What Are the Differences Between Tanzanian and Kenyan Safaris?

When it comes time to plan your African safari adventure, it can often be difficult to decide between Tanzania & Kenya. Are Tanzania or Kenyan safaris better for you?

While both countries offer world-class game-viewing and a number of other appealing attractions, not all countries are created equal. Today, we're highlighting the differences between Tanzanian and Kenyan safaris.

#1 - The Wildebeest Migration in Tanzania and Kenya

Getting front-row seats for the Greatest Show on Earth is a huge part of what makes Tanzania & Kenya popular safari destinations. The annual Wildebeest Migration sees more than a million wildebeest, zebras, and antelope make the grueling trip from Tanzania into Kenya (and back again).

While both countries can boast playing host to the spectacle, it is Tanzania that get's the lion's share of the action. The Wildebeest Migration can be witnessed in Tanzania for nine months each year. Conversely, Kenya can only claim fame for three months.

December - March sees the Wildebeest Migration's calving season taking place in the Southern Serengeti. April - mid-July sees the Serengeti take center stage. From August - October, both Kenya, and Tanzania play host to the high-drama of the Mara River crossing.

The best time of year to witness the Wildebeest Migration is undoubtedly mid-July through until October, when cross-country safaris can catch the action in both Kenya and Tanzania. For the rest of the year, however, Tanzania is the place to be.

#2 - Family-Friendly Tours

Both Tanzanian and Kenyan safaris can be tailored to be family-friendly safaris. With a variety of parks and activities to choose from, both countries can fit the bill.

However, cosmopolitan Nairobi in Kenya is jam-packed with kid-friendly activities, and family-friendly parks like Lake Naivasha, Hell's Gate National Park, and Ol Pejeta make Kenya the perfect place for planning a family safari.

Whether it is a day at the Elephant Orphanage and Giraffe Centre or cycling in Hell's Gate National Park, Kenya has plenty of kid-friendly activities to keep the young ones entertained.

This isn't to say Tanzania doesn't have plenty to offer children. Overnighting with the Maasai, visiting the Hadzabe bushmen, and touring Arusha National Park are all great activities for kids.

If we had to choose, however, we think Kenya is the best option for a safari with kids. We even have a seven-day safari perfect for families!

#3 - Price

A safari can be an expensive vacation, but Shadows of Africa has plenty of experience planning a safari on a budget.

When it comes to pricing, Kenya is definitely the more affordable safari destination. Both budget and luxury accommodations generally being considerably cheaper than what you will find in Tanzania.

For those wanting to keep their budget in check, planning a safari to Kenya is a great way to do so.

The downside to Kenya's affordability is that its parks tend to be more crowded and hotels sell out much faster. In August and September, for example, the Maasai Mara is often fully booked a year in advance!

#4 - The Kenya Coast vs. Zanzibar

Taking a beach vacation at the end of your safari is a great way to cap off a remarkable adventure.

Both Kenya and Tanzania are home to some of Africa's best beaches. The Kenya Coast is home to some truly breathtaking beaches such as Malindi and Watamu, while Tanzania has the spice island of Zanzibar.

Shadows of Africa has an office in Zanzibar, so we are experts on planning a Zanzibar vacation.

Both destinations have plenty of resorts and activities to entertain, but we're partial to Zanzibar. Not only does it have a rich history and plenty of activities, but it is also home to some truly stunning resorts and beach hotels.

Shadows of Africa also offers a number of terrific safari tours from Zanzibar.

#5 - Trekking & Cultural Activities

While Kenya can lay claim to being budget-friendly and family-friendly, Tanzania has Kenya covered when it comes to outdoor adventures and cultural activities.

Both Tanzanian and Kenyan safaris can feature a visit with the Maasai, but only Tanzania can boast cultural tours with the Hadzabe and Chaga people. Our Tribes of Tanzania safari is a great window into Tanzania's diverse tribal cultures.

Tanzania is also home to Mount Kilimanjaro. People wishing to climb the Roof of Africa will find a number of Kilimanjaro tours to choose from. We also sell tours to nearby Mt. Meru, while Kenya can boast Africa's second tallest mountain: Mount Kenya.

For the especially adventurous, Tanzania also offers the opportunity to climb an active volcano or trek through the Ngorongoro Highlands. We even have a nine-day adventure safari for true adrenaline junkies!

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As you can see, both Tanzanian and Kenyan safaris offer a wealth of adventure. It all comes down to what you're looking for from your trip.

If you're a family on a budget, Kenya might be the best option.

If you're looking for front-row seats to the Wildebeest Migration and a dash of adventure, Tanzania has you covered!

Why not contact one of our safari experts and begin planning your dream safari now?