12 Days Safari in Kenya and Zanzibar

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT KENYA?

Many travelers ask themselves, ‘when is the best time to visit Kenya?’ The best time to visit Kenya depends on the wildlife you want to spot. The rainy seasons and wildlife patterns dictate the country’s seasons, so you’ll have a different experience depending on when you choose to visit.

Kenya’s headline attraction is the Great Migration, which unfolds annually in the Maasai Mara. Between July and October, many travelers flock to witness the dramatic spectacle of massive wildebeest and zebra herds crossing the Mara River—chaos erupts as they try to evade crocodiles and other predators lying in wait. However, this season also brings an increase in vehicles throughout the park.

Kenya’s ‘green season’ is much quieter between November and mid-June. While there’s a chance of rain showers, especially in April and May, it’s a fantastic time for birdwatching as migratory species arrive in their thousands. You’ll also see Great Migration herds with their newly born calves in the southern part of Maasai Mara.

Herd of the Great Migration in Maasai Mara

The mass movement of wildebeest in Kenya each year, culminating in the Mara River crossings between July and October to mid-November.

In their search for fresh grazing, herds that can number thousands of animals risk the crocodile-infested river and the awaiting leopard on the far bank in many hazardous river crossings.

November’s short rains bring new life to the grasslands of Maasai Mara and the surrounding areas. The wildebeest can detect rain from more than 50 kilometers away, guiding them to the lush grasslands.

The herds converge on Maasai Mara’s plains to give birth to their young from January to February.

From March, the herd starts moving in search of new pasture through the Western and Eastern Corridor of the Maasai Mara, and they continue their journey through the region until the end of June when they head toward the Mara River again.

Zanzibar enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. Located near the Equator, it experiences hot, humid conditions, particularly along its pristine beaches. The coastal areas remain consistently warm, with temperatures typically ranging from 25°C to 32°C throughout the year. At night, the temperatures can drop to between 20°C and 25°C, offering a mild and comfortable breeze. The island's climate makes it a perfect destination for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts.

Zanzibar Weather: The Seasons

Zanzibar has two main seasons: the wet season and the dry season. The wet season runs from March to May (long rains) and from November to December (short rains). During these periods, the island experiences heavy but short bursts of rain, usually in the afternoons and evenings. The dry season, from June to October and from January to February, is the most popular time to visit Zanzibar, offering plenty of sunshine, lower humidity, and ideal conditions for beach activities and sightseeing.

Kenya's weather varies by region, with coastal areas typically experiencing the hottest and most humid conditions, while the highland regions, such as Nairobi, enjoy cooler temperatures due to their higher altitude. The temperatures across the country typically range from 20°C to 30°C throughout the year. At night, temperatures can drop to between 10°C and 20°C, particularly in the highlands. Coastal regions like Mombasa and Diani, near the Equator, have a tropical climate, making the beaches ideal for relaxation and water activities.

Kenya Weather: The Seasons

Kenya experiences two main seasons: the wet season and the dry season. The wet season (or rainy season) runs from March to May (long rains) and again from October to December (short rains). The rains are typically short but heavy, often beginning in the afternoon and continuing through the evening and night. The dry season, from June to October and January to February, is the best time for safaris and outdoor activities as the weather is warm and dry, and wildlife is more easily spotted around waterholes.

Tanzania Travel Advice

With almost a decade of experience, we’re proud to be able to offer customised Tanzania travel advice that is second-to-none. Here we answer your top questions regarding need-to-know Tanzania travel advice.

Is Tanzania safe to travel?

“I want to visit Tanzania, but is it safe?” This is a common question we receive from clients seeking travel advice. The short answer? Yes! Tanzania is one of the safest destinations in Africa, welcoming over a million tourists each year. Traveling with the experts at Kilidove Tours prioritizes your safety. Our private safari experiences, led by knowledgeable and professional guides, enhance your journey and provide you with complete peace of mind.Read more from us Tanzania safety tips for more information on safe travel in Tanzania.

