Tanzania and Kenya Safaris

Time permitting, Tanzania and Kenya are two countries make the perfect pair, offering a logistically straightforward combination of remarkable biodiversity, beautiful landscapes, and a tapestry of cultures with ancient roots.

From tracking the Great Migration in a classic mobile tented camp, to camel trekking, soaring above the Great Rift Valley lakes on a heli-safari, or spending a magical night under the stars in a secluded star-bed, Kenya and Tanzania safaris consistently deliver some of the highest-quality experiences on the continent. Crucially, excellent tourist infrastructure and a fantastic air network across key wildlife regions make cross-border travel simple. The full spectrum of safari styles and accommodations – from super-luxurious exclusive-use villas to intimate owner-run bush camps – ensures all budgets, ages, and group sizes are exquisitely catered for.

A Kenya and Tanzania safari is the ultimate itinerary for most wildlife enthusiasts, ticking off multiple bucket-list destinations in one trip. While the two countries offer plenty as independent destinations, together they become a serious powerhouse. Below, we break down some of the key reasons why Kenya and Tanzania will cover all your safari goals:

• World-famous national parks – Choose a Kenya and Tanzania safari, and you’ll have the chance to visit your choice of renowned parks including the Serengeti, the Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire National Park, the Maasai Mara, the Samburu, and Amboseli in one go!
• Wildlife phenomena – Some of the most intense and dramatic wildlife spectacles are found in Kenya and Tanzania, including the annual Great Migration, the staggering sights of Ngorongoro, the unique Samburu ‘Special Five’, and the enormous elephant herds of Amboseli National Park.
• Varied landscapes – You’ll find an impressive variety of landscapes across Kenya and Tanzania, including golden plains, lush forests, Great Rift Valley lakes teeming with birds, soaring mountains, and secluded tropical beaches.
• Cultural diversity – Walk with Maasai warriors, visit a local boma, discover the art of beadwork with the Samburu tribe, or gain insight into ancient life skills from the hunter–gatherer Hadzabe.
• Range of accommodation – The sheer variety of accommodation, including luxury lodges, exclusive-use villas, traditional bush camps, and mobile tented set-ups, means there’s something for everyone.

For the discerning traveller looking to experience Africa’s most iconic landscapes, we present a low-season luxury itinerary timed for November 2026. This journey takes you to the heart of the Serengeti and Maasai Mara, combining seasonal low occupancies with comparatively great value. You’ll begin in Grumeti in the western Serengeti, where the Great Migration herds sweep through as they move south towards the calving grounds. Defined by the permanently flowing Grumeti River, this region guarantees dramatic wildlife encounters, including some of East Africa’s highest hippo concentrations and largest Nile crocodiles. Experience the Mara at this time of year, and you’ll find a transformed landscape flushed with green and the return of huge elephant herds and migratory birds. Beyond the lure of the Great Migration, this is when the true depth of the Mara’s beauty and diversity is yours to savour.

Continue your Tanzania and Kenya safari with two nights at the brand new Wilderness Mara. Occupying one of the most enviable locations in the entire Maasai Mara, this is the only camp with access to both sides of the Mara River, making for unparalleled wildlife sightings and stunningly varied landscapes. Formerly Little Governors’ Camp, here 12 spacious suites provide a luxury base from which to explore the Mara Triangle. Morning and afternoon game drives allow guests to savour this thriving ecosystem, complete with big cats, roaming herds, wading crocs, and hyenas on the prowl. There’s also a spectacular variety of birdlife, including favourites such as the lilac-breasted roller, martial eagle, secretary bird, and superb starling. Soar high above the riverine forests and golden grasses on a sunrise hot air balloon excursion, and see vast numbers of buffalo and zebra traversing the plains beneath. Last but not least, village visits offer a fascinating glimpse into Maasai culture, including life in a traditional manyatta (homestead), beadwork, and cattle herding.

Both Kenya and Tanzania are home to wildlife-rich ecosystems, gorgeous landscapes, a rich array of cultures, and some superb accommodations from which to enjoy all this and more. Our knowledgeable specialists have handpicked some of the unmissables.

Serengeti National Park is a year-round safari destination traversed by hundreds of thousands of wildebeest each year. During the Great Migration’s peak action, epic river crossings provide some of the most intense drama of the safari calendar, enhanced by exclusive viewing opportunities and some brilliant mobile tented camps. Beyond the world-famous migration, visitors flock to the Serengeti for sightings of the Big Five – lion, rhino, leopard, elephant, and buffalo – in their natural habitat. The ultimate bucket-list national park, the Serengeti is a must for anyone considering a Kenya and Tanzania safari, combining luxury accommodations with excellent guiding and exceptional wildlife encounters.

