Kenya and Tanzania Safari Combo: The Ultimate East African Wildlife Experience
Key Takeaways
- A Kenya and Tanzania safari combo lets you see the most iconic wildlife parks in East Africa in one trip
- The Great Migration can be witnessed in both the Masai Mara and Serengeti depending on the season
- Best times to visit are January-February and June-October for optimal wildlife viewing
- Budget options start from Ksh 85,000 while luxury packages can cost Ksh 350,000+
- Combining both countries offers better value than visiting them separately
- Both countries offer unique wildlife, landscapes, and cultural experiences
- Professional tour operators handle cross-border logistics for a stress-free trip
Introduction
Have you ever dreamed of watching lions hunt across golden savannahs, or witnessing millions of wildebeest thunder across rivers while crocodiles wait? What about seeing elephants stroll against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains, or meeting the proud Maasai warriors who have lived alongside wildlife for centuries?
If these experiences call to you, then a Kenya and Tanzania safari combo might be exactly what you need.
As neighbors sharing some of the world’s most famous wildlife areas, Kenya and Tanzania together offer an unmatched safari experience. While each country alone boasts amazing wildlife and stunning landscapes, combining them creates something truly special—a journey that showcases the very best of East Africa’s natural treasures.
Many visitors to East Africa face a tough choice: Kenya or Tanzania? But the truth is, you don’t have to choose. A Kenya and Tanzania safari combo brings together the highlights of both countries in one remarkable trip. From Kenya’s famous Masai Mara to Tanzania’s vast Serengeti and the amazing Ngorongoro Crater, you’ll get to see it all.
For Kenyans especially, exploring our neighboring Tanzania alongside our home country offers a chance to fully understand and appreciate the connected ecosystems and cultures that make East Africa so special. And for those who have already explored Kenya’s parks, adding Tanzania creates a whole new level of safari magic.
In this complete guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about planning the perfect Kenya and Tanzania safari combo—from the best parks to visit, ideal times to travel, budget considerations, and practical tips to make your journey smooth and memorable.
Why Choose a Kenya and Tanzania Safari Combo?
The Best of Both Worlds
When you choose a Kenya and Tanzania safari combo, you’re essentially getting two incredible safari destinations in one trip. Each country has its own special offerings:
Kenya highlights:
- The Masai Mara’s open plains and big cat populations
- Amboseli’s elephants against the backdrop of Mt. Kilimanjaro
- Lake Nakuru’s flamingos and rhino sanctuary
- Samburu’s unique northern species like Grevy’s zebra and reticulated giraffe
Tanzania highlights:
- The endless plains of the Serengeti
- The unique Ngorongoro Crater ecosystem
- Tarangire’s massive elephant herds and baobab trees
- Lake Manyara’s tree-climbing lions
By combining these experiences, you get a more complete picture of East Africa’s diverse wildlife and landscapes.
Follow the Great Migration
One of the main reasons safari lovers choose a Kenya and Tanzania safari combo is to increase their chances of witnessing the Great Migration—the annual movement of over 1.5 million wildebeest and hundreds of thousands of zebra and gazelles between the Serengeti and Masai Mara.
This natural wonder doesn’t respect national borders, and the animals move between Tanzania and Kenya following the rains and fresh grass. With a combo safari, you can position yourself for the best viewing opportunities regardless of which country the migration is passing through during your visit.
Better Value for Money
While it might seem more expensive at first glance, a Kenya and Tanzania safari combo often provides better value than two separate trips. The countries share a border, and many top wildlife areas are relatively close to each other. This means:
- You’ll save on international flights by visiting both countries in one trip
- Cross-border transport costs less than returning for a separate trip
- Visa fees and paperwork are handled once
- Tour operators can offer package deals that reduce the per-day cost
For Kenyans looking to explore beyond our borders, a combo trip makes even more sense—you’re already in Kenya, so adding Tanzania is just a matter of crossing the border rather than planning an entirely separate vacation.
Cultural Diversity
Beyond wildlife, a Kenya and Tanzania safari combo gives you access to a wider range of cultural experiences. Though the countries share some cultural similarities, each offers unique traditions and communities:
- Visit Maasai villages in both countries and spot the subtle differences in customs
- Experience the coastal Swahili culture if your route includes Mombasa or Zanzibar
- Meet the Samburu people of northern Kenya
- Visit the Hadzabe and Datoga tribes near Lake Eyasi in Tanzania
These cultural interactions add depth to your safari experience and help you understand the human elements of conservation in East Africa.
