Kenya and Tanzania are two of the most popular safari destinations in Africa. These countries offer an abundance of wildlife, stunning landscapes, and unique cultures that attract tourists from all over the world.
If you’re considering a Kenya and Tanzania safari tours, there are a few things you should know before you go.
Plan Your Itinerary
When planning your Kenya and Tanzania safari, it’s essential to create an itinerary that covers the best of both Kenya and Tanzania.
Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve is known for its abundant wildlife, including the famous “Big Five” animals (elephants, lions, leopards, buffalos, and rhinos), while Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park is renowned for the annual wildebeest migration and its spectacular landscapes.
Both countries also offer cultural experiences, such as visits to Maasai villages and learning about their way of life.
When planning your itinerary, consider the time of year you’re traveling. The best time to see the wildebeest migration in Tanzania is from July to October, while the best time to visit Kenya’s Masai Mara is from June to October.
Keep in mind that these are peak tourist seasons, so book your accommodations and activities in advance.
Choose a Reputable Tour Operator
Choosing a reputable tour operator like us (Mara Gates Safaris) is critical to having a successful safari experience. Look for a company with experienced guides, reliable vehicles, and good reviews from previous customers.
A knowledgeable guide can make a huge difference in your safari experience, so don’t be afraid to ask questions and communicate your interests and preferences.
When choosing a tour operator, consider the type of safari experience you’re looking for. Do you want a luxury safari with all the amenities, or are you looking for a more adventurous camping experience? Consider your budget and the level of comfort you require.
Interested in a Kenya/Tanzania Safari Package?
Click “Get Safari Quote” below to contact us and we will provide you a competitively priced safari package based on your budget and preferences
Pack Accordingly
Packing for your Kenya & Tanzania safari requires some careful consideration. You’ll want to dress comfortably in lightweight, breathable clothing that covers your arms and legs to protect you from the sun and insects.
It’s also a good idea to bring a warm layer for early morning and evening game drives when temperatures can be cooler. A good pair of binoculars, a camera with a telephoto lens, and a hat and sunglasses are also essential.
Don’t forget to bring any necessary medications, such as anti-malaria medication, and check with your doctor to see if any vaccinations are required.
Respect the Wildlife and Culture
When on safari, it’s important to remember that you are a guest in the animals’ natural habitat. Observe them from a safe distance and avoid disturbing them. Never approach or feed wild animals, and don’t litter or disturb the environment.
Respect the local cultures and customs, and be open to learning about their way of life. Dress appropriately when visiting villages and always ask permission before taking photos of people.
A combined tour safari of Kenya and Tanzania is an incredible experience that offers some of the best wildlife viewing opportunities in the world.
By planning your itinerary, choosing a reputable tour operator, packing accordingly, and respecting the wildlife and culture, you’ll have an unforgettable safari adventure that you’ll treasure for a lifetime.
What are some of the best safari attractions in Kenya?
Here are some of the top safari attractions in Kenya that you should consider when planning your best Kenya and Tanzania safari itinerary:
- Masai Mara National Reserve: The Masai Mara is one of the most famous national reserves in Africa and a top destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Home to the “Big Five” animals (elephants, lions, leopards, buffalos, and rhinos), the Masai Mara is also famous for the annual wildebeest migration, which takes place between July and October.
- Amboseli National Park: Amboseli National Park is located at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro and offers stunning views of Africa’s highest mountain. The park is known for its large herds of elephants, as well as other wildlife such as lions, cheetahs, giraffes, and zebras.
- Lake Nakuru National Park: Lake Nakuru National Park is a haven for bird lovers, with over 400 bird species found within its borders. The park is also home to a large population of endangered black and white rhinos, as well as other wildlife such as lions, leopards, and buffalos.
- Samburu National Reserve: Samburu National Reserve is a lesser-known safari destination but offers a unique safari experience. The reserve is home to rare wildlife species such as the Grevy’s zebra, Somali ostrich, reticulated giraffe, and Beisa oryx. The reserve is also known for its vibrant cultural heritage, with opportunities to interact with the local Samburu people.
- Tsavo National Parks: Tsavo National Parks, made up of Tsavo East and Tsavo West, is one of the largest national parks in Kenya and home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, and hippos. The park is also famous for its stunning landscapes, including the Mzima Springs and the lava flows of Chyulu Hills.
- Maasai Mara Conservancies: In addition to the Masai Mara National Reserve, there are several private conservancies that offer a more exclusive and intimate safari experience. These conservancies are owned and managed by local Maasai communities and offer opportunities for cultural interaction, as well as wildlife viewing.
What are some of the top safari attractions in Tanzania?
Here are some of the top safari attractions in Tanzania that you should add to your itinerary:
- Serengeti National Park: The Serengeti is Tanzania’s most famous national park and is home to the annual wildebeest migration, which is one of the world’s most spectacular wildlife events. The park is also known for its big cats, including lions, cheetahs, and leopards, as well as other wildlife such as elephants, giraffes, and zebras.
