Ultimate Safari Showdown: Why Kenya Might Be a Better Choice Than Tanzania

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Ultimate Safari Showdown: Why Kenya Might Be a Better Choice Than Tanzania

Kenya vs. Tanzania Safari: Which Destination is Right for You?

Kenya vs. Tanzania Safari: Which Destination is Right for You?

Embarking on a safari is a dream adventure for many, and East Africa is home to two of the most renowned safari destinations: Kenya and Tanzania. Both countries offer spectacular landscapes, diverse wildlife, and unique cultural experiences, but each has its distinct charm and appeal. This comprehensive guide will help you decide between Kenya and Tanzania for your safari adventure by exploring the key highlights, best times to visit, iconic safari parks, wildlife, and much more.

Overview of Kenyan Safaris

Kenya, known for its vibrant cultures and stunning landscapes, is one of the top safari destinations in Africa. The country's safari industry is well-developed, offering a wide range of experiences from luxury lodges to budget-friendly campsites. Key highlights include the annual Great Migration in the Masai Mara, vast savannahs, and iconic wildlife sightings. For more details on Kenyan destinations, visit Beyond the Plains Safaris Kenya Destination.

Overview of Tanzanian Safaris

Tanzania, with its vast wilderness and diverse ecosystems, provides an equally compelling safari experience. Home to the Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania boasts incredible wildlife diversity and some of the most picturesque landscapes in Africa. The country's commitment to conservation ensures that visitors experience unspoiled natural beauty and abundant wildlife. To explore Tanzanian safari destinations, check out Beyond the Plains Safaris Tanzania Destinations.

Best Time to Visit Kenya for a Safari

The best time to visit Kenya largely depends on what you want to see. The dry season from June to October is ideal for wildlife viewing, as animals gather around water sources. This period also coincides with the Great Migration in the Masai Mara, a spectacular natural event where millions of wildebeest and zebras migrate across the plains.

Best Time to Visit Tanzania for a Safari

Similarly, Tanzania's dry season from June to October is perfect for safaris, especially for witnessing the Great Migration in the Serengeti. January to March is another excellent time to visit, as the calving season occurs, offering the chance to see newborn animals and predator interactions.

Kenya's Iconic Safari Parks

  • Masai Mara National Reserve: Known for the Great Migration and large predator populations.
  • Amboseli National Park: Offers stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro and large elephant herds.
  • Tsavo National Parks (East and West): Known for diverse landscapes and wildlife.
  • Lake Nakuru National Park: Famous for its flamingo populations and rhino sanctuary.

Tanzania's Iconic Safari Parks

  • Serengeti National Park: Iconic for the Great Migration and vast savannahs.
  • Ngorongoro Crater: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with a unique ecosystem and diverse wildlife.
  • Tarangire National Park: Known for large elephant herds and baobab trees.
  • Selous Game Reserve: Offers a more remote and exclusive safari experience.

Wildlife in Kenya

Kenya is home to the famous Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino) and a variety of other species. The country is particularly known for its large cat populations and abundant birdlife, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and bird watchers alike.

Wildlife in Tanzania

Tanzania also boasts the Big Five and a rich diversity of wildlife. The Serengeti is renowned for its large predator populations, while the Ngorongoro Crater offers one of the highest densities of wildlife in Africa. Tanzania's varied ecosystems support a wide range of species, from plains game to aquatic birds.

Cultural Experiences in Kenya

Kenya's rich cultural heritage is a significant part of its appeal. Visitors can engage with the Maasai people, known for their distinctive customs and vibrant attire. Cultural tours often include visits to local villages, traditional dance performances, and opportunities to learn about Maasai traditions and daily life.

Cultural Experiences in Tanzania

Tanzania also offers immersive cultural experiences. In addition to the Maasai, visitors can meet the Hadzabe, one of the last remaining hunter-gatherer tribes. Cultural tours in Tanzania provide insights into the diverse lifestyles, languages, and traditions of its people.

