Kenya and Tanzania Safaris
Best combined Kenya and Tanzania Safari PAckages
Why Combine Kenya and Tanzania?
Reasons to book safaris in Kenya and Tanzania
Taking a safari in Kenya and Tanzania ensures that one has an East African experience of a lifetime because it features the Great Migration and the abundance of Big Five species in the iconic Serengeti and Maasai Mara.
The tour through both countries offers a highly varied travel experience, starting from the unique habitat of the Ngorongoro Crater to learning about the Maasai culture.
In the end, one will have an experience of two completely different settings, moving from the rugged savannas to the beautiful beaches of Zanzibar or Diani.
Top Reasons for Planning or Booking a Kenya & Tanzania Safari
- Great Migration: Experience hundreds of thousands of wildebeest and zebra making their way through the Serengeti and Mara River.
- High Wildlife Population: Enjoy great chances of spotting the Big Five, including rare rhinos at Ol Pejeta and Solio, and numerous lions in Ngorongoro.
- Scenic Areas: Explore diverse landscapes, from volcanic craters and expansive savannahs to lakes teeming with birds.
- Cultural Experiences: Interact with authentic ethnic groups such as the Maasai, Samburu, and Hadzabe tribes.
- Beach and Bush Combination: Combine adventurous safaris in the interior with a relaxing beach holiday in either Zanzibar or Diani.
- Ease of Logistics: Good infrastructure ensures smooth multi-country travel plans with convenient flights.
Looking For a Safari in Africa?
Explore our collection of over 70 luxury African safaris. You can also contact us to design a bespoke, tailor-made adventure just for you.
Kenya vs Tanzania: What Each Destination is Best?
Which Destination to Choose Between Kenya and Tanzania?
Kenya┬аand┬аTanzania┬аboth offer the best safari experiences in East Africa, but they are a bit different.
Kenya is great because it is easier to reach, more affordable, and has many different parks that are close together.
Tanzania is famous for its massive, quiet wilderness areas, like the Serengeti, where you can get away from the crowds.
Kenya is often the better choice for families and people going on their┬аfirst safari.
On the other hand, Tanzania is the top pick if you want to see the most dramatic parts of the┬аGreat Migration, visit the famous Ngorongoro Crater, or relax on the beautiful beaches of Zanzibar.
The decision of the best destination depends on what you want from your safari.
Kenya is a perfect destination for beginners and families because there is easier access to parks and a variety of safari accommodations.
Tanzania, on the other hand, is suitable for adventurers who seek remoteness and exclusivity since there are many untouched areas and the great migration throughout the year.
Comparison between Kenya and Tanzania
Most Affordable: Generally, Kenya is cheaper than Tanzania because Kenya has developed its tourism sector and different accommodations.
- Wildlife: Both have world-class wildlife, but Tanzania has been praised for having unparalleled wildlife in its northern circuit.
- Great Migration: Usually, the herds will be in Kenya from July to October and in Tanzania from November until June.
- Crowds: Travelling to Kenya is easier since there are easier logistics, while Tanzania is preferred by solo travelers who want exclusivity.
Destination Selection between Kenya and Tanzania
For people interested in experiencing a high concentration of animal life in the Maasai Mara region, along with an engaging cultural experience with the Samburu and Maasai, Kenya is the destination to visit.
For individuals looking to experience the complete wildebeest migration or the trek up Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania is the preferred destination for them.
Which Are the Best Safari Places to Visit in Kenya and tanzania
Recommended Destinations to add in a Combined Kenya and Tanzania Safari
Expeditions in Kenya and Tanzania go through some of the most luxurious and exclusive safari destinations, making sure you get enough time to experience the ultimate luxury Kenya and Tanzania Safari.
It wouldn’t be an African adventure without experiencing the legendary migration as we bring you closer to the millions of wildebeest and zebras migrating from the Serengeti to the Maasai Mara.
Our tours provide us with the chance to visit the massive elephant herds of Amboseli, the prehistoric setting of the Ngorongoro Crater, and the beautiful scenery of the Tarangire National Park.
