Both are spectacular! Tanzania is generally less crowded with more remote wilderness areas. The Serengeti is larger than the Maasai Mara, and Ngorongoro Crater is a unique ecosystem found nowhere else. Tanzania tends to be slightly more expensive but offers fewer vehicles per sighting.
The migration is a year-round circular movement. June-July: herds cross the Grumeti River; July-October: dramatic Mara River crossings in northern Serengeti; December-March: calving season in southern Serengeti with newborn wildebeest everywhere.
Your driver handles everything! The road down Ngorongoro Crater is steep but well-maintained. The journey takes about 30 minutes. Once on the crater floor, it's smooth driving with incredible wildlife viewing.
Drones are prohibited in all Tanzanian national parks without special permits. Wildlife authorities enforce this strictly to avoid disturbing animals and other visitors. Focus on your camera and binoculars instead!
Most lodges have WiFi in common areas, though speeds can be slow. Charging stations are available, but bring a power bank as game drives can be long. Some remote camps use solar power with limited charging times.
Yes, your safari vehicle will have bottled water for game drives. Lodges provide safe drinking water. Never drink tap water. Carry a reusable water bottle that you can refill from provided bottles to reduce plastic waste.
Lodges accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary needs. Inform us at booking, and we'll communicate with all accommodations. Tanzanian cuisine includes excellent vegetable dishes, rice, and grilled meats.
Tipping is customary. Budget around $20-30 per day total for your guide, split among any camp staff. For excellent service, you might tip more. Lodges often have communal tip boxes for staff. US dollars in small bills are preferred.