Facts about Kenya
Kenya is one of the most diverse destinations in East Africa. The country is known for the vast savannas of the Masai Mara, the unique northern conservancies and the impressive Great Rift Valley. Thanks to the easily accessible national parks, short travel distances and a mix of wildlife, culture and coast, Kenya is ideal for both first time travellers and adventurers who want to look beyond the highlights. With Nairobi as a lively hub and the tropical Swahili coast only a few hours away, Kenya combines impressive safaris with relaxation at the beach.Facts about Tanzania
Tanzania is one of the best safari countries in the world with iconic areas such as the Serengeti, the Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire. The country offers enormous diversity in landscapes, from endless plains to the Usambara mountains. Tanzania has a calm travel pace, spacious nature areas and a remarkably high density of wildlife. In the north you’ll find the classic safari routes while Zanzibar and the surrounding islands provide a tropical ending to your trip.Combine Tanzania and Kenya
Okay, it does get difficult to choose between Tanzania and Kenya. But the great thing is that you can combine these two countries fantastically. This way you tick off not one but two East African countries in one trip.Anyone who has looked at a world globe knows that Kenya and Tanzania share a border of almost one thousand kilometres. Very easy to cross. But what might be even more important is that the two most famous parks border each other directly and actually form one large ecosystem where animals migrate freely between the countries. A combination of the Masai Mara (Kenya) and the Serengeti (Tanzania) is therefore perfect for a complete safari experience.
Although the two countries border each other, look very similar and have the same type of wildlife, the cultures are certainly different. Kenya is buzzing and energetic while Tanzania is calmer and timeless. In Nairobi, the capital of Kenya and the base for many travellers, you find a mix of trendy coffee places and creative neighbourhoods. In Arusha, the safari capital of Tanzania, everything is smaller and less big. Outside the large cities Tanzania becomes grander and more expansive with its endless plains that give you that pure African feeling.
Kenya and Tanzania share the same coastline along the Indian Ocean. You can end your trip on the beach in Diani, Kilifi, Tanga or Paje. Depending on your wishes either Kenya or Tanzania might suit you better, our travel consultants know these places very well and can advise based on your personal preferences. But whichever piece of coast you choose, it is guaranteed white beaches, palm trees and Swahili vibes. Perfect after all the dust from the safaris.
Combining the two really gives you a balanced trip full of variety and adventure. From tough off road tracks in Kenya to classic safaris in Tanzania. Or exactly the other way around.
A quick overview of what's discussed
| Topic | Kenya | Tanzania |
|---|---|---|
| Language | English and Swahili are official; English is widely spoken | Swahili and English are official, Swahili dominates outside tourist areas |
| Currency | Kenyan shilling (KES) | Tanzanian shilling (TZS) |
| Time difference with the Netherlands | +2 hours in winter, +1 hour in summer | +2 hours in winter, +1 hour in summer |
| Malaria | Mostly along the coast, around Lake Victoria and western Kenya; low risk in Nairobi and highlands | Present almost everywhere, mainly in lowlands and coastal areas; low risk in higher regions like Arusha |
| Average cost for a 16-day trip | Around €3,000 per person | Around €3,700 per person |
| Flight time from Amsterdam | About 8.5 hours to Nairobi (direct flight) | About 9 hours to Kilimanjaro or Dar es Salaam (usually with a stopover) |
| Big Five opportunities | Yes – especially in Masai Mara, Tsavo and Amboseli | Yes – especially in Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Selous |
| Vibe | Energetic, open and lively | More relaxed and laid-back |
| Cultural mix | Buzzing mix of modern urban life and traditional tribes | More traditional, village-like and calm |
| People | From colourful Maasai to friendly locals on the Swahili coast | Kind, welcoming and often a bit more reserved |
| Regional diversity | Huge variety, every corner has its own culture and traditions | Also very diverse, but a bit slower in rhythm |
| Pace and mentality | Faster pace, entrepreneurial spirit | Slower pace, softer approach |
Example routes
Okay, we have hopefully convinced you of the possibilities to combine Tanzania and Kenya but what might that look like. Well, like this.World city Nairobi and unbeatable Serengeti
Fly easily to Nairobi and discover a trendy buzzing East African capital. Enjoy a cup of coffee at a cool spot, feed giraffes and make your own glassware. After this quick visit you travel towards Amboseli National Park where you stand eye to eye with large herds of elephants and the iconic Kilimanjaro rising in the background. Your first glimpse of Tanzania. Anyone who dares can explore this area not only by jeep but also by motorcycle safari. After this Amboseli glimpse you actually cross the border and head to the Enduimet Wildlife Management Area. This is a wonderful off the beaten track region at the foot of Kilimanjaro. Here you dive into the culture far away from tourist crowds. From here you can go in several directions but we would recommend heading to the Serengeti where several days of safari await you. Vast plains, predators and maybe even the migration make this the highlight of Tanzania.End the trip in the lively village of Mto wa Mbu with a cycling tour through banana plantations and a visit to the local markets. Here you get an authentic insight into daily family life.
Safaris and cosy homestays
Just like the previous route you start in Kenya. This time with a beautiful homestay and camping experience near Mount Suswa. Then you head to the world famous Masai Mara for a classic safari. Spot the lions, cheetahs and let yourself be surprised by herds of elephants or buffalo.After this you head to Tanzania to see the animals from the endless silence of the Serengeti. You drive through the Ngorongoro Crater to a relatively smaller park called Lake Manyara National Park. It is known for its tree climbing lions, bird populations and large groups of baboons.