Best Parks and Reserves for a Kenya and Tanzania Safari Combo
Kenya’s Top Safari Destinations
Masai Mara National Reserve
The jewel in Kenya’s wildlife crown, the Masai Mara is famous for its exceptional big cat populations and its role in the Great Migration. Between July and October, millions of wildebeest cross from Tanzania into the Mara, creating one of nature’s most spectacular shows.
Even outside migration season, the Mara offers incredible game viewing with large prides of lions, cheetahs hunting on open plains, and leopards lurking in riverside trees. The open savannah landscape also makes wildlife spotting easier than in more densely vegetated parks.
Amboseli National Park
Known for its large elephant herds that roam against the backdrop of Mt. Kilimanjaro (Africa’s highest peak, actually located in Tanzania), Amboseli provides some of the most iconic African safari images. The park’s mix of swamps, dry lake beds, and savannah supports a rich diversity of wildlife beyond elephants, including lions, cheetahs, giraffes, and over 400 bird species.
Its location near the Tanzanian border makes it a logical starting or ending point for a Kenya and Tanzania safari combo.
Lake Nakuru National Park
Famous for its flamingos and rhino sanctuary, Lake Nakuru offers something different from the savannah experience. The alkaline lake attracts numerous waterbirds, while the surrounding woodland and grassland areas are home to both black and white rhinos, making it one of the best places in Kenya to see these endangered creatures.
Samburu National Reserve
In Kenya’s drier northern region, Samburu offers a different ecosystem and unique wildlife adapted to more arid conditions. Here you’ll find the “Samburu Special Five”: Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, gerenuk, and beisa oryx—species not commonly seen in southern parks. The reserve’s semi-desert landscape with the Ewaso Ng’iro River running through it creates beautiful scenery different from what you’ll see in Tanzania.
Tanzania’s Premier Wildlife Areas
Serengeti National Park
The Serengeti is Tanzania’s most famous park and for good reason. This vast ecosystem covers 14,750 square kilometers of plains, woodlands, and riverine forest. It’s home to the largest concentration of plains game in Africa and supports an extraordinary predator population.
The Serengeti is the main stage for the Great Migration, with different areas becoming hotspots throughout the year:
- December to March: Southern plains (calving season)
- April to May: Central and Western Corridors
- June to July: Western and Northern Serengeti (river crossings)
- August to October: Northern Serengeti and into Kenya’s Masai Mara
Ngorongoro Conservation Area
The Ngorongoro Crater is a safari destination unlike any other—a 600-meter deep volcanic caldera spanning 260 square kilometers and containing an incredible concentration of wildlife. Often described as a “natural zoo,” the crater floor is home to approximately 25,000 large animals, including endangered black rhinos, huge bull elephants, lions, and hippos.
The steep walls of the crater create a natural enclosure where many animals stay year-round, making it one of the most reliable places to see a wide variety of wildlife in a single day.
Tarangire National Park
Known for its massive elephant herds and distinctive baobab tree-studded landscape, Tarangire becomes particularly spectacular during the dry season (June to October) when animals congregate around the Tarangire River. The park also offers excellent bird watching with over 550 species recorded.
Lake Manyara National Park
Though small by East African standards, Lake Manyara packs impressive diversity into its limited space. The park features groundwater forests, acacia woodlands, grassy floodplains, and the alkaline lake itself. It’s famous for its tree-climbing lions, huge baboon troops, and thousands of flamingos during certain seasons.
Ideal Combinations for Different Trip Lengths
1-Week Kenya and Tanzania Safari Combo:
- Days 1-2: Masai Mara
- Days 3-4: Serengeti
- Days 5-6: Ngorongoro Crater
- Day 7: Return to starting point
2-Week Comprehensive Kenya and Tanzania Safari Combo:
- Days 1-3: Masai Mara
- Day 4: Lake Nakuru
- Days 5-6: Amboseli
- Days 7-9: Serengeti
- Days 10-11: Ngorongoro Crater
- Day 12: Lake Manyara
- Days 13-14: Tarangire
Northern Circuit Focus (10 Days):
- Days 1-2: Samburu
- Days 3-4: Lake Nakuru
- Days 5-6: Masai Mara
- Days 7-8: Serengeti
- Days 9-10: Ngorongoro
Migration Focus (8 Days):
- Days 1-3: Masai Mara
- Days 4-6: Northern Serengeti
- Days 7-8: Central Serengeti
Best Time to Visit for a Kenya and Tanzania Safari Combo
The timing of your Kenya and Tanzania safari combo can significantly impact your experience. East Africa has distinct wet and dry seasons that affect wildlife viewing, road conditions, and prices.