- Ngorongoro Conservation Area: The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is home to the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera. The area is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including the endangered black rhino, as well as Maasai villages where visitors can experience traditional Maasai culture.
- Tarangire National Park: Tarangire National Park is known for its large elephant herds, as well as other wildlife such as lions, leopards, giraffes, and zebras. The park is also home to over 550 bird species, making it a top destination for bird lovers.
- Selous Game Reserve: Selous Game Reserve is Tanzania’s largest protected area and is home to a vast array of wildlife, including elephants, lions, hippos, and crocodiles. The reserve is also home to several endangered species, including the African wild dog, black rhino, and sable antelope.
- Lake Manyara National Park: Lake Manyara National Park is a small park but offers a unique safari experience. The park is known for its tree-climbing lions, as well as other wildlife such as elephants, giraffes, and hippos. The park is also home to over 400 bird species, making it a top destination for bird lovers.
- Mahale Mountains National Park: Mahale Mountains National Park is located on the shores of Lake Tanganyika and is home to one of the largest populations of chimpanzees in the world. Visitors to the park can go trekking to see these amazing primates in their natural habitat.
Sample Safari Itinerary Covering Kenya & Tanzania
We can customize the trip to fit your accommodation needs as well as other possible additions/subtractions that you might want added. We allow payment by installments for this safari.
Day 1: Nairobi- Maasai Mara
We can either pick you up from the airport or hotel at 7 am and you drive to Maasai Mara with a stop over at the Great Rift valley view point for you to enjoy breathtaking views of the valley and also take photos.
As you head to Masai Mara, you will will have a distant view of Mt. Longonot and Mt. Suswa. You will arrive in the Maasai Mara game reserve in time for lunch at your lodge or camp.
The Masai Mara National Reserve is tKenya’s finest wildlife reserve. You will not be disappointed with this place. Everything about this game reserve is marvelous.
There is a lot of wildlife for you to see and its gentle rolling open grasslands will guarantee that wild animals are easily seen. Birds here to are prolific (for bird lovers). There are over 450 bird species recorded here, out of which are 57 species of birds of prey.
The weather in Masai Mara is moderate, which is not too hot and plus the rainfall is well-spread all year round. Interestingly rain falls almost always in the late afternoon or night.
The great wildebeest migration occurs between the months of July and October
1600 hrs -An afternoon game drive till dusk.
Dinner and overnight at your lodge or camp.
Day 2: Full Day in Maasai Mara
Enjoy your breakfast at the lodge or camp of your choice then proceed for a full day game drive in the Mara reserve.
(If you want a relaxed day, 0630 hrs -Early morning game drive, rest of the morning at leisure. Lunch at the lodge or camp then take the 4pm game drive)
Dinner and overnight at the lodge or camp
Day 3: Maasai Mara to Serengeti
After breakfast at the lodge or camp, you will then be checked out.
You will carry picnic lunches and be driven to Isebania border where our partners in Tanzania will pick you up and you proceed to Serengeti National park (Tanzania government does not allow Kenyan vehicles to take their clients on safari in the country).
Enjoy a wonderful game drive en-route to the lodge or camp.
Dinner and overnight at your lodge or camp of choice.
Day 4: Serengeti National Park
After breakfast, you will proceed for a full game drive. You will carry picnic lunches.
Dinner and overnight at your lodge or camp.
Day 5: Serengeti to Ngorongoro
Have breakfast at your lodge then you will be taken to Ngorongoro Conservation for a game drive. You will carry packed lunch too.
Rest of the afternoon at leisure. Dinner and overnight at the lodge or camp.
Day 6: Ngorongoro
Breakfast at the lodge then take picnic lunch and proceed for a full day crater tour. Dinner and overnight at the lodge or camp
Day 7: Ngorongoro Conservation Area to Amboseli National Park.
After breakfast at the lodge, you will check out at 8am and proceed to Arusha for lunch and thereafter to Namanga border.
Our driver will meet you at the border and you proceed on to Amboseli National park.
Dinner and overnight at the lodge or camp of your choosing in Amboseli National Park.
Day 8: Amboseli National Park
At 0600hrs , you will be taken for an early morning game drive followed by breakfast at the lodge. Rest of the morning at leisure.
Lunch at the lodge.
1600hrs proceed for an evening game drive. Dinner and overnight at the lodge or camp in Amboseli
Day 9: Departure
Breakfast at the lodge or camp then check out at 8 am and drive back to Nairobi. Lunch at Panari hotel then drop off at the airport for your departure flight.
Cost Includes:
IN KENYA:
- Park entrance fees
- Full board accommodation on safari
- Service of an English speaking driver guide
- Transport based on a Landcruiser with pop up roof for game viewing
- Game drives
- Driver allowances and park fees for vehicle and driver
- Government taxes
- One bottle of mineral water per person per day
Excludes:
- Extras at the lodges i.e. drinks, telephone, laundry etc.
- International flight and visa
- Tips to porters and driver
Interested in a Kenya/Tanzania Safari Package?
Click “Get Safari Quote” below to contact us and we will provide you a competitively priced safari package based on your budget and preferences