Kenya vs Tanzania: Which is Better For Wild Safaris?

Both Kenya and Tanzania are home to great game reserves and national parks. The two neighboring countries are known for vibrant beaches along the Indian Ocean coastline. If you are traveling to East Africa for adventure and wild safaris this guide will help you where to go.

As we try to compare the two magical destinations, Kenya and Tanzania share so much in common. Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve and Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park are one ecosystem under two separate administrations. Animal movements here are only limited by natural causes.

The Maasai community in both countries have a common ancestry and traditional values. Foods popular in Kenya are also served in Tanzania. This includes Ugali-made from cornmeal, coconut rice, tea, coffee, and seafood, particularly fish. Tanzanians use slightly more spices in their cooking.

Kenya vs Tanzania for Wild Safari

East Africa has splendid protected areas for wildlife. Kenya, in particular, has The Nairobi National Park, right in the heart of the capital city, Masai Mara National Reserve, Tsavo, Amboseli National Park, Lake Nakuru, Mount Kenya, and several animal sanctuaries.

On the other hand, Tanzania has Serengeti, Arusha National Park, Tarangire National Park, and Lake Manyara National Park. The country is also home to the Ngorongoro Crater, a listed UNESCO heritage site with some of Africa’s highest densities of wildlife living within a volcanic crater.

This puts the two countries in great capacity for ultimate game viewing. The climate in the region favors year-round sightings for both Kenya and Tanzania. There are no significant weather and climate changes, especially in temperature. Mean temperature ranges from approx.15 to 25 °C.

Serengeti or Masai Mara?

The Serengeti and Masai Mara are not just home to various wildlife species, but also the site of the largest wildlife migratory movements on earth, The Great Migration. So, what may affect your decision is the time of the year, your financial capacity, and perhaps your other interests in the region.

Size and wildlife density might be the only factors when comparing Serengeti and Masai mara. The Serengeti National Park spanning 30,000 km2 is nearly ten times bigger than the Masai Mara. As such, the Tanzania side has more wildlife population than the Kenyan side.

However, wildlife densities in Masai Mara put Kenya on a better side for maximum game viewing. It’s typically a suitable destination for travelers who only have a few days to explore the African wild. In the Serengeti, the wildlife is more spread out and you’ll need more time to explore everything.

The great migration movement of wildebeests, zebras, and antelope usually starts in the Serengeti around April after the calving season. The climax is around August to November when the herds cross to Kenya’s side through the Mara River with crocodiles lurking.

Transport and travel logistics

When planning a visit to Kenya or Tanzania, it’s important to consider how you can easily get to and around your destination. Good road infrastructure and transport links can help save time and financial resources. In this regard, both Kenya and Tanzania have great access.

Kenya is an aviation powerhouse in the region, commanding five international airports. Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi is the main entry. Others include Moi International Airport in Mombasa, Kisumu International Airport, Eldoret International Airport and Malindi Airport.

There are also several domestic airports and airstrips well distributed in the country. In addition, Kenya has many modern road networks linking its airports to major tourist attractions. This includes the Nairobi Expressway. So, Kenya is better placed in terms of transport and travel logistics. 

Tanzania on the other hand has three international airports with Kilimanjaro International Airport as the most common entry point. While road networks are equally good, Tanzania is more vast than Kenya. Many roads are not upgraded and moving from one destination to another can take time.

Accommodation and park costs

Accommodation and park costs are quite comparable for both Kenya and Tanzania. However, Kenya has a slight advantage due to its economies of scale. The country has many tour operators and accommodation facilities that compete for business, resulting in lower rates.

Traveling to either Kenya or Tanzania during the peak season can be expensive. June to October coincides with the great migration, so crowds are more and rates are high. There is a need to book in advance or visit during the low seasons in March to early May and November to early December.

Concerning park fees, governments in both countries demand lofty taxes and fees that can put pressure on low-budget travelers. In 2024, national park fees in Kenya were increased by up to 50% in an attempt to address over-tourism and protect the country’s delicate ecosystems.

Tanzania similarly reaps maximally from daily Concession Fees, Park entry, Photography Fees, rental car costs, and a nightly Zanzibar city tax. All these combined make Tanzania a more expensive tourism destination in the East Africa region.

Other destinations

Both Kenya and Tanzania have great destinations that can culminate your safari experience in Africa. The Indian Ocean coastline is dotted with world-class luxury resorts where you can dine and unwind. Mombasa, Malindi, Lamu, and Watamu are great places to enjoy some sun, sea, and sand. 

In Tanzania, you can visit Zanzibar, located just 15 miles from Tanzania’s coast. It’s famous for pristine white beaches, the historic Stone Town – a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and rich African and Arab cultures. Many visitors also trek Mount Kilimanjaro, the tallest peak in Africa.

Final thought

Kenya and Tanzania are all worth visiting for wild adventures. It’s best when you combine the two, but if you have to choose one, decide on your priority, budget, and time. Kenya is significantly cheaper than its neighbor and you can view more wildlife including the big 5 within a few days of your safari.

If you have plenty of time and enough funds, then Tanzania is the best bet for you. The spectacular Ngorongoro crater,  Serengeti National Park, and Mount Kilimanjaro give Tanzania a better standing for a comprehensive wild safari in East Africa.