Dry Season (June to October)
This is generally considered the best time for a Kenya and Tanzania safari combo:
- Wildlife concentrates around water sources, making animals easier to find
- Vegetation is less dense, improving visibility
- The Great Migration is in the northern Serengeti and Masai Mara
- Roads are in better condition, allowing access to more areas
- There’s less chance of rain interrupting game drives
- Mosquitoes and other insects are less prevalent
The downsides include more dust, higher prices, and more crowded parks, especially in the Masai Mara and northern Serengeti during migration season.
Short Dry Season (January to February)
This window offers excellent conditions with fewer crowds:
- The weather is warm and mostly dry
- Many animals have their young at this time
- The southern Serengeti and Ndutu areas host the migration’s calving season
- Bird watching is exceptional as migratory species are present
- Prices are typically lower than the peak dry season
Wet Seasons (March to May and November to December)
These periods offer advantages for budget-conscious travelers:
- Significantly lower prices and fewer visitors
- Lush, green landscapes that are great for photography
- Excellent bird watching as migratory species are present
- Many animals give birth during the long rains, especially in the Serengeti
- Dramatic storms provide spectacular skies for photography
Challenges during wet seasons include:
- Some roads may become impassable, limiting access to certain areas
- Rain can disrupt game drives
- Taller grass can make wildlife harder to spot
- Some camps and lodges close, particularly in May
Month-by-Month Guide for Kenya and Tanzania Safari Combo
January-February:
- Perfect for southern Serengeti (wildebeest calving)
- Good wildlife viewing in Masai Mara with fewer crowds
- Clear skies for views of Mt. Kilimanjaro from Amboseli
March-May:
- Long rains make travel more challenging but reduce costs
- Lush green landscapes and fewer tourists
- Many lodges offer significant discounts
June-July:
- Beginning of dry season with pleasant temperatures
- Great wildlife concentration around water sources
- Migration moving north through western and northern Serengeti
August-October:
- Peak season with excellent wildlife viewing
- Migration in northern Serengeti and Masai Mara
- River crossings possible in both countries
- Comfortable temperatures but more crowds and higher prices
November-December:
- Short rains bring new growth
- Wildlife begins moving south from Masai Mara to Serengeti
- Good value period with lower visitor numbers
Planning Your Kenya and Tanzania Safari Combo
Budget Considerations
A Kenya and Tanzania safari combo can fit different budgets, but it’s important to understand what to expect at each price point:
Budget Options (Ksh 85,000-150,000 per person for a week):
- Camping or basic lodges
- Shared vehicles and group tours
- Less exclusive game viewing
- Fewer included activities
- More basic food options
Mid-Range (Ksh 150,000-250,000 per person for a week):
- Comfortable lodges and tented camps
- Better located accommodations with good wildlife access
- Private vehicles possible
- More inclusive packages
- Professional guides
Luxury (Ksh 250,000-500,000+ per person for a week):
- Exclusive lodges and premium tented camps
- Private vehicles and top guides
- Extra activities included (walking safaris, night drives)
- Gourmet dining
- Potential for activities like hot air balloon safaris
Remember that park fees make up a significant portion of safari costs, especially in Tanzania where fees tend to be higher than in Kenya. For Tanzanian parks, expect to pay around $60-80 per person per day just in entrance fees.
Transport Options for Your Kenya and Tanzania Safari Combo
Road Travel: The most common and affordable option involves using 4×4 safari vehicles to travel between parks and cross the border. Benefits include:
- Seeing the landscape change gradually
- Potential wildlife sightings between parks
- More flexible stopping options for photography or breaks
- Lower cost than flying
The main border crossing for most Kenya and Tanzania safari combo trips is Namanga (between Nairobi and Arusha) or Isebania (between Masai Mara and Serengeti).
