In a world of tough choices, choosing between Kenya Safari and Tanzania Safari must be one of the hardest. Both countries offer extraordinary scenery, world-class game-viewing, different aspects of the Great Wildebeest Migration, and a number of other appealing attractions, yet both countries offer completely different safari experience. This is why many people are left with the question: Which of the two destinations offers the best safari experience, Tanzania or Kenya?

Both countries are in East Africa and have coastlines along the warm Indian Ocean. East Africa is known for being one of the last true wilderness regions of Africa. The Great Migration that traverses both Tanzania and Kenya make these countries the particularly popular travel destinations. A multitude of wildlife species, birds and varied terrain means that East Africa hides surprises in every corner for anyone who seeks a lifetime adventure. In both countries you can go on the classic wilderness safari circuit or venture off the beaten path.

If you are looking for a rustic African adventure, you should cast your eyes to East Africa. That leaves Tanzania and Kenya locked in a battle for your affections. As with all travel, deciding where to go on safari is a “choose your own adventure” experience.

Both Kenya and Tanzania hold several international flights from many parts of the world. However, Kenya has notably more flights available which means airfare is also cheaper. Some visitors to Tanzania even opt to fly from their country of departure to Nairobi in Kenya and then just take a connecting flight to Tanzania as this is usually the cheaper option.

Kenya Safari Highlights:

The moment you step away from the urban jungle of Nairobi, Kenya offers you a treasure trove of landscapes and wildlife experiences. In its swampy marshlands, golden grasslands and bush landscapes interspersed with moringas and acacias, giants have roamed for centuries. With some of the best known national parks in the world, a Kenya safari offers an astounding concentration of big and small game amid relatively smaller, stunning national parks. Think acacia grasslands under Mount Kenya when you think of buffalo sightings, the lush green pastures of Amboseli for elephants, and the dry Savannahs of Tsavo East for lions and cheetahs. And let’s not forget that jewel in the crown of Kenya – Masai Mara, which offers some of the best opportunities to see the African big five in action.

• The Great Migration occurs in Kenya each year. Iconic events include the deadly Mara River crossing and visiting the Masai Mara National Park. Highly recommended between August and November before the herds go back to Tanzania.
• Tourism is a big industry in Kenya, which means more travel and accommodation options, wide availability, and cheaper prices overall.
• Starting in Nairobi, the common Southwest Safari Circuit visits national parks like the Masai Mara, and the flamingos and rhinos of Lake Nakuru.
• Petty crime, sketchy tourist traps, and crowded national parks are more common in Kenya than Tanzania, due to a high unemployment rate and competitive tourism industry. Always be very vigilant.