Why Combine Kenya & Tanzania?
- Both countries host Africa’s greatest wildlife reserves — the Masai Mara (Kenya) and Serengeti (Tanzania) — which are one connected ecosystem.
- You can follow the Great Migration as herds move across borders between July and October.
- Easy connections between Nairobi, Arusha, Kilimanjaro, and the Mara–Serengeti corridor make it smooth logistically.
- Each country adds its own charm:
- Kenya: vibrant culture, scenic highlands, Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru, Amboseli views of Kilimanjaro.
- Tanzania: Serengeti plains, Ngorongoro Crater, Zanzibar beaches, and Mount Kilimanjaro.
1. The Classic Migration Safari – 10 to 12 Days
Best for: First-time safari travellers, wildlife enthusiasts, photographers
Route: Nairobi → Masai Mara → Serengeti → Ngorongoro → Lake Manyara → Arusha
Highlights
- Start in Kenya’s Masai Mara, famous for the Great Migration (July–Oct) and big cats.
- Cross into Tanzania’s Serengeti and follow the wildebeest herds and predators on a Kenya & Tanzania Migration Safari
- Visit the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site teeming with wildlife.
- Optional extension to Lake Manyara (tree-climbing lions) or Zanzibar for relaxation.
Best Time:
- June–October: Great Migration and dry season.
- January–March: Calving season in southern Serengeti.
2. Kilimanjaro, Amboseli & Serengeti Experience – 12 to 14 Days
Best for: Mountain & wildlife lovers
Route: Nairobi → Amboseli (Kenya) → Lake Manyara → Ngorongoro → Serengeti → Zanzibar
Highlights
- Amboseli National Park — close-up elephant herds with Mount Kilimanjaro
- Cross to Tanzania and explore Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti.
- Finish on Zanzibar’s beaches for sun, spice, and relaxation after your safari.
Best Time:
- June–October: Clear Kilimanjaro views and good wildlife.
3. The Great Northern Circuit – 14 to 16 Days
Best for: Deep explorers wanting variety of landscapes & cultures
Route: Nairobi → Samburu → Lake Nakuru → Masai Mara → Serengeti → Ngorongoro → Tarangire → Arusha
Highlights
- Begin in Kenya’s Samburu — desert landscapes, Grevy’s zebra, and cultural immersion.
- Move to Lake Nakuru — pink flamingos and rhinos.
- Continue to Masai Mara and Serengeti, following the migration route.
- End at Ngorongoro and Tarangire for elephant herds and baobabs.
Best Time:
- June–October: Dry and ideal for game viewing.
- Shoulder months (Feb–Mar, Nov) offer fewer tourists and lush landscapes.
4. Luxury Bush & Beach Escape – 10 to 14 Days
Best for: Honeymooners, couples, or luxury travellers
Route: Masai Mara → Serengeti → Ngorongoro → Zanzibar
Highlights
- Start with luxury lodges in Masai Mara and Serengeti, flying between parks.
- Hot air balloon safaris and romantic bush dinners.
- End with 5-star beach resorts in Zanzibar — coral reefs, private villas, and spa retreats.
Best Time:
- Year-round, but best between June–October or January–March.
5. Adventure & Cultural Safari – 12 Days
Best for: Active travellers & culture lovers
Route: Nairobi → Masai Mara → Lake Victoria → Serengeti → Ngorongoro → Maasai Village → Arusha
Highlights
- Drive or boat across Lake Victoria, linking Kenya and Tanzania naturally.
- Visit local Maasai and Hadzabe tribes for authentic cultural interaction.
- Walking safaris, canoe trips, and village experiences.
Best Time:
- June–October or January–March.
6. Family Safari & Zanzibar Holiday – 12 to 15 Days
Best for: Families with children or multigenerational travel
Route: Nairobi → Amboseli → Serengeti → Ngorongoro → Zanzibar
Highlights
- Child-friendly lodges with pools and educational safari programs.
- Easy road and flight connections.
- Relax on Zanzibar beaches at the end.
Best Time:
- June–October or December–February.
Cross-Border Options
- You can cross the border via Isebania (Masai Mara → Serengeti) or Namanga (Amboseli → Arusha).
- Many packages include charter flights between Mara and Serengeti, saving road time.
- E-visas are available for both countries, and combined East Africa tourist visas can simplify travel.
Top Safari Operators Offering Kenya–Tanzania Combos
- &Beyond East Africa
- Asilia Africa
- Elewana Collection
- African Scenic Safaris
- Go2Africa
- Ranger Safaris & Pollman’s Tours (joint Kenya–Tanzania packages)
These operators offer everything from mid-range to ultra-luxury lodges, private 4×4 vehicles, and fly-in itineraries.
Recommended Duration Summary
| Package Type | Duration | Key Highlights |
| Classic Migration Safari | 10–12 days | Mara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro |
| Kilimanjaro & Serengeti Combo | 12–14 days | Mountain + Safari + Zanzibar |
| Great Northern Circuit | 14–16 days | Full Kenya & Tanzania loop |
| Luxury Bush & Beach | 10–14 days | Safari + Zanzibar relaxation |
| Adventure & Culture Safari | 12 days | Wildlife + Tribe interactions |
| Family Safari & Zanzibar | 12–15 days | Child-friendly safari + beaches |
Best Overall Time for Kenya–Tanzania Combo
- June to October: Dry, cool, and best for game viewing.
- January to March: Calving and lush green season with fewer crowds.
- Avoid April–May due to heavy rains and muddy roads.
Perfect — Mount Kilimanjaro is not only Africa’s tallest mountain (5,895 m / 19,341 ft), but also one of the most inspiring travel experiences in the world.
Below is a detailed guide on everything you need to know — from the best routes to hike, where to stay, how to prepare, and the ideal time to climb.
(If you’d like, I can turn this into a Word document afterward for download.)