The Best Masai Mara and Serengeti Safari Tours: An Unforgettable Adventure
Embark on the ultimate African safari experience with the best Masai Mara and Serengeti Safari Tours. These two iconic destinations offer unparalleled wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes, and a chance to witness the awe-inspiring Great Serengeti Wildebeest Migration. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time safari-goer, a journey through the Masai Mara and Serengeti promises memories that will last a lifetime.
1. Which safari is better, Masai Mara or Serengeti?
Both are exceptional! The Masai Mara is renowned for predator sightings and the Great Migration, while the Serengeti offers vast grasslands and diverse wildlife.
2. Can you cross from Masai Mara to the Serengeti?
Yes, you can cross the Kenya-Tanzania border at Isebania or Sirari.
3. What is the best time for a safari in Kenya and Tanzania?
The dry season (June to October) is ideal for wildlife viewing, as animals gather around water sources.
Key Differences: Masai Mara vs. Serengeti
| Feature | Masai Mara (Kenya) | Serengeti (Tanzania) |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 1,510 km² (smaller) | 14,750 km² (massive) |
| Wildlife Density | Higher concentration | More spread out |
| Great Migration | Aug-Oct (river crossings) | Year-round (varies by region) |
| Crowds | More crowded (smaller area) | Fewer crowds (larger space) |
| Cost | More budget options available | Generally more expensive |
| Landscape | Rolling hills, riverine forests | Vast plains, kopjes, woodlands |
| Accessibility | Easier from Nairobi | Requires longer transfers |
Price of Masai Mara and Serengeti Safari Tours
The cost of Masai Mara and Serengeti Safari Tours varies depending on factors such as tour duration, accommodation type, transportation, and included activities. On average, prices range from USD 2,00010,000 per person.
- Budget-friendly options (around 4,000): These tours typically include comfortable but basic accommodations, shared transportation, and standard game drives.
- Mid-range packages (): Enjoy upgraded lodges or tented camps, private game drives, and additional activities like cultural visits.
- Luxury safaris (10,000+): indulge in high-end lodges or luxury tented camps, exclusive services, private guides, and unique experiences such as hot air balloon rides.
When planning your safari, consider additional costs like park fees, tips, and optional activities. Comparing tour operators and packages will help you find the best value for your dream adventure.
Tour Inclusions and Exclusions
When booking your Masai Mara and Serengeti Safari Tour, here’s what’s typically included and excluded:
| Tour Inclusions | Tour Exclusions |
|---|---|
| Game drives and park entrance fees | International/domestic flights |
| Experienced English-speaking guides | Visa fees and travel insurance |
| Accommodation (full-board basis) | Tips for guides, waiters, and porters |
| Transportation in 4×4 safari vehicles | Alcoholic beverages and personal items |
| Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and bottled water | Optional activities (e.g., hot air balloon rides) |
How Many Days Are Recommended for a Masai Mara and Serengeti Tour?
For an immersive experience, plan a 5 to 7-day safari. This duration allows you to:
- Explore both the Masai Mara and Serengeti thoroughly.
- Witness the Great Migration and other wildlife spectacles.
- Enjoy multiple game drives at different times of the day.
- Participate in cultural activities and optional adventures like hot air balloon rides
When to Visit Masai Mara & Serengeti Safari Tours:
| Month | Masai Mara | Serengeti |
|---|---|---|
| Jul-Oct | Peak season (crossings) | Northern herds |
| Jan-Mar | Good general viewing | Calving in South |
| Apr-Jun | Low season (rains) | Western movement |
| Nov-Dec | Short rains begin | Herds returning south |
Accommodation Options on a Masai Mara and Serengeti Safari
Your safari accommodations can range from luxury lodges to authentic tented camps:
- Luxury Lodges: Spacious rooms, fine dining, and stunning views.
- Tented Camps: Comfortable canvas tents with private facilities, offering a closer connection to nature.
- Mobile Camps: Ideal for following the Great Migration, these camps provide flexibility and unique wildlife encounters.
Where to Stay: Top Camp Comparisons
Luxury Tier ($800+/night)
Mara: Angama Mara, &Beyond Bateleur Camp
Serengeti: Singita Faru Faru, Four Seasons
Premium Tier ($400-$800/night)
Mara: Mara Bush Camp, Entim Camp
Serengeti: Lemala Camps, Nomad Serengeti
Comfort Tier ($200-$400/night)
Mara: Mara Sopa Lodge, Ashnil Mara
Serengeti: Serengeti Serena, Kati Kati
Fly or Drive to Start Your Safari?