Enjoy the famous big cats of Africa and the special five animal species that only roam the wilder region of the Samburu National Reserve.
Experience the thrill of seeing Africa’s highest mountain while camping under the clear blue sky in front of the snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro.
On the other hand, Tanzania is the top pick if you want to see the most dramatic parts of the┬аGreat Migration, visit the famous Ngorongoro Crater, or relax on the beautiful beaches of Zanzibar.
The top safari locations in East Africa feature some of the best parks where one gets to see the Great Migration and the Big Five.
- Serengeti and Maasai Mara: The main locations for the great migration and great predator sightings.
- Ngorongoro and Amboseli: Known for their high wildlife population living in a volcanic crater and huge elephant herds amidst Mount Kilimanjaro.
- Tarangire and Samburu: Ideal for visitors who would want to see unique wildlife like large elephant herds or species adapted to arid conditions.
Best Safari Destinations in Tanzania
The northern circuit of Tanzania boasts world-class scenery that serves as a habitat for a massive number of animals in volcanic and savannah environments.
- Serengeti National Park: The center of the Great Migration, characterized by open plains and spectacular animal viewing throughout the year.
- Ngorongoro Crater: A remarkable volcanic crater that goes by the name тАЬAfricaтАЩs EdenтАЭ and is a place where you can see the Big Five in one day.
- Tarangire National Park: An amazing destination during the dry season, famous for its ancient baobab trees and migrating elephant populations.
- Lake Manyara National Park: A diverse park that is well-known for its tree-climbing lions and colorful flamingo populations.
Best Safari Parks and Destinations in Kenya
The best safari parks in Kenya provide a perfect blend of iconic savannahs and tough northern environments, offering some of the most easily accessible and exciting wildlife experiences in Africa.
- Maasai Mara Game Reserve: Known for river crossings during the Great Migration and spectacular predator sightings between July and October.
- Amboseli National Park: An ideal park for photographers, famous for big bull elephants and breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro.
- Samburu National Park: Known for being home to the “Special Five,” including the Grevy’s zebra and Reticulated giraffe, in an arid environment.
- Lake Nakuru National Park: Provides unique chances to observe rare animals like black and white rhinos in addition to varied bird species.
Have you booked a trip to Tanzania? Then make sure you donтАЩt miss out on Lake...
Arusha National Park is a park with a dynamic topography and can be accessed quite easily....
Saadani National Park was officially a National Park in 2005 from the former Saadani game reserve....
Best Time to Visit Kenya and Tanzania For Safaris
When is the perfect time to visit Kenya and Tanzania For Safari Holidays
The best time for a safari is the dry season from June to October.
Because it doesnтАЩt rain much, the grass is short, and animals gather around water holes.
This makes them very easy to find.
This is also the best time to see the Great Migration, especially when animals cross the rivers between July and October.
Depending on when you embark on your combined Kenya and Tanzania adventure, you have the opportunity to catch one of the many incredible animal events that occur in these regions.
The choice to visit at the right time can maximize the opportunities to see certain behaviors from the wildlife in terms of big cat actions or migration.
Peak Dry Season (June тАУ October)
The cooler weather and lower rainfall mean less foliage in the area, pushing animals closer to waterholes and making it easier to see them.
- Migration: The prime season for watching the wildebeest Great Migration cross into the Mara River of Kenya and northern Tanzania.
- Sights: Clear visibility through the short grasslands makes spotting big game and rare predators easier.
- Crowds: Expect more travelers, but the best conditions for hiking and photography.
Calving Season (January тАУ March)
An unusual opportunity to observe the natural lifecycle of the wildebeest population, with hundreds of thousands of calves being born on the southern plains of the Serengeti.
- Wildebeest Calves: Over half a million wildebeest calves will be born within weeks on the Serengeti plains.
- Predators: Large populations of lions, cheetahs, and hyenas will be on the prowl for vulnerable prey.
The Emerald Season (April тАУ June)
Even though long rains happen in this period, a visit in June ensures a serene time when the green landscape and unoccupied parks make your journey even more magical.
