Ultimate Guide for Combined Kenya and Tanzania Safaris
An expedition to East Africa, in specific combined Kenya and Tanzania safaris, is always on the top of “Things To Do” list. For many people, this region seems mysterious and majestic yet uncharted and dangerous.
These East African countries are renowned globally for their rich wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. From witnessing the majestic annual wildebeest migration in the vast plains of the Serengeti to exploring the unique biodiversity in the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro, the opportunities are endless.
Whether you prefer a 7-day Kenya and Tanzania safari or an extensive 10-day Kenya and Tanzania safari, luxury or affordable safari packages, you’re sure to find a safari that suits your preferences. So, gear up for an unforgettable adventure with one of the best Kenya and Tanzania safari companies.
How to Book Your Kenya and Tanzania Combined Safaris
The East Africa we know and love is a region of wonder and beauty and that is why we, at AjKenyaSafaris.com, dedicated our lives and efforts to share the wonders of Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and South Sudan with curious tourists.
So why wait? Booking your family safari is a straightforward process. You only need to contact us at +254-748-258-880 or email at james@ajkenyasafaris.com or safarioffers@ajkenyasafaris.com.
Our Top Kenya and Tanzania Safari Tour Packages
Our Top Packages 2023/24 | Safari Price From | The Detailed Itinerary |
13 Days Honeymoon Safari in Kenya – 2024 | From USD 14,964 | |
2 Days Masai Mara Safari | From USD 1885 | |
3-DAY LUXURY 2024 MIGRATION TOUR | FROM USD 2845 | |
5-DAY MIGRATION SAFARI 2024 | FROM USD 1655 | |
4-DAY MASAI MARA MIGRATION PACKAGES – 2024 | FROM USD 2490 | |
4-Day Maasai Mara Migration Safari – 2024 | From USD 1905 | |
3-Day Masai Mara Camp Packages – 2024 | From USD 985 | |
3-Day Masai Mara Easter Packages – 2024 | From USD 1035 | |
3-Day Masai Mara Flying Safari 2024 | From USD 1192 | |
3-Day Masai Mara Packages from Nairobi – 2024 | From USD 990 | |
4-Day Masai Mara Easter Packages – 2024 | From USD 1300 | |
4-Day Mombasa & Diani Valentine Safari – 2024 | At USD 1541 | |
4-Day Mombasa Valentine Getaway 2024 | From USD 2180 | |
3-Day New Year Package 2024 | From USD 1450 | |
2-Day Hell’s Gate & Lake Nakuru Safari | From USD 507 | |
3-Day Amboseli Safari | From USD 734 | |
3-Day Huduma Day Safari to Masai Mara | From USD 950 | |
3-Day Masai Mara Christmas Packages | From USD 1010 | |
3-Day Ol Pejeta Easter Safari for 2024 | From USD 1455 | |
4-Day L. Naivasha & Masai Mara Easter Safari | From USD 1249 | |
4-Day L. Naivasha & Masai Mara Safari | From USD 1174 | |
4-Day L. Nakuru & Masai Mara Safari | From USD 1162 | |
5-Day Flying Safari to Masai Mara & Ol Pejeta Conservancy | From USD 3777 | |
5-Day Tsavo & Diani Safari | From USD 1606 | |
6-Day Kenya Wildlife Safari from India | From USD 1730 | |
7-Day Kenya Christmas Safari | At USD 3093 | |
1-Day Nairobi National Park & Giraffe Center Tour | From USD 119 | |
1-Day Nairobi National Park & Nairobi Animal Orphanage Tour | From USD 34 | |
From USD 4216 | ||
18-Day Kenya Family Safari | From USD 5849 | |
15-Day Senior Citizen Tour – 2024 | From USD 4252 |
Things You Should Know About Kenya and Tanzania Safari Tours
Kenya and Tanzania safaris are a popular choice for travelers looking to experience the diverse wildlife and rich cultural heritage of these East African countries. These safari tours offer unforgettable experiences, from witnessing the Great Migration in the Serengeti National Park to encountering the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and Cape buffalo) in Maasai Mara National Reserve.
