Essential East Africa

Ten days across Kenya and Tanzania in a purpose-built overland truck, chasing wildlife through three of East Africa's best-known parks. This is a fast, hands-on way to cover a lot of ground with a small group of fellow travellers.

You'll go on multiple 4WD safaris in the Maasai Mara, the Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti, with real chances to spot the Big Five. Along the way there are stops in remote market towns, a night in a Maasai village and a night beside Lake Victoria, the largest tropical lake in the world, with plenty of opportunity to talk with local communities.

It's an overland trip, so expect to pitch in — setting up your own tent, some early starts, and stretches of basic camping with no facilities. The vehicle has no air conditioning but does have sliding windows for open-air wildlife views. Drive days can be long, but the camaraderie is part of the point.

What you'll do

• Game drives through the Maasai Mara, Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park
• Overnight stay in a Maasai village
• Night camped by Lake Victoria
• Stop in remote East African market towns
• Bush camp night in the Loita Hills
• Camp in the open Serengeti with no barriers between you and the wildlife