Safari to Kenya and Tanzania. Find Out the Best Destinations

Kenya and Tanzania are two of the most popular safari destinations in Africa. Between the vast savannas, dramatic landscapes, and incredible wildlife, it’s easy to see why safari to Kenya and Tanzania are so popular. But with so many options available, it can be hard to know which destinations are the best for your safari. In this blog post, we will explore some of the best safari destinations in Kenya and Tanzania and help you decide which one is right for you!

The Best Safari Destinations in Kenya

Here are some of the best safari destinations in Kenya:

Amboseli National Park

The Amboseli National Park is one of Kenya’s most popular tourist destinations. It is located in the Rift Valley and covers an area of 392 square kilometers, and is known for its large elephant population and stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Other animals seen in the Park include lions, cheetahs, leopards, buffalo, hippos, and crocodiles. There are also a variety of bird species in the Park.

The Park offers a variety of activities, including game drives, nature walks, bird watching, and camel rides. Several lodges and camps inside the Park are also where visitors can stay. The Amboseli National Park is open year-round and offers free admission for Kenyan citizens.

Maasai Mara National Reserve

Maasai Mara National Reserve is another popular tourist destination in Kenya. It is located in the Rift Valley Province and covers an area of 1,510 square kilometers. The reserve is known for its vast wildlife populations and annual wildebeest migration. Other animal species in reserve include lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, buffaloes, zebras, giraffes, elephants, and Thomson’s gazelles.

The Maasai Mara National Reserve offers many tourist attractions and activities. Talk of nature walks, hot air ballooning, cultural visits, and camping, among others. The reserve is also home to several Maasai villages where tourists can learn about Maasai culture and traditions. Accommodation options in reserve include camping grounds, lodges, tented camps, and safari houses.

Lake Nakuru National Park

Lake Nakuru National Park is a world-famous wildlife sanctuary in the Great Rift Valley of Kenya. The Park is home to over 400 birds, including flamingos, pelicans, storks, and ibises. It is also home to over 50 species of mammals, including lions, leopards, giraffes, and elephants. It offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. There are several well-maintained walking trails throughout the Park, and there are also several lookout points where visitors can watch animals from close up. The Park is also home to many resident hippos and crocodiles.

Talking of beauty, the Park is surrounded by lush green hills and acacia forests, and the lake itself is a bright turquoise color. The Park is also well-known for its spectacular sunsets. This makes it a great place to visit for anyone interested in wildlife or nature when in safari to Kenya and Tanzania. 

Nairobi National Park

Nairobi National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kenya. It is located just seven kilometers from the city center of Nairobi, making it an easy and convenient stop for tourists on safari. The Park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including the big 5. Visitors can enjoy game drives and nature walks in the Park. In addition, Nairobi National Park offers unique views of the cityscape of Nairobi.

Kenyan Coast

Kenyan Coast is a beautiful place to visit and offers plenty of activities and attractions for tourists. There are stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters and plenty of coral reefs for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. The coastline is also home to numerous historic sites and villages, which offer a glimpse into traditional Kenyan culture. 

Visitors can enjoy swimming, hiking, and birdwatching in the lush forested areas inland or take a trip to one of the area’s bustling markets to buy souvenirs. The Kenyan Coast is also a great place to enjoy a relaxing massage or spa treatment after a day of sightseeing. Some common historic sites include the Old Town of Lamu, Fort Jesus, and the Gedi ruins.

The Best Safari Destinations in Tanzania 

Similar to Kenya, there are several safari destinations located in Tanzania. Here are some of the best safari destinations in Tanzania:

Serengeti National Park

The Serengeti National Park is one of Tanzania’s most famous safari destinations. The Park is located in the northern part of the country and covers an area of 14,763 square kilometers. The Park is known for its large wildlife populations and annual wildebeest migration. Other animal species found in the Park include lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, buffaloes, zebras, giraffes, elephants, and Thomson’s gazelles. 

Moreover, the Serengeti National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Therefore, the Park is a great place to go on a safari. There are a variety of animals to see, and the Park is well-maintained with excellent facilities. The Park is also home to several luxury lodges and campsites, making it a great place to stay for a few days.

Ngorongoro Conservation Area

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is located in the northern part of Tanzania and covers an area of about eight thousand square kilometers. The area is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including lions, elephants, rhinos, and leopards. Ngorongoro scenery is also beautiful, with rolling hills and vast plains. The area is also home to the Ngorongoro Crater, a massive volcanic crater over 2,000 feet deep. This makes for some stunning views and plenty of photo opportunities.

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a great place to see various wildlife in one area. The animals are typically less afraid of people here than in other areas, making for tremendous close-up sightings. Plus, the scenery is simply beautiful, making for a wonderful backdrop to any safari photos.

Zanzibar

There are many great reasons to visit Zanzibar when on safari in Kenya and Tanzania. The island is home to beautiful white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical forests. It’s also a culturally rich destination with a fascinating history and vibrant local culture, making Zanzibar a great place to relax after a busy safari. 

The beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling, and there are plenty of opportunities for diving, fishing, and windsurfing. The island is also home to some excellent restaurants serving traditional Swahili cuisine.

Lake Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara is a spectacular, small national park in the Rift Valley of Tanzania. It is a great place to visit if you are looking for an introduction to East African wildlife. The Park is home to various animals, including elephants, lions, and baboons. Several hiking trails wind through the Park and offer great views of the surrounding countryside.

How to Choose the Right Safari Destination 

When choosing a safari destination, there are a few factors to consider. Technically, all these destinations are fantastic safari spots. However, some may better suit your interests and preferences than others. Here are a few things to think about when choosing a safari destination:

What You Plan to See

If you are interested in seeing a specific animal, make sure your chosen destination is known for that particular species. For example, Serengeti National Park would be a good choice if you want to see lions. 

The Time of Year

Some safari destinations are only accessible during certain times of the year due to weather conditions. Check the best time to visit your chosen destination before booking your trip. 

Your Budget

Safari trips can be expensive, so consider your budget when choosing a destination. Some places, like Zanzibar, offer more affordable safari options than others. However, we advise you to go on safari in Kenya and Tanzania between June and September, as this is the best time to see the animals. 

Type of Safari You Want

There are many different types of safaris, from budget camping trips to luxury lodges. Consider what type of safari you want before choosing a destination. These offer safari experiences, but they vary significantly in price and amenities.

Conclusion 

Now that you know some of the best safari destinations in Kenya and Tanzania, it’s time to start planning your trip! Safari to Kenya and Tanzania are both excellent choices for a safari vacation. With so many unique places to see and things to do, you’ll have an incredible experience no matter your destination. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your dream safari today!