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You’ve narrowed down your safari destination to East Africa, but now you’re stuck between two of the most iconic wildlife spots: Tanzania and Kenya. On one hand, Tanzania offers the legendary Serengeti, home to the Great Migration, one of nature’s most spectacular events. On the other, Kenya boasts the equally famous Maasai Mara, known for its rich wildlife and breathtaking savannah landscapes.
But there’s so much more to consider beyond these flagship parks. In Tanzania, you can combine your safari with a visit to Mount Kilimanjaro or the exotic beaches of Zanzibar. Kenya, meanwhile, offers a chance to experience both incredible wildlife and vibrant cultural interactions with local Maasai communities.
We’ve built thousands of bespoke itineraries for travellers over the years, and this is where it all starts. Ideally, we recommend spending some time in both countries to make the most of your time in southern Africa. However, if you really have to choose just one, you’ll need to be equipped with everything you need to know about safaris in Tanzania and Kenya, how they differ, and the types of experiences you can expect on either side of the border. Let’s dive straight into it and help you choose your next African safari destination.
Quick Comparison: Tanzania vs Kenya
Tanzania Kenya
Top Safari Destinations Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire National Park, Selous Game Reserve, Ruaha National Park, Arusha National Park. Gombe Stream National Park, Katavi National Park, Mahale Mountains National Park Maasai Mara National Reserve, Amboseli National Park, Lake Nakuru National Park, Tsavo (East and West) National Parks, Nairobi National Park Peak Seasons June-October June-October Activity Highlights Big Five Safaris, Walking Safaris, Cheetah Tracking, Mount Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar Island, Snorkelling Big Five Safaris, Walking Safaris, Cheetah Tracking, Mount Kenya, Snorkelling Iconic Wildlife The Big Five, Blue Wildebeest, Chimpanzee, Cheetah, Hippopotamus, Giraffe, African Wild Dog, Spotted Hyena, Zebra, Whale Shark, Grey-crowned Crane, Nile Crocodile The Big Five, Cheetah, Blue Wildebeest, Hippopotamus, Giraffe, African Wild Dog, Spotted Hyena, Zebra, Nile Crocodile, Whale Shark, Whales, Nile Crocodile
Climate
Tanzania Kenya
Rainy Season March-May; October-December (North & East) October-April (South, Central & West) March-May; November-December Dry Season June-October; January-February (North & East) May-September (South, Central & West) June-October; January-March Best Time for Game Viewing Dry season Dry season
As with many safari destinations in Africa, the dry season is typically the best time to spot wildlife in both Tanzania and Kenya. Given their close proximity, the two countries experience similar rainy seasons. Having said that, climate can vary significantly within each destination – often dictated by altitude.
For example, Tanzania’s highlands can get as cold as 10 °C, while the rest of the country rarely dips below 20 °C. At the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, the temperature can drop to -27 °C on rare occasions. The highest average temperatures occur along the east coast in places like sunny Zanzibar and the large city of Dar Es Salaam. A wide strip of area stretching from central Tanzania to the north is considered arid and hot.
Kenya, being further north, has even drier and hotter regions, especially along the borders with Ethiopia and Somalia. In contrast, high mountains like Mount Kenya and Mount Elgon can be bitterly cold. Many of the country’s major cities are over 1,000 m above sea level, meaning they experience dramatic temperature swings each day. Meanwhile, the climate along the coastline is tropical, bringing rain and heat for much of the year.
