TWINKLE STAR TOURS
FAQS

The short answer is June to October, the long dry season, for both Kenya and Tanzania. Vegetation thins out, animals gather around rivers and waterholes, roads are easier to drive, and there are fewer mosquitoes. But in East Africa the “best” time depends on where you go and what you want to see, mostly because of the Great Migration.

Kenya

  • July to October is peak season. The wildebeest and zebra herds are in the Masai Mara, and the Mara River crossings are usually most dramatic in August and September.
  • January to February is a short dry spell and a strong second choice. Game viewing is good, it’s warm, and in Amboseli you have a better chance of clear views of Kilimanjaro.
  • March to May brings the long rains. April is the wettest month, some camps close, and prices drop sharply.
  • November to December brings the short rains, usually brief afternoon showers. It’s a good value window, and the landscapes are green.

Tanzania

The migration is in Tanzania for most of the year, so timing there depends on which part of the Serengeti you visit:

  • Late January to February is calving season in the southern Serengeti and Ndutu area. Thousands of calves are born each day, and predators follow them. Many experienced travellers think this is the best time of the year.
  • June to July: the herds move through the western corridor and cross the Grumeti River.
  • August to October: the herds reach the northern Serengeti (around Kogatende) for Mara River crossings. This means fewer vehicles than the Kenyan side.
  • Tarangire is best from June to October, when large herds of elephants gather along the river.
  • Ngorongoro Crater is good all year.
  • The southern parks, Nyerere (Selous) and Ruaha, are best from June to October. Many of their camps close during April and May.

Green season (November to May, outside Jan–Feb)

The green season is often underrated. It has lower rates, fewer vehicles, lush scenery, newborn animals, and excellent birding, because migratory species are present from November to April. The trade-offs are some muddy roads, closed camps in the wettest months, and animals that are more spread out.

Quick guide

Goal

Best time

Where

River crossings

Aug–Sep

Masai Mara / northern Serengeti

Calving and predator action

Late Jan–Feb

Southern Serengeti (Ndutu)

Classic game viewing

Jun–Oct

Both countries

Value and fewer crowds

Nov–Dec, Mar–May

Both (check camp closures)

Birding

Nov–Apr

Both

Bottom line: If the dates are flexible, aim for July to September to see the migration in Kenya or northern Tanzania, or February for calving in Tanzania. Peak months fill up quickly, so lodges in the Mara and Serengeti should be booked 6 to 12 months ahead.

 

The wildebeest and zebra migration is a dynamic event influenced by changing weather conditions. Typically, the migration begins in July as the herds cross into Masai Mara and continues through August. They stay in the area until early December before heading southwards to Serengeti National Park, following the rain. The animals may travel in single-file lines or large groups, depending on their needs and circumstances. Witnessing this natural phenomenon is a remarkable experience that showcases the adaptability and movement of wildlife in response to their environment.

Contact us at +254 723 579 916 or info@twinklestartours.com to plan your unforgettable safari adventure in Tanzania and Kenya.

If you’re looking to book a safari and prefer to have exclusive use of a vehicle for your group, we can definitely accommodate that request. It’s important to note that a custom safari for two people will generally have a higher cost per person compared to a small group safari where the vehicle is shared with others.

However, opting for a custom safari with exclusive use of a vehicle means that the cost of the vehicle and driver/guide will be divided among the number of people in your group. This means that the more people you have sharing the vehicle, the lower the cost per person will be. Our standard vehicle capacity is up to seven people, but we can make exceptions for families with children and accommodate up to eight passengers.

To discuss your specific requirements and get a detailed quote tailored to your group size and preferences, please reach out to us at +254 723 579 916 or email us at info@twinklestartours.com. Our team will be delighted to assist you in planning your personalized safari adventure with exclusive use of a vehicle.

When it comes to planning a personalized safari with your own vehicle, Twinkle Star Tours is here to provide you with the flexibility to create an itinerary that perfectly suits your needs. While we offer popular itinerary options on our website, we understand that every traveler has unique preferences and requirements.

We are more than happy to collaborate with you to design a customized itinerary that aligns with your specific interests, duration of travel, and preferred destinations. Our team will consider practical and logistical factors to ensure a seamless and enjoyable safari experience for you.

To begin the process of designing your custom safari itinerary, please contact us at +254 723 579 916 or email us at info@twinklestartours.com. Share your preferences, desired destinations, and any other specific requirements you may have. Our knowledgeable team will work closely with you to create a personalized safari adventure that exceeds your expectations.

At Twinkle Star Tours, we are dedicated to curating unforgettable experiences, tailored to your preferences, ensuring that your safari journey is truly one-of-a-kind.

Immersing yourself in the vast and untamed wilderness of an African safari is an extraordinary adventure that can be enhanced by the experience of camping. At Twinkle Star Tours, we specialize in organizing safaris that cater to your preferences, including a wide range of tented camps that offer a unique and immersive holiday experience.

Camping in the heart of nature allows you to truly connect with the wildlife, landscapes, and rhythms of the African bush. Our team is experienced in selecting and arranging tented camps that provide comfort, convenience, and a genuine safari atmosphere. You’ll have the opportunity to wake up to the sounds of the wilderness, enjoy breathtaking views, and witness wildlife up close in their natural habitats.

Whether you prefer luxury tented camps with all the amenities or a more rustic and adventurous camping experience, we can curate a safari that suits your desires. Our team will work closely with you to understand your preferences, budget, and desired destinations to create a customized camping safari that exceeds your expectations.

To embark on a remarkable camping safari experience, contact Twinkle Star Tours at +254 723 579 916 or email us at info@twinklestartours.com. Let us guide you in planning an unforgettable journey through the African wilderness, where the beauty of nature unfolds right outside your tent.

Solo travelers are welcome to join our scheduled safari departures at Twinkle Star Tours. As long as there is at least one other booking on the chosen date, we can accommodate single travelers. Please note that there will be a supplementary charge for single accommodation. During the low season months of April and May, we offer reduced or no single supplement fees on most departures.

Contact us at +254 723 579 916 or info@twinklestartours.com to learn more. Join us for an unforgettable safari experience in East Africa.

Embarking on a safari is an incredible adventure that children can truly appreciate. However, it’s important to consider the suitability of the experience for young ones. Safaris often involve rough terrains and bumpy rides, making it less suitable for infants or very young children. Fortunately, many airlines offer discounted fares for children under 12, and some lodges may provide a discounted rate for an additional bed in a room shared with parents. It’s worth noting that certain high-end tented camps may have age restrictions and not allow children under 12. Plan your safari adventure accordingly, keeping the safety and enjoyment of your children in mind.

Contact us at +254 723 579 916 or email info@twinklestartours.com for more information. Let us help you create a memorable family safari experience in East Africa.

TAILOR MAKE YOUR SAFARI TOUR PACKAGE

A tailormade tour with Twinkle Star Tours will put you in control of what you would like to do and experience in your safari to Africa. The above is just an indication of what an itinerary can be like.

Choose from an extensive list of safari accommodations to suit your needs, budget and style. Add on additional safari activities or choose from our range of  day tours to make the perfect bespoke safari package tour.

Twinkle Star Tours take pride in making sure that your safari package is completely customisable. Receive a full breakdown itinerary via email containing everything in once place making your African journey smooth and easy.

To discuss any of our safari tours and packages or discuss any amendments you would like to make speak to our expert team who will be able to help make your safari dream a reality.