Flying: For those with higher budgets or limited time, small aircraft flights connect major parks:
- Drastically reduced travel time between distant parks
- Amazing aerial views of landscapes
- More comfortable than long road journeys
- Access to more remote areas
Popular flight routes include:
- Nairobi to Masai Mara
- Masai Mara to Serengeti
- Serengeti to Arusha
Hybrid Approaches: Many travelers opt for a mix of road and air transport:
- Start with road travel in one country
- Fly across the border to save time
- Use road transport within each country
Accommodation Types
Your Kenya and Tanzania safari combo can include various accommodation options:
Lodges:
- Permanent structures with solid walls
- More hotel-like facilities (swimming pools, spas)
- Typically larger with more guests
- Often located just outside park boundaries
Tented Camps:
- Permanent or semi-permanent tent structures
- Canvas walls but proper beds and bathrooms
- More intimate with nature sounds at night
- Often located in prime wildlife areas within parks
Mobile Camps:
- Follow wildlife movements, especially the migration
- More authentic bush experience
- Usually smaller and more exclusive
- Minimal environmental footprint
Public Campgrounds:
- Bring your own tent or rent basic accommodations
- Most affordable option
- Requires more self-sufficiency
- Can be noisy during peak seasons
Visa Requirements for a Kenya and Tanzania Safari Combo
For Kenyan citizens visiting Tanzania:
- Valid passport with at least six months before expiry
- Tanzania visa (approximately $50)
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate
For international visitors doing a Kenya and Tanzania safari combo:
- Valid passport with at least six months before expiry
- Kenya visa (approximately $50, available as e-visa)
- Tanzania visa (approximately $50, available at border)
- East Africa Tourist Visa option for some nationalities ($100 covering Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda)
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate
Your tour operator can usually assist with visa processes and advise on the most current requirements.
Health and Safety Tips
Vaccinations:
- Yellow fever (required)
- Hepatitis A and B (recommended)
- Typhoid (recommended)
- COVID-19 requirements (check current guidelines)
Malaria Prevention:
- Both Kenya and Tanzania are malaria zones
- Consult your doctor about appropriate antimalarial medication
- Use insect repellent containing DEET
- Sleep under mosquito nets
- Wear long sleeves and pants in the evening
General Safety:
- Keep valuables secure
- Follow guide instructions regarding wildlife
- Stay in your vehicle unless specifically permitted to exit
- Drink bottled or purified water
- Use sunscreen and stay hydrated
Packing Essentials for Your Kenya and Tanzania Safari Combo
Clothing:
- Neutral colors (khaki, olive, brown)
- Lightweight layers for changing temperatures
- Long-sleeved shirts and pants (for sun/insect protection)
- Warm jacket or fleece (mornings/evenings can be cold)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sun hat with brim
Equipment:
- Binoculars (essential for wildlife viewing)
- Camera with zoom lens and extra memory cards
- Power bank for charging devices
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Daypack for game drives
Personal Items:
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
- Insect repellent
- Hand sanitizer
- Basic first aid kit
- Prescription medications
- Sunglasses with UV protection
Kenya and Tanzania Safari Combo Itinerary Ideas
Classic 10-Day Kenya and Tanzania Safari Combo
Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi
- Airport pickup
- Overnight in Nairobi hotel
- Optional visit to David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage or Giraffe Centre
Days 2-3: Masai Mara
- Morning drive or flight to Masai Mara
- Afternoon game drive
- Full day of game drives on day 3
- Overnight in Mara lodge or tented camp
Day 4: Lake Nakuru
- Morning drive to Lake Nakuru
- Afternoon game drive focusing on rhinos and flamingos
- Overnight in Lake Nakuru lodge
Day 5: Amboseli
- Drive to Amboseli National Park
- Evening game drive with Mt. Kilimanjaro views
- Overnight in Amboseli lodge
Day 6: Amboseli to Arusha
- Morning game drive in Amboseli
- Cross border into Tanzania via Namanga
- Overnight in Arusha
Day 7: Tarangire National Park
- Drive to Tarangire
- Afternoon game drive among baobab trees and elephant herds
- Overnight in Tarangire lodge
Day 8: Ngorongoro Crater
- Drive to Ngorongoro Conservation Area
- Descend into crater for full-day game drive
- Overnight at crater rim lodge
Days 9-10: Serengeti
- Drive to Serengeti with game viewing en route
- Full day of game drives in Serengeti
- Final morning game drive before return to Arusha
- Departure flight
Migration-Focused Kenya and Tanzania Safari Combo (July-October)
Days 1-3: Masai Mara
- Focus on river crossing points
