14-Day Bush to Beach East Africa Safari

 Your African adventure begins upon arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, Nairobi. You will be warmly greeted by a Paul Tours Safari representative and transferred to your luxury accommodation. While &Beyond does not have a Nairobi property, you will stay at a partner luxury lodge that reflects &Beyond’s high standards of comfort and service.

Spend the afternoon relaxing in your spacious suite or exploring the lodge’s serene gardens. This is the perfect opportunity to unwind after your international flight and prepare for the adventure ahead.

In the evening, enjoy a gourmet dinner at the lodge, featuring a fusion of local and international flavors. Take in the calm surroundings and plan for the exciting safari experiences that await in Kenya and Tanzania.

Accommodation: Luxury Nairobi lodge (partnered with &Beyond standards) Giraffe Manor or Hemingways Nairobi (Luxury)
Meal Plan: Bed & Breakfast

After a sumptuous breakfast at Giraffe Manor or Hemingways Nairobi, you will be transferred to Wilson Airport for your scenic flight to the Masai Mara National Reserve. The flight offers breathtaking aerial views of the Rift Valley escarpments, rolling savannahs, and scattered acacia trees, setting the tone for your African adventure.

Upon arrival, your expert safari guide will greet you and transfer you to &Beyond Bateleur Camp, a luxurious tented camp perched on the edge of the Mara plains. Each tent features private verandas, elegant interiors, and modern amenities, blending comfort seamlessly with nature. Enjoy a welcome drink as you take in panoramic views of the savannah and listen to the distant calls of wildlife.

After settling in, embark on your first afternoon game drive. Explore the Mara’s diverse landscapes, from open grasslands to acacia-dotted kopjes, spotting elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests. Your guide will share fascinating insights about predator-prey dynamics, animal behavior, and conservation efforts. Pause at a scenic lookout for a classic sundowner, sipping cocktails while the golden sun dips behind the horizon.

Return to the camp in the early evening to unwind. Relax on your private veranda or around the campfire before indulging in a gourmet dinner prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Cap the night with stargazing over the Mara plains, listening to the symphony of nocturnal wildlife — a magical introduction to your East African safari.

Accommodation: &Beyond Bateleur Camp, Masai Mara (Luxury)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Wake up early to the golden light of dawn over the Mara plains. After a light coffee or tea, embark on your morning game drive, when wildlife is most active. Spot lions hunting, leopards lounging in acacia trees, elephants roaming, and herds of zebras and wildebeests grazing. Your expert guide will share fascinating insights about animal behavior, the Mara ecosystem, and tips for capturing perfect wildlife photographs.

Return to &Beyond Bateleur Camp mid-morning for a hearty breakfast and some leisure time. Relax on your private veranda overlooking the savannah or take a short nap before lunch.

In the afternoon, continue exploring the Mara on another game drive. Venture deeper into the park to discover hidden waterholes, termite mounds, and scenic kopjes. You may also encounter cheetahs sprinting across open plains or crocodiles basking by rivers. Pause for a sundowner in a breathtaking location, savoring cocktails as the sun paints the sky in rich hues.

Optional activities include a visit to a nearby Maasai village, where you can learn about Maasai culture, traditions, and handicrafts. Interact with the community, watch traditional dances, and gain insight into the lives of one of Africa’s most iconic tribes.

Return to the camp in the evening for a gourmet dinner. Spend the night listening to the sounds of the African bush, reflecting on your unforgettable day of wildlife encounters.

Accommodation: &Beyond Bateleur Camp, Masai Mara (Luxury)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Rise before dawn for one of the most magical experiences in Africa — a hot air balloon safari over the Masai Mara plains. Drift silently above the savannah as the first rays of sunlight illuminate the golden grasslands. From the air, spot herds of wildebeest, zebras, elephants, and giraffes moving gracefully across the plains. Capture breathtaking photographs and enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime perspective of Africa’s wildlife.

After landing, celebrate with a champagne breakfast in the bush, a signature &Beyond experience. Toast to the adventure ahead while surrounded by the sounds of nature and vast, open landscapes.

Return to &Beyond Bateleur Camp for a short rest before embarking on a morning game drive. Explore new areas of the Mara, seeking elusive predators like leopards or cheetahs, and pause at scenic points for photography.

After lunch at the camp, enjoy an afternoon game drive, venturing deeper into the reserve. Watch elephants bathing in riverholes, lions resting under acacia trees, and flocks of colorful birds flying across the horizon. End the drive with a classic sundowner, savoring cocktails as the sun sets in vibrant shades of orange and pink.

Return to the camp for a gourmet dinner under the starry African sky. Reflect on the extraordinary wildlife encounters and the beauty of the Mara, preparing for your continued safari journey the next day.

Accommodation: &Beyond Bateleur Camp, Masai Mara (Luxury)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Start your day with an early morning game drive in the Masai Mara, spotting lions, cheetahs, elephants, and herds of wildebeest and zebras. Capture the savannah in the soft morning light — perfect for wildlife photography.