Accommodations in Kenya

Kenya offers a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences. Options include luxury lodges, tented camps, budget-friendly campsites, and eco-lodges. Many accommodations provide unique experiences, such as staying in a treehouse or a lodge with panoramic views of the savannah.

Accommodations in Tanzania

Tanzania's accommodation options are similarly diverse, ranging from high-end lodges to mobile camps that move with the Great Migration. Luxury lodges often feature stunning views, exceptional service, and opportunities for close-up wildlife encounters. Budget-friendly campsites and eco-lodges offer more affordable yet immersive experiences.

Safari Activities in Kenya

  • Game Drives: The most common way to explore parks and see wildlife.
  • Hot Air Balloon Rides: Provide a unique perspective over the Masai Mara.
  • Walking Safaris: Led by experienced guides, offering a closer look at the flora and fauna.
  • Cultural Tours: Interactions with local communities and learning about their traditions.

Safari Activities in Tanzania

  • Game Drives: Essential for wildlife viewing in parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro.
  • Hot Air Balloon Rides: An unforgettable way to witness the Serengeti's vast landscapes.
  • Walking Safaris: Particularly popular in Selous Game Reserve.
  • Cultural Tours: Visits to Maasai villages and interactions with the Hadzabe tribe.

Kenya vs. Tanzania: Cost Comparison

When comparing costs, several factors come into play, including accommodation, park fees, and travel expenses. Generally, Tanzania tends to be slightly more expensive due to its extensive park fees and higher accommodation costs, especially during peak seasons. However, both countries offer a range of options to suit different budgets.

Kenya vs. Tanzania: Accessibility and Travel Logistics

Kenya is often considered more accessible due to its well-developed infrastructure and Nairobi's status as a major international hub. Tanzania, while also accessible, requires more internal travel to reach key safari destinations like Serengeti and Ngorongoro, often involving small plane flights.

Family-Friendly Safaris: Kenya vs. Tanzania

Both Kenya and Tanzania are excellent for family safaris, but Kenya might have a slight edge due to its more developed tourism infrastructure and family-friendly lodges. The diversity of activities in Kenya, including cultural experiences and beach extensions in Mombasa or Diani, make it a great choice for families.

Honeymoon Safaris: Kenya vs. Tanzania

For honeymooners, both countries offer romantic experiences, but Tanzania's exclusive lodges and remote locations provide a more intimate and secluded atmosphere. The combination of safari and Zanzibar's pristine beaches makes Tanzania a popular choice for honeymoon safaris.

Photography Safaris: Kenya vs. Tanzania

Photographers will find incredible opportunities in both destinations. Kenya's Masai Mara and Tanzania's Serengeti are both prime locations for wildlife photography. Tanzania's varied landscapes, including the dramatic Ngorongoro Crater, offer unique photographic opportunities.