- Visit different sectors of the reserve
- Potential for balloon safari over migration herds
Days 4-6: Northern Serengeti
- Cross border at Isebania
- Head directly to northern Serengeti (Kogatende area)
- Game drives focusing on Mara River crossings
Days 7-8: Central Serengeti
- Follow predator activity in central Serengeti
- Visit Seronera Valley’s resident wildlife
- Flight back to starting point
Family-Friendly Kenya and Tanzania Safari Combo
Day 1: Nairobi
- Visit Nairobi National Park
- Giraffe Centre interaction
- Elephant Orphanage visit
Days 2-3: Amboseli
- Easy road access from Nairobi
- Excellent elephant viewing
- Cultural visits to Maasai villages
Days 4-5: Tarangire
- Cross border to Tanzania
- Exciting baobab landscapes
- Large elephant herds
Days 6-7: Ngorongoro
- Contained crater environment with easy wildlife spotting
- Educational visitor center
- Guaranteed wildlife sightings
Days 8-9: Serengeti
- Short flight to avoid long drives
- Wildlife-rich central region
- Return flight to avoid long drives
Luxury Kenya and Tanzania Safari Combo
Days 1-2: Laikipia (Kenya)
- Private conservancy experience
- Walking safaris and night drives
- Luxury boutique lodge
Days 3-4: Masai Mara
- Exclusive private reserve bordering main reserve
- Hot air balloon safari
- Luxury tented camp
Days 5-7: Northern Serengeti
- Private flight across border
- Remote luxury camp
- Private vehicle and guide
Days 8-9: Ngorongoro
- Luxury crater rim lodge
- Private crater tour
- Cultural experiences
Day 10: Return
- Scenic flight back to starting point
- Day room at luxury hotel before departure
Wildlife You’ll See on a Kenya and Tanzania Safari Combo
One of the greatest benefits of a Kenya and Tanzania safari combo is the amazing diversity of wildlife you’ll encounter. While many species occur in both countries, certain areas offer better opportunities for specific animals.
The Big Five
Originally named by hunters for the five most difficult and dangerous animals to hunt on foot, the “Big Five” are now the most sought-after photographic subjects:
Lions: Both countries offer excellent lion viewing:
- Masai Mara: Known for its large prides and strong males
- Serengeti: Home to the famous Seronera pride
- Ngorongoro: High density of lions with unique crater adaptation
Elephants:
- Amboseli: Large herds against Mt. Kilimanjaro backdrop
- Tarangire: Highest concentration in Tanzania
- Serengeti: Smaller family groups throughout the park
Leopards:
- Central Serengeti: Particularly around Seronera River Valley
- Masai Mara: Often spotted in riverside trees
- Lake Nakuru: Good leopard population in the forests
Buffalo: Found throughout both countries:
- Ngorongoro: Large herds on crater floor
- Masai Mara: Massive herds in grasslands
- Serengeti: Herds often follow the migration
Rhinos:
- Lake Nakuru: Best place for both black and white rhinos in Kenya
- Ngorongoro: Small but viewable population of black rhinos
- Masai Mara: Limited numbers in protected areas
The Great Migration
The annual movement of over 1.5 million wildebeest, 200,000 zebras, and thousands of gazelles between the Serengeti and Masai Mara is perhaps the greatest wildlife spectacle on earth. A Kenya and Tanzania safari combo gives you the best chance of witnessing this phenomenon:
January-March: Southern Serengeti and Ndutu (Tanzania)
- Calving season with over 500,000 wildebeest births in a few weeks
- Predator activity at its highest
- Lush green landscapes
April-May: Central and Western Serengeti (Tanzania)
- Herds moving north following the rains
- Grumeti River crossings possible
- Fewer tourists during rainy season
June-July: Northern Serengeti (Tanzania)
- Herds gathering near Mara River
- First river crossings begin
- Excellent predator-prey interaction
August-October: Masai Mara (Kenya) and Northern Serengeti (Tanzania)
- Peak river crossing season
- Largest concentrations in both countries
- Dramatic predator hunts
November-December: Moving south through eastern Serengeti (Tanzania)
- Herds returning to southern breeding grounds
- Scattered across large areas
- Green season beginning
Unique Wildlife Experiences in Each Country
Kenya Specials:
- Samburu’s “Special Five”: Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, gerenuk, beisa oryx
- Lake Nakuru’s flamingo flocks (when water conditions are right)
- Amboseli’s elephant families against Kilimanjaro backdrop
- Rothschild’s giraffes in Lake Nakuru
Tanzania Specials:
- Ngorongoro Crater’s unique enclosed ecosystem
- Lake Manyara’s tree-climbing lions
- Tarangire’s massive elephant herds among baobabs
- Serengeti kopjes (rock formations) with resident lion prides
Cultural Experiences on Your Kenya and Tanzania Safari Combo
While wildlife is the primary focus of most safari trips, the cultural experiences available can add tremendous depth to your journey. Both Kenya and Tanzania have rich cultural heritage with over 120 ethnic groups between them.