Wildlife
Tanzania Kenya
Notable Wildlife The Big Five, cheetah, zebra, blue wildebeest, Grant’s gazelle, Thomson’s gazelle, spotted hyena, African wild dog, hippopotamus, Nile crocodile, giraffe, whale shark, striped hyena, African wolf, tree pangolin, giant pangolin, green turtle The Big Five, cheetah, zebra, blue wildebeest, Grant’s gazelle, Thomson’s gazelle, spotted hyena, African wild dog, hippopotamus, Nile crocodile, giraffe, whale shark, striped hyena, dugong, African wolf, tree pangolin, giant pangolin Notable Birds Grey-crowned crane, shoebill, Pemba scops-owl, banded sunbird, marabou stork, saddle-billed stork, pink-backed pelican, hamerkop, secretarybird, martial eagle, African fish eagle, imperial eagle, southern ground hornbill, bearded vulture, greater flamingo, lesser flamingo, kori bustard Shoebill, marabou stork, saddle-billed stork, lilac-breasted roller, pink-backed pelican, hamerkop, secretarybird, Taita falcon, southern ground hornbill, Abyssinian ground hornbill, bearded vulture, greater flamingo, lesser flamingo, kori bustard
Tanzania and Kenya each offer extraordinary wildlife experiences, yet the nature of their ecosystems and animal populations provides visitors with contrasting adventures. In Tanzania, Serengeti National Park is world-renowned for its vast plains and the incredible spectacle of the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and other animals traverse the landscape. The park is also home to large populations of the Big Five, with over 3,000 lions and thriving numbers of elephants and leopards. The vast Ngorongoro Crater, another Tanzanian gem, provides a stunning setting for viewing a dense concentration of wildlife within a relatively small area.
On the other hand, Kenya’s Maasai Mara offers a more exclusive and immersive wildlife experience. As the northern extension of the Serengeti, the Maasai Mara National Reserve plays a key role in the Great Migration and is renowned for its abundant predator populations, including lions, cheetahs, and leopards. Kenya’s stunning Amboseli National Park, situated at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro, is particularly famous for its large herds of elephants that roam against the backdrop of the towering mountain, making for dramatic landscapes.
Kenya’s emphasis on community-based conservancies and low-impact tourism fosters a more intimate connection with nature, while Tanzania’s diverse landscapes offer even more variety. With its long coastline, Tanzania is also a remarkable ocean safari destination. In places like Zanzibar, visitors can explore vibrant coral reefs, swim with dolphins, and enjoy the blend of marine and bush experiences, adding a unique dimension to the country’s wildlife offerings.
Best Safari Destinations
Tanzania Kenya
Bush Safaris Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire National Park, Selous Game Reserve, Ruaha National Park, Arusha National Park. Gombe Stream National Park, Katavi National Park, Mahale Mountains National Park Maasai Mara National Reserve, Amboseli National Park, Lake Nakuru National Park, Tsavo (East and West) National Parks, Nairobi National Park Marine Safaris Mafia Island Marine Park, Saadani National Park Watamu and Malindi
If You Want to See the Big Five
There’s no clear winner between Tanzania and Kenya here. Both regions are home to multiple Big Five reserves, so think about some of the other kinds of area-specific animals you’d like to see.
If You Want to See the Great Migration
The annual Great Wildebeest Migration takes place in both countries. In Tanzania, the best place to witness it is Serengeti National Park, while in Kenya, you’ll want to visit the Maasai Mara National Reserve. There are also multiple private concessions along the migration routes, especially in Kenya.
If You Want to See Big Cats
Both countries boast healthy populations of predators, but Tanzania has the single largest wild population of lions in the world, numbering over 14,000. There are over 3,000 in Serengeti National Park alone, along with plenty of cheetahs and leopards.
If You Want to See Birds
Tanzania has roughly 1,074 recorded bird species, while Kenya is just behind with 1,058. However, Kenya has the standout birding destination: Lake Nakuru National Park. Here, millions of lesser and greater flamingos feed on algae and plankton, joined by iconic species like pink-backed pelicans, goliath herons, African fish eagles, hamerkops, and grey-crowned cranes.
If You Want to See Primates
Tanzania is home to Gombe Stream National Park. Here, Jane Goodall began her research on chimpanzee behaviour in 1960 and it continues to this day. Her findings have transformed our understanding of our closest relatives. Other primate species here include olive baboons, red colobus monkeys, and red-tailed monkeys.
If You Want to See Marine Life
Both Tanzania and Kenya have their own coastal protected areas, but Tanzania comes out tops. Zanzibar, including the picturesque Pemba Island, is perhaps the most famous coastal destination in East Africa, boasting spectacular coral reefs and incredible marine biodiversity.
Also in Tanzania, Saadani National Park serves as a breeding ground for green turtles. Marine mammals like humpback whales and various dolphins also pass along the coast. Meanwhile, at Mafia Island, you can snorkel with whale sharks.