Return to &Beyond Bateleur Camp for a hearty breakfast, then prepare for your journey to the Serengeti. You will transfer via a scenic flight or private road transfer, crossing the border into Tanzania. Enjoy panoramic views of rolling hills, river valleys, and the iconic Serengeti plains.

Upon arrival, check in at &Beyond Grumeti Serengeti Tented Camp, a luxurious eco-friendly camp in the western Serengeti. The camp offers spacious tents with private decks overlooking the wilderness, modern amenities, and elegant design that blends seamlessly with nature.

In the afternoon, embark on your first Serengeti game drive. Explore the rich ecosystem of the Grumeti Reserve, spotting predators, elephants, and grazing herds. Pause for a sundowner amidst the vast plains, enjoying cocktails as the sun sets over the golden horizon.

Return to camp for a gourmet dinner under the stars, reflecting on the day’s adventures and the wonders of the Serengeti.

Accommodation: &Beyond Grumeti Serengeti Tented Camp (Luxury)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Wake up early to the sounds of the Serengeti and enjoy a light tea or coffee before heading out on a morning game drive. The western Serengeti is famous for its large predator population, so keep your eyes open for lions, cheetahs, and leopards, along with elephants, giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests. Your expert guide will provide fascinating insights into animal behavior, tracking, and the ecosystem of this iconic reserve.

Return to &Beyond Grumeti Serengeti Tented Camp for a late breakfast and some leisure time. Relax on your private deck, enjoy the views across the plains, or take photographs of the abundant birdlife.

After lunch, embark on an afternoon game drive. Venture deeper into the reserve to explore hidden waterholes, kopjes, and savannah plains teeming with wildlife. This is also an ideal opportunity for close-up photography of predators and herbivores in their natural environment. Pause for a classic sundowner, sipping cocktails while the sun sets over the Serengeti horizon.

Return to camp in the evening for a gourmet dinner under the stars, sharing stories of the day’s encounters. The serene ambiance of the Serengeti at night, with its chorus of wildlife sounds, ensures a restful night in preparation for the next day’s safari adventures.

Accommodation: &Beyond Grumeti Serengeti Tented Camp (Luxury)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Start the day early with tea or coffee before departing on a morning game drive. Explore new areas of the Grumeti Reserve or central Serengeti, depending on seasonal migration patterns. Witness herds of wildebeest and zebras moving across the plains, accompanied by predators such as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas. Your guide will share insights into migration behavior, animal tracking, and conservation efforts in this protected ecosystem.

Return to &Beyond Grumeti Serengeti Tented Camp for a late breakfast and a short rest. Enjoy time on your private deck, soaking in the serene views and photographing birds or nearby wildlife.

After lunch, embark on an afternoon game drive, venturing to scenic kopjes, river crossings, or waterholes. This is a perfect opportunity to capture dramatic wildlife moments, from elephants drinking at a waterhole to lions lounging in the shade. Pause for a sundowner at a panoramic location, sipping cocktails as the sun sets over the Serengeti plains.

Optional activities include a guided walking safari, allowing you to experience the Serengeti on foot and learn about smaller creatures, tracks, and local flora. Return to camp in the evening for a gourmet dinner under the stars, reflecting on another unforgettable day in Africa’s iconic wilderness.

Accommodation: &Beyond Grumeti Serengeti Tented Camp (Luxury)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After an early breakfast at &Beyond Grumeti Serengeti Tented Camp, you will check out and begin your journey to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The transfer can be done via scenic road or chartered flight, offering breathtaking views of the Serengeti plains, rolling hills, and Maasai villages along the way.

Upon arrival, check in at the &Beyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge, perched dramatically on the rim of the crater. The lodge’s architecture combines elegance and charm, with panoramic terraces overlooking the crater floor — one of the most spectacular wildlife landscapes in the world.

After settling in, enjoy an afternoon leisure walk or photography session around the lodge grounds. Take in the incredible views, watch for wildlife from the terrace, or simply relax with a refreshing drink.

In the evening, savor a gourmet dinner at the lodge while the sun sets over the crater rim. This serene setting offers a perfect transition from the open plains of the Serengeti to the dramatic landscapes of Ngorongoro.

Accommodation: &Beyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge Or Nomad Entamanu (Luxury) 
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Wake up early to enjoy breakfast at Entamanu Ngorongoro, overlooking the breathtaking crater rim. Today, you’ll descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, often referred to as Africa’s “Garden of Eden.” This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to an incredibly dense concentration of wildlife.

Embark on a full-day game drive across the crater floor. Spot the Big Five — lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, and black rhinos — along with hippos, cheetahs, hyenas, and thousands of zebras and wildebeests. Your expert guide will share detailed insights about the ecosystem, wildlife behavior, and ongoing conservation efforts.

Enjoy a bush picnic lunch at a scenic spot in the crater, surrounded by spectacular views and wildlife all around. After lunch, continue your game drive in search of animals at waterholes, soda lakes, and lush grazing areas.

In the late afternoon, ascend back to Entamanu Ngorongoro, taking in panoramic views of the crater rim and the surrounding highlands. Relax on your private deck, enjoy a sundowner, and reflect on the incredible day spent amidst one of Africa’s most iconic landscapes.

