THE ULTIMATE AFRICAN SAFARI CIRCUIT

For wildlife lovers, Africa’s safari circuit offers the planet’s most spectacular encounters—from the Great Migration’s thunderous herds to silent mokoro rides past drinking elephants. This 3-week itinerary combines Kenya’s drama, Tanzania’s diversity, and Botswana’s exclusivity for the ultimate safari experience.

 

WHY THIS TRI-COUNTRY SAFARI WORKS?

✔ Peak Wildlife Viewing – Covers the Serengeti migration, Okavango floods & Chobe’s elephant herds
✔ Logistical Ease – Good flight connections between hubs (Nairobi/Arusha/Maun)
✔ Contrasting Landscapes – Savannahs (Masai Mara), wetlands (Delta) & woodlands (Moremi)
✔ Balanced Budget – Mixes affordable Kenya/Tanzania with premium Botswana

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THE PERFECT 21-DAY ITINERARY

 

Days 1-7: Kenya – The Great Migration Theatre

Highlights:

• Masai Mara – Witness river crossings (Jul-Oct) & big cats hunting

• Amboseli – Postcard-perfect elephant herds with Kilimanjaro backdrops

• Lake Nakuru – Flamingo carpets & rare rhino sightings

Unique Experience:
Hot air balloon safari over the Mara ($450-$550pp) followed by bush breakfast

Where to Stay:

• Luxury: &Beyond Bateleur Camp (private Mara concession)

• Mid-range: Mara Intrepids Camp (family-friendly)

Pro Tip: Add Samburu for unique “Special Five” (reticulated giraffe, Grevy’s zebra).

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Days 8-14: Tanzania – The Safari Grand Slam

Fly: Nairobi to Kilimanjaro (1.5 hrs)

Highlights:

• Serengeti – Follow wildebeest herds (Dec-Jul in south, Jul-Oct in north)

• Ngorongoro Crater – Highest predator density on earth

• Tarangire – Giant baobabs & 500-elephant mega herds

Unique Experience:
Walking safari with Maasai guides near Lake Manyara

Where to Stay:

• Luxury: Singita Faru Faru Lodge (Serengeti riverfront)

• Budget: Kati Kati Tented Camp (mobile migration camp)

Pro Tip: Time Serengeti visits with calving season (Feb) for predator action.

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Days 15-21: Botswana – Wet Wilderness Luxury

Fly: Serengeti to Maun via Dar es Salaam/Johannesburg

Highlights:

• Okavango Delta – Mokoro (dugout canoe) among lily pads & hippo pools

• Moremi Game Reserve – Leopard capital of Africa

• Chobe Riverfront – Sunset cruises past 500+ elephant gatherings

Unique Experience:
Sleep-out platform at Tree Top Camp (star beds over watering holes)

Where to Stay:

• Luxury: Mombo Camp (Okavango’s best game viewing)

• Value: Chobe Bush Lodge (affordable riverfront access)

Pro Tip: Visit Apr-Jun for peak Delta floods & fewer mosquitoes.

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ESSENTIAL SAFARI PLANNING TIPS

 

When to Go

• Best Overall: Jun-Oct (dry season = concentrated wildlife)

• Secret Season: Nov-Dec (“Emerald Season” – lush landscapes, lower rates)

Health & Safety

• Vaccinations: Yellow fever required, malaria prophylaxis recommended

• Safety: Avoid self-drives in Botswana’s Delta (deep water/elephant risks)

Budget Guide (Per Person)

Includes mid-range lodging, game drives, domestic flights, and park fees.

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ALTERNATIVE ROUTES

• Short on Time? Focus on Kenya & Tanzania (12-14 days)

• Luxury Focus: Swap Botswana for South Africa (Sabi Sands + Cape Town)

• Adventure Add-On: Victoria Falls (Zambia/Zimbabwe) after Chobe

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WHY THIS CIRCUIT BEATS SINGLE-COUNTRY SAFARIS?

1. Maximizes Wildlife Diversity – See all “Big Five” plus rare species like wild dogs

2. Avoids Overcrowding – Botswana’s low-density tourism model

3. Cultural Variety – Maasai, San Bushmen & Batswana tribal encounters

Pro Booking Tip: Use a specialist operator like &Beyond or Wilderness Safaris for seamless cross-border logistics.

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