How to Visit both Maasai Mara and Serengeti National Park
If you’re dreaming of exploring both the Masai Mara and the Serengeti National Park, you’re in for an adventure! These two iconic destinations are neighbors, separated only by the border between Tanzania and Kenya. While the idea of crossing from one to the other might seem simple, the reality is a bit more complex. Here, we’ll guide you through the best ways to make this journey, whether by road or air.
By Road
Option 1: Crossing at Isebania
One way to reach the Serengeti from Masai Mara is by crossing the border at Isebania, situated to the west of the Serengeti. However, this route comes with its challenges. The road on both sides of the border is rough and uncomfortable, making for a bumpy ride. Traveling from Masai Mara to Isebania and then to a camp in the Serengeti can take over half a day, not including potential delays at the border. Depending on traffic, border crossings can take anywhere from an hour to several hours. Due to the time involved, an overnight stay is often necessary.
Option 2: Crossing at Namanga
Another option is to cross the border at Namanga, located to the east side of the Serengeti. While this route is more comfortable than Isebania, it still has its drawbacks. Namanga is farther away from both destinations, adding to travel time. Additionally, crossing the border by vehicle requires purchasing permits, which can be costly. Alternatively, travelers can cross the border on foot and arrange for pickup on the other side. Despite these challenges, this route is chosen by those seeking to avoid the expense of flights while still enjoying a safari in both countries.
By Air
From Masai Mara To Serengeti
Option A: Masai Mara – Migori Airstrip – Tarime Airstrip – Serengeti Flight
Traveling through Air
If you want to go from Masai Mara to Serengeti National Park, flying is the best way. One way to do this is by flying to the Migori Airstrip, which is close to the border in Kenya, near Isebania. Then, you cross the border at Isebania. After that, a car will meet you on the other side and take you to the Tarime airstrip. From there, you can fly to the airstrips in Serengeti National Park. But, remember, this service is only available during the peak tourist season. We can’t say the exact flight time because it depends on how long the queue at the border is.
Typical Flight Timings
If you choose this option, here are the typical flight timings:
- Depart from Masai Mara to Migori Airstrip at 08:45 am and arrive at 09:30 am.
- Depart from Tarime Airstrip to Seronera Airstrip in Serengeti at 13:20 hrs and arrive at 14:15 hrs.
Option B: Masai Mara – Nairobi Wilson – Kilimanjaro Tanzania – Seronera Airstrip Serengeti
Another Flying Option
Another way to fly from Masai Mara to Serengeti is by going through Nairobi and Kilimanjaro. First, you fly to Nairobi. Then, you fly to Arusha in Tanzania. Finally, you fly to the Serengeti airstrips. The most convenient option is to fly to the Migori Airstrip, cross the border, and then fly from the Tarime airstrip to reach Serengeti National Park. If you want to go from Serengeti to Masai Mara, you can just do these steps in reverse.
Typical Flight Timings
Here are the typical flight timings for this option:
- Depart from Masai Mara to Nairobi Wilson at 11:00 am and arrive at 12:30 pm.
- Depart from Nairobi Wilson to Kilimanjaro Tanzania at 13:15 hrs and arrive at 14:10 hrs.