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banim2025
banim2025

Just left us a 5 star review

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banim2025
January 5, 2025

Incredible wildlife and birding experience

My family and I visited Kenya for 9 days over the holiday period. Our itinerary included a day in Nairobi, and then the national parks of Amboseli, Naivasha, Elementaita, Nakuru and Masai Mara. Since making initial contact with Meektrails, the process could not have been smoother. Charles built us an itinerary based on our preferences, and quoted for various options of accommodation and vehicle class. He was easy to contact over email and WhatsApp (where the majority of our communication took place) and happily amended the itinerary, dates and number of people multiple times until it suited us perfectly. He made enquiries of specific dietary/mobility requirements and passed this information on to the lodges. At various intervals before the trip, Charles sent reminders of requirements, eg, visa application, vaccinations.On arrival, we were greeted by the Meektrails team and introduced to our driver-guide Bernard Njinu. With 25 years experience, he demonstrated vast in-depth knowledge of animal and bird habits- and helped us spot and identify 112 species of birds and 34 species of mammals (including the big 5) and reptiles. We were in particular impressed with his bird knowledge - he was able to spot and identify various species from a distance, from imposing storks and endangered vultures to skulking pipits and longclaws and plovers. Seeing the whydahs and widow birds were a particular highlight. Even experienced twitchers won't be disappointed.Njinu (pronounced without the N) was forthcoming with knowledge about all aspects of the area- geological, historical and cultural. He was extremely professional, friendly, approachable and took great care of us- he brought along a two-step stool to aid my mum with weak knees climb in and out of the vehicle; and planned in frequent comfort breaks for my dad who has diabetes. Njinu was very patient through the game drives and was invested in making sure we got the most out of our time in Kenya.The trip itself was exactly as planned, with no corners cut, no hidden costs (note that tips are standard practice and not included in your quote- I recommended you account for this in advance). The vehicle was comfortable and very fit for purpose. All accommodation including hotels, tented camps and lodges was exactly as advertised/ expected at great locations in or very close to the national parks. Food was good, rooms comfortable, but the hospitality and service were what took our stay to the next level.Now back from holiday, my family agree that this was hands-down one of the best holidays/experiences of our lives. The country of Kenya with its incredible wildlife, landscapes, culture and people has touched our hearts - and Meektrails made it all accessible in the most painless and enjoyable way possible. If you are considering a trip to Kenya or east Africa, I highly recommend Meektrails Safaris for your adventure.

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afnafn
January 5, 2025

Noushad

Our family of four, including two kids had an incredible 5-day safari in Kenya, thanks to the fantastic team at MEEKTRAILS SAFARIS. Right from the start, the communication with Valentine Ngatha was seamless. She was extremely helpful and responsive, ensuring all our queries were addressed and our itinerary was perfectly planned.The accommodations were top-notch, offering a great balance of comfort and a close-to-nature feel. The food was delicious, with plenty of options that suited both adults and kids in our Indian family.However, at one of our stays in Masai Mara, the generator was turned off between 1 am and 4 am, which was a minor inconvenience.Our guide, Mr. Onesmus, was the star of the trip. His exceptional wildlife knowledge, patience with our kids, and ability to spot animals made every game drive unforgettable. We saw the Big Five and so much more, making the experience truly special.The entire trip was well-organized, stress-free, and filled with lifelong memories. We highly recommend MEEKTRAILS SAFARIS for an authentic and hassle-free safari in Kenya!

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Y9451PPannah
January 4, 2025

7-day Safari

We started out our tour with a missing reservation for the first two nights. Also our reservation for the last two nights haven't been made, even though I have gotten confirmation from Meektrails several times that the reservations for the hotel was made. Due to the missing reservations we had to spent the first two nights at another hotel, we were lucky to get a room at yhe planned hotel for the last two nights. Due to the situation our guide started with a challenge and he handled the situation really well. Our guide was throughout the hole tour very nice and professional, and had a lot of knowledge about the different animals we saw.

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marcocW9184FI
January 3, 2025

An experience we will never forget!

We went for an amazing and memorable 8-day safari exploring Amboseli, Lake Naivasha, Lake Nakuru and Masai Mara in Kenya. During the booking process, the Meektrails Safari agent (Peris Kinyua) has been constantly kind and professional, giving us amazing suggestions and tailoring all the aspects of the safari according to our needs. They proposed very cozy, clean and perfectly-located accommodations having all the amenities and very good food. Moreover, Peris has been always in contact with us during the safari to check that everything was smooth and fine. The new, clean and spacious vehicle has everything what you need (wifi, water, plugs, etc.)!Samuel (Sammy) has been our incredible and tireless driver for the safari….we simply loved him! No words can really describe his deep experience and passion for his work. In the game drives, he has provided many details on the animals and nature and answered all our questions. During our safari, we had the chance to meet other Meektrails Safari drivers (e.g. Joseph) who are are really kind and always smiling.We had an experience we will never forget, and surely we will contact Meektrails Safari for other trips.

