frequenty asked questions
Planning & Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit East Africa is during the dry season, from June to October. This is when wildlife is easiest to spot as animals gather around water sources, and the vegetation is less dense. For the Great Migration, July to September is peak time in the Maasai Mara.
We recommend at least 7 to 10 days to fully experience the diversity of the region. This allows you to visit multiple parks (like Serengeti and Ngorongoro) or combine a safari with a relaxing stay in Zanzibar.
The Great Migration is a year-round event, but the spectacular river crossings in the Maasai Mara typically happen between July and September. From January to March, the southern Serengeti is the place to be for the calving season.
Both countries offer incredible wildlife experiences. Kenya is famous for the Maasai Mara and its accessibility, while Tanzania boasts the vast Serengeti and the unique Ngorongoro Crater. If time allows, a dual-country safari provides the most comprehensive experience.
Visas & Entry Requirements
Yes, most international visitors require a visa for both Kenya (Electronic Travel Authorisation - eTA) and Tanzania (Online E-Visa). We recommend applying for these at least 2-4 weeks before your departure.
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your date of departure and have at least two consecutive blank pages for entry stamps.
Health & Medical Preparation
Routine vaccinations like Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid, and Tetanus are recommended. A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is mandatory if you are traveling from or via a country with risk of transmission. Anti-malarial medication is also highly recommended. Consult your travel doctor 6-8 weeks before travel.
On a standard safari, altitude is rarely an issue. However, if you are planning to climb Mount Kilimanjaro or Mount Kenya, altitude sickness is a serious consideration. We provide specialized briefings and slow-acclimatization itineraries for these trips.
We strongly advise against drinking tap water. Grand World Tours provides purified, bottled water in all our vehicles and at all recommended accommodations throughout your journey.
Safari Experience & Wildlife
A typical day starts with an early morning game drive when animals are most active, followed by a late breakfast or brunch. The afternoon is usually for relaxation or a guided nature walk, followed by an evening game drive and a sundowner in the bush.
While wildlife sightings are never 100% guaranteed, our expert guides have exceptional tracking skills. Most of our guests do spot the "Big Five" (Lion, Elephant, Rhino, Leopard, and Buffalo) during a 7-10 day safari in prime parks.