- Photography: With dramatic skies and green landscapes that are not covered by any dust, they make perfect picture backgrounds.
- Privacy: Less traffic in the parks means more privacy while enjoying nature.
- Beginning of Migration: Witnessing the early stage of migration of the herds to the central Serengeti.
The Short Rains Season (October тАУ December)
Light rains that fall in the afternoons make the plains come alive, marking the presence of migratory birds.
- Birds: The arrival of migratory birds is the prime reason this season is considered great for birding.
- Good Value: Some of the top luxury lodges in the park have lower prices at this time.
- Climate: Light rains in the afternoons mean you will have a crisp atmosphere in parks.
Is A Kenya and Tanzania Safari Best for Wildebeest Migration?
Combined Wildebeest Migration Safaris in Kenya and Tanzania
A combination of safari tours of Kenya and Tanzania is definitely the best way to witness the Great Migration, based on the constant migration of the herds through all areas of the ecosystem.
The area of Tanzania, which is the Serengeti National Park, offers a platform for viewing this spectacle for almost ten months a year. It mainly involves viewing the southern calving season from February onwards.
The destination in Kenya that gives a good glimpse into the event includes the Maasai Mara, which mainly focuses on river crossings from July to October.
The journey through both these destinations helps one understand the biological journey of the wildebeest from the southern plains to the northern areas with the predators.
Essential Information When Selecting Your Safari
The Best Time to Visit in Tanzania: Explore the southern parts of the Serengeti from January to March during the calving season, or visit the Western Corridor in June and July.
- The Best Time to Visit in Kenya: Plan your safari to the Maasai Mara region from July to October to catch the spectacular river crossings.
- Unique Features: The Tanzanian safari highlights include expansive exclusivity and wild adventure, while the Kenyan side emphasizes accessibility and affordability.
- Density of Wildlife Against Isolation: In Kenya, there is efficient access to the big five in an environment that is more social compared to the isolated environment offered by Tanzania.
- Best Approach: It is always best to book a safari package that involves both places in order to capture all aspects of the migratory cycle.
Which are the Best Safari Accommodations in Kenya and Tanzania?
Places to stay in a Kenya and Tanzania Safari Holiday
Safari Accommodations in Kenya and Tanzania have been carefully crafted to ensure that you are immersed in nature, ranging from authentic tented camps to exclusive luxury lodges.
These lodging facilities are ideally located for the best view of some of the most famous wild animals in the Serengeti, Maasai Mara, Ngorongoro Crater, and Amboseli areas.
The luxury lodges are five-star retreats located right in the middle of nature, featuring permanent facilities that boast private plunge pools, gourmet food, and spacious viewing decks.
Here, guests can watch the wildlife gather around the water sources from their luxurious and comfortable surroundings on the elevated decks.
Most premium lodging facilities are located in private reserves or migratory routes, ensuring that there is an undisturbed and private wildlife viewing experience.
In exclusive locations such as the Ngorongoro Crater, luxury lodges are found on the rim of the crater, providing a bird’s-eye view of the rich biodiversity below.
Irrespective of the cost level, all safari camps and lodges aim to offer quality services and memorable wildlife encounters in Africa.
Top Kenya and Tanzania Safari Accommodation Types
- Luxury Tented Camps: This category presents visitors with the most traditional African safari experience, complete with luxurious walk-in canvas tents, permanent tent structures with bathroom facilities, top-quality furniture, and sumptuous meals.
- Safari Lodges: This type of accommodation is characterized by permanent accommodation structures made of either stone or wood and offering three to five-star amenities, including pools, spas, and sweeping views of the savanna.
- Migration Camps: These are high-end camps that are moved around within the Serengeti and Maasai Mara in order to guarantee that visitors can view the migrating animals.
- Private Conservancy Camps: Found in private conservancies, these camps allow visitors to undertake activities such as game walks and night drives away from the usual crowded parks.
Choosing Between a Safari Lodge and Camp
- Tented Camps: Offer you a unique experience where you can listen to the sounds of the African savanna while still enjoying your privacy, since most of these camps have fewer than 5 to 20 tents.