Maasai Communities
The Maasai people inhabit parts of both Kenya and Tanzania, primarily around the Masai Mara and northern Tanzania. Their distinctive red clothing, beaded jewelry, and jumping dances have become iconic symbols of East Africa. On your Kenya and Tanzania safari combo, you can:
- Visit authentic Maasai villages (not tourist setups)
- Learn about traditional cattle herding practices
- Participate in cultural dances and ceremonies
- Shop for handmade crafts directly from artisans
- Understand conservation from the Maasai perspective
Many lodges and camps employ Maasai staff who can share insights about their culture in an authentic way.
Other Cultural Experiences
In Kenya:
- Samburu village visits in northern Kenya
- Kikuyu cultural demonstrations near Nairobi
- Swahili cultural tours if extending to the coast
In Tanzania:
- Hadzabe bushmen experiences near Lake Eyasi
- Datoga blacksmith village visits
- Makonde woodcarving demonstrations
- Chagga cultural tours on Kilimanjaro’s slopes
Responsible Cultural Tourism
When engaging with local communities during your Kenya and Tanzania safari combo, keep these principles in mind:
- Ask permission before taking photographs of people
- Pay fair prices for crafts and cultural performances
- Dress modestly when visiting villages
- Learn a few basic greetings in Swahili
- Follow local customs and traditions
- Choose operators who give back to communities
How to Book Your Kenya and Tanzania Safari Combo
Using a Tour Operator vs. Independent Planning
Tour Operator Advantages:
- Simplified logistics for cross-border travel
- Access to better accommodation rates
- Knowledge of seasonal wildlife movements
- Handling of all permits and park fees
- Professional guides who know the best spots
- Support in case of any issues during travel
Independent Planning Advantages:
- More flexibility to customize your itinerary
- Potential cost savings for budget travelers
- Control over your exact route and timing
- Ability to make last-minute changes
For most travelers, especially first-time visitors, using a reputable tour operator for a Kenya and Tanzania safari combo makes the most sense due to the complexity of cross-border logistics.
Questions to Ask Tour Operators
When selecting a company for your Kenya and Tanzania safari combo, ask:
- How long have they been operating cross-border safaris?
- What type of vehicles do they use? (4×4 is essential)
- Do they employ professional driver-guides in both countries?
- What happens at border crossings? Will someone assist?
- What size will your safari group be?
- Is accommodation confirmed before booking?
- What meals are included?
- What is their cancellation policy?
- Do they have references from previous clients?
- Are park fees included in the quoted price?
