Hi there!
My fiancé and I are planning a trip to Kenya and Tanzania in November.. First of all, is this an ok time to go there? We have around 2 weeks to spend all together. Is that enough? We would also like to go to the beach as well. And, do you have any companies that you would recommend for the safaris? Some that do not cost an arm and a leg.. Or do they mostly cost about the same? Thank you for your tips!!! c",)

The Mara is the best destination for a Safari. I went on a safari with a Nairobi company called Glory who were very good. A safari is best combined with a beach holiday in Kenya. Diani Beach is a prime location and easily accessable from Mombasa.

http://www.katokenya.org and http://www.africaguide.com have a good listing of consolidator travel agencies.
I was impressed by the "under promise, over deliver" service thoughout my trip.
Kenya on camping is absolutely peaches whereas Tanzania would be better stay under luxury accommodation.
Suggestions provided on options of trabsport and accommodation was exemplary.
We travelled in a group of six persons on the entire trip.
Good luck mate

2 weeks for 2 countries is pushing it a bit. We had 2 weeks in Kenya as we did an 8 day safari in Mara, Lake Nakuru, Amboseli, and Tsavo West. After that the tour operator dropped us off in Mombasa and we spent a bit of time relaxing on the beach, checking out Mombasa's fort, Colobus Monkey conservation center, Watamu and the Gedi Ruins. I highly recommend Watamu, it's very relaxed and beautiful there. Many TTers think Lamu is wonderful but I think the best way here is to fly in from Nairobi...

We did an 18 day Kenya and Tanzania Safari last May. I also posted our trip report several weeks ago. Based on our experience, I recommed Masai Travel
I love Lamu and Zanzibar. Either way you can't go wrong.
You may search my posting about our trip. I'm sure you will find it very helpful in plannig your safari.
Dan

I used to particpate big time in this forum but then so many liers and promoters of tour companies came in and it got bored anyway willl try to help you out.
So 2 weeks lemmi see
day 1-Nbo---have a few excursion like city tour,karen blixen,giraffe centre,daphne sheldriks and bomas of kenya and carnivore dinner.
Day 2-aberdares--go to the ark---see animals from lodge tree
Day 3-Lake Nakuru---stay at lion hill lodge--so many flamingoes
Day 4-5--Maasai mara--do i have to say???? stay sopa or keekorok
Day6-7--Cross over to Serengeti in Tanzania at the border
Day 8-9--Ngorongoro--sopa lodge is ok
Day 10-14--You can fly to Zanzibar or Mombasa
Option 2 you can have an all Kenya safari
Day 1-Nbo
Day 2-Ark
Day 3-Lake Nakuru
Day 4-5- Maasai Mara
Day 6-Nairobi
Day 7-8-Amboseli--sopa is ok
Day 9-Tsavo west -Ngulia is ok
Day 10-14-Mombasa
As for companies there are dozens mentioned here i had used nbo backers but will never do that again,if need be this you can try www.diwakasafaris.com which i have been using now,deal with joseph@diwakasafaris.com direct if need be.
Thank you so much for all your tips!!! Very helpful. I'm sure we will have a wonderful time whatever we decide on doing.. Than you!!! c",)

I would like to recommend to you Across Tanzania Expeditions. I have been on safari with Hezron, its owner, during the past two Julys, and I believe that with his extensive knowledge and experience, combined with his intense love for his country, nature and its wonderful diversity of animal life, that he offers his clients the best safari experience possible in Tanzania. I went with my family this past July and the cost with airfare was about $5600 per person for a 10 day safari. He will personalize the safari according to your personal likes and the expense can be less if you'd raher opt for cheaper accomodations.
I have created a website for Hezron, www.acrosstanzaniaexpeditions.com, and would greatly appreciate your taking the time to look it over and consider it as an option for your travels. I would be happy to hear your comments and answer any questions you may have. You may also contact Hezron directly from his website.
Sincerely,
Susan Mays

My mom and I are planning to travel to Tanzania in August. We have heard some good reviews about Across