Tanzania vs Kenya For Safari – Which Is Best?
Two magical destinations in East Africa. But between Tanzania vs Kenya for safari – which is best for honeymoon?
Tanzania vs Kenya for safari? When you think of iconic African safari destinations you probably think of the Serengeti and Maasai Mara!
Respectively located in Tanzania and Kenya, these popular countries are rightly on many bucket lists – wonderful safari honeymoon destinations with the bonus of some of Africa’s best beaches nearby!
Both have vast savannahs teeming with wildlife and Indian Ocean coastlines with stunning stretches of beach – which make for a perfect honeymoon in Africa.
When it comes to choosing between these neighbouring countries in East Africa is a decision we’re happy for you to have, as they’ll both make for an incredible honeymoon!
They are similar in many respects. Wondrous safari experiences where you can see lakes and mountains.
An abundance of animal species, including the Big 5 and the Great Migration.
The dazzling white sand and turquoise waters of Indian Ocean destinations like Diani Beach in Kenya and Zanzibar in Tanzania.
If you’re planning a honeymoon in East Africa, you might wonder what’s the difference between Tanzania vs Kenya for a safari honeymoon?
Exactly what’s the difference between Tanzania vs Kenya for a beach honeymoon?
Let us break these two African delights…
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Best time to visit Tanzania and Kenya
If you’re thinking about Tanzania vs Kenya for your honeymoon, then it’s worth noting that they have similar climates. They experience ‘rainy season’ and ‘dry season’ rather than four seasons.
The best time to visit Tanzania and Kenya is from late June to October when the weather it’s at its driest. It’s the perfect time of year for game viewing in the golden grasslands.
It also coincides with the best time to see the Great Migration, too.
This is also the high season and one of the peak times for more crowds in the most popular national parks.
From January to February there is a shorter hot, dry period. This is a really interesting time to visit as it’s calving season so you’ve a chance to see younger animals.
November and December is the short rainy season and brings showers. This is the beginning of the green season when the landscapes are lush and thriving. This time of year is ideal couples looking for a budget-friendly option.
The only time we’d recommend avoiding Tanzania and Kenya is in March, April, May and even early June.
This is when the ‘long rains’ arrive and the wildlife viewing is not at it’s best and it can be muddy. It’s also rainier in the beach areas.
How to get to Tanzania and Kenya
When it comes down to getting to Tanzania vs Kenya, Kenya’s capital city Nairobi is a little more connected by air than Tanzania’s largest city, Dar Es Salaam, although the latter is catching up.
You can fly to both Nairobi (airport code: NBO) and Dar Es Salaam (DAR) from the Middle East hubs like Dubai in the United Arab Emirates with Emirates, Istanbul with Turkish Airlines and Doha with Qatar Airways.
You can also fly directly from major European capitals such as London or Amsterdam.
International flights also fly to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), gateway to the most popular safari areas of Tanzania, near Moshi and Arusha.
You can fly direct to the island of Zanzibar.
You can also fly from regional airports likeJohannesburg in South Africa and Addis Ababa in Ethiopia.
Planning a Safari Honeymoon in Tanzania vs Kenya
The Cities – Nairobi & Dar Es Salaam
When it comes to cities between Tanzania vs Kenya, this is definitely an aspect where they differ.
Most couples who fly into Tanzania’s largest city, the port town of Dar Es Salaam, just pass through, using it as a gateway to their safari or beach destination.
Although there are beaches nearby, and you can experience the sights and sounds of an African city, there isn’t a huge amount in the way of tourist sites.
In comparison, Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, is landlocked and has much more cultural experiences within the city.
Nairobi National Park is on the edge of the city. You can stay at the famous Giraffe Manor, which usually has at least a one-year waiting list, so book now!
You can visit the nearby sanctuary, Giraffe Centre and check out the Karen Blixen Museum. Get a unique insight into Nairobi life on a tour with former street children.
Getting around Tanzania and Kenya
How do you get around Tanzania and Kenya? Most couples will opt for a safari tour that takes in several stops, over several nights.
We recommend at the very least 4 nights, but ideally 7 or even longer if you’re a true safari enthusiast (or wannabe safari enthusiast!).
If you’re working with a smaller budget, a group safari tour can be great value.
As you move from lodge to lodge and park to park, you’ll cross the savannah taking game drives. You can also opt for a private guided tour with just the two of you and a driver/ranger.
Another option is a fly-in safari with some of the most luxurious lodges and tented camps in Tanzania and Kenya
These are ideal for those short on time with a bigger budget where you can fly to the lodge / camp and spend a few days taking game drives from your accommodation without moving.