What is the population of Tanzania?

Tanzania has a population of nearly 60 million people and is one of Africa’s most ethnically diverse countries, home to around 125 different ethnic groups. More than 100 languages are spoken across the nation, reflecting its rich cultural tapestry.

The Tanzanian people are renowned for their hospitality, warmly welcoming tourists to explore their stunning nature, wildlife, and culture. Engaging with locals is one of the best ways to gain a deeper understanding of the country and its traditions, making it highly recommended during your discovery of Tanzania!

Do I need a visa for Tanzania?

Most international travellers will need a visa to travel to Tanzania. Your visa can be requested online through the official visa website from the Tanzanian government. Please note that this is the only official link for Tanzania visa applications.

It is also possible to get a tourist or business visa for a single entry on arrival at the main ports of entry to Tanzania. This visa for Tanzania is valid for three months. You may be asked to provide proof of your return journey, and costs are $50 per person, US Citizens $100 per person.

When arranging your trip to Tanzania with Tanzania specialist, we guide you through every step of the visa and administration process.

Passport requirements

Passports should have at least six months of validity after the final day of travel.

Safety First: Our travel insurance advise

When traveling to Tanzania, we recommend booking your travel insurance through a reputable provider that offers comprehensive coverage for medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other travel-related risks. Consider the following options:
Travel Insurance Comparison Websites: Platforms like InsureMyTrip or Squaremouth allow you to compare different policies from various insurers.
Dedicated Travel Insurance Providers: Companies such as World Nomads, Allianz Travel, Axa, and SafetyWing specialize in travel insurance and are well-suited for adventurous travelers.
Your Current Insurance Provider: Check if your existing health or auto insurance covers international travel, as they may offer add-on travel insurance.
Always ensure that your policy includes essential coverage such as emergency medical expenses, evacuation, and any specific activities you plan to undertake in Tanzania.

What vaccinations are needed for Tanzania?

A yellow fever vaccination certificate is only required for travellers one year of age and older coming from – or who are in airport transit for more than 12 hours within – a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.

In addition to standard vaccinations such as MMR and TDP, the CDC and WHO recommend vaccinations for Tanzania, such as Hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid. Yellow fever and rabies vaccinations are also recommended depending on the traveller’s activities. As of January 2023 there are no more COVID-19 restrictions in Tanzania, and vaccinations or PCR-tests are no longer necessary before traveling.

As with all international travel, we always advise you to consult your physician for professional health advice before travelling to Tanzania.

What is the time in Tanzania?

Tanzania is GMT + 3. To put that into terms we all understand, check out the time difference from Tanzania to LA, New York, London and more below.

Los Angeles: -10 hours
New York: -7 hours
London: -3 hours
Berlin: -2 hours
Hong Kong: +5 hours
Tokyo: +6 hours
Sydney: + 8 hours
Auckland: +10 hours

What is the currency of Tanzania?

The local currency is the Tanzanian shilling, although dollars and euros are also accepted in most places in Tanzania.

Language in Tanzania

There are over 100 different languages spoken in Tanzania. The official languages, however, are Swahili and English. You can expect all your Tanzania Specialist guides and hosts to speak English, but if you’re looking to learn a few words of Swahili before your trip, get a few step to start learn swahili useful words in Swahili!

Swahili and English are the official languages in Tanzania, but Swahili is spoken by almost everyone. In the tourism sector, however, English is widely spoken by the majority of people.

Traveling in Tanzania, especially to East African destinations like Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, and Zanzibar, is more than just a vacation; it’s a bucket-list adventure to cherish for a lifetime. For detailed travel advice on Tanzania or to start planning your custom vacation, feel free to reach out!, Plan your Trip with Kilidove Toursnow.

We look forward to share our beautiful places in Tanzania with you soon!

Yellow Fever Requirements for Travel to Kenya and Zanzibar

Traveling to Kenya and then onwards to Zanzibar? It's important to be aware of the yellow fever requirements for both destinations to ensure smooth travel. Here’s everything you need to know about yellow fever vaccination when traveling to Kenya and Zanzibar.