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Culture243627
January 1, 2025

6 day private Kenya safari

We did a 6 day private Kenya safari with Meektrails with a dedicated guide and driver George. We covered Lake Nakuru, Lake Naivasha, Masai Mara and Amboseli. Overall we were very happy with the tour. Our guide George was superb both in terms of attitude and his encyclopaedic knowledge of animals and birds. He knew exactly where to go in all the parks to sight animals including Rhinos in Nakuru and Cheetahs and Lions in Masai Mara. Thank you Meek trails

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702joeyc
December 29, 2024

Fantastic African Safari!

We scheduled our trip through Eluid who was very accommodating and easy to work with. Our driver was Ben who was outstanding and extremely knowledgeable about the animals and the history of the different parks we visited. Communication was very easy and he made us feel very comfortable and safe throughout our entire trip. I highly recommend Meektrails, Eluid and Ben to anyone when planning to rake a safari trip.

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EYWS
December 27, 2024

Professional and caring safari company that we would use again.

We did the 6 day safari with Meektrails to Amboselli, Nakuru and Massai Mara. Charles from Meektrails was so responsive in all the planning for the trip and guiding us on visas. The safari itself was wonderful with Philip as our guide and driver. He was so kind and knowledgeable and was a very safe driver considering the difficult road conditions. Tourists should be aware that the driving time can be longer than expected in the brochures as the rain can damage the roads or due to traffic. For our trip all the accommodations and meals were wonderful and the overall Safari experience is one we will treasure forever! Thank you to the Meektrails team!

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690ezgi_
December 27, 2024

Unforgettable Kenyan Adventure with Meektrails and Jimmy

Our experience in Kenya was nothing short of extraordinary, all thanks to Meektrails and our incredible tour guide and driver, Jimmy. From the very beginning, Meektrails impressed us with their responsiveness and clear communication during the booking process. They provided us with detailed, transparent information and curated a beautifully planned itinerary that exceeded our expectations.Jimmy’s exceptional knowledge of Kenya’s wildlife, natural landscapes, and rich cultural heritage truly brought the journey to life. Every moment was filled with awe and wonder as we explored the breathtaking beauty of Kenya. This trip has left us captivated, and we can’t wait to return for more unforgettable adventures!

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stephanietanous
December 15, 2024

An Unforgettable Week with Meektrails

An amazing week with Meektrails! James was our guide - professional, kind, and knowledgeable with a big smile welcoming us into each incredible experience! We followed his guidance through Amboseli, Naivasha, Nakuru, and Masai Mara and saw all big five up close while learning about Kenya, the parks, and the animals. Meektrails sorted everything and made our trip very easy and enjoyable. Great lodging, good food, and lovely people the whole way. Thank you James and team!

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i_akih89
December 12, 2024

Great experience / fantastic Anthony (guide)

Hello!We are a family of 5 from Gipuzkoa Spain and we have recently travelled with Meektrails. The experience has been fantastic and they really deliver what they offer. Special mention to our guide Anthony who has taken care of us like his own family, a good professional with a lot of sensitivity to locate animals and a very respectful person with the environment and especially with people.

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Tourist652376
December 7, 2024

Out of the World Safari Experience

My family and I had so much fun on the safari organized by MeekTrails. All the hotels and resorts were amazing and very accommodating to vegetarian diet.From the booking to the final day airport drop off, everything was seamless and taken care off.Joseph was an extraordinary guide and human being. He was very kind and understanding. He was very knowledgeable and we were lucky to have him show us around. He provided amazing details and information about the wildlife and I appreciate that very muchWe have 0 complains. Everything was PERFECT