- Safari Lodges: Offer you better security due to their permanent nature. They also have more amenities because of their luxury hotel characteristics.
3
- Lake Manyara
It is a mid-range glamping destination located inside Lake Manyara National Park, approximately 17km from the Main entrance. Nestled at the base of the Rift
4.8
- Karatu ,
- Tanzania
Karatu Tented Lodge is a charming eco-lodge set in the lush highlands of Karatu, offering guests a peaceful retreat in northern TanzaniaтАЩs safari heartland. Nestled
4.8
- Arusha ,
- Tanzania
Arusha Serena Hotel, Resort & Spa is a tranquil lakeside retreat set on the shores of Lake Duluti, just outside Arusha city. Surrounded by lush
4
- Airport Hotels ,
- Nairobi
Argyle Grand Hotel Nairobi is a modern luxury hotel strategically located along Mombasa Road, just a short distance from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. Designed for
5
- Kenya ,
- Mount Kenya
Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club is a five star hotel located in Nanyuki at the foot of Mount Kenya. It sits inside the Mount Kenya
5.0
- Amboseli ,
- Kenya
Angama Amboseli is a boutique luxury safari lodge located in the private Kimana Sanctuary, a jewel of conservation land in southern Kenya. It is one
How to Travel Between Kenya and Tanzania for Safaris
Combing Travel Between Kenya and Tanzania
The most convenient way of traveling from Kenya to Tanzania would be either to take a short one-hour plane flight or undertake a more scenic six to eight-hour trip via either the Namanga or Isebania border.
Regional flights would prove to be the fastest means of transport, as there is always a flight available on a daily basis that connects Nairobi to Kilimanjaro, Arusha, and even Zanzibar within ninety minutes only.
Taking advantage of the airline ensures spending maximum time out in the field on game drives due to the reduced travel time when moving between the countries.
In case one wants to go from the wilderness of Maasai Mara right into the heart of the Serengeti, he/she can use his/her own private 4×4 vehicle without stopping at any airport in between.
A road trip gives an excellent chance of observing the changing landscape, with the help of a skilled driver who takes care of all the necessary procedures upon crossing the border.
While taking flights is considered to be the most efficient method, time-saving and faster, opting for a road trip proves to be cheaper and much more interesting, but more time-consuming and exhaustive.
Traveling between Kenya and Tanzania for a combined safari is most efficiently achieved by flying between major hubs like Nairobi and Kilimanjaro or Arusha, and Masai Mara to Serengeti for speed, effiency and time saving, or driving via the Namanga border for a more scenic and cost-effective route.
The optimal time for this cross-border journey is during the dry season from July to October, which perfectly aligns with the peak activity of the Great Migration across both countries.
How to Get from Kenya to Tanzania for a cross-border safari: Top Routes
Several routes and travel options exist due to regional air services and established border road crossings.
- By Air (Most Efficient & Comfortable): Regional airlines operate flights that take less than an hour between Nairobi and Kilimanjaro or Arusha, whereas chartered flights are available that fly from Maasai Mara directly to Serengeti.
- Road Travel (Pleasant & Often Cost-Effective): The Namanga crossing acts as the most popular crossing point between Nairobi and Arusha, while the Isebania crossing is the favored choice for those traveling directly between Mara and the Serengeti.
Key Advice, Tips & Practical Arrangements
Crossing over international borders will require you to be well aware of all the relevant arrangements with respect to documents and health protocols.
- Travel Documentation & Visas: You will need to obtain an eTA for Kenya and a valid Tanzanian visa that can either be acquired online or on arrival.
- Health Protocols: The Yellow Fever vaccination proof document is an absolute must-have for those travelers coming from Kenya to Tanzania.
- Local Currency & Payments: You should consider taking US Dollars with you since it is the most preferred foreign currency used across the board.
Which Are the Best Kenya and Tanzania Safaris to Book?
Tailor-made tanzania and kenya safari packages
By far, the most thorough Kenya and Tanzania safari tours combine the Maasai Mara with the Serengeti for a truly superior Big Five tour through the world’s most famous migration routes.