Do I need a yellow fever vaccination for Kenya and Zanzibar?

Good news: for most travelers visiting Kenya, you do not need the yellow fever vaccine if you are arriving from a country with no yellow fever risk. However, if you are traveling from a country with a yellow fever risk or have transited through one for more than 12 hours, you will need to show proof of vaccination upon arrival in both Kenya and Zanzibar.

What is yellow fever?

Yellow fever is a viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes. It can cause symptoms like fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, and in severe cases, it may lead to life-threatening complications. While the disease is preventable through vaccination, it’s important to take precautions, especially when traveling to areas where the virus is common.

Yellow Fever Requirements for Kenya

Kenya requires proof of yellow fever vaccination if you are traveling from a country with a known yellow fever risk or have been in transit in such a country for more than 12 hours. Currently, countries in tropical regions of Africa and South America are classified as high-risk areas. If you are arriving from a country outside of these areas, you do not need a yellow fever vaccine to enter Kenya.

Yellow Fever Requirements for Zanzibar

Zanzibar, part of Tanzania, has similar entry requirements to Kenya when it comes to yellow fever. Proof of vaccination is mandatory for travelers coming from or transiting through countries with a risk of yellow fever. The same rules apply for those visiting Zanzibar after traveling to mainland Kenya, and a yellow fever vaccination will be required for entry if you meet the criteria.

Receiving the Yellow Fever Vaccination

The yellow fever vaccination is a single-dose injection and must be administered at least 10 days before entering a high-risk yellow fever country. The vaccination provides lifelong protection, and you will need to carry your proof of vaccination, which is often in the form of a yellow vaccination certificate, for inspection at immigration points in both Kenya and Zanzibar.

Exemptions to Yellow Fever Vaccination

If you are unable to receive the yellow fever vaccination due to health reasons, you can travel with an official letter from your doctor. This letter, which should state the reason for your exemption, can be presented to immigration officers in both Kenya and Zanzibar, waiving the vaccination requirement for entry.

Make sure to check the latest travel advisories and vaccination requirements before your trip to ensure you are fully prepared for your Kenya and Zanzibar adventure!

How to Get Your Visa for Kenya and Zanzibar

Excited for your upcoming journey to Kenya and Zanzibar? After booking your Kenya safari or Zanzibar holiday, the next step is applying for your tourist visa. The visa process can sometimes cause confusion, but don't worry—we're here to help guide you through it. Whether you're applying for a visa online or upon arrival, this page will provide all the essential information you need to ensure your trip to Kenya and Zanzibar is smooth and stress-free.

Kenya and Zanzibar Visa: How Much Does It Cost?

The cost of a Kenyan visa varies depending on your nationality, but generally, a single-entry tourist visa for Kenya costs around $50 USD. The visa is valid for up to 90 days. You will need to apply for a visa to Zanzibar through Tanzanian immigration website. For US citizens, the visa costs $100 USD for multiple entries within a year. For most nationalities, this fee is the same whether you apply online or upon arrival.

If you are applying for a visa on arrival in Kenya and Zanzibar, the fee is typically $50 USD for a single-entry visa or $100 USD for a multiple-entry visa. Payment can be made in cash (USD or EUR) or by credit card at the immigration counters.

Online Application for Kenya and Zanzibar Visa

Applying for your visa online is the preferred method for most travelers, and it comes with several advantages:

• The process is simple, especially with the detailed guide we provide when you book through us.
• You will have peace of mind knowing that your visa is secured before you board your flight.
• Upon arrival, you can quickly proceed to immigration and get your visa stamped in your passport.

