Tanzania and Kenya have the most fantastic safari destinations globally. There are so many national parks, each with something unique to offer. Three of the most visited national parks in the region are the Masai Mara, Serengeti National Park, and Ngorongoro Conservation Area. It all comes down to the experience you want when choosing where to go. You will not have the same experience at any park, whether it’s the biodiversity, the natural beauty, or just the park’s atmosphere that sets it apart.
Masai Mara, Kenya
Masai Mara is one of the most iconic national parks in the East African region, known for the Great Migration and the Masai Mara tribes. The Great Migration is an animal movement that takes place every year. Between August to October, nearly two million wildebeests and other animals, such as zebras and gazelles, come to Masai Mara from Serengeti National Park. The animals move across the Mara River, fighting their way through the waters and escaping the grasp of the mighty crocodiles. Many consider this the most exciting part of the Great Migration and visit Masai Mara during this time to witness the phenomenal strength and courage of the migratory animals.
Apart from the Great Migration, Masai Mara is a great place to visit because it offers better game viewing opportunities throughout the calendar year. It doesn’t receive as much rainfall compared to the other regions. Also, because it is a smaller park, the animals are concentrated in areas, and it is easier to spot miraculous wildlife. Masai Mara is also known for its significant cheetah and lion population.
Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Serengeti National Park spans 5,700 square miles, packed with biodiversity, savannahs, and different landscapes. You can feel the aura and presence of the Serengeti when you visit this park.
The Serengeti is also known for The Great Migration, and because of its size, you can witness it from November to July. However, you should not visit here during the rainy season. The torrential rains may ruin your experience. May and June are great to see the Great Migration when the herds begin to gather. You will also see wildebeests giving birth, which is a spectacle to watch as the babies take their first steps.
Given its size, it takes time to find animals when you go on a game viewing ride. Although it has biodiversity, you must find the perfect location and time to find the animals.
Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania
The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is in the crater of an inactive volcano. The views from within the crater are magical. You can see the rising walls of the crater covered in beautiful trees. The sight itself has convinced many to visit here.
In addition to the magical views, Ngorongoro is one of the few parks where you can see all of the Big Five. It is a lifetime opportunity, and one of the primary reasons tourists visit this UNESCO World Heritage site. Witnessing elephants, leopards, lions, African buffalos and rhinos in their natural habitat is a fantastic experience you should not miss.
Deciding between these three parks may be tricky. If you want the best opportunities to see biodiversity and the action-packed Great Migration, visit Masai Mara. If you want to experience the region’s biodiversity and massive landscapes, visit The Serengeti National Park. Go to Ngorongoro to see the Big Five. Regardless of your final choice, all three parks will provide you with an experience of a lifetime. You can also go on these safaris as a solo traveller. You can learn more about Why a Safari in Tanzania is Perfect for Solo Travellers.