Can you combine a Masai Mara and Serengeti safari? Yes, but it’s tricky
The Masai Mara in Kenya and the Serengeti in Tanzania are two iconic safari destinations in Africa. Together, they form one of the world's most spectacular ecosystems. Are you interested in combining both into one unforgettable roadtrip? We understand! However, while it might seem simple on a map, driving between the Masai Mara and the Serengeti is more complex than it looks. Here's why.
Can you drive from the Masai Mara to the Serengeti?
The short answer is no, not directly. While the Masai Mara and Serengeti are located next to each other on the map, they are divided by an international border between Kenya and Tanzania. Unfortunately, there is no direct crossing from the Mara to the Serengeti (or vice versa).
Instead, you have to drive around the parks to cross the border. The most common border crossings are Namanga or Isibania, with Isibania being the faster route if you're heading straight from the Mara to the Serengeti. However, it will still take you about two full driving days to travel between the two parks.
Masai Mara and Serengeti border crossings
1. From the Serengeti to Masai Mara
Another challenge, besides the long drive, is that Tanzanian-plated safari cars are currently banned in Kenyan parks like the Masai Mara. That means, if you're travelling in a 4x4 from Tanzania, you won't be allowed to enter Kenya’s national parks. This is due to ongoing trade disputes between the two countries.
Do you still want to cross the border from Tanzania to Kenya? Then we recommend renting separate vehicles from our Roadtrip branches in the two countries. Renting a Kenyan-plated car from our Nairobi office is the best option for exploring the Masai Mara and other parts of Kenya. A car from our Arusha branch will give you easy access to Tanzania's parks, including the Serengeti.
2. From the Masai Mara to Serengeti
While Tanzanian vehicles are not allowed in Kenyan parks, Kenyan cars are permitted to enter Tanzanian parks. However, keep in mind that Kenyan-plated cars are charged higher entry fees in Tanzania’s parks, including the Serengeti. For example, you'll pay $150 per car in fees compared to just $14 for a Tanzanian-plated 4x4.
How to combine the Masai Mara and Serengeti in your itinerary
If, despite the difficulties, you're determined to experience both the Masai Mara and Serengeti on your road trip, there are a few ways to make it work.
Option 1: shuttle bus transfer
A practical and affordable option is to explore Kenya with a 4x4 from our Kenyan fleet, then take a shuttle bus from Nairobi to Arusha. Several shuttle services, such as Riverside Shuttle and Impala Shuttle, operate daily, crossing the Namanga border in around five to six hours. Once in Arusha, you can pick up a Tanzanian car from our office and continue your safari in the Serengeti.
Option 2: vehicle swap at the border
If you prefer to drive the entire way, we offer a vehicle swap service at the Namanga or Oloitokitok border crossings. This allows you to switch cars between our Kenyan and Tanzanian fleets. Do note, that there are extra costs for this service, as we have to return the cars to our offices in Nairobi and Arusha.
Our recommendation
So, keeping the challenges of combining both the Serengeti and Masai Mara in mind, what do we recommend you do?
Travelling 20 days or less
If you have less than three weeks for your trip, we suggest focusing on one park (and one country) rather than both. The Masai Mara and Serengeti are part of the same ecosystem, and the game-viewing experience is similar in both. Instead of spending two days just driving between the parks, you’ll have more time to really immerse yourself in the wildlife and landscapes of a single destination.
Are you bummed out about missing a drive around Lake Victoria? Don’t worry too much about that. While the idea of circling Africa’s largest lake might sound exciting, much of the journey is simply long stretches of driving. Additionally, the same border restrictions and vehicle limitations that apply to the Masai Mara and Serengeti also apply to a Lake Victoria round trip. We therefore recommend you spend your time exploring other, more wildlife-rich areas. Check out our Kenya and Tanzania self-drive itineraries for inspiration!
Travelling three weeks or more
If you have 21 days or more, combining the two countries can be an exciting adventure. Just be sure to plan your route carefully, taking into account border crossings and vehicle restrictions. By using our separate rental fleets in Kenya and Tanzania, we can help you enjoy a smooth ride and reliable roadside support throughout your roadtrip.
Need a hand with planning your roadtrip? We’re happy to help you experience the best of both Kenya and Tanzania! Get in touch with us for more information and assistance.