Finish the day with a gourmet dinner at the lodge, savoring the flavors of Tanzania while listening to the sounds of nature.

Accommodation: Entamanu Ngorongoro, Ngorongoro Crater (Luxury Tented Lodge)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After a relaxing breakfast at Entamanu Ngorongoro, you will check out and be transferred to the airstrip for your flight to Zanzibar. Enjoy stunning aerial views as Tanzania’s highlands and plains give way to the turquoise waters and white sandy beaches of Zanzibar.

Upon arrival, a Paul Tours Safari representative will greet you and transfer you to &Beyond Mnemba Island Lodge, an exclusive private island retreat. Nestled on a coral island with pristine beaches, the lodge offers luxurious villas with private decks, world-class amenities, and unparalleled privacy.

Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach, snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs, kayaking, or exploring the island’s marine life. For ultimate relaxation, indulge in spa treatments or unwind on your villa’s deck while listening to the gentle waves.

In the evening, enjoy a gourmet dinner featuring fresh seafood and local flavors under the stars. This marks the start of your serene bush-to-beach experience, transitioning from the wild African plains to Zanzibar’s idyllic coastline.

Accommodation: &Beyond Mnemba Island Lodge, Zanzibar (Luxury)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Wake up to the gentle sound of waves and enjoy a delicious breakfast at &Beyond Mnemba Island Lodge. Today is dedicated to relaxation and adventure in the pristine marine environment surrounding the island.

Spend the morning snorkeling or diving in the coral reefs, encountering colorful fish, sea turtles, and vibrant marine life. For those who prefer a slower pace, relax on the powdery white sands of the beach or take a kayak or paddleboard out over the crystal-clear waters.

After a leisurely lunch at the lodge, enjoy optional activities such as a guided nature walk on the island, exploring its unique flora and birdlife, or simply unwind in your luxurious villa. The lodge staff can also arrange private beach picnics or sunset sailing excursions for a more intimate experience.

As the day draws to a close, relax with a sundowner cocktail on your deck or by the beach, watching the sun sink into the Indian Ocean. End the day with a gourmet dinner under the stars, savoring the fresh flavors of Zanzibar and the serene ambiance of your private island retreat.

Accommodation: &Beyond Mnemba Island Lodge, Zanzibar (Luxury)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After a relaxing breakfast at &Beyond Mnemba Island Lodge, enjoy a full day at leisure on the pristine beaches of your private island. Take time to swim, sunbathe, or snorkel in the vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life.

For those interested in cultural experiences, arrange a guided excursion to nearby Zanzibar villages. Explore local communities, meet artisans, and discover traditional Swahili culture, including spice farming, fishing practices, and handcrafted souvenirs. These optional tours offer a meaningful connection to Zanzibar beyond its stunning beaches.

Return to the lodge for a gourmet lunch, then spend the afternoon indulging in spa treatments, kayaking, or simply relaxing on your private villa deck. Capture stunning sunset views over the Indian Ocean as you unwind from your safari adventures.

In the evening, enjoy a romantic or family-style dinner at the lodge, featuring freshly caught seafood and local ingredients. The gentle ocean breeze and the serene island setting provide the perfect end to another peaceful day in paradise.

Accommodation: &Beyond Mnemba Island Lodge, Zanzibar (Luxury)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at &Beyond Mnemba Island Lodge, soaking in the breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean. Today is your final full day in Zanzibar, offering the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.

Spend the morning snorkeling, diving, or swimming in the pristine waters, or simply unwind on the white sandy beaches. For those seeking adventure, enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, or a guided sailing excursion around the island’s crystal-clear lagoons.

After a delicious lunch at the lodge, you can opt for a nature walk, explore nearby coral reefs, or enjoy a spa treatment to relax and rejuvenate. Capture your final moments on this idyllic island through photography or simply savor the tranquil atmosphere.

As the day winds down, enjoy a sunset cocktail on your private deck, reflecting on your incredible 14-day journey from the wild savannahs of Kenya and Tanzania to the serene beaches of Zanzibar. Conclude the day with a gourmet farewell dinner, celebrating the unforgettable experiences of your bush-to-beach safari.

Accommodation: &Beyond Mnemba Island Lodge, Zanzibar (Luxury)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Wake up to a final breakfast at &Beyond Mnemba Island Lodge, enjoying the serene views of the turquoise Indian Ocean. Take a last stroll along the pristine beach, capture memorable photos, or simply relax on your villa deck before checking out.

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Zanzibar Airport by your Paul Tours Safari representative for your departure flight home or onward journey. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for a quick visit to Stone Town, Zanzibar’s historic center, to explore its winding streets, spice markets, and cultural landmarks.

Reflect on the incredible journey you’ve experienced: from luxurious wildlife safaris in the Masai Mara, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater to the pristine beaches and turquoise waters of Zanzibar. This unique bush-to-beach safari offers unforgettable memories, immersive wildlife encounters, and moments of ultimate relaxation in some of East Africa’s most spectacular locations.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Not included (departure day)