SAFARI IN JANUARY 2012: KENYA vs. TANZANIA vs. BOTSWANA
 

I am planning a safari in 2012 and have been doing a lot of research. Much of the information I've been reading recommends doing Botswana this time of year. Apparently, safari is excellent but also cheaper that time of year. Any suggestions between the various choices -- Tanzania, Kenya, and Botswana? I am really torn between the venues.

I like --

Tanzanian because I really want to see the "Great Migration."
Kenya because it's not as busy as Tanzania this time of year
Botswana because it's supposed to offer the most authentic safari experience with unbeatable luxury.

All advice and thoughts appreciated!

Looks like you have the main differences figured out.

Any of these would give you a rewarding trip. If you have enough time, you could visit both Kenya and Tanzania in East Africa.

Do you think there is more than one trip to Africa in your future? If so, then East Africa first, followed by Botswana is more typical. I went that route.

Here are some past discussions.

Tanz vs Bots
http://www.fodors.com/community/afri...botswana-1.cfm

http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...4&tid=34935136

Vehicle #s have increased in central and northern Serengeti since the link directly above was posted.

This one includes Kenya along with Tanzania vs. Botswana
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...4&tid=34781676

For Jan 2012 in the Southern Serengeti, the limited lodging fills up quickly as this is their high season. Don't delay if that is your choice.

It's hot in January.

I have wanted to do this Botswana trip in the "Green Season":

http://www.eyesonafrica.net/safaris/...een-desert.htm

You can add other camps at beginning/end for a longer safari. Botswana is a beautiful safari destination. No crowds. I am a southern Africa traveler, and have not been to E Africa.

http://www.nationalgeographicexpedit...om/expeditions

tanzaniatravelsafaris.com

porini.com

Tanzania grand migration for me animals should be dropping

foals then pretty amazing...

Careful for local scammers never wire money insuremytrip.com

Happy Travels!

Great Migration Safaris . It is known as the movement of vast number of wildebeest, zebra and ... Dropping their foals between January and March each year, the promise of rain ...
http://www.tanzaniasafaritours.com/....migration.html

good migration safari provider...

If looking for the "migration" in January, it's in Tanzania for the "calving" of the young. However, even at this date... availability is likely to be an issue. Many of the lodges/camps have been booked for months. Camping though is always an option, but rather basic on public sites with shared facilities (though less expensive... with own guide/cook). Though camping on "special" sites is a step up and for you only, like lodge/camps, availability will probably be an issue.

Of course, there's always Kenya which never disappoints and unlike Tanzania which is at "peak" season and prices to match (if you can find space to lay your head), it's "mid" season with more attractive pricing.

Thanks to all. I think I've decided on Tanzania. Now to finding the right safari.