However, before embarking on your journey, there are a few things you should know about Kenya and Tanzania safari tours.
Types of Safari Tours
There are various types of safari tours in Kenya and Tanzania, catering to different budgets and preferences. The most common types include:
- Combined Safaris: These safaris combine multiple destinations, such as Kenya and Tanzania, in one itinerary.
- Luxury Safaris: These tours offer high-end accommodations and personalized services for a more luxurious experience.
- Budget Safaris: These safaris are affordable options for travelers on a budget, with basic accommodations and shared facilities.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Kenya and Tanzania for safari tours is during the dry season, from late June to October. This is when the wildlife congregates around water sources, making for easier game viewing. However, if you plan to witness the Great Migration in Serengeti National Park, aim for February-March or July-October.
Visa Requirements
A visa is required for both Kenya and Tanzania, and can be obtained upon arrival or online prior to travel. It is recommended to check the latest visa requirements before your trip.
Health Considerations
Before traveling to Kenya and Tanzania, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional about necessary vaccinations and medications. Yellow fever vaccination is not mandatory for both countries, and malaria prophylaxis is highly recommended. It’s also important to bring insect repellent and sunscreen for protection against mosquito-borne diseases and sun exposure.
Cultural Sensitivity
Kenya and Tanzania have diverse cultures, with over 40 different ethnic groups. When visiting local communities or interacting with the Maasai people, it’s important to be respectful of their customs and traditions. Ask for permission before taking photos and avoid giving gifts or money directly to children, as it can create dependency.
Packing Essentials
When packing for a Kenya and Tanzania safari tour, keep in mind that you’ll be spending most of your time outdoors. Some essential items to pack include:
- Comfortable and breathable clothing (avoid bright colors)
- Sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots
- Sun hat and sunglasses
- Binoculars for game viewing
- Camera with extra memory cards and batteries
Kenya and Tanzania Safari Price
The cost of a Kenya and Tanzania safari tour can vary greatly, depending on the type of tour, duration, and level of luxury. On average, a 10-day combined safari tour can range from \$3,000 to \$10,000 per person. It’s important to research different tour companies and compare prices to find the best deal for your budget.
Choosing the Right Tour Company
With so many tour companies offering Kenya and Tanzania safari tours, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. It’s important to do thorough research and read reviews from previous travelers to ensure you’re choosing a reputable and experienced company. Look for companies that prioritize sustainable tourism practices and have knowledgeable guides.
Top Destinations for Kenya Tanzania Combined Safaris: Things To Do and See
East Africa brags of Mt. Kilimanjaro, Mt. Kenya, the Ngorongoro Crater, Masai Mara ecosystem, and the Serengeti Plains. The Kenya safari explores Kenya’s most prestigious wildlife national reserves and discovers the globally-renowned diversity of East Africa.
The Tanzania safari explores Tanzania’s famous plains and hot air balloon rides over the Serengeti. In more detail, this is what you will experience when on a Kenya and Tanzania safari.
Top 10 Destinations for Kenya Safari Tours
Your Kenya and Tanzania Combined safaris will begin in Kenya where you will get the chance to explore some of these wonders of welcoming East Africa.
1. Masai Mara National Reserve
Masai Mara National Reserve is one of the most breathtaking game reserves in the world. Bordering Tanzania, the reserve is the northern part of the superb Serengeti Plains and forms a wildlife passage between the two nations.
It is named after the friendly, red-cloaked Maasai people who graze their animals and live in the park. In their lingo, Mara means “Mottled”, probably an allusion to the play of shadow and light from the cloud-studded skies and the acacia tree on the immense grasslands.
The reserve is well-known for the Great Migration when hundreds of Thomson’s gazelles, zebras, and of course wildebeests travel from and to the Serengeti Plains, from July to October. In the dangerous Mara River, masses of crocodiles lurk waiting to prey on the closing animals. There are also dozens of hippos in this river.
The reserve is also famous for offering astonishing predator viewings thanks to its fairly huge populations of cheetah, leopard, and lions – especially in the dry season from December to February. Thanks to the Mara altitude, the weather in this park is gentle and mild year round.
