Both countries share the same ecosystem, but the experience on the ground varies by scale, cost, and timing.
- The herds spend about 9 months here. The famous in the Southern Serengeti occurs in , while the Mara River crossings start in the Northern Serengeti in .
- The herds typically arrive in the Maasai Mara in and stay through . This is the best window for those dramatic river crossings into Kenyan territory.
- Known for its accessibility. Nairobi is a major flight hub, and the transition from city to bush is seamless. Kenya also pioneered the "Private Conservancy" model, which limits vehicle numbers around sightings.
- A much larger country requiring longer travel times. The "Northern Circuit" is the gold standard, but it feels more rugged. Park fees in Tanzania remain some of the highest in Africa to curb over-tourism.
- Expect to pay per day for KWS premium parks (Amboseli/Nakuru), while the Maasai Mara can reach in peak season.
- Entry fees for the Serengeti and Ngorongoro typically range from when including crater service fees and VAT.