A safari on the East African grasslands is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, truly unique and unforgettable. The vast open plains, teeming with wildlife, create an unparalleled adventure that stays with you forever.
Many people often wonder which destination offers the best wildlife viewing: Kenya or Tanzania. If you’re looking for the best value for your money, I highly recommend Kenya 🇰🇪. The cost of wildlife viewing here is about one-third that of Tanzania. However, if you’re after a more immersive and diverse wildlife experience, choose Tanzania 🇹🇿.
The Serengeti in Tanzania is significantly larger than Kenya’s Maasai Mara and boasts a richer array of wildlife. After your safari, you can extend your trip to the idyllic Zanzibar Island, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and cultural exploration.
✅ Entry Guide
Kenya now welcomes visitors from around the world with visa-free entry, but it’s essential to apply for an electronic entry permit on the official website before your arrival. Be cautious of potential extortion attempts by HG; feel free to firmly refuse any such demands.
✅ About SIM Cards
For reliable connectivity, especially in the grasslands, it’s recommended to get an AIRTEL or SAFARI SIM card. These operators offer better coverage, and 12GB of data costs around 1000 shillings (approximately 50 RMB).
✅ Currency Exchange
Avoid exchanging currency at the airport due to unfavorable rates. Instead, head to the TRADE BUREAU in downtown for better exchange rates. For transportation from the airport to the city, use Bolt, which is much cheaper than Uber. Taxis in Kenya are reasonably priced, making them a safer and more convenient option compared to buses, given Nairobi’s safety concerns.
✅ 7-Day 6-Night Travel Guide
1️⃣ 1 day in Nairobi
Start your journey with a panoramic view of Nairobi from the KICC. Visit the National Museum for a deep dive into Kenyan history and culture. If you plan to visit Maasai Mara, you can skip the Nairobi National Park. The Nairobi walk safari and giraffe center are not worth the time and effort.
2️⃣ 3 days in Maasai Mara
You can find numerous travel agencies in downtown Nairobi, offering 3-day 2-night safari tours for around $350 to $420, which is quite reasonable. These tours include a driver who will guide you through the savannah in search of the “Big Five” – lions, African buffalo, leopards, elephants, and rhinos (or hippos).
3️⃣ Masai Village
This experience is typically included in the 3-day 2-night tour of Maasai Mara. The village provides a glimpse into the traditional and primitive lifestyle of the Maasai people, a true representation of African culture. I strongly recommend adding this to your safari itinerary.
4️⃣ 1 day at Lake Nakuru
Hire a car for a round trip from Nairobi to Lake Nakuru, famous for its flamingos.
The sight of thousands of pink flamingos is simply breathtaking. If time allows, make a stop at Hell’s Gate for an added adventure.
5️⃣ 2 days in Amboseli
You can either drive yourself or hire a car to explore Amboseli. This park is renowned for its large population of African wild elephants and offers stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa.
I’ve always been torn between Kenya and Tanzania for a safari—good to know Kenya offers better value. Those live images really brought the savannah to life! I can almost hear the lions roaring. Definitely makes me want to plan my trip now.