Cost-Saving Tips for Your Kenya and Tanzania Safari Combo
Travel in shoulder seasons:
- November and April-May offer lower rates
- Wildlife viewing remains good
- Fewer crowds at popular sights
Choose mid-range accommodation:
- Mix of lodges and tented camps
- Focus spending on better locations rather than luxury amenities
Opt for group tours:
- Shared vehicles reduce per-person costs
- Meet like-minded travelers
- Operators can offer better rates for groups
Stay longer at fewer parks:
- Reduces transport costs
- More relaxed pace
- Better chance of quality wildlife sightings
Book in advance:
- Early booking discounts are common
- Better availability for preferred accommodations
- More time to compare options
What to Expect on Your Kenya and Tanzania Safari Combo
A Typical Safari Day
While each day brings new adventures, most safari days follow a similar pattern:
Early Morning (5:30-6:00 AM):
- Wake-up call (often with tea/coffee delivered to your room)
- Light breakfast
- Depart for morning game drive when animals are most active
Mid-Morning to Lunch (10:30 AM-1:00 PM):
- Return to camp for full breakfast or brunch
- Relaxation time during hottest part of day
- Swimming, reading, or resting
Afternoon (3:30-4:00 PM):
- Tea time at camp
- Depart for afternoon game drive
- Sundowner drinks in the bush (in private reserves)
Evening (7:00 PM onward):
- Return to camp as darkness falls
- Dinner, often communal with other guests
- Evening presentations or stargazing
- Early to bed for next day’s adventure
Game Drive Etiquette
To make the most of your Kenya and Tanzania safari combo and be a responsible visitor:
- Keep voices low during wildlife sightings
- Never feed or attempt to touch animals
- Stay seated in the vehicle unless guides permit exit
- Wear neutral-colored clothing (avoid bright colors/white)
- Turn off camera flashes
- Respect other vehicles and their viewing experience
- Follow guide instructions at all times
- Don’t pressure guides to get too close to animals
Photography Tips
For capturing memories of your Kenya and Tanzania safari combo:
- Bring a camera with good zoom capability (at least 300mm)
- Pack extra batteries and memory cards
- Use morning and evening light for best photos
- Consider a beanbag rest for stability in vehicles
- Learn basic settings before your trip
- Don’t spend the entire safari behind your camera
- Ask your guide for the best angles
- Capture landscapes and people, not just animals
Kenya and Tanzania Safari Combo: Special Interest Safaris
Bird Watching
East Africa offers exceptional bird watching with over 1,000 species between Kenya and Tanzania. Highlights include:
Kenya birding spots:
- Lake Nakuru (flamingos, pelicans, storks)
- Lake Baringo (over 300 species in a small area)
- Arabuko-Sokoke Forest (rare endemic species)
Tanzania birding spots:
- Lake Manyara (huge variety of waterbirds)
- Ngorongoro highland forests
- Tarangire’s swamps and rivers
Best times for birding are November-April when migratory species are present.
Photography Safaris
Specialized Kenya and Tanzania safari combo trips for photographers include:
- Vehicles with special camera mounts
- Extra space for equipment
- Flexible timing to capture best light
- Knowledgeable guides who understand photography
- Positioning for optimal backgrounds
- Longer stays at prime wildlife areas
Walking Safaris
Experience wildlife from ground level with walking components in your Kenya and Tanzania safari combo:
In Kenya:
- Conservancies around Masai Mara
- Lewa Wildlife Conservancy
- Chyulu Hills near Amboseli
In Tanzania:
- Eastern Serengeti walking zones
- Ngorongoro highlands
- Lake Manyara woodlands
Walking safaris are always conducted with armed guides and offer a more intimate connection with the environment.
Family Safaris
Special considerations for families on a Kenya and Tanzania safari combo:
- Malaria-free areas where possible
- Child-friendly accommodations with family rooms
- Shorter game drives mixed with activities
- Guides experienced with children
- Educational components appropriate for different ages
- Swimming pools for afternoon entertainment
Many lodges now offer “Junior Ranger” programs that engage children in learning about wildlife and conservation.
Conservation and Sustainability on Safari
Conservation Challenges
Both Kenya and Tanzania face significant conservation challenges:
- Habitat loss due to expanding human populations
- Human-wildlife conflict over resources
- Poaching threats to elephants and rhinos
- Climate change affecting migration patterns
- Balancing tourism income with ecosystem protection
Choosing Responsible Operators
For a more sustainable Kenya and Tanzania safari combo:
- Look for eco-certified companies
- Ask about their environmental policies
- Choose operators who employ local staff
- Inquire about community benefit programs
- Support conservation-focused accommodations
Questions to ask:
- What percentage of staff is from local communities?
- How do they minimize environmental impact?
- Do they support specific conservation projects?
- How do they handle waste and water usage?
- Do they limit vehicle numbers at wildlife sightings?
How You Can Help
As a visitor on a Kenya and Tanzania safari combo, you can contribute to conservation:
- Follow all park rules and regulations