Safari in East African parks

East Africa, particularly Kenya and Tanzania, offers a unique opportunity for safari experiences. Here, you can observe wildlife in their natural habitat, enjoy breathtaking landscapes, and create lifelong memories. This guide will provide you with detailed information on the most famous national parks, how to book tours, where to stay, flight tips, and a full list of animals and birds to look out for.

Popular national parks and their highlights

Masai Mara national park (Kenya):

• Lions, cheetahs, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, zebras, antelopes, hippos, and rhinos.
• Over 500 species, including eagles, herons, storks, and ostriches.
• he Great Migration of wildebeest and zebras, one of the most extraordinary natural events on Earth.

Ngorongoro crater (Tanzania):

• Rhinos, cheetahs, lions, zebras, hippos, elephants, and flamingos.
• Pelicans, eagles, flamingos, and falcons.
• The world's largest volcanic caldera, home to a stunning variety of animals.

Serengeti (Tanzania):

• The Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino), as well as hyenas, crocodiles, hippos, zebras, antelopes, and cheetahs.
• Storks, eagles, ostriches, and many forest species.
• The Great Migration continues here, providing a chance to witness breathtaking sunsets over the plains.

Amboseli national park (Kenya):

• Elephants, lions, zebras, giraffes, buffaloes, and cheetahs.
• Storks, herons, eagles, and crowned cranes.
• Scenic views of Mount Kilimanjaro and large elephant herds.

Inspiration for your journey

As I write this article, I'm reminded of the stunning landscapes and wildlife diversity that Yann Arthus-Bertrand showcased in his film Home. This film can serve as inspiration for your own adventure into Africa’s untamed wilderness.

How to book safari tours

1. G Adventures: Offers organized tours across Kenya and Tanzania, including Masai Mara and Serengeti. Prices start from $200 per person/day.

• Explore G Adventures Safari Tours

1. Intrepid Travel: A well-known provider of African tours, offering complete packages with transport, accommodation, and meals. Prices start from $250 per person/day.

• Learn More About Intrepid Travel Safari Tours

Where to stay: hotels and lodges

For accommodation during your safari, check Your Price Booking for great deals and discounts on hotels and lodges in the region.

• Serengeti (Tanzania):
• Budget: Campsites and basic lodges start at $150 per night.
• Mid-range: Lodges from $300 per night (e.g., Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge).
• Luxury: Upscale tented camps and private lodges from $800 per night (e.g., Four Seasons Safari Lodge).
• Masai Mara (Kenya):
• Budget: Campsites from $100 per night.
• Mid-range: Lodges from $250 per night (e.g., Mara Serena Safari Lodge).
• Luxury: Premium lodges such as Angama Mara from $1000 per night.

How to get there: flights from various regions

• From Europe: Direct flights to Nairobi (Kenya) or Dar es Salaam (Tanzania) with airlines like KLM, Lufthansa, or British Airways. Tickets start from €400.
• From Asia: Direct flights to Nairobi from cities like Dubai or Doha, with Emirates and Qatar Airways. Prices from $500.
• From America: Flights to Kenya or Tanzania via Delta and United Airlines, with connections. Prices start from $700.
• From Australia: The best options are through Dubai or Doha with Emirates or Qatar Airways, prices from $800.

Animals and birds to expect

• Lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino — the top animals that most safari travelers hope to see.
• Thousands of antelopes graze on the plains of the Serengeti and Masai Mara.
• Lions, cheetahs, and hyenas hunting in these regions offer a real-life glimpse of the African wilderness.
• Flamingos, eagles, falcons, ostriches, cranes, storks, herons, and pelicans are just a few of the many bird species you’ll spot in these national parks.

Best time for safari

The dry season from June to October is the best time for safaris, as animals gather around water sources, making them easier to spot. The Great Migration happens from July to October, making it the perfect time to visit Masai Mara and Serengeti.

This journey not only provides unforgettable experiences but also helps you understand the importance of conserving these natural habitats for future generations.

At The Wandered blog, we are driven by our passion for transformative travel experiences. We have delved into some of the world’s most fascinating destinations, offering unique and profound journeys. Our adventures feature the iconic Everest Base Camp, Camino de Santiago, the mystical Machu Picchu in Peru, the untouched wilderness of Antarctica, the extraordinary biodiversity of the Galapagos Islands, and the awe-inspiring landscapes of Patagonia’s national parks in Chile and Argentina. Each of these destinations presents a journey that transforms the traveler, providing both adventure and personal growth.