Masai Mara (Kenya) and Tarangire (Tanzania) are often weighed against each other. This comparison uses seasons, activities and access to help you choose.
| Masai Mara | Tarangire | |
|---|---|---|
| Country | Kenya | Tanzania |
| Type | Reserve | National park |
| Approx. area | 1,510 km² | 2,850 km² |
| Best time | June to October | July to October |
| Suggested stay | 3–4 days | 1–2 days |
| Main gateway airport | Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) | Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) |
| Big Five | Present | Not all five |
| Malaria | Malaria area: see a travel doctor | Malaria area: see a travel doctor |
| Families | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Honeymooners | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Photographers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| First-time visitors | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Budget travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Luxury travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
Month by month
| Month | Masai Mara | Tarangire |
|---|---|---|
| January | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ some rain |
| February | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ some rain |
| March | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ some rain |
| April | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| May | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ some rain |
| June | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| July | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| August | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| September | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| October | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| November | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ some rain |
| December | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ some rain |
How to choose
Choose Masai Mara if
- you are travelling in April and December to February
- you want horseback safaris and cultural visits
- you hope to see black rhino, hippos and crocodiles
Choose Tarangire if
- you are travelling in March, May, September and November
- you hope to see oryx and kudu
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Masai Mara or Tarangire?
It depends on when you travel and what you want to see. Masai Mara is stronger in April and December to February. Tarangire is stronger in March, May, September and November.
When is the best time for each?
Masai Mara: June to October. Tarangire: July to October.
Sources: Magical Kenya (Kenya Tourism Board) - Maasai Mara · Mara Conservancy - Mara Triangle · Climates to Travel - Masai Mara · Weather Spark - Narok · TANAPA - Tarangire National Park · SafariBookings - Tarangire climate · Weather Spark - Mto wa Mbu (nearest station)
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.