Embarking on a Kenya Tanzania trip is a dream adventure for many wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. These two East African countries offer some of the most spectacular safari experiences in the world. From the vast savannahs of the Maasai Mara to the iconic Serengeti plains, the landscapes are breathtaking and the wildlife encounters unforgettable. This guide will help you explore the best of Kenya and Tanzania on safari, providing practical tips, detailed insights, and recommendations to make your journey seamless and memorable.

Why Choose a Kenya Tanzania Trip for Your Safari Adventure?

A combined Kenya Tanzania trip offers a unique opportunity to witness the diversity of East Africa’s wildlife and landscapes. Both countries are home to world-renowned national parks and reserves, each with its own distinct charm.

  • Kenya is famous for the Maasai Mara National Reserve, where the Great Migration takes place annually. This event sees millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles crossing the Mara River, pursued by predators.
  • Tanzania boasts the Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire National Park, each offering incredible wildlife viewing and stunning scenery.

Traveling between these two countries allows you to experience the best of both worlds. You can start your safari in Kenya, exploring the Maasai Mara, then cross into Tanzania to visit the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. This route maximizes your chances of seeing the Big Five – lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, and rhinos – as well as other fascinating animals like cheetahs, giraffes, and hippos.

Eye-level view of a lion resting on the savannah grass
Lion resting in the Maasai Mara savannah

Highlights of a Kenya Tanzania Trip

  • Witness the Great Migration in the Maasai Mara and Serengeti.
  • Explore the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Enjoy game drives in Tarangire and Lake Manyara National Parks.
  • Experience cultural visits to Maasai and other indigenous communities.
  • Stay in luxury lodges, tented camps, or budget-friendly accommodations.

This combination safari is perfect for travelers seeking a comprehensive wildlife experience with diverse landscapes and rich cultural encounters.

Planning Your Kenya Tanzania Trip: What You Need to Know

Planning a successful safari requires attention to detail and understanding the logistics involved. Here are some key points to consider when organizing your Kenya Tanzania trip:

Best Time to Visit

  • June to October is the dry season and the best time for wildlife viewing.
  • The Great Migration usually occurs between July and October in the Maasai Mara and Serengeti.
  • The wet season (November to May) offers lush landscapes and fewer tourists but some roads may be challenging.

Entry Requirements and Visas

  • Most travelers need visas for both Kenya and Tanzania.
  • Check the latest visa policies and apply in advance if possible.
  • Some travelers can obtain visas on arrival, but it’s safer to have them beforehand.

Health and Safety

  • Vaccinations for yellow fever, typhoid, and hepatitis A are recommended.
  • Malaria prophylaxis is essential as both countries are malaria zones.
  • Carry a basic first aid kit and travel insurance.

Transportation and Transfers

  • Domestic flights connect Nairobi (Kenya) to Arusha (Tanzania), making travel between countries easier.
  • Safari vehicles with experienced guides are used for game drives.
  • Road transfers can be long but offer scenic views.

Accommodation Options

  • Luxury lodges and tented camps provide comfort and excellent services.
  • Mid-range lodges offer good value with essential amenities.
  • Budget campsites and hostels are available for backpackers.
Wide angle view of a safari jeep driving through the Serengeti plains
Safari jeep on a game drive in the Serengeti

How much does it cost to go to Tanzania and Kenya safari?

Understanding the cost of a safari helps you budget effectively and choose the right options for your trip. The price of a Kenya Tanzania safari varies depending on the duration, accommodation type, and activities included.

Typical Cost Breakdown

  1. Flights
  2. International flights to Nairobi or Kilimanjaro can range from $700 to $1500 depending on your departure location.
  4. Domestic flights between Kenya and Tanzania cost around $150 to $300.
  5. Accommodation
  6. Luxury lodges: $400 to $1000+ per night.
  7. Mid-range lodges: $150 to $400 per night.
  9. Budget campsites: $30 to $100 per night.
  10. Safari Packages
  11. 7-day guided safari packages typically range from $2000 to $6000 per person.
  13. Private tours and customized itineraries may cost more.
  14. Park Fees and Permits
  15. Entry fees for Maasai Mara and Serengeti are approximately $70 to $100 per day.
  17. Ngorongoro Crater fees are around $70 per day.
  18. Additional Costs
  19. Tips for guides and staff.
  20. Optional activities like hot air balloon rides or cultural visits.
  22. Travel insurance and vaccinations.

Tips to Save Money

  • Travel during shoulder seasons for lower prices.
  • Choose mid-range accommodations with good reviews.
  • Book combined Kenya Tanzania safari packages for better deals.
  • Consider group tours to share costs.

By planning carefully and booking through reputable operators, you can enjoy a fantastic safari experience without breaking the bank.

What to Expect on Your Kenya Tanzania Safari Experience

A safari in Kenya and Tanzania is more than just wildlife viewing – it’s an immersive journey into nature and culture. Here’s what you can expect during your trip:

Daily Game Drives

  • Early morning and late afternoon drives are best for spotting animals.
  • Guides use their expertise to track wildlife and explain animal behavior.
  • You may see lions hunting, elephants bathing, or cheetahs sprinting.

Scenic Landscapes

  • Rolling grasslands, acacia trees, volcanic craters, and vast plains.
  • Stunning sunrises and sunsets over the savannah.
  • Unique geological features like the Ngorongoro Crater.

Cultural Encounters

  • Visit Maasai villages to learn about traditional customs.
  • Experience local dances, crafts, and cuisine.
  • Support community-based tourism initiatives.

Wildlife Diversity

  • Big Five animals and many other species.
  • Birdwatching opportunities with hundreds of bird species.
  • Seasonal events like the Great Migration.

Accommodation Comfort

  • Enjoy meals with views of the wilderness.
  • Relax in tents with modern amenities or eco-friendly lodges.
  • Some camps offer spa services and swimming pools.
High angle view of the Ngorongoro Crater with wildlife grazing
Ngorongoro Crater wildlife grazing from above

How to Book Your Kenya Tanzania Safari

Booking your safari can be straightforward if you follow these steps:

  1. Research and Choose a Reputable Tour Operator Look for companies with good reviews, experienced guides, and clear itineraries.
  2. Select Your Safari Package Decide on the duration, parks to visit, and accommodation level.
  3. Confirm Inclusions and Exclusions Check what is included such as meals, park fees, transfers, and activities.
  4. Book Flights and Visas Arrange your international and domestic flights early.
  5. Prepare for Your Trip Get vaccinations, pack appropriate clothing, and arrange travel insurance.

For a seamless experience, consider booking a combined kenya and tanzania safari package that covers all major highlights and logistics.

Embrace the Adventure of a Lifetime

A Kenya Tanzania trip offers an unparalleled safari adventure filled with awe-inspiring wildlife, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural experiences. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this journey will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

Start planning your safari today and get ready to explore the wild heart of East Africa.