To apply online, visit the official Kenya Immigration website. Be cautious of third-party websites that may charge higher fees or be unreliable. The official visa portal for Kenya is:

https://evisa.go.ke

hhttps://visa.immigration.go.tz/

If you book your trip with us, we provide a helpful PDF guide to make the application process as smooth as possible. Our team is also available for any questions you might have along the way. Once you submit your application, it can take a few business days for approval, so be sure to apply at least 3–4 weeks before your travel date. Once approved, download or print your e-visa and keep it with your passport. At the airport, you will only need to go through one immigration counter to have your visa stamped.

Applying for a Visa Upon Arrival in Kenya and Zanzibar

If you prefer to apply for your visa upon arrival, it’s still an option for most travelers. However, the process can be a bit more time-consuming:

• Upon arrival at the airport, you will fill out a visa application form (make sure to have a pen with you).
• Then, you will go to the visa payment counter to pay your visa fee in cash (USD or EUR) or by credit card.
• Finally, head to the immigration counter to have your visa stamped in your passport.
• After this, collect your bags and you're ready to start your adventure!

While this method involves queuing at several counters, it is still a straightforward process. Keep in mind that applying online tends to be faster since there’s only one queue at the airport for those who have pre-arranged visas.

The Choice Is Yours

Whether you choose to apply online or upon arrival, the choice is yours! Here are a few things to keep in mind for each option:

Online Application

• Apply 3–4 weeks in advance to allow time for any issues or reapplications.
• Have a credit card ready for payment, or be prepared for international bank transfer.
• Prepare a digital passport-size photo, a copy of your passport’s biodata page, and your flight ticket.
• Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your planned return from Kenya or Zanzibar.
• If traveling with children, you will need a consent letter from the other parent (if only one parent is accompanying the child). Upload this letter during the application process.

Visa on Arrival

• From 1st December 2024, Zanzibar no longer issues visa on arrival. This applies the same with Kenya

*Please note that some nationals may require a Referral Visa and are not eligible to apply upon arrival. Be sure to check the Kenya immigration guidelines to confirm your visa application process before you travel.

Travel Insurance

Embarking on an African safari to Tanzania is an adventure of a lifetime. But don’t forget to pack the most important thing—travel insurance! Whether you’re spotting a stealthy leopard or navigating bumpy roads, travel insurance ensures that medical mishaps, unexpected detours, and bumps in the road won’t spoil your wild adventure.

A good travel insurance plan provides peace of mind by covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen events. It’s essential to have a reliable safety net, especially in remote areas where access to medical facilities and other services can be limited. Comprehensive travel insurance lets you focus on the thrill of the safari, knowing that you’re protected against the unexpected.

Travel insurance for your trip to Tanzania : our advice.

When traveling to Tanzania, we recommend booking your travel insurance through a reputable provider that offers comprehensive coverage for medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other travel-related risks. Consider the following options:
Travel Insurance Comparison Websites: Platforms like InsureMyTrip or Squaremouth allow you to compare different policies from various insurers.
Dedicated Travel Insurance Providers: Companies such as World Nomads, Allianz Travel, Axa, and SafetyWing specialize in travel insurance and are well-suited for adventurous travelers.
Your Current Insurance Provider: Check if your existing health or auto insurance covers international travel, as they may offer add-on travel insurance.
Always ensure that your policy includes essential coverage such as emergency medical expenses, evacuation, and any specific activities you plan to undertake in Tanzania.

Zanzibar Mandatory Travel Insurance

If you are traveling to Zanzibar from October 1st, 2024 onwards, you are required to obtain the Zanzibar Mandatory Travel Insurance, regardless of any other travel insurance you may have. Each traveler must apply for this insurance in advance. After making a payment of USD 44 per person, you will receive a QR code, which must be presented upon arrival.
The basic coverage of this mandatory travel insurance includes emergency medical expenses, repatriation costs (both medical and for the body), personal accidents, baggage delays, theft, and loss, as well as legal expenses and personal liability. To apply for Zanzibar’s Mandatory Travel Insurance, please visit https://visitzanzibar.go.tz/. 

If you are already in Zanzibar on October 1st, 2024, you won’t be affected by these new regulations and will not be required to have the Zanzibar Mandatory Travel Insurance