Tanzania

East Africa safari visa and entry requirements vary by country, but generally, travelers may need a visa for entry. Countries can change their requirements and advice at short notice, so check the latest information.

Commonly visited countries like Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Uganda often require a visa, which can be obtained upon arrival or online, but specific regulations should be checked at relevant authorities sites to get the most up-to-date visa information. Make sure you have everything you need to travel to and from your destination with ease.

The amount of cash to bring on an Africa safari depends on personal spending habits and the destination, something often overlooked in trip preparations. It’s advisable to carry a mix of cash and cards, you will find it easiest to make small purchases in local currencies and will usually receive a better price and also change when required. Carrying cards for larger expenses is advisable due to safety and convenience.

Local cash comes in handy when you want to buy meals, drinks, and any activities not included in your itinerary. If you want to tip your guide/driver, this is always done in cash. But also keep in mind tipping in an African safari is ALWAYS completely optional, and you should feel free to tip however you see fit.

The best time to witness the dramatic wildebeest migration in Tanzania is heavily dependent on the weather, specifically the rain which brings new vegetation upon which the wildebeest feed. Generally-speaking, herds are in the Serengeti from November to May. In May, as the grass dries up, herds begin the 500-mile migration north and by June they are in the greener plains of Kenya’s Masai Mara. They usually stay here until October. From January on, they alternate between woodlands and plains, depending on the weather. In anticipation of the short rains—and the greener grasslands that come with it—the herds begin their trek down to the Serengeti. In November and December, they arrive to a flourishing green landscape where they stay until the cycle begins again.

Choosing between Kenya and Tanzania for an African safari depends on personal preferences, BUT Kenya is the most chosen being cost & budget friendly during both high and low seasons. Secondly, when it comes to the best places to stay in Kenya and Tanzania, both destinations offer fantastic accommodations. Thirdly in terms of Big 5 sightings, the wildebeest migration & general game viewing, both destinations are safari heavyweights. In terms of privacy and extending your safari beyond game drives, there are more private conservancies in Kenya than Tanzania which offer you plenty of activities inside the park.

Lastly, Kenya safari is the most sought-after destination for the world’s best safari experiences, evident from the large number of celebrities visiting year in year out.

A mid-range safari with lodging runs $350 to $400 per person, per day while a high end luxury safari with all the trimmings ranges from $600 to about $1000 per person, per day.