How to Choose the Right Safari Itinerary in Kenya or Tanzania
Learn how to plan the perfect itinerary with expert tips.
How to Choose the Right Safari Itinerary: Short vs Long Safaris.
If you’ve been dreaming of going on an African safari, you’ve probably asked yourself: How many days should I spend in the wild? Should you go for a quick getaway or take your time to explore it all? The truth is, there’s no wrong answer — it all depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for.
At Jossec Tours and Safaris, we’ve met travelers who only had three days to spare and still left speechless after seeing lions hunt in the Maasai Mara. We’ve also guided others on week-long safaris who returned home deeply moved, having watched elephants stroll beneath Kilimanjaro and flamingos cover Lake Nakuru in pink. Both journeys were unforgettable — just different.
When a Short Safari is Just Right
If your time is limited or you’re visiting Kenya for business, a 3–4 day safari can be surprisingly rewarding. You can focus on one or two parks — say Maasai Mara, Amboseli, or Lake Nakuru — and still witness Africa’s most famous wildlife up close. These shorter safaris move at a faster pace, but they don’t skip the magic.
You’ll wake up to golden sunrises, head out for morning game drives, and spend evenings around the campfire listening to stories under a sky full of stars. Plus, short safaris are easier on the budget, since you’ll spend less time on the road and fewer nights in lodges.
When You Have Time to Slow Down
If you have more days to spare, go for a longer safari — five to ten days or even more. This is where you really start to feel Africa’s heartbeat. You can explore different landscapes, from Amboseli’s elephant plains to Lake Naivasha’s peaceful shores, and end with the endless savannah of the Maasai Mara.
Longer safaris give you time to slow down and take it all in — to sit quietly by a watering hole and watch life unfold, to visit local Maasai villages, and even to float above the Mara in a hot air balloon safari (an optional adventure we offer for $450). You don’t just see the animals; you feel part of their world.
How to Know What’s Best for You
Choosing between a short and long safari really comes down to your travel goals.If you just want a taste of the wild — the thrill of seeing lions, elephants, and maybe even a leopard — then a few days in one park will do just fine. But if you dream of a deeper, more varied adventure — the kind where every day brings something new — then go for a longer safari.
At Jossec Safaris, we love helping travelers design the safari that fits them perfectly. Some guests ask for more time in Maasai Mara; others prefer a balance of wildlife, lakes, and culture. Whatever your dream looks like, our team makes sure every moment counts — from the warm welcome in Nairobi to the final farewell after your adventure.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have three days or ten, Africa always has a way of touching your heart. A short safari might feel like a thrilling chapter, while a long one becomes a whole story — but both will leave you with memories you’ll never forget.