9-Day Kenya & Zanzibar Bush to Beach Safari

After a delicious breakfast at Hemingways Nairobi, you’ll be transferred to Wilson Airport for your scenic flight to the Masai Mara National Reserve. As the plane glides over the Rift Valley, enjoy breathtaking views of Kenya’s rolling hills and open savannahs below.

Upon landing, your professional safari guide will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your luxurious lodge, Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp, located on the edge of the Oloololo Escarpment with sweeping views of the Mara plains.

After a refreshing welcome drink and light lunch, head out for your first afternoon game drive. The Masai Mara is home to an abundance of wildlife, including elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, and, if you’re lucky, leopards resting in the trees. As the sun sets, enjoy a scenic sundowner in the wild — a perfect introduction to the magic of the Mara.

Return to camp for a gourmet dinner under the stars, followed by a cozy evening around the bonfire, sharing stories with fellow travelers.

Accommodation: Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp (Luxury)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Wake up early to the sound of birds and the fresh scent of the African bush. After a hot cup of coffee or tea, embark on an exciting early morning game drive across the golden plains of the Masai Mara. This is the best time to spot predators such as lions, cheetahs, and leopards as they hunt in the cool morning hours.

Return to Kichwa Tembo Camp for a hearty breakfast and a bit of relaxation. You can spend late morning lounging by the infinity pool, enjoying views that stretch endlessly across the savannah, or visiting a nearby Maasai village to learn about the community’s rich culture and traditions.

In the afternoon, set out again for another game drive, searching for elephants, buffalo, and graceful giraffes wandering through the plains. As the sun dips below the horizon, pause for a classic sundowner drink — a tradition that perfectly captures the romance of safari life.

Dinner is served back at camp, followed by a peaceful evening listening to the sounds of the wild under a sky full of stars.

Accommodation: Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp (Luxury)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Rise before dawn for an unforgettable hot air balloon safari over the Masai Mara plains. Drift silently above the wildlife as the sun rises, painting the savannah in golden hues. From above, witness herds of wildebeest, zebras, and elephants moving across the plains. After landing, enjoy a celebratory champagne breakfast in the bush — a magical and once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Return to Kichwa Tembo Camp for a short rest before heading out on your morning game drive. Explore different parts of the Mara and spot lions, leopards, and other iconic wildlife up close. Pause at scenic points for photographs and enjoy the breathtaking landscapes.

In the afternoon, relax at the camp or opt for a guided bush walk to learn about smaller wildlife, birds, and the flora of the Mara. Later, embark on another afternoon game drive, capturing the stunning golden-hour views. End the day with sundowner drinks before returning to camp for a gourmet dinner under the starry African sky.

Accommodation: Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp (Luxury)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Start your day with an early morning game drive in the Masai Mara. This is your last chance to spot the Big Five and other wildlife, including cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, and elephants. Capture final photographs of the rolling savannah and enjoy the quiet, magical atmosphere of the early morning.

Return to Kichwa Tembo Camp for a hearty breakfast and a short rest. Then, transfer to the airstrip for your scenic flight to Zanzibar. As you fly, enjoy panoramic views of Kenya’s landscape fading into the Indian Ocean.

Upon arrival in Zanzibar, you’ll be welcomed and transferred to Balaza Resort, your luxurious beachfront accommodation. Spend the afternoon relaxing in your private villa, swimming in turquoise waters, or strolling along the pristine white sand beach. In the evening, enjoy a gourmet dinner at the resort, savoring fresh seafood and local dishes while listening to the gentle waves.

Accommodation: Balaza Resort, Zanzibar (Luxury)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at Balaza Resort, enjoying stunning views of the turquoise Indian Ocean. Spend the morning relaxing on the beach, swimming, or lounging in your private villa while soaking up the tropical sun.

After lunch, choose from a range of optional water activities, such as snorkeling, kayaking, or exploring nearby coral reefs. You can also enjoy a spa treatment at the resort for complete relaxation. For those seeking adventure, a short trip to Mnemba Atoll offers world-class snorkeling with vibrant marine life.

In the late afternoon, take a sunset stroll along the beach or sip cocktails on your villa terrace while watching the sky change colors over the ocean. In the evening, indulge in a gourmet dinner featuring fresh seafood and local flavors, creating a perfect end to your first full day in Zanzibar.

Highlights:

• Morning beach relaxation and swimming

• Optional snorkeling, kayaking, or spa treatments

• Sunset stroll or cocktails on the beach

• Gourmet dinner with tropical ambiance

Accommodation: Balaza Resort, Zanzibar (Luxury)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast at Balaza Resort, embark on a half-day tour of a traditional Zanzibar spice farm. Walk through fragrant gardens filled with cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla plants. Learn how these spices shaped Zanzibar’s history, taste fresh fruits, and discover local cultivation techniques from your knowledgeable guide.

Return to the resort for lunch and some leisure time. Spend the early afternoon relaxing on the beach, swimming, or enjoying your private villa’s amenities.

Later, visit Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander narrow streets lined with historic buildings, bustling markets, and artisan shops. Explore local crafts, jewelry, and textiles while experiencing the rich culture and history of the island.

As the sun sets, return to Balaza Resort for a sunset cocktail on the terrace or the beach. In the evening, enjoy a gourmet dinner featuring local seafood and international cuisine. Optional activities include a private dhow cruise or cultural music and dance performances at the resort.

Highlights:

• Visit a traditional Zanzibar spice farm

• Learn about local spices and taste fresh fruits

• Afternoon relaxation at the beach or villa

• Explore historic Stone Town

• Sunset cocktails and gourmet dinner

• Optional dhow cruise or cultural performance

Accommodation: Balaza Resort, Zanzibar (Luxury)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Start your day with a relaxing breakfast at Balaza Resort, enjoying panoramic views of the turquoise waters. Spend the morning lounging on the beach, swimming, or simply enjoying the serenity of your private villa.

In the late morning, choose an optional island adventure. You can go snorkeling at Mnemba Atoll, exploring vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish, or try deep-sea fishing for a thrilling experience. Kayaking along the coastline or a guided diving excursion are also available for water enthusiasts.

Return to the resort for lunch and a short rest before an afternoon of sunset relaxation. Watch the sky turn golden over the Indian Ocean while sipping cocktails on the beach or your villa terrace. In the evening, indulge in a gourmet dinner, featuring a blend of local and international flavors. Optional activities include a private beach dinner or enjoying a traditional music and dance performance at the resort.

Highlights:

• Morning beach relaxation and swimming

• Optional snorkeling, diving, or deep-sea fishing

• Kayaking along the coastline

• Sunset cocktails on the beach or terrace

• Gourmet dinner with local specialties

• Optional private beach dinner or cultural performance

Accommodation: Balaza Resort, Zanzibar (Luxury)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner