Savanna safaris
The Serengeti and Maasai Mara rank among the world's best places to observe Africa's large wildlife and the wildebeest migration.
East Africa
Between savannas teeming with wildlife, volcanic peaks and Swahili coastlines fringed by coral reefs, East Africa offers one of the continent's richest mixes of landscapes and cultures.
- 1 countries
Why visit East Africa?
East Africa is home to some of the world's most renowned national parks for wildlife viewing, including the Serengeti and the Maasai Mara. The region combines highlands, great rift valley lakes and an Indian Ocean coastline, offering remarkable diversity within a relatively compact area.
What to discover in East Africa?
East Africa is shaped by the Great Rift Valley, which has carved a spectacular landscape of volcanoes, lakes and plateaus. Kenya and Tanzania are world famous for their safaris and the annual wildebeest migration between the Serengeti and the Maasai Mara, while Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest peak, towers over the Tanzanian plains. Further north, Ethiopia offers a unique historical and religious heritage, with its rock-hewn churches and highland plateaus.
The Swahili coast, spanning Kenya and Tanzania, adds a coastal and cultural dimension to the region, including the Zanzibar archipelago with its blend of Arab, Indian and African influences. Uganda and Rwanda complete the picture with tropical forests that shelter some of the last mountain gorillas. Between preserved nature, ethnic diversity and historic sites, East Africa suits both adventure travel and cultural journeys.
Countries of East Africa
Explore the countries that make up East Africa, from iconic national parks to mountains and Indian Ocean coastline.
East Africa gallery
A visual glimpse of the landscapes and wildlife that make the region so rich.
Regional highlights
A few experiences commonly associated with East Africa.
Mount Kilimanjaro
Africa's highest peak draws hikers each year attempting the ascent of its volcanic slopes.
Swahili coast
Zanzibar and nearby islands combine white sand beaches, historic architecture and Arab and Indian cultural influences.
Great rift lakes
Lake Victoria, Lake Malawi and Lake Tanganyika border a region shaped by the formation of the African rift.
Mountain gorillas
The highland forests of Rwanda and Uganda shelter one of the last remaining refuges of wild mountain gorillas.
Ethiopian heritage
The rock-hewn churches of Lalibela and Ethiopia's highland plateaus reflect an ancient and distinctive history.
Practical information
- Number of countries
- 9 countries
- Area
- About 2.5 million km²
- Population
- Over 300 million people
- Languages
- Swahili, English, Amharic, French and many local languages
- Time zones
- UTC+2 to UTC+3
- Climate
- Tropical, temperate at higher altitudes
- Best season
- Dry season, June to October
- Entry requirements
- Visa often required, depending on nationality
Frequently asked questions
When to visit East Africa?
The dry season, from June to October, is generally best for safaris, as wildlife gathers more visibly around water sources.
Which country is best for a first safari?
Kenya and Tanzania are known for their well-developed infrastructure and iconic parks such as the Maasai Mara and the Serengeti.
Do I need a visa for East Africa?
Most countries in the region require a visa, often available on arrival or online depending on your nationality.
Is East Africa suitable for families?
Some safaris and lodges are family-friendly with guided activities, though distances and climate call for careful planning.
Can I combine a safari with a beach stay?
Yes, many travelers pair a safari in Kenya or Tanzania with a beach stay in Zanzibar or along the Swahili coast.
What vaccinations are recommended?
Medical advice before departure is recommended, as yellow fever and malaria are relevant considerations depending on the areas visited.
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