The "best" time depends on what you want to see. For East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda), the dry season from July to October is considered prime time for wildlife viewing. This is when animals gather around water sources and you might witness the famous wildebeest migration river crossings.
However, the dry season also brings crowds. For fewer tourists, consider September-October (still dry but less crowded) or the green season (November-May) when landscapes are lush, prices are lower, and you'll see baby animals.
For a quality safari experience, plan for at least 7-10 days. The ideal duration for a complete East Africa safari package ranges from 5 to 14 days, depending on destinations and interests .
Consider these guidelines:
Aim to spend 2-3 nights in each location to avoid constant packing and moving .
Both countries offer world-class safaris, but they have different strengths
Choose Kenya if:
Choose Tanzania if:
For peak season (July-October), book 6-12 months in advance, especially for popular lodges and migration river crossings .
For green season (November-May), 3-6 months is usually sufficient. Last-minute bookings (1-2 months out) can sometimes yield discounts, but availability is limited .
Advance booking guarantees availability at sought-after accommodations and allows you to curate your dream itinerary.
Look for these key qualities
Contrary to belief, booking through a tour company doesn't make prices more expensive – they get good deals on accommodation and provide quality guides .
Group safari pros: Lower cost (shared vehicle, guide, fuel), social experience
Group safari cons: Fixed itinerary, no flexibility, stuck with people you may not like
Private safari pros: Flexible schedule, personalized experience, choose your companions
Private safari cons: Higher cost, solo travelers pay premium unless joining a group
At Pallid Safaris, road safaris are fully private with your own guide and vehicle unless otherwise specified. Fly-in safaris may be shared – check during booking.
Costs vary by accommodation level (all include full board, guide, transport, game drives)
Kenya often costs less than Tanzania for equivalent experiences, though park fees in Tanzania are higher .
Included: Accommodations, meals, game drives, park entry fees, guide/driver, transfers (as specified)
Not included: International flights, visas, travel insurance, tips, drinks (except specified), souvenirs, optional activities (balloon safaris)
A deposit is required upon booking. Payment options include
While traveling, most lodges accept credit cards. ATMs are available in larger towns. Carry some cash for markets and tips.
US dollars are widely accepted. Bring post-2007 bills in crisp, undamaged condition – wrinkled or torn notes may be rejected.
How much? Carry a mix of cash and cards
Local currency (Kenyan Shillings, Tanzanian Shillings) is useful for small purchases – get change in local currency when paying with dollars.
Clothing
Gear & extras
Key rule: Soft-sided bags only. Hard-shell suitcases won't fit on small bush planes .
Weight limits
Don't stress – most lodges offer complimentary laundry service, so you don't need a fresh outfit every day.
Yes! Most lodges and camps offer laundry service (sometimes complimentary, sometimes for a small fee). Ask at each property about their service .
This allows you to pack light and re-wear items throughout your trip.
Yes, camps run on solar or generators. There will be a place in the main area to charge devices. Safari vehicles are also fitted with charging plugs.
Smaller camps may ask you not to use hair-dryers to conserve energy – pack accordingly .
Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania if coming from a risk country. Carry your yellow card.
Recommended vaccinations
Consult a travel health clinic 4-6 weeks before travel for personalized advice.
Yes, malaria prophylaxis is strongly recommended for most safari areas. Speak to your doctor about options (Malarone is common with minimal side effects)
Equally important: prevent mosquito bites
Absolutely essential. Good travel insurance is non-negotiable.
You'll be traveling to remote areas with limited medical care. Your insurance must cover:
Yes, safaris are very safe. You'll travel with experienced guides in well-maintained vehicles. Always follow their instructions.
At night, you're safe inside your tent or lodge. Night guards are on duty. Animals may pass nearby but will not enter your tent – they've learned that tents aren't food sources.
Most tented camps have private bathrooms with hot showers and flushing toilets – comfort levels vary from basic to luxurious.
Yes! Safaris are great for children aged 6 and up.
Many lodges offer:
Some lodges are adults-only, so mention children when booking. For younger ones, we'll match you with suitable properties.
Yes! Safari vehicles are fitted with coolers or mini-fridges with constant supplies of bottled water. Stops along the route replenish supplies .
Bring a reusable bottle to reduce plastic waste.
A typical day follows this rhythm
Game drives typically last 3-4 hours, but full-day drives with picnic lunches are possible .
Yes! East Africa's open ecosystems allow incredible wildlife viewing. With patience and luck, you'll see elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, and possibly leopards or cheetahs .
In Kenya's Maasai Mara, off-road driving is allowed, getting you super close to animals. The Mara is smaller than Tanzania's Serengeti, so animals are more concentrated.
Delicious! Camps offer international-style cuisine. Expect:
Dietary requirements (vegetarian, vegan, halal, gluten-free) can be accommodated – advise at booking .
Almost all lodges and tented camps provide free WiFi in public areas (reception, dining, lounge) – but not in individual rooms .
Speed may be limited in remote locations . Consider it a chance to disconnect! Mobile coverage is generally good – your guide can help with local SIM cards .
Tipping is customary but always at your discretion. Recommended guidelines
Tip guides directly at the end of your stay. For lodge staff, use the tipping box in the main area .
Yes, but always ask permission first. In many cultures, photographing without consent is considered disrespectful .
Your guide can help with introductions and cultural protocols.
Yes, most East African countries require visas. Apply online before departure
Passport requirements: Valid for at least 6 months after intended departure, with 2 consecutive blank visa pages.
Yes! Multi-country safaris are possible but require at least 20 days or more for a comfortable pace .
Popular combinations:
The migration moves continuously. Key moments
For guaranteed crossings, mid-July through mid-September offers the highest chances.
Kenyan coast Diani Beach (pristine sand, boutique luxury), Watamu (marine life, history), Lamu Island (cultural immersion, no cars)
Tanzanian islands Zanzibar (blends culture and energy, Stone Town, northern beaches), Pemba & Mafia (diving, whale sharks Oct-Feb), Mnemba (ultimate exclusivity)
Our safari experts are ready to help you plan your perfect adventure