A safari duration of 12 to 15 days is suggested for experiencing the grandeur of these areas and including some of their highlights, such as Ngorongoro Crater and Amboseli National Park.
Guests may opt for any number of options on this journey, from affordable safari packages costing as low as $700 per day all the way to luxurious tours with prices topping $2,500.
Tourists who time their travel during the months of July to October will find themselves in the middle of the Great Migration period.
Top Kenya and Tanzania Safaris to Consider Booking
- Calving Safari (January-March): It focuses on the Ndutu Conservation Area, where 8,000 calves are born every day in the wildebeest’s herd, making it a target area for predators.
- Migration Transit Safari (May-June): This safari follows the movements of the migrating animals into the central and western parts of the Seronera and Grumeti areas, heading towards the northern boundary.
- Great River Crossing Safari (July-October): This safari focuses on watching the spectacular river crossings when thousands of wildebeests jump across the dangerous Mara River from the Serengeti to the Maasai Mara region.
- Big Five and Big Cats Safari: This safari is a luxury package that includes safaris in Kenya’s private conservancies and Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Crater for the best sightings of predators.
- Southern Circuit and Chimpanzee Trek: It is an off-the-beaten-track safari combining Kenya’s arid northern region with Tanzania’s Mahale Mountains and Gombe regions.
Cost: USD 6222 PPS
No. of Nights 6
Destinations :-
- Karatu ,
- Lake Manyara ,
- Ndutu ,
- Ngorongoro ,
- Serengeti ,
- Tarangire ,
Cost: 6980 PPS
No. of Nights 7
Destinations :-
Cost: USD 2376 PPS
No. of Nights 2
Destinations :-
Cost: 7,130 PPS
No. of Nights 10
Destinations :-
- Amboseli ,
- Lake Naivasha ,
- Lake Nakuru ,
- Masai Mara ,
- Samburu ,
Why Book Kenya and Tanzania Safaris with Cheetah Safaris
Lets customise your Kenya and Tanzania Safari Holiday
Cheetah Safaris focuses on high-quality multi-country safaris that connect the Maasai Mara and the Serengeti to form the ultimate East African wildlife safari circuit.
The combined safaris allow guests to experience an incredible encounter within two distinct ecosystems, which act as a haven for several wildlife and bird species.
Tourists who visit the two major parks will have an opportunity to meet diverse animal species ranging from desert species found in Samburu to elephant species found in Amboseli and the high concentration of predators found in the Ngorongoro Crater.
ItтАЩs worth mentioning that the circuit has been designed specifically for tourists who wish to experience the great migration and follow the journey of the herd as they make the dangerous crossing at the Mara River.
In addition, our clients have the opportunity to prolong their wild adventures to the coastal regions of Kenya or Zanzibar after visiting the major game reserves.
At Cheetah Safaris, we ensure that our clients are exposed to all aspects of East Africa, including meeting the famous big five animals and witnessing the Great Wildebeest Migration.
Benefits of Booking a Kenya and Tanzania Safari with Cheetah Safaris
- Expertise: With more than ten years of delivering exceptional luxury safari experiences in both East and Southern Africa.
- Professional Guides: Enjoy the services of certified KPSGA Silver and Gold Guides with in-depth knowledge of the local ecosystem and animal behavior.
- Personalized Tours: Custom-made tour packages that cater to your unique interests, whether it be honeymoon safaris or photography tours.
- Quality Transportation: The use of state-of-the-art 4×4 safari vehicles designed for comfortable travel and excellent game viewing.
- Positive Community Impact: Commitment to sustainable tourism practices and contributing positively to society with Pack for a Purpose initiatives.
- Cross-Border Coordination: Seamless logistics in arranging travel to both sides of the border, specifically from the Maasai Mara to the Serengeti.
- Unique Tour Packages: Enjoy exclusive tour packages, including private helicopters and convenient air transportation to remote areas.
- Additional Beach Breaks: Easily combine a safari adventure with an enjoyable beach holiday on the beautiful Kenyan coast or Zanzibar islands.
