“The dry seasons normally occur June to October, followed by the short rains, and more dry mid-December to mid-March, followed by the long rains. July - October are the best times, since the dry brings the animals to waterholes like the one at Salt Lick. Theoretically, the later the better. But about July, the migration begins, so if you are thinking of visiting the Maasai Mara, the northernmost bit of the Serengeti ecosystem that lies primarily within Tanzania, is when the 1.5 million or so widlebeest, zebra and their attendant predators pop in for fresh food on the shortgrass plains.”

I have already done the Hilton Safari once in the July-August time period. I would do it again in the same time period, with the big question being the choice between the Masai Mara and Tanzania options. Before we did the Amboselli, Lake Naivasha and Masai Mara via UTC and were quite happy. The migration was something else. Points and money are a factor in our decision. Part of me is squeamish about using the points and cash again for basically the same trip. Yet we can’t seem to find a better alternative use of our Hilton points. Yes Hilton points for destinations in Australia/New Zealand and Asia, are interesting choices. But we always come back to the Hilton Safari as being our number one choice. Coupled with the comments made in the past that the Hilton Safari option might be on the way out, I feel some sense of urgency to make the trip sooner than later. Have the points for the Hilton Safari, but need some more miles for the plane ride. So JDiver what would you suggest for the choice between the Masai Mara or Tanzania options?

Martinplas I would suggest that the use of use of your points for the Hilton Safari is a great use of your points. You can vary your itinerary to your liking with Hilton as they are very accommodating to work with. I think Mrs. Martinplas and you would find it very special just having yourselves and the driver. I did note one trip report stating that two couples were in the same van, so double check this when making your reservations if this is important to you.