- International flights
- Visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Drinks and personal expenses
- Gratuities
Frequently Asked Questions
East Africa — including Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, and Tanzania — welcomes hundreds of thousands of international visitors every year, and the overwhelming majority return home with wonderful memories and no safety issues.
The main tourist areas (national parks, gorilla trekking zones, established lodges, and well-travelled routes) are generally very safe when you travel with a reputable operator. Crime against tourists is relatively rare in these environments. Like any destination in the world, larger cities require normal urban awareness, especially after dark.
Safety can vary by country and by region, and the situation can change. For this reason we always recommend that you check the latest official travel advice from your own government’s embassy or foreign office before you book and again closer to your departure date. This is the most reliable and up-to-date source of information.
At Tuntu Safaris we take safety extremely seriously. We use experienced local guides, well-maintained vehicles, carefully selected lodges, and proven routes. Your wellbeing is our highest priority from the moment you arrive until you leave.
This is one of the best questions you can ask, and the answer depends on the kind of experience you want.
Uganda is ideal if you want exceptional variety in a single country. Here you can trek mountain gorillas, track chimpanzees, enjoy classic game drives, boat safaris, and beautiful scenery — all without excessive travel days. It feels less commercial than some of its neighbours and offers outstanding value, especially for gorilla trekking.
Rwanda is perfect for a short, high-end, polished trip focused on mountain gorillas. The infrastructure and service standards are excellent, and the experience is very exclusive.
Kenya and Tanzania are the classic choices for big open savannahs, large numbers of the Big Five, and (in season) the Great Migration. They deliver the iconic “endless plains” safari experience many people picture when they think of Africa.
Many of our guests combine two countries. Uganda + Rwanda is a particularly popular pairing for primate lovers. We’re happy to help you decide based on the length of your trip, your interests, and your budget.
Uganda can be visited year-round, but conditions change with the seasons.
The two dry seasons — June to September and December to February — are generally considered the best times for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking. Trails are less muddy and hiking is more comfortable. Wildlife viewing in the savannah parks is also excellent during these months as animals gather around water sources.
The rainy seasons (March to May and October to November) bring lush green landscapes, excellent birdwatching, fewer visitors, and sometimes better availability of gorilla permits and lodge rooms. Trekking is still very possible, though you should expect some mud and rain.
If your main goal is comfortable gorilla trekking, aim for the dry seasons. If you prefer quieter parks and don’t mind a bit of rain, the green seasons can be wonderfully rewarding.
A standard gorilla trekking permit in Uganda currently costs USD 800 per person for foreign non-residents. This allows you one hour with a habituated gorilla family in Bwindi or Mgahinga.
A gorilla habituation experience permit (which lets you spend up to four hours with a group still being habituated) costs USD 1,500.
Permits are limited and sell out quickly in peak season, so we recommend securing them as early as possible. We handle the entire permit booking process for our clients.