You could also book an air safari, where you can fly across the great wilderness from camp to camp.
In Kenya, you can start and end your tour in Nairobi as Maasai Mara is around 5-6 hour drive by road, meaning you can avoid further flights if not going off the beaten track.
In Tanzania, there will usually be at least one or two domestic flights on light aircraft involved as the distances are bigger.
Although you can take trains, in Tanzania, the TAZARA and in Kenya, the Madaraka Express aka SGR, they are not always 100% reliable and have mixed reviews.
Can you drive yourself around Tanzania and Kenya? Doing a self-drive or road trip honeymoon is unusual unless you have experience driving in the wilderness in Africa (South Africa doesn’t count!).
But why wouldn’t you want the expertise and reassurance of a guide?
Not only are you getting their expert knowledge built up over years, but you are also supporting local jobs, the jobs of the people who protect the precious wildlife from poaching and destruction.
National Parks in Tanzania vs Kenya
Note: National Park vs Reserve vs Conservation Area – refers to the different areas you can safari in.
A national park is a large publicly owned and protected area. A reserve is a privately owned and operated area. A conservancy is an area usually operated by local people to conserve their surroundings.
All 3 are important parts of protecting wildlife and the ecosystem. In a reserve, you will usually do more activities, such as night safaris and guided walks. Whereas, in the other two, you will stay in your vehicle.
The wonderful thing about choosing a safari honeymoon in Tanzania and Kenya is that two of their most iconic areas, the Serengeti in Tanzania and the Maasai Mara in Kenya, are actually the same land.
The magnificent African wildlife does not recognise borders drawn by European colonists, and both countries protect the incredible ecosystem!
Tanzania has many incredible national parks, conservation areas and lakes. The northern circuit is a great choice.
This includes the iconic Serengeti National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the one of the most popular Tanzania honeymoon safari experiences for first timers.
The nearby Ngorongoro Crater, formed from an extinct volcano, is one of the best places to see the Big 5 in Africa.
Explore Lake Victoria and Lake Manyara National Park with its abundance of birdlife and a chance to spot tree-climbing lions.
You can get a little more off the beaten track in southern Tanzania in Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve), Ruaha National Park, Udzungwa Mountain Range where you can hike to the Sanje Waterfalls and Mahale Mountains National Park where you can see chimpanzees.
Explore Saadani National Park where a safari experience meets the Indian Ocean with wild beaches and palm trees and elephants roaming – a true Tanzania highlight.
Kenya has so much diversity from tea plantations in the highlands of Kericho to the flamboyance of flamingos at Lake Nakuru in the Great Rift Valley.
Go bird watching at Lake Naivasha. Witness the herds of Elephant in Amboseli National Park with the great Mt. Kilimanjaro as a backdrop.
The Maasai Mara (sometimes misspelled Masai) along with the Serengeti, is home to the famous nomadic Maasai tribe, get a glimpse into their unique culture and way of life of these people who live in Tanzania and Kenya.
The Maasai Mara National Reserve is certainly one of the most popular area for a Kenya safari honeymoon.
Get a little off the beaten track in Tsavo East National Park & Tsavo West National Park, the oldest in Kenya or Chyulu National Park with incredible views of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Fly to Namunyak Wildlife Conservancy and visit Reteti Elephant Sanctuary and learn about the Samburu people in Samburu National Reserve.
Choose Ol Pejeta Conservancy with views of Mount Kenya, Africa’s second highest peak and see the legendary work to save the last northern white rhinos on the planet.
The Lewa Conservancy is home to the also endangered black rhino.
You can really get off the beaten track in northern Kenya.
When it comes down to Tanzania vs Kenya for national parks, both have some wonderful options.
Where to stay in Tanzania and Kenya
Tented Camp or Lodge – A lodge is usually a concrete structure / building made of stone or wood. A tented camp will involve safari tents. Both accommodation types range from basic to ultra luxury and there are many more options in between.
For couples who are adventurous and/or on a smaller budget and are thinking about Tanzania vs Kenya, you’ll find permanent camp sites with basic facilities.
On the other end of the scale, you’ll also find the most luxurious tented camps and lodges in Africa. There are so many options depending on time and budget.
For basic adventure group tours, look at this one in Tanzania and this one in Kenya from small group adventure tour specialist G Adventures.
These are ideal for couples planning a more thrifty honeymoon. Consider upgrading to one of their wonderful National Geographic Tours in Tanzania and Kenya.
If you are looking for the ultimate in luxury in either Tanzania or Kenya but are short on time, consider a fly-in safari to Little Governor’s Camp in Kenya or the Four Seasons Serengeti in Tanzania, for example.
We also can’t get enough of the unique Tent With A View safaris in Tanzania where you can stay in a Land Rover that drives through the Serengeti and other parks and converts into a hotel room suite at night. Pure magic.
Generally, on safari in Tanzania and Kenya, the food is included on a full board basis (breakfast, lunch and dinner). Drinks may cost extra depending on the standard of camp or lodge.
What animals can you see on safari in Tanzania vs Kenya?
The Big 5 refers to the lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and African buffalo
Even though you might be trying to choose between Tanzania vs Kenya, the good news is that the incredible spectacle of the Big 5 and more, in both Tanzania and Kenya will leave you in awe!
Lions, giraffe, leopards, cheetah, rhinos, buffalo, zebra, wildebeests, gazelle and, of course, elephants – the diverse wildlife is breathtaking.
You’ll even see crocodiles and camels – these are just some of the famous residents of East Africa. Abundant bird species and underwater life are other highlights.
One thing to remember is that Tanzania and Kenya are wild, so there is never a guarantee of seeing every animal species that inhabits the region – you have to take what you get! Animal species will vary from park to park.
Generally, you will have at least two game drives per day, early morning and late afternoon when the wildlife is at it’s most active.
These can be shared with other travellers or private with just the two of you and your driver/guide/ranger.
You will be with an experienced ranger, seeking the wildlife in a safari vehicle. You’ll have opportunities to ask questions and get a unique insight into the delicate circle of life.
The Great Migration
The annual wildebeest migration aka The Great Migration in Tanzania and Kenya is when 2.5 million animals – wildebeests, zebra and gazelle are on the move through the vast savannah, creating one of the most spectacular and unique wildlife viewing experiences on the planet.
While many couples may opt to skip this due to time constraints and costs, if an opportunity arises in your plans to see this thrilling display of the herd on the move, we cannot recommend it enough.
The Great Wildebeest Migration crosses the Serengeti-Maasai Mara ecosystem and is a dynamic, year-round phenomenon that showcases the raw beauty and harsh realities of nature.
The cycle begins in January in the southern Serengeti, where lush pastures support the herds and their new calves during the calving season.
As the year progresses, the wild animals moves northwards, driven by the rains and the search for fresh grazing.
The journey is fraught with peril, notably the dramatic river crossing at the Grumeti River in June and the Mara River in July and August, where crocodiles and other predators await.
By September, the herds are grazing in the Masai Mara National Reserve, having survived the river crossings.
The return journey to the Serengeti begins in October, prompted by the onset of the short rains, with the migration reaching the southern plains by December, ready for the calving season to start anew.
This perpetual cycle of movement, dictated by the seasons and the need for sustenance, is not only a spectacle for safari-goers but also a profound reminder of the resilience and interconnectedness of the natural world.
The peak season to see the migration is from July to October but each month offers a unique perspective on this epic journey, making the Great Migration a truly unforgettable experience.
If you want to know more, National Geographic has this wonderful feature that we highly recommend you read before you make any definite honeymoon plans or bookings.
Beaches in Tanzania vs Kenya
Dazzling powdery white sands and the azure water of the Indian Ocean, whichever destination you choose between Tanzania vs Kenya, you’ll find Africa’s best beaches in the region.
The most famous and popular is Unguja aka Spice Island aka Zanzibar Island.
The centuries-old UNESCO World Heritage Site port capital, Stone Town, is one of the most interesting places to visit in East Africa.
Zanzibar has many honeymoon resorts to choose from, like Bazara Resort & Spa. It’s an ideal destination for scuba diving and snorkelling and one of the best destinations for an all-inclusive honeymoon.
There are flights from Nairobi to Zanzibar, too. Meaning, you can easily combine a safari in Tanzania OR Kenya with Zanzibar.
Zanzibar is also accessible from Arusha/Kilimanjaro Airport and Mwanza besides Dar Es Salaam (you will most likely be closer to these airports when you’re on safari).
There are also ferries from Dar Es Salaam which take around 2 hours, although most couples fly. You could also choose Pemba Island or Mafia Island for something a little more off the beaten track.
Dive deeper into Zanzibar honeymoon planning with our ultimate guide!
In Kenya, Mombassa is the gateway city to some beautiful beaches. Diani Beach is the most popular with powdery sand, coral reefs, water sports and beach bars with some great honeymoon spots.
One of our favourites is The Sands at Chale Island. Further along the coast, the Watamu Marine National Park is an essential stop for lovers of the underwater world.
You can even spot whales depending on the season. Explore the lesser visited Lamu archipelago. We love Manda Bay.
Some tourists complain about hawkers on the beaches of Zanzibar and Kenya’s coastline. Beach Hawkers sell goods directly to tourists along the coastline. A polite ‘no’ is all that is needed.
