Ameliya's Itineraries
13 days of East Africa | 12N/13D
13 Days of East Africa
For a safari experience that captures some of the best locations and experiences across Kenya and Tanzania (and optionally, Zanzibar), look no further than this itinerary. Incorporating the Mara Naboisho Conservancy for its excellent game viewing and the opportunity for walking safaris, alongside the Serengeti with its annual Migration of wildebeest and the multitude of predators that rely on it for sustenance, before wrapping up at the World Heritage site of the Ngorongoro Crater. For those with the time and inclination, there is an optional extension to Zanzibar for sun and relaxation.
AMELIYA SIGNATURE SAFARI EXPERIENCE:
- 12 Nights and 13 Days
- All meals, accommodations & internal flights included
- Availability: 1 June – 31 Oct; 1 Dec – 31 March
- Thrilling game drives through wilderness areas
- Island life of sandy white beaches, tropical waters, and lazy days on the shores of the Indian Ocean (optional)
- Stay in spacious tents with en-suite bathrooms, private verandas, and stunning views.
Classic Itinerary
Mid Season
US $15,007
Low Season
US $14,516.00
High Season
US $18,694.00
Itinerary with Beach Extension
Mid Season
US $16,056.00
Low Season
US $15,980.00
High Season
US $20,209
*Please Note-
- These prices are applicable per person (sharing for 2)
- TCS will be applicable for all Indian citizens going abroad, as per Government Of India regulations.
Inclusions
- Accommodation, all meals, tea/coffee, evening snacks
- Domestic beer & wine and select liquor, safari sundowners, bush breakfasts, and WIFI.
- Park Conservancy fees, morning and evening game drives in a shared vehicle, and supplemental walks.
- Activities as indicated on the itinerary
- Domestic Wine, Beer & Liquor in National Parks (in premium & luxury options only)
- Laundry services
Exclusions
- Goods & Services Taxes as applicable
- Tips, international flights & transfers, additional activities, visa fees, travel & medical insurance, exclusive vehicle.
- All other expenses not mentioned in the “inclusions” above will have to be borne as additional expenses by the participants
Payment Terms
- All tours operate on 100% advance payment.
- 50% need to be paid at the time of booking, 25% is due 120 days prior to the trip start date and 25% 90 days prior.
- The preferred mode of payment is Bank Wire. All card transactions will incur a 3.5% service fee.
- Rates are subject to change and are not applicable for Christmas/New Years. Rates are valid for 2024 only. Rates for 2025 will incur a 10% hike.
- Any changes in government taxes and park/conservancy fees have to be borne by the guests.
- We reserve the right to revise any published costs without prior notice. However, confirmed bookings will be honoured.
Cancellation Policy
- 50% is non-refundable once the payment is done.
- The remaining amount will be refunded if cancellation is done 120 days prior to the tour start dates. Between 90-120 days, 35% is refunded.
- No refund if cancellation is done between 0 – 90 days of the trip start date. Amendment in dates within 90 days from arrival is treated as a cancellation.
- Please note that the date of written communication (e-mail) of intent to cancel will be the date considered for the calculation of the cancellation fees.
- The cancellation amount is calculated as per the total booking amount and not as per the advance deposited.
- No refunds in case of refusal to use a service/activity mentioned in the itinerary.
- All refunds are processed minus bank charges.
Day 1
Your driver will be ready to meet you as you exit the arrivals terminal at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. Transfer across town, skirting the perimeter of the Nairobi National Park, as you make your way towards the tranquil neighborhood of Karen and the Hemingways Nairobi Hotel. The warm comfort of this luxury boutique hotel creates the perfect environment to relax and unwind after a long flight. If time allows, you can visit the spa or the swimming pool. The Brasserie (in-house restaurant) serves a wide variety of international dishes, ensuring the most discerning palates are catered for.
DAY 2
After breakfast, embark on a short transfer to Wilson Airport for your flight to Ol Seki Airstrip. On arrival, a guide will meet you at the airstrip to welcome you to the Mara Naboisho Conservancy. After a quick briefing of the area, set off on a game drive as you slowly make your way towards camp. Settle in for lunch and follow it up with some time to relax and acclimatize to your new surroundings.
In the late afternoon, gather in the lounge for a cup of tea before setting out for an afternoon game drive across the plains of Naboisho. This wildlife-rich environment offers a remarkable game viewing experience, from large prides of lions to families of cheetah and large herds of elephants. As sunset approaches, enjoy a cold drink and some snacks whilst watching the sun slip below the horizon.
Once you return to camp, enjoy a hot shower and some conversation by the fire before sitting down to a delicious dinner. As you lie in bed on your first night in the African bush, enjoy the sounds of the night as they gently lull you to sleep.
Day 3 & 4
Mornings on safari are generally an early start as you aim to be out in the bush at first light while wildlife is most active. Walking safaris are most pleasant during the cooler hours of the morning before the temperature begins to climb and can be tailored in length to suit the requirements of the group. An excursion to a neighbouring Maasai community allows the opportunity for insight into a very different culture and way of life. While this activity replaces a morning or afternoon game drive, it is generally considered a unique and insightful experience. Game drives will go out in the early morning, usually with a packed breakfast to enjoy as a picnic in a suitable location, returning to camp in the late morning. A second game drive departs in the late afternoon and will usually incorporate a sundowner. For something different, head out on a night game drive into the darkness in pursuit of some of the lesser spotted nocturnal animals.
DAY 5
After breakfast it’s time to pack your bags for your flight back to Nairobi. You will be met by your driver when you land at Wilson Airport and then transferred to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. This takes approximately an hour, depending on traffic. It’s the end of your time in Kenya, and time to check in for your flight to Tanzania.
Day 6 & 7
Game drives are the primary activity from Olakira, departing twice a day in the morning and afternoon equipped with a picnic breakfast or a sundowner kit, or heading out for a full day game drive with a picnic lunch only returning to camp in the mid-afternoon. Game viewing in the Serengeti is prolific with an abundance of wildlife. The Great Migration adds another level of excitement into the mix, with sensational river crossings to be seen in the northern Serengeti and frenetic excitement in the southern plains as predators pick off the easy prey.
DAY 8, 9 & 10
Capitalize on the travel day and enjoy a slightly more relaxed start with the opportunity to eat breakfast in camp before departing for the airstrip and your flight to Seronera. On arrival at Seronera Airstrip, you will be met by a guide from Dunia Camp and provided with a short introduction to this new area. Enjoy a slow game drive towards camp, leaving the busy Seronera region behind you as you head west towards the Moru Kopjes and the sanctuary of Dunia Camp.
After an outdoor lunch enjoyed under the trees, there’s the opportunity to settle into camp and soak up the views from your private veranda or the elevated lounge. As the afternoon temperatures begin to drop, regroup for a cup of coffee before heading out for an afternoon game drive across the Serengeti plains followed by a soulful sundowner amidst the African bush.
Dunia Camp’s central location allows for access to the herds of the Great Migration at many different times of the year. With a picnic lunch, a full day game drive can reach the southern plains, some of the western corridor and most of the central regions, providing a diverse game viewing experience. For an additional cost, there is the option of enjoying a hot air balloon safari for an entirely different perspective on game viewing.
Day 11
After breakfast in camp, embark on a flight to Lake Manyara followed by a 3-hour transfer up into the heights of Ngorongoro. Enjoy the scenic drive, the steep road ascending the outer slopes of the Ngorongoro Crater through lush and dense tropical jungle, until you arrive on the crater rim road with a spectacular viewpoint. This is the perfect location to enjoy a picnic lunch
From here, your journey takes you in an anti-clockwise direction around the crater rim, eventually heading away from the crater rim and into the green rolling highlands of Ngorongoro. Pass by goat herders and waving school children as you circumnavigate the base of Ol Moti Crater, arriving on its northern slopes and the warmth of your Hotel. After the long drive, relax in camp and acclimatize to the altitude before sitting down to a dinner feast in the dining tent.
DAY 12
It’s an early start to the day as you aim to be amongst the first cars on the crater floor. It’ll likely be cold and dark when you depart from camp but its quickly forgotten as you begin your journey down the inner walls of the unbroken caldera that is the Ngorongoro Crater. Once on the crater floor, indulge in some coffee and snacks whilst enjoying the game drive experience in this unique location. A picnic lunch can be enjoyed alongside the hippo pool, where grunting rafts of hippo will keep you company whilst you refuel. By mid-afternoon, it’s time to start the return journey to camp for a chance to freshen up and enjoy a drink in the bar before dinner.
Day 13
After breakfast in camp, depart and make your way back around the crater rim and down the outer slopes of Ngorongoro, back to Lake Manyara Airstrip. If this marks the end of your itinerary, you will fly into Kilimanjaro Airport to collect your bags and connect with you onward travel.
Game Drives
Big-cat conservation
Fly Camping
Bush Meals
Night Safaris
Balloon Safaris
Sundowner
Bush Walks
Cultural and Community Visits
Please Note: Experiences and activities are subject to the your travel dates, accommodation choices, and government regulations
Kenya
Kenya is best known for the Great Migration- the natural cycle of movement of wildebeest and zebra – following the rains and sweet grasses in an annual pilgrimage from Serengeti in Tanzania to Masai Mara in Kenya. But the country is endowed with natural beauty and wildlife including the Big 5 beyond Masai Mara. Spend time in the exclusive conservancies of Northern Kenya, or witness the massive herds of Elephants with the Kilimanjaro in the backdrop. See the flamingos at the great lakes or take a scenic helicopter flight around Mount Kenya. A safari experience in Kenya with Ameliya combines the ultra-luxe comfort in the most elegant and beautiful camps with impeccable hospitality and world renowned guiding.
Tanzania
A place where you can hear the music of the wild loud and clear- from Lion’s snarls and Elephants’ trumpets in the Ngorongoro Crater to the thrum of countless Wildebeests running through in the endless plains of the Serengeti, or to the Starling chirps in the spectacular scenery of Kilimanjaro and Lake Tanganyika. Tanzania offers a truly immersive experience in the heart of the Wilderness.
Hemingways Nairobi
Hemingways Nairobi
This 45-suite boutique hotel elevates the standard of luxury for travelers in the region. Beautiful in its symmetry and flooded with natural light, this plantation-style property is airy and spacious. Each of the suites has a private balcony overlooking the iconic silhouette of the Ngong Hills, a magical view which can also be enjoyed over sundowners at the Bar.
Amenities
- En-Suite Bathrooms
- Hot Water Showers
- Flushing Toilets
- Spa
- Laundry Services
- Swimming Pool
Naboisho Camp
Naboisho Camp
Naboisho Camp offers nine spacious and beautifully furnished tents. And because it’s based in a private conservancy adjacent to the Masai Mara National Reserve, Naboisho is one of the best camps for your safari in the Mara, known for its amazing guiding. A Kenyan safari at Naboisho goes beyond the usual game drives. Explore the Mara on foot, keep your eyes peeled on a night drive or spend an unforgettable night camping in the bush for a real safari adventure. With 266 species of birds to spot, there are also ample birdwatching opportunities.
Amenities
- En-Suite Bathrooms
- Complimentary Laundry Service
- Hot Water Showers
- Flushing Toilets
- Solar Power, With back-up generator
- In-Room lockable Box
Olakira Migration Camp
Olakira Migration Camp
The mobile Olakira Migration Camp follows the wildebeest migration around the Serengeti.
Between June and October, Olakira is in the north to witness the crossing of the Mara River. Here, watch thousands of wildebeest take a leap of faith into the water, facing hungry Nile crocodiles and cantankerous hippos. When the herds are on the move, the air is full of grunting, thudding hooves and billowing dust. From December until March, we move camp to the southern plains of the Serengeti, where the wildebeest go to give birth and graze on lush grass, and predators such as lions and cheetahs gather to prey on the young.
Amenities
- En-Suite Bathrooms
- Complimentary Laundry Service
- Hot Water Showers
- Flushing Toilets
- Solar Power, With back-up generator
- In-Room lockable Box
- Stargazing Tent Design
Dunia Camp
Dunia Camp
Dunia, in Tanzania’s central Serengeti, offers a prime position for safari throughout the year. Enjoy plentiful resident wildlife without the crowds, exploring the nearby Moru Kopjes in search of lions on the rocks and black rhino roaming the plains. During the annual Great Migration, vast herds of wildebeest move right through the camp.
Dunia is the only camp in Africa run entirely by women and the team is an inspirational example of what women can achieve in a male-dominated industry.
Amenities
- En-Suite Bathrooms
- Complimentary Laundry Service
- Hot Water Showers
- Flushing Toilets
- Solar Power, With back-up generator
- In-Room lockable Box
The Highlands
The Highlands
The Highlands has redefines the Ngorongoro Crater experience. This warm and stylish high-altitude camp is positioned with ultimate exclusivity in mind, while still offering a rich adventure and array of activities not possible elsewhere in Ngorongoro.
The award-winning camp with its eight domed suites is situated on the edge of a forest that skirts Olmoti volcano. The surrounding Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Amenities
- En-Suite Bathrooms
- Complimentary Laundry Service
- Hot Water Showers
- Flushing Toilets
- Solar Power, With back-up generator
- In-Room lockable Box
- In-Room Wood Burning Stove
Breezes Beach Club & Spa (Optional)
Breezes Beach Club & Spa (Optional)
Breezes Beach Club & Spa Zanzibar is an ideal choice for those searching for a romantic getaway. Famous for its attention to detail, and intimate and private dining, its beautiful Zanzibari decor with stunning carving, glistening brass, and rich fabrics creates an elegant and unique atmosphere. Breezes features the award-winning Frangipani Spa. Breezes lies along a pristine and untouched beach on the South East coast of Zanzibar island, which is the most quiet and untouched part of the Island chosen by the reputable Conde Nast Traveler magazine as one of the top 30 Island beaches in the world. For centuries the island of Zanzibar has evoked a mystical and magical dream. There is no better place to experience and enjoy the fantastic setting, beautiful beach, and our friendly staff.
Amenities
- En-Suite Bathrooms
- Complimentary Laundry Service
- Hot Water Showers
- Flushing Toilets
- Solar Power, With back-up generator
Classic Itinerary
Mid Season
US $15,007
Low Season
US $14,516.00
High Season
US $18,694.00
Itinerary with Beach Extension
Mid Season
US $16,056.00
Low Season
US $15,980.00
High Season
US $20,209
*Please Note-
- These prices are applicable per person (sharing for 2)
- TCS will be applicable for all Indian citizens going abroad, as per Government Of India regulations.
Inclusions
- Accommodation, all meals, tea/coffee, evening snacks
- Domestic beer & wine and select liquor, safari sundowners, bush breakfasts, and WIFI.
- Park Conservancy fees, morning and evening game drives in a shared vehicle, and supplemental walks.
- Activities as indicated on the itinerary
- Domestic Wine, Beer & Liquor in National Parks (in premium & luxury options only)
- Laundry services
Exclusions
- Goods & Services Taxes as applicable
- Tips, international flights & transfers, additional activities, visa fees, travel & medical insurance, exclusive vehicle.
- All other expenses not mentioned in the “inclusions” above will have to be borne as additional expenses by the participants
Payment Terms
- All tours operate on 100% advance payment.
- 50% need to be paid at the time of booking, 25% is due 120 days prior to the trip start date and 25% 90 days prior.
- The preferred mode of payment is Bank Wire. All card transactions will incur a 3.5% service fee.
- Rates are subject to change and are not applicable for Christmas/New Years. Rates are valid for 2024 only. Rates for 2025 will incur a 10% hike.
- Any changes in government taxes and park/conservancy fees have to be borne by the guests.
- We reserve the right to revise any published costs without prior notice. However, confirmed bookings will be honoured.
Cancellation Policy
- 50% is non-refundable once the payment is done.
- The remaining amount will be refunded if cancellation is done 120 days prior to the tour start dates. Between 90-120 days, 35% is refunded.
- No refund if cancellation is done between 0 – 90 days of the trip start date. Amendment in dates within 90 days from arrival is treated as a cancellation.
- Please note that the date of written communication (e-mail) of intent to cancel will be the date considered for the calculation of the cancellation fees.
- The cancellation amount is calculated as per the total booking amount and not as per the advance deposited.
- No refunds in case of refusal to use a service/activity mentioned in the itinerary.
- All refunds are processed minus bank charges.
GENERAL QUERIES
WHAT ARE THE MODES OF PAYMENT?
We accept wire transfers, debit/credit cards, and UPI payments. Please note that a 2% gateway fee is applicable for cards.
Can I customize the experiences I've seen on your website?
Yes, please feel free to reach out to us in case you want to get a customized itinerary according to your preferred destinations, accommodations, interests, and requirements. For e.g. number of days or friends and family members you want to travel with.
How far in advance do I need to book a safari?
While Ameliya’s travel advisors do their best to accommodate our guests’ last-minute needs and requests, we strongly advise booking as far ahead in advance as possible to ensure the availability of accommodations. The best thing to do is to get in touch with us as soon as you think of a safari experience, whether it is this year or the next. Here’s a general advisory that will help you with the decision-making process:
For Indian parks, we recommend at least 4 -12 months notice, especially for a tiger/snow leopard experience, but lower lead times are possible depending on the locations and activities. Parks in India are regulated by the government and each reserve has a cap on the number of vehicles that can enter the park. If tickets are sold out, we are unable to book the safaris.
For Africa, we recommend 6-10 months for the high season (June – October), and 2-4 months for the low season (November – April).
Is it safe to travel to Africa?
Despite most African stereotypes of a warn-torn, poverty-stricken continent, Africa is as safe as any other international travel destination. Just remember that African countries are poorer in contrast to first-world countries and therefore you should be conscious of flashing or leaving money & jewelry lying around.
Guests are advised to leave valuables in a safe or with the camp/lodge manager for safe-keeping. African people are very friendly, warm and hospitable and their guests will always feel safe in the care of the camp/lodge staff.
Their job is to ensure the safety and comfort of their clients at all times. Properties in Africa will always have an emergency/ evacuation plan if anything were to go wrong
Should I purchase travel health insurance?
We strongly recommend that our travellers buy comprehensive travel and health insurance prior to coming on an Ameliya Safari experience. Should you require any assistance with purchasing such policies, our travel advisors will be happy to assist you.
What vaccinations are required?
Certain vaccinations may be required for travel to Africa, for example, often you will need a yellow fever vaccination. To be sure, consult your local Travel Clinic to obtain the latest health travel advisories.
Is there Wi-Fi available?
All of our camps do have basic Wi-Fi available in certain areas.
It is important to note that while wifi is available, it is more than likely not at the same fast speeds that you may be used to, but sufficient for checking emails and keeping in touch with home.
What does a typical day look like on safari?
Your mornings will begin with a wake up call before sunrise – classic for any safari experience. Once you are fresh and ready, you will be met by your guide for a briefing over a hot cup of coffee, and a light breakfast, before you head out. The crisp and cool air of the early morning will flow through you as you drive into the bush, the sun coming up from the horizon, casting a godly glow on the savannah and the everything around you coming to life – Africa in all its glory.
During the safaris, you will learn how to identify and track different species of animals, learn their behavior and best ways to observe/photograph them, conservation communities that live in the area, and much more.
After the morning safari, you have some time to unwind, enjoy the bush library, get a massage, or just take in the sights and smells of Africa from your deck.
In the evening you will head out for another game drive, and have an iconic African sundowner. In most locations, we drive back after the sunset for a night safari experience looking out for nocturnal creatures.
Back at camp, a hot fire awaits along with drinks and a three course meal.
What to pack on safaris in africa
Safari Shirts x 3
T-shirts × 3
Pants x 3
Shorts x 2
Rain Coat x 1
Warm Jacket × 1
Light Sweater × 1
Light Safari Boots x 1
Room Slippers x 1
Undergarments / socks
Cap, Hat, Sunglasses, Sunscreen
Personal Medication & Toiletries
Personal electronics, camera equipment, binoculars etc.
Mornings and evenings can be cold while afternoons will be warm and sometimes rainy. We recommend carrying a comfortable jacket and raincoat.
Please wear neutral colors in the bsuh: black, navy blue, khaki, green, beige, grey etc. Please avoid bright colors. Please also avoid strong perfumes.
Please carry comfortable shoes/boots that you can walk in.
National Parks vs Private game reserves/Concessions/ Conservancies.
- Africa, unlike India, has many great private game reserves and private concessions. Parks in Africa are pretty large so sections of these parks are given to private companies or communities.
- All areas offer good wildlife experiences but private concessions & conservancies offer greater exclusivity, less crowd, off-roading, and even night safaris. For this reason, camps located in these areas are often more costly.