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Keenanpg
November 29, 2024

Great Safari with Meektrails

We recently completed a 7 night safari with Meektrails and had a great experience. Our tour was originally organized by Charles who was very responsive and able to customize our itinerary to our wishes and budget. We spent time in Maasai mara, Nakuru, Amboseli, and Tsavo and enjoyed all of them. The land cruiser was in excellent condition, with a pop-up roof, huge roll down windows, comfortable seats, and working power plugs.Our amazing guide was Anthony who really elevated the experience and allowed us to have an incredible Safari. From the start Anthony was so friendly and open, and made it clear his aim was to make our experience as great as possible. He was absolutely amazing at finding animals and getting us as close as possible to all different animals. We saw everything we had expected and more including cubs and young of nearly every species. He knows all the roads, routes, and small trails which allowed us to get very up close experiences. He also seems to know everyone, from other guides to park rangers which helped us learn about and find the location of animals. He was even also able to organize an early entrance to a couple of the parks to allow us to see sunrise in the park with the animals.Throughout the trip Anthony always double checked the planned schedule with us and offered many suggestions for changes or additions to the plan which really improved the trip. It's clear he has a lot of experience, and local knowledge which allowed him to adjust the itinerary in the best way possible. It's also clear he cares greatly for the local communities and organized for us to give our unused lunch packs to local children rather than seeing the food go to waste.We greatly appreciated our time with Anthony and thanks to him the safari exceeded all our expectations. As for Meektrails the booking process was responsive and easy, and everything was organized as discussed with no hitches. We would certainly organize another safari with Meektrails if returning to Kenya.

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mayamT6827VS
November 29, 2024

Best guide, best company

Our 7-day safari with Meektrails Safaris in Kenya with our guide Anthony was absolutely unforgettable! From start to finish, the experience exceeded all expectations. Our guide Anthony was phenomenal—he was knowledgeable, patient, and went above and beyond to ensure we saw everything on our wildlife wishlist. Thanks to his incredible skill and dedication, we had close encounters with the Big Five, witnessed breathtaking landscapes, and even saw species we hadn’t expected. His passion for wildlife and his deep understanding of the ecosystem made every game drive an adventure filled with learning and excitement. The accommodations and planning by Meektrails were seamless, making the whole journey stress-free and comfortable. Whether it was sunrise safari or tracking animals, every moment was magical. If you’re looking for a safari company that delivers an exceptional experience with a personal touch, Meektrails Safaris is the one. Highly recommended!

tripadvisor
581femkeb
November 27, 2024

An amazing 6 day safari

We had a really great experience! We went on a 6 day safari. Our guide was Phillip, we went to Masai Mara and we spotted the big five. Phillip was a really good and enthusiastic guide. I would really recommend it.

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tommasocasarini
November 24, 2024

Unforgettable first safari

We chose MeekTrails for our first family Safari in Kenya and it was a great choice. We built with them a program that perfectly fitted to our group (with people of different ages 11-60). Our five day safari brought us to Amboseli, Nakuru Lake and Masai Mara Nationals Parks and our fantastic guide Njinu made us see a lot of wild wonderful animals, included the big five! He could always find the best spots that made our experience unforgettable. The Sopa Lodges we chose were clean and comfortable, with a lot of services and pools.We strongly recommend MeekTrails if you’re thinking about going to Kenya to make a safari to discover african wikdlife! 🐆🐅🐘🦒🦏🐃

tripadvisor
lotharj970
November 21, 2024

A week we never will forget

First of all: a big Thank You to the whole team of Meek Trails. From the first contact with Diana until the last drop off at the hotel in Nairobi everything was perfect. Especially Philip: he was calm during driving, told us everything we should know about Africa, the animals, the plants and how to behave in Kenia. Everyday we felt that he was not only doing his job very well, but he was really loving the nature, the big animals and the small ones, specially the moorhens. He was patient, waited with us for the best moments, so we were very lucky to see all the animals we had hoped to see and were able to shoot beautiful photos. We saw the Big 5, the Ugliest 5 and many others and many birds. The days with Philip were full of seeing things and many laughters. The chosen hotels were all beautiful, the meals very good. At last: Thank you Meek Trails for that beautiful and unforgettable surprise at my birthday, when the whole team of the Zebra Camp and a Masai-Group were singing and dancing for me. Diana and Philip: Asante sani - we will miss you!