While it can feel intrusive for couples seeking uninterrupted relaxation, these vendors are simply trying to make a living.
If this is something that you may find bothersome, make sure your hotel has an incredible pool or book a suite with a private pool for uninterrupted relaxation!
Where can you tag on to a Tanzania vs Kenya honeymoon?
Where can you add on to Tanzania and Kenya? If you’re lucky to have lots of time, there are many other incredible things you can do.
Hiking to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro is a bucket list trip for intrepid hikers. Aa Africa’s tallest mountain, it is a pretty challenging physical activity, so we don’t recommend this immediately after your wedding!
However, if you’re planning a latermoon (i.e. delaying your honeymoon), climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is certainly a memorable travel and honeymoon experience!
There are 4 routes and you can book one of them with one of our favourite adventure tour companies, G Adventures.
Nairobi has direct flights to the the beautiful archipelago, Seychelles and the stunning island of Mauritius. You can combine these wonderful Indian Ocean islands as a beach add on, too.
This might be appealing if you want to tick one of these countries off your bucket list.
You can learn a little more about how the Seychelles and Mauritius differ.
Although some couples love the idea of Tanzania and Kenya with the Maldives, there is no direct flight between these destinations, making it a more expensive multi-destination honeymoon combination.
You’d have to fly to the Middle East and back down again so it is do-able if you have the budget and time for a night in Dubai.
There are alternatives to the Maldives if that’s not an option.
Kenya is also a great gateway for gorilla trekking in Uganda or Rwanda. There are direct flights from Nairobi to Kampala and Kigali.
As we mentioned, you can also fly via the Middle East and Europe. Ideal if you want to add in a city stopover depending on where in the world you’re travelling from.
You could add one of our favourite honeymoon stopover cities, Dubai. It’s packed full of things to do and beautiful places to stay.
Abu Dhabi is another fantastic option. It’s the capital of the United Arab Emirates. Consider Istanbul for an exciting add on to your Tanzania and Kenya honeymoon.
Other things to consider between Tanzania vs Kenya
A hot-air balloon ride over the Serengeti or Maasai Mara is an essential add-on to a Tanzania and Kenya honeymoon.
After all, this is one of the earth’s best bucket list romantic experiences! Assuming neither of you is afraid of heights, that is.
If you are, this is the moment to face your fears and experience the magical sunrise or sunset over the savannah!
Consider asking your safari tour operator about their conservation support efforts.
Choosing an ethical company that supports local conservation efforts is a great way to make your $/€/£ make a difference. This is a great way to make your safari honeymoon more sustainable.
Before you go, watch – The Lion King | Out of Africa | When Lambs Become Lions | Anthony Bourdain’s Parts Unknown in Tanzania and Kenya.
Before you go, read – A Grain of Wheat by Ngugi wa Thiong’o | Paradise by Abdulrazak Gurnah | Out of Africa by Karen Blixen | Born Free by Joy Adamson | Green Hills of Africa by Ernest Hemingway | The Bolter by Frances Osborne
Frequently Asked Questions about Tanzania and Kenya
What’s the average cost of a safari honeymoon in Tanzania vs Kenya?
Ah, the million-dollar/euro/pound (or maybe just thousand) question!
The cost of a Tanzania honeymoon or a Kenya honeymoon can vary wildly depending on your taste for luxury, how soon you book, and what’s included.
A mid-range safari could set you back at least $400 per person per day in both countries.
But if you’re eyeing those ultra-luxe tented camps, think upwards of $1000. Flight costs will depend on where you are in the world.
We’d budget into 5 figures for something relatively luxurious.
Do we need a visa for Tanzania or Kenya?
For most nationalities, visas are required for both Tanzania and Kenya.
The good news? You can snag an e-visa online for both countries.
Visa-on-arrival is being phased out. But why wait in line when you could be combing the savannah for wildlife? E-visa is the best option.
You also need 6 months of validity left on your passport.
Is travel insurance necessary for Tanzania and Kenya?
For sure! Adventure has its risks. While you’re dreaming of lion sightings and sundowners, it’s crucial to cover your bases.
Comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical coverage, trip cancellations, and even emergency evacuations is a non-negotiable.
In fact, a reputable tour operator will insist you have insurance cover.
Here at The Honeymoon Guide, we want you to have the best honeymoon possible. Safety is paramount, so it’s important to have travel insurance in place when you book your honeymoon.
If you don’t have travel insurance, check out WorldNomads.com to learn more.
World Nomads provides travel insurance for travellers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance from World Nomads.
What vaccinations are required for traveling to Tanzania and Kenya?
We cannot give medical advice, so speaking to a registered medical professional who specializes in tropical medicine is a must.
From Malaria to the Zika Virus, there are many aspects to consider when planning a safe, healthy honeymoon.
Vaccinations are recommended (and sometimes required).
You’ll definitely want to consider shots for diseases like typhoid, hepatitis A and B, yellow fever, and meningitis.
Plus, you will need anti-malaria drugs and possibly a Yellow Fever vaccination.
Visit the Center for Disease Control for up-to-date travel advice.
What are some packing essentials for a honeymoon in Tanzania and Kenya?
Check out our free safari packing list!
Think comfort meets safari style. Neutral colours are your best friend in the bush — khakis, greens, and browns.
Avoid bright colours, blues, or blacks, and stay away from camouflage print.
Practical hiking or safari footwear is essential. Make sure you’ve broken in your footwear before travel — you don’t want to deal with new shoes in the African wilderness!
We highly recommend investing in insect-repelling clothing or using spray. It can make a big difference.
Lightweight, breathable fabrics are a must, and don’t forget a warm layer for those chilly mornings or higher altitudes.
Essentials? A wide-brimmed hat, high-SPF sunscreen, and a good pair of binoculars for those up-close encounters with the Big 5.
Don’t forget plenty of bug spray and anti-bite pens. Plus, pack your swimwear and sunglasses for the beaches!
Is tipping customary?
While not obligatory, tipping is a way to show appreciation for the hard work that goes into making your safari experience magical and can go a long way in East Africa, where wages are often lower.
From your tour guide to the lodge staff, a little extra makes a big difference.
As a ballpark figure, consider setting aside around $20-40 per day for tips.
What’s the best way to book a safari in Tanzania and Kenya?
While it’s not impossible to plan a DIY safari honeymoon, we highly recommend opting for a specialised safari tour operator or a trusted travel agent who will package it up with flights, taking care of all the finer details.
They’ll handle everything, from park permits to game drives, leaving you free to soak in the savannah sunsets.
Plus, they often have insider access to places and experiences you won’t find in a guidebook.
The early bird catches the best safari deals!
We recommend starting your planning at least 9-12 months in advance to give you ample time to research, compare prices, and secure those sought-after safari lodges and experiences.
Is Tanzania or Kenya safe for LGBTQ+ couples.
Unfortunately, when it comes to equality for LGBTQ+ people, both Tanzania and Kenya have yet to join us in the 21st century, and homosexuality is still illegal.
Many LGBTQ+ couples will visit East Africa on honeymoon and avoid drawing any attention to themselves by avoiding public displays of affection.
East Africa is conservative for everyone compared to some parts of Europe, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas, so we’d recommend even heterosexual couples who are inclined to public displays of affection to be conscious of local sensibilities.
However, we know many couples do not want to hide who they are while on their honeymoon. So, if this is the case for you, we’d recommend choosing more LGBTQ+ friendly honeymoon destinations.
Conclusion – Tanzania vs Kenya for honeymoon – Which is best?
As you can see, a Tanzania honeymoon safari and a Kenya honeymoon safari are not a million miles apart, and they are both perfect for a dream safari and beach honeymoon.
However, let’s get down to the nitty gritty when it comes to Tanzania vs Kenya:
You may find Kenya offers slightly more variation on the other destinations you can travel to and from.
Depending on what’s important to you, Kenya can be a little easier on your bank balance and generally is a bit more affordable. In Tanzania, you may need some domestic air travel.
Zanzibar is a bit more expensive than the Kenyan beach areas, too, but it has a lot more choice of luxury resorts.
However, it’s always worth checking both options if it comes down to price. It may be marginal depending on your dates and requirements.
Kenya also doesn’t allow big game hunting. Tanzania arguably has fewer crowds in its more popular areas, although Kenya has off the beaten track options, too.
If you’re still undecided between Tanzania vs Kenya, why not do both?
Many honeymoon safari tours incorporate both Tanzania AND Kenya. You can plan an epic safari journey in that takes you across borders!
We’d recommend speaking to a specialist Africa travel agent / advisor or tour operator who can explore both countries and help you plan an epic African honeymoon adventure.
Let us know in the comments if you’re trying to decide between Tanzania vs Kenya for honeymoon!
Happy Planning x
Related Africa honeymoon articles:
Ultimate Tanzania Honeymoon Planning Guide
Ultimate Zanzibar Honeymoon Planning Guide
Best time to visit Tanzania for honeymoon
Best Safari Destinations in Africa
Ultimate South Africa Honeymoon Planning Guide
Honeymoon Planning resources
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