2. Amboseli National Park
Crowned by Africa’s tallest peak mountain in Tanzania, Mt. Kilimanjaro, Amboseli National Park is one of Kenya’s must-visit national reserves. The name “Amboseli” is a Maasai word that means “salty dust”, an appropriate description of the reserve’s parched conditions.
The park is one of the ideal places in Africa to watch big herds of elephants near. Other animals commonly spotted in the reserve include cheetahs, lions, impala, eland, giraffe, gazelle, waterbuck, and over 600 species of birds.
Nature enthusiasts can discover at least 4 different habitats ranging from the woodlands, Savannah, a dried-up bed of Lake Amboseli, and wetlands with sulfur springs.
3. Tsavo National Park
Tsavo National Park is Kenya’s largest reserve and is divided into two sections: Tsavo East and Tsavo West. Together, these sections make up 4 percent of Kenya’s total area and feature savannah, rivers, waterfalls, a massive lava-rock plateau, volcanic hills, and an amazing diversity of wild animals.
Midway between Mombasa and Nairobi, the game reserve is well-known for photo-worthy viewing of huge herds of elephants bathing and roiling in red dust. The palm-fringed River Galana twists and turns via the reserve offering amazing game sightings and a lush contrast to the arid plains.
Other must-see sights include the Mudanda Rock, Lugard Falls, which spill into crocodile-filled and rapid pools, and Yatta Plateau, the world’s biggest lava flow. Tsavo West is topographically more varied and wetter with some of the most breathtaking scenes in the northern part of the park.
Must-see sights here include Chaimu Crater, a great area for viewing birds of prey, Ngulia Rhino Sanctuary, and Mzima Springs, a collection of natural springs with a huge population of crocodiles and hippos.
4. Buffalo Springs, Samburu, and Shaba National Parks
On the banks of the great Ewaso Nyiro River, Buffalo Springs, Samburu, and Shaba National Parks lie in a semi-arid area in the remote part of northern Kenya. Shaba National Park is one of the 2 sections where Joy and George Adamson brought up Elsa the lioness, made popular in the movie “Born Free”.
The animals in these three parks depend on the water of the Ewaso Nyiro River to survive and some species are well adapted to the park’s conditions. They include Somali ostriches, gerenuks, a long-necked antelope that stand on 2 legs to reach greener vegetation on tree limbs, and Grevy’s zebras.
A must-see sight in Samburu National Park is the astonishing Sarara Singing Wells, watering points where Samburu people sing traditional songs while they fetch water for their animals to drink. You will also be rewarded with the sight of one or two big cats as well as African wild dogs.
5. Mount Kenya National Park
Located in the Central Highlands, Mt. Kenya National Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site bordering the nation’s namesake tallest mountain at over 5,000m and offers the unusual sight of equatorial snow.
The mountain is made up of 3 glacier-cloaked peaks that occurred as a result of a series of volcanic activities. The lowest peak is Lenana and it also happens to be the easiest to climb. The second highest peak is Nelion and it is the hardest to climb while Batian is the highest peak, although not as challenging as Nelion.
Mount Kenya National Park sites vary from lakes, mineral springs, and glaciers to dense pockets of bamboo and alpine forest. The diversity of fauna and flora offers a great change for Kenya and Tanzania Combined Safaris.
Among the animals, you can spot buffalo, tree hyrax, elephant, hyena, leopard, and black and white Colobus monkeys. Situated in the foothills is the luxurious Mount Kenya Safari Club that features a golf course, tennis court, and fishing ponds.
6. Lake Nakuru National Park
Lake Nakuru National Reserve is well-known for its majestic sight of pink flamingos. These birds swarm on Lake Nakuru itself, one of the soda lakes in the Rift Valley and it makes up about a third of the reserve’s area.
The park was opened in 1961 and over 460 bird species have been recorded as well as other animals. Waterbucks, warthogs, pythons, white rhinos, leopards, and lions are just some of the animals you can see and the landscape ranges from rocky cliffs to grasslands bordering the lake and woodland.
Lake Nakuru also protects the biggest euphorbia candelabrum forest in Africa..