You can begin your Masai Mara and Serengeti Safari Tour by flying or driving:
- Flying: Domestic flights from Nairobi to Masai Mara or Serengeti take 1-2 hours, offering convenience and stunning aerial views.
- Driving: A scenic road trip from Nairobi to Masai Mara takes 5-6 hours, with the option to cross into Tanzania via the Isebania border.
7-Day Masai Mara and Serengeti Safari Itinerary
This 7-day safari is the perfect choice for travelers seeking to explore Kenya and Tanzania, witness the Great Migration, and encounter the dense and diverse wildlife of these iconic parks.
Overview
- Destinations: Masai Mara National Reserve (Kenya) and Serengeti National Park (Tanzania).
- Duration: 7 days (3 nights in Masai Mara, 3 nights in Serengeti).
- Highlights: Unlimited game drives, the Great Migration, Big Five sightings, and cultural experiences.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Start of Your Luxury Safari from Nairobi
- Depart from Nairobi at 8:00 AM in a private 4×4 Land Cruiser.
- Stop at the Great Rift Valley viewpoint for stunning photos.
- Arrive at your camp in Masai Mara for lunch.
- Afternoon game drive from 3:30 PM to 6:30 PM, spotting lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, and more.
- Dinner and overnight at Basecamp (or Sarova Mara Camp if unavailable).
Day 2: Full Day in Masai Mara
- Early morning game drive from 6:15 AM to 9:00 AM.
- Return to camp for breakfast and relaxation.
- Afternoon game drive from 3:30 PM to 6:30 PM.
- Optional activities: Maasai Village visit or hot air balloon ride (additional cost).
- Dinner and overnight at Basecamp.
Day 3: Explore Masai Mara
- Another full day of game drives, with flexible timings for private safaris.
- Witness the Big Five and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
- Dinner and overnight at Basecamp.
Day 4: Masai Mara to Serengeti via Isebania Border
- Morning game drive en route to the Isebania border.
- Cross into Tanzania and meet your Tanzanian driver-guide.
- Transfer to Serengeti National Park for dinner and overnight at Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge.
Day 5: Discover the Serengeti
- Early morning game drive from 6:15 AM to 9:00 AM.
- Afternoon game drive from 3:30 PM to 6:30 PM.
- Witness the Great Migration and diverse wildlife.
- Dinner and overnight at Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge.
Day 6: Full Day in Serengeti
- Early morning game drive followed by breakfast.
- Relax at the lodge or enjoy optional activities.
- Afternoon game drive to explore more of the Serengeti.
- Dinner and overnight at Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge.
Day 7: Serengeti to Arusha
- Concluding game drive at dawn.
- Breakfast and check-out by 10:00 AM.
- Drive to Arusha, arriving by early afternoon.
- Optional: Ngorongoro Crater:
- Many combined safaris include a visit to the Ngorongoro Crater, a unique volcanic caldera offering diverse wildlife sightings.
- Drop-off at your hotel or transfer to the airport for your flight home.
Safari Cost Comparison
| Duration | Masai Mara | Serengeti | Combined |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 Days | $2,500-$5,000 | $3,500-$7,000 | N/A |
| 7 Days | $3,500-$6,500 | $5,000-$9,000 | $6,500-$12,000 |
| 10 Days | N/A | N/A | $8,000-$15,000+ |
Prices per person, including mid-range accommodation
Booking Tips
For Migration Focus: Book 9-12 months ahead for Jul-Oct
Visa Requirements: Kenya & Tanzania need separate visas
Health: Yellow fever vaccination recommended
Payment: 30-50% deposit typically required
Why Choose a Combined Tour?
✔ See different phases of migration
✔ Compare wildlife behaviors in both parks
✔ Experience varied landscapes
✔ Photographic diversity
FAQ
Q: Which has better predator sightings?
A: Both excel, but Mara’s compact size makes sightings slightly easier.
Q: Is the border crossing complicated?
A: No – most operators handle paperwork. You’ll need passports for both countries.
Q: Can I do this with kids?
A: Yes, many camps accept children 6+ (some 12+ for walking safaris).