Financial Protection
You are guranteed of a safe, and peace of mind booking process, and as well safari payments. We ensure that your payments are secure and safe.
Sustainable Practices
Keeping in mind our efforts in wildlife, environment and natural resources protections, we are sustainable travel conscious and aware.
Ground Safari Expert
We Know Africa more than any one. We love taking our guests to the less explored destinations. Experiencing the magical touch of African Wild.
Positive Impact
Our Safaris are not only sustainable, but create very positive impacts to so many. We engage in school programmes, that inspires our future leaders.
15 Years of Experience
Cheetah Safaris has a combined of 69 years of safari expertise and practice in Africa. We will take care of your safari from arrival till departure.
Proffessional Guides
We have the best safari guides in East Africa. All our guides are Silver and Gold Guides. Hence you will learn so much with them while on safari.
Looking For a Safari in Africa?
Explore our collection of over 70 luxury African safaris. You can also contact us to design a bespoke, tailor-made adventure just for you.
Kenya and Tanzania Safaris FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently asked questions about our Kenya and Tanzania Safaris.
How many days are ideal for Kenya and Tanzania safaris?
An ideal safari covering both Kenya and Tanzania typically requires 10 to 14 days. This timeframe allows you to properly experience top destinations like the Maasai Mara and the Serengeti without feeling rushed.
Is it better to start in Kenya or Tanzania?
It all depends on so many factors, including your budget, No. of days and the final destination of your trip. On many occasions, most of our safaris start from Kenya and end in Tanzania, Zanzibar, for the beach.┬а
Can I see the Great Migration in both countries?
Yes, you can absolutely see the Great Migration in both Tanzania and Kenya, as it is a continuous, year-round cycle within the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem.┬а
Are Kenya and Tanzania safaris safe?
Luggage on flying safaris is strictly limited, typically to 15kg (33 lbs) per person, including carry-on items. All gear must be packed in soft-sided bags. These restrictions are necessary to ensure the safety and weight capacity of small aircraft.
What is the cost range for Kenya Tanzania safaris?
Combined Kenya-Tanzania safaris typically range from $500 to over $5,000 per person per day. The final price depends heavily on the level of luxury, the duration of the trip (often 12 – 24 days), and the season in which you travel.
Do I need separate visas for Kenya and Tanzania Safaris?
You need a Kenya eTA and a Tanzania Tourist Visa for a combined safari. Note that the East African Tourist Visa only covers Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda; it does not include Tanzania. Apply for both online before you travel to ensure a smooth crossing between these two countries.
Luxury vs mid-range safari differences
Luxury safaris in Kenya and Tanzania cost over $1,500 per person per day and offer private vehicles, gourmet food, and top-tier lodges. Mid-range safaris cost around $800 per person per day and offer comfortable, standard camps and lodges with shared game drives. Both options offer high-quality wildlife viewing, but luxury stays provide more privacy and exclusivity.
Pack For a Purpose
Cheetah Safaris is a serious advocate of sustainable safari practices in Africa. As part of our efforts and initiative, we engage and support schools and children who need knowledge to better their lives.┬аThe best gift a child can be given is education, skills, and creativity.┬а
In this case, we request our guests booking with us, to bring an extra back of supplies. This can be in terms of books, sports materials, and any other items that would change the lives of these kids.┬а
- Education
- Sustainable Travel
- Wildlife Conservation
Let us help you customize your trip
Like all of our holidays on this site, this is just an idea. All of our trips are tailor-made, so we’ll always adapt them to suit you.
Talk to an Expert
Browse our Cheetah Safaris Website. WeтАЩll match you with a Specialist in our team who is best suited to help you plan your next safari adventure. To start, submit your Safari Inquiries.
Prepare for your trip
Our Safari experts will be of help in planning your safari from start to end. They will advise you on all that you need to pack and travel documents, too. They will be ready to answer any queries you have.
When you return
We would love to hear from you about your trip with us. Your feedback will help us always work better and try to be the best. You can leave your review on our Reviews Page or TripAdvisor Page.┬а
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