7. Lake Naivasha
A refuge for bird lovers, Lake Naivasha is located at the highest point of the famous Great Rift Valley and is known to shrink during the dry seasons. A successful floriculture industry near the lake is also known to contribute to this situation.
The best way to view animals in Lake Naivasha is by boat. Over 400 bird species have been seen here, including the African fish eagle. Hippos live in the water and zebras, buffalo, eland, and giraffes graze around the lake. Watch out for Columbus monkeys on the canopies too.
Near the lake is the Crater Lake Game Sanctuary that hosts a wildlife-rich environment and the Hell’s Gate National Park. You can pop in for coffee or tea at the Elsamere Conservation Center, the home of the late Joy Adamson, writer of “Born Free”.
8. Hell’s Gate National Park
A hotbed for mountaineers, Hell’s Gate National Reserve is one of the few reserves in Kenya that enables tourists to explore on bicycle or foot and allows camping. Hell’s Gate provides superb hiking and climbing opportunities with 2 extinct volcanoes, obsidian caves, the red cliff of Hell’s Gate Gorge, and the pointed sites of Fischer’s Tower.
Geothermal sites include natural geysers and hot springs hissing steam via vents in the ground’s crust. The reserve also protects a wide collection of wild animals including baboons, eland, hartebeest, leopards, gazelles, ostriches, and over 100 bird species as well as vulture and eagle breeding grounds.
The Oloor Karia Maasai Culture Center is situated within the park and is worth your time with Maasai dancing and singing.
9. Kenya Capital, County 047 – Nairobi
Kenya’s largest city, Nairobi, is famous for its rich colonial history. It was the capital of British East Africa, attracting settlers who came to take part in the tea and coffee industries. Presently, you can explore the city’s well-known historical sites as well as some amazing wildlife-related places.
The Nairobi National Museum is a must-visit one-stop spot to experience exhibits on Kenya’s culture, nature, contemporary art, and history. Green lovers should not pass up the chance to explore the botanic gardens in the enclosure.
Another great tourist site in Nairobi is the Karen Blixen Museum, the amazing home of the respected Danish writer Isak Dinesen, author of “Out of Africa”. To view wild animals without getting far from the capital, visit Nairobi National Park or Reserve, now a black rhino haven and home to other safari stars such as buffalos, zebras, leopards, cheetahs, wildebeests, and lions.
Within the reserve’s vicinity, the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust provides close-up touch with elephant orphans. Your visit to Nairobi wouldn’t be complete without visiting the Giraffe Center.
10. Kenya County 001 – Mombasa
Mombasa is Kenya’s second biggest town, biggest port, and a home to multicultural tourist attractions. Asian, Indian, Arab, British, and Portuguese immigrants add to the amazing cultural mix and presence is evident of different cuisines and architecture.
Mombasa is, in fact, an island joined to its small developments on the mainland by ferries, bridges, and a causeway. Coral reefs border the coast for over 480 km offering amazing diving and snorkeling opportunities, specifically at Mombasa Marine National Park and near Wasini Island.
Deep-sea fishing and dolphin watching are also popular. Historians shouldn’t pass up the chance to explore the 16th century Fort Jesus as well as Old Town with its ancient Swahili dwellings, narrow streets, souvenir shops, and markets.
The north of Mombasa is full of attractions including sports, cinemas, Mombasa go-kart, and a collection of restaurants. Being a beach city, beach lovers will enjoy Bamburi and Nyali Beaches in the north and Diani, Tiwi, and Shelly Beaches in the south.
Top 8 Destinations in Tanzania for Kenya-Tanzania Safari Tours
Next, your Kenya and Tanzania Combined Safaris will head to Tanzania where you will enjoy the best of Tanzania and Zanzibar safari.
1. Serengeti National Park
The Serengeti National Reserve provides the ultimate classic East African safari setting. The Great Migration of zebras and wildebeest starts here. The endless area of grasslands makes the park a great place to spot lions killing their prey because you can witness the whole adventure clearly.