Going on safari is all about wildlife, but you can combine your game viewing with plenty of other exciting experiences. In some cases, you can even enjoy a safari from above.
Activities
Tanzania Kenya Both Regions
Safari Activities Chimpanzee trekking Camel safaris Big Five safaris, Great Migration safaris, photographic safaris, walking safaris, birding, horseback safaris, mobile camping, hot air balloon safaris Fun Activities Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, visiting Zanzibar, visiting Pemba Island Climbing Mount Kenya and the Aberdares Bush walks, hiking, fishing, stargazing, beach holidays, snorkelling Cultural Activities Zanzibar tours Malindi tours Cultural tours, village visits, food tours, positive impact safaris, Maasai village visits
What are the Pros and Cons of Tanzania and Kenya?
Pros Cons
Tanzania Incredibly diverse landscapes spanning icy mountain peaks and lush tropical forests. Some of the best game viewing in the world in places like Serengeti National Park. Direct access to the Great Wildebeest Migration. The best wildlife viewing is seasonal. Some areas can only be accessed by boat (Gombe Stream National Park). Bookings must be made well in advance as spaces are often limited, especially for the Great Migration. Typically more expensive than Kenya. Wilderness areas are more spread out, meaning more travelling. Kenya Some of the best game viewing in the world in places like Maasai Mara National Reserve. Direct access to the Great Wildebeest Migration. Huge flight network operating out of Nairobi. Quieter game reserves with more exclusive access. More private conservancies than Tanzania. Great for families with children. The best wildlife viewing is seasonal. Bookings must be made well in advance as spaces are often limited, especially for the Great Migration.
Safety
- East Africa is generally safe for tourists, particularly in well-established safari destinations like Tanzania and Kenya. However, it is always advisable to follow local guidelines and travel advisories.
- Safari lodges and parks have stringent safety protocols in place to ensure the safety of guests, including guided game drives and secure accommodations.
- Tanzania shares a border with Mozambique. Northern Mozambique is currently considered unsafe for tourists.
- Similarly, Kenya’s northern coastal areas face risks from terrorist activity in Somalia.
- Petty theft and violent crime can occur in both countries. Please stay alert at all times.
- Malaria is widespread in both countries, especially in lower elevation wilderness areas. Please take relevant precautions.
Cuisine
Tanzania Kenya
Coastal regions like Zanzibar and Dar Es Salaam are famous for spicy foods that are heavily influenced by Arab, Portuguese, and Indian cuisines. Pilau, a rice dish, is especially popular in Zanzibar. You should also definitely try the local samosas. Ugali (maize porridge) is the staple food in many areas. It’s usually served alongside grilled meat, fish (especially tilapia), and okra. Maandazi is a fried doughnut that’s popular as a breakfast snack. Kenya’s culinary heritage is as diverse as its many communities, which include both indigenous and immigrant peoples. Ugali is a staple here, too, as is nyama choma (grilled meat). Seafood is popular in coastal areas and in communities that border lakes. Sukuma wiki is a simple dish of greens is another staple shared with Tanzania and other countries around the Great Lakes.
Ready to Make Your Decision?
Both a safari in Tanzania and beautiful Kenya offer once in a lifetime safari experiences, but the best choice depends on what you’re looking for. If you think you’d prefer a wide range of landscapes, iconic wildlife, and the chance to visit renowned game reserves, Tanzania is an excellent option. You’ll get to explore the Serengeti National Park, known for the Great Migration, or combine your safari with a trip to Mount Kilimanjaro or the stunning beaches of Zanzibar.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more accessible safari with a focus on cultural experiences alongside wildlife, Kenya might be a better fit. The Masai Mara offers unforgettable wildlife viewing, especially during the migration season, and Kenya’s emphasis on community-based tourism allows you to interact with local cultures, such as the Maasai people. The country’s safari infrastructure is well-established, making it easier to plan a seamless adventure.
Both Tanzania and Kenya rank among Africa’s top safari destinations, offering unforgettable experiences. When you’re ready to create your perfect safari itinerary, get in touch with one of our Safari Experts and we’ll help you plan the trip of a lifetime.
