Amy

In mid-July, we are taking an 8-day trip to Tanzania, including the Serengeti, the Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire. We are considering a 3-day extension to Masai Mara. Would you recommend this extension? How does the Masai Mara compare to the Serengeti?

Al

The Masai Mara and the Serengeti are one and the same, only in Kenya it is called the Masai Mara and in Tanzania it is the Serengeti -- one runs or blends into the other with no border fences to obstruct the animals during their migrations. We have been to both and had wonderful experiences. The wide open country reminded us of eastern Montana, with great sweeping vistas, nobody in sight, and animals galore -- always on the move. We also had a feeling that it won't be there long (unless the governments do more to preserve it) because civilization is creeping in. We ballooned over the Masai Mara, a once-in-a-lifetime thrill we highly recommend. The tented camp on the Masai Mara was like a dream. Of all the experiences, we would place the day in the Crater at or near the top -- just fantastic. Our trip took place in November, during that are called the short rains -- with hardly a cloud in the sky. So, while you are in the "neighborhood," go for the extension!

Arnie

Well worth taking a three day extension to visit the Masai Mara. The drivers there can get off the beaten path and take you closer to the animals (without disturbing them) whereas in the Serengetti they had to stay on the roads. Besides that minor matter, while you're there,having travelled so far for so long, it would be a shame not to avail yourselves of the opportunity. We loved our adventure into Kenya and Tanzania and plan to take our grandchildren when they are old enough to appreciate the spendor of nature in East Africa and its wonderful people.

TC

Highly recommend LITTLE Govenor's Camp on Masai Mara. The most beautiful and exciting place of our trip. The drivers are wonderful in getting up close with animals. Tonna