There are hundreds of mobile camps that you can stay in as you view the animals. If possible, spend about 4 days enjoying the best of the Serengeti Plains. The perfect time to visit is between December and June, but you cannot go wrong any other time of the year.
You can even get to enjoy a hot-air-balloon ride at sunrise to experience the magnificent environment of the reserve.
2. Tarangire National Park
Tarangire National Reserve is a fantastic day trip for tourists following a standard northern exploration itinerary, but its numerous dry riverbeds and baobab dotted landscape is worth extra time. During the dry weather (August to October), the reserve has one of the biggest concentrations of wild animals in Tanzania.
It is a great area for people who love watching impala, wildebeest, zebra, giraffe, and elephants. It is also a great reserve to enjoy a walk and an amazing bird watching destination. Be ready to deal with tsetse flies in Tarangire, they can be annoying at certain times of the year.
3. Ruaha National Park
Ruaha National Reserve is a remote, huge, area full of wild animals; especially elephants. It is a heaven for other animals including kudus, African mammals, lions, leopards, cheetahs, and lions.
The reserve is home to the famous Ruaha River and it is here that you get amazing wildlife viewing during the dry season (May to December). The place is only accessible by aircraft.
4. Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Ngorongoro Conservation Center borders the Serengeti Plains in the northern part and houses the world’s biggest crater which acts as a natural haven for almost all species of animals found in Africa.
This includes the endangered black rhino. It is a true haven for photographers and the Maasai still dwell within this area and it also offers shelter to Oldupai – where some of humanity’s earliest remains were discovered.
There are several campsites and lodges in the conservation:
The Selous – Selous is the continent’s biggest reserve, a global heritage area, and less crowded than Serengeti. You can see cheetahs, African hunting dogs, hippos, crocodiles, black rhinos, and elephants in this area.
The Selous rivers, wetlands, and swamps allow visitors to enjoy great boat rides. Walking adventures are also common here – you shouldn’t miss night drives either.
Mahale Mountains – Mahale was the research center for a team of Japanese anthropologists for a few decades. Despite the obvious attraction of the chimps and the clear water of Lake Tanganyika, this place wasn’t a tourist site until a couple of years ago. It is a bit remote, but worth your time.
Besides the over 1000 chimps, there are other animals to see including yellow baboons and red Columbus. The best season to visit Mahale Mountain is during the dry weather from May to October.
A visit to this area is combined with a visit to Katavi and other parts of Kenya and Tanzania combined safaris.
5. Mt Kilimanjaro
East Africa is well-known as a great destination for adventure safari and what can be more exciting than climbing the globe’s tallest free-standing mountain?
Africa’s highest peak, Mt. Kilimanjaro stands at 5896m (19,340 ft) and will take you six days to conquer. The best thing about this adventure is that you can make it as long as you are determined and fit.
Furthermore, you don’t need any special expertise or equipment to climb it.
6. Zanzibar
Zanzibar is among Tanzania’s top holiday destinations due to its incredible beaches and fascinating history. It is situated in the Indian Ocean and has been a trading center for many centuries.
Well-known for its species, the island was a popular slave trading area during the Arab rulers. The capital city of Zanzibar is called Stone House, a world heritage site that features breathtaking traditional houses, a sultan’s palace, many mosques, and narrow alleyways.
Some of the neighboring islands, such as Mnemba Island, provide a total paradise for all visitors.
7. Katavi National Park
Katavi has all the attractions of being a top tourist destination during an East Africa Safari. It is exploding with animals and good savannah land. The major reason why this place sees a lot of visitors is that of its remote nature.
This is the number one reason why you should visit it and if you are searching for a unique Tanzania safari experience – it is only accessible by an aircraft and has only 2 camps. The place is best during the dry weather (June to November) when the pools are full of hippos.
8. Mafia Island
With about 1000 tourists per year, Mafia Island isn’t a popular site for visitors – it is an undiscovered gem. It has a strong Swahili culture and rich history unspoiled by visitors.
The biggest part of the island, as well as its attractive beaches, has been reserved as marine parks. It is the ideal place to go for deep sea fishing, snorkels, and dive in East Africa Safari.
You can view turtles, sharks, and other water animals.