The Ngorongoro Crater is the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera – a collapsed, ancient volcano. This ecological spectacle leaves visitors spellbound by its unique landscape and game density. Indeed, this is one of Africa’s most awe-inspiring and rewarding wildlife destinations, providing encounters with lion, elephant, and cheetah, as well as the chance to glimpse the critically endangered black rhino, although these sightings are rare. Besides breathtaking views and outstanding game viewing, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area offers genuinely authentic encounters with Maasai communities, who live a traditional pastoral lifestyle, grazing cattle. Highland walks accompanied by local Maasai scouts are a real highlight!

Another splendid addition to Tanzania’s northern circuit, Tarangire National Park is defined by its towering baobab trees and the permanent, life-giving Tarangire River. This area is especially renowned for its staggeringly large elephant herds, where opportunities abound for sightings of these gentle giants, far from the crowds. A comparatively small but beautifully scenic national park, Lake Manyara perfectly complements Tarangire. Much of it is covered by an alkaline lake, home to a wide variety of birdlife, including huge flocks of pink flamingos.

The Maasai Mara has captured hearts and imaginations like no other wildlife destination on Earth. As one half of the Serengeti–Mara ecosystem, this protected land is an iconic landscape of golden plains and world-famous game viewing. The Mara River plays a starring role in the most dramatic scenes of the Great Migration, which peaks between July and October. The region also boasts some of the finest camps and lodges in Kenya, offering superb wildlife viewing within both the national reserve and its outlying private conservancies. The Mara is truly a superb wildlife destination at any time of year, but July to October is when you’ll experience peak migration action.

The northern Kenya regions of Laikipia and Samburu offer a distinct safari experience, focusing on exclusivity and conservation. Laikipia, set against Mount Kenya, consists of vast private conservancies, guaranteeing low vehicle density. It is known for having some of the finest properties in Kenya and a strong focus on rhino conservation. Farther north, the semi-desert Samburu region is defined by the palm-fringed Ewaso Nyiro River, where elephant crossings are a major highlight. This is the only place to see the Samburu Special Five: Grevy’s zebra, beisa oryx, gerenuk, reticulated giraffe, and Somali ostrich. It also offers rich cultural immersion through cultural excursions with the semi-nomadic Samburu people.

If the sight of huge elephant herds ambling across golden plains framed by Mount Kilimanjaro excites you, Amboseli National Park should top your wish list. Indeed, these are some of the most legendary, postcard-worthy safari scenes in Africa. The park is perfect for wildlife photographers seeking up-close encounters against a magnificent backdrop. Enormous tusker elephants are a rare but present sight here – lone roaming giants with massive tusks that sometimes even drag along the ground. Amboseli is home to fine luxury properties, with some located on private land and offering horseback safaris, rooftop star-beds, walking safaris, and night drives.

Wondering when is the best time to visit Kenya and Tanzania? The answer depends on several factors, including whether your priority is witnessing the Great Migration or taking advantage of fewer crowds and more comfortable rates. For peak wildlife viewing, check out our helpful guides to the Great Migration in Tanzania and Kenya with month-by-month overviews. Meanwhile, here are some key seasonal pointers to help you get started:

January – March: Dry season
January to March is typically the dry season in Kenya and Tanzania. Reasons to visit at this time of year include:

• Calving season in the Serengeti, so plenty of predator action.
• Opportunities to see large herds of wildebeest and zebra.
• Low season, meaning fewer crowds and favourable rates.
• An ideal time of year to combine with a beach stay on the Swahili coast, including the picture-perfect island of Zanzibar.
• Warm weather with clear blue skies and plenty of sunshine.

April – May: Rainy season
April to May is considered the rainy season in Kenya and Tanzania. Some lodges close during these months, but there are still benefits to travelling at this time of year, such as:

• Lush landscapes with dramatic, cloud-streaked skies and usually fairly fleeting rainy spells.
• Plenty of migratory birds, making these months ideal for birdwatching safaris.
• Low season, so you’ll benefit from discounted rates and great deals.
• Quiet national parks and blissfully crowd-free game viewing.

June – October: Peak safari season
June to October are the peak months of the Great Migration in Kenya and Tanzania. This period coincides with high season, and reasons these months are so popular include:

• Dramatic river crossings with intense predator–prey interactions.
• Excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, as the bush is more sparse, and game congregates around water sources.
• Ideal weather conditions, characterised by clear sunny days and cool mornings and evenings.

Both Kenya and Tanzania boast a spectacular range of accommodation, from stylish luxury lodges to charming, family-friendly retreats. You can choose from intimate, owner-run camps, exclusive-use private villas, and classic, explorer-style mobile tents that follow the Great Migration – all offering impeccable service, immersive cultural experiences, and unforgettable wilderness settings.

Visas

• Kenya: All travellers must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) in advance via the official website: https://www.etakenya.go.ke/en
• Tanzania: Visas are required and can be obtained either in advance or upon arrival.
• Our Service: We offer an optional ETA application service. Speak to an expert for details.
• More Info: Check our country-specific guides for detailed info on visa requirements.

Additional Costs

• Park fees: Park fees are usually built into the cost of your itinerary. However, we’ll let you know in advance if any optional day trips incur additional fees.
• Flights: We don’t include international flights in our quotes, but are happy to book these for you on request.
• Insurance: All clients are required to purchase travel insurance before departure as a condition of booking. See our safari travel insurance guide for details.
• Tipping: Tipping is not compulsory, but always appreciated. We offer general guidelines, but this is entirely at your discretion.

Types of Tour
Our tours are divided into different categories, including Value, Classic, and Luxury. Refer to our online guide for help clarifying price points.

Health & Safety

• Safety: We go to great lengths to ensure our clients are totally supported from start to finish, including 24/7 emergency support and a dedicated medical officer. Our safety overview includes some key guidelines.
• Vaccinations: Our pre-departure information provides valuable advice on vaccination requirements, but don’t forget to consult your GP at least six weeks before you travel.
• Malaria precautions: Many safari destinations are in malarial areas, so we recommend travellers chat to a health practitioner about various preventative options available, and which is best for you. See our helpful guidelines for details on how to take care of your health before travelling.

Packing Essentials
We provide lots of advice on packing for your Kenya and Tanzania safari, to help keep your planning as straightforward and stress-free as possible. Luggage weight is also an important consideration!

Travel Logistics 
We are highly experienced in planning multi-country trips, and a Tanzania and Kenya safari is just one shining example. Our expert team will handle all logistics, including domestic flights, ground transportation, and border crossings, leaving you free to relax and enjoy your journey.

There are many different ways to enjoy the natural wonders of Kenya and Tanzania, whether as part of a cross-border safari or as separate destinations. We’ve put together some of our most popular routes and itineraries, highlighting the diversity and variety of this endlessly awe-inspiring region.

Kenya and Tanzania have all the key components for a full and enriching safari experience, covering everything from abundant and diverse wildlife to secluded tropical beaches. Here are a few reminders of why you should combine these two epic safari destinations:

• The whole safari experience: Grassy plains populated by the Big Five (lion, rhino, leopard, elephant, and buffalo) make for first-rate wildlife viewing.
• Diverse landscapes: Marvel at majestic Rift Valley landscapes and alkaline lakes teeming with pink flamingos.
• Rich culture: Experience ancient, time-forgotten cultures and traditions.
• Beach add-ons: Combine your safari with a tropical Indian Ocean beach retreat, such as Zanzibar, Lamu, or Diani.
• Options for everyone: A vast range of accommodation means there are excellent choices for every age and budget, from bush camps to super high-end luxury lodges.

The cost of your Kenya and Tanzania safari will depend on factors such as the time of year, level of accommodation, group size, and whether you require exclusive private experiences and transportation. Check out our blog post, “How much does an African safari cost?” for some initial pointers, and our team is always on hand to offer tailored guidance.

We’re often asked how many nights we recommend for a Kenya and Tanzania safari. You could do a short week-long trip for a taster of Tanzania and Kenya. Otherwise, aim for between 10 and 14 nights to explore harder-to-reach corners and add a fly-and-flop beach element at the end.

The best month for a Kenya and Tanzania safari depends on your priorities. June to October is the dry season, and these are peak Great Migration months, when enormous herds make their treacherous journey from the Serengeti to the Mara. December to March is hot and dry, also ideal for wildlife viewing. Meanwhile, the green season between April and May rewards visitors with lower rates and quieter game parks.