East Africa: Safari Drives, Maasai Culture & the Great Migration

From culture to wildlife to active adventures, Kenya has it all, and has well-earned its reputation as one of the best places for safari in Africa. But this adventure goes way beyond that, bringing you a step further off the beaten path. Welcome to Nairobi and to Kenya, where we invite you to leave your hesitations behind and dive straight into the action.

Without a doubt the Maasai people have become the symbol of East Africa in many ways. North of Nairobi, south of Samburu, sits a very special lodge with a very special story. Il Ngwesi is owned and operated by the local Maasai community. The aim is to invite travelers to meet the community and feel completely immersed into your surroundings. It can be hard to really understand a culture when you are limited to a quick hour-long visit, and this experience at Il Ngwesi is the exact opposite. Spend plenty of time with your hosts, asking questions and discussing life. Join them on a bush walk to learn local techniques, or visit the village to learn how to craft some beautiful beadwork. With a laid back pace and a completely private experience, your stay at Il Ngwesi is completely worthy of its OMG status.

Awake this morning at Il Ngwesi and with no front wall whatsoever, the fresh air wafts in as the sun rises. Rooms are built in the traditional style using wood and earth to afford travelers the opportunity to feel connected to traditional Maasai life in a very unique way. The lodge has an incredible location, set away from other tourist spots, and your hosts and guides are the Maasai men and women from the nearby community. Though not quite as modern as other facilities in Kenya, Il Ngwesi brings you straight into the heart of a Maasai community who are keen to welcome you and engage with you from the moment you arrive. Today you get to choose! Do you want to visit a local Maasai Village or spot wildlife? If the village visit sounds right, you will head off to one nearby and learn more about Maasai culture. If you're looking for something more wildlife focused, choose to embark on morning safari alongside extremely knowledgeable Maasai guides through some of Kenya's most spectacular scenery and spot the legendary wildlife of the plains. The afternoon is for enjoying the lodge's atmosphere and amenities before a delicious dinner together as a group.

Hosting the safari Big Five, the Great Migration and offering unparalleled wildlife encounters, the Mara is a destination you could easily spend weeks discovering. With some of the largest populations of lions, leopards and cheetahs in the world, Maasai Mara is one of the most legendary safari destinations. After your flight, waste no time before your first unforgettable safari out in its rugged grasslands.

You begin to recognize the soulful soundtrack of the wild at dawn, the comforting scent of the evening fire after an epic day on safari, and the responsive rhythm of the vehicle as it navigates the vast bush. The sheer wonder of discovery—witnessing a breathtaking spectacle of Earth's diversity—is an unforgettable thrill that stays with you. Thankfully, an extraordinary day of safari awaits to fill your spirit.

With some of the largest populations of lions, leopards, and cheetahs in the world, Maasai Mara is one of the most legendary safari destinations. Waste no time today as you become immersed on safari through its rugged grasslands; a landscape you could easily spend weeks discovering. Find time to give back to the planet while searching for the legendary big five on morning and afternoon wildlife drives.

Savor a final, soul-stirring morning within the legendary Maasai Mara, capturing last precious mental snapshots of your incredible safari adventure. As you journey northward toward the bustling heart of Nairobi, pause for a delicious and meaningful lunch at the G Adventures-supported Cafe Ubuntu. This inspiring social enterprise not only offers delightful cuisine but also empowers local women and families, fueling their community's growth through the cafe's vibrant atmosphere and a beautiful crafts shop.

The crimson dust of Amboseli swirls around the wheels of your safari vehicle as the afternoon sun paints the plains in gold. In the distance, search for the legendary peak of Mount Kilimanjaro. It is here that colossal elephants move with the slow, rumbling grace of ancient giants, while a parade of zebras amble through the tall, whispering grasses. This is Amboseli National Park, a striking landscape defined by the contrast of arid plains and life-giving swamps, featuring great photo opportunities of snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro.

Leaving the wildlife of Amboseli National Park in Kenya behind, cross into Tanzania. Home to the Great Migration, the tallest mountain in Africa, and the world's largest game reserve, making Tanzania one of the most sought after destinations in Africa. Welcome to Arusha, and to Tanzania. While here, let the endless adventure and wildlife encounters deepen your connection with the earth.

Millions of years ago when the volcano erupted, the world's largest intact and unfilled volcanic caldera was formed, creating Ngorongoro Crater. It is believed that animals like zebras, lions and rhinos fell into the crater almost 500,000 years ago and were trapped. The steepness of the crater is why you won't find a single giraffe inside. Travel to this incredible natural phenomenon and spend the day getting to know the landscape from both above at the breathtaking crater rim, and below on a safari drive and picnic near Hippo Lake on the crater floor.

Ngorongoro Crater and The Serengeti are two of the world's most renowned safari destinations. Driving from one iconic spot to the next means three and a half hours of nonstop beauty, wildlife and adventure. But don't go anywhere, because your time in the Serengeti is just starting. So grab your binoculars and your camera and get ready to experience some of the most jaw-dropping wildlife encounters.

Witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of the Serengeti, where millions of wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle flood the plains in their annual migration, trailed by the continent's most formidable predators. Prepare to be captivated as massive lions dissolve into the shimmering golden savannah, and towering giraffes emerge from the horizon, their grace humbling you as they stand right before your eyes.

Nestled in the highlands between Lake Manyara and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, the vibrant market town of Karatu offers an authentic glimpse into Tanzanian rural life and serves as a key gateway to the region's most iconic wildlife parks. Experience the lively energy and learn about the unique, local culture while simultaneously enjoying the stunning, rolling green landscapes. Karatu is a place to pause, absorb the local rhythm, and prepare for—or reflect on—the thrilling safari adventures just a short drive away.

A Day of Choices featuring a morning safari adventure or an Elephant Caves hike makes for an unforgettable day. Hoping to rise with the sun? Travel to Lake Manyara National Park for an early morning safari drive and bush brunch. If you’re looking for a change of scenery, choose a guided walk to the famous Elephant Cave, a watering hole used by elephants for their essential mineral intake. Sit down for lunch at a local, organic farm.

Rise with the sun and enjoy a hearty breakfast at the lodge before embarking on a journey to the heart of East African culture in Mto wa Mbu. This vibrant town is a mosaic of life, home to 18,000 residents from 120 different tribes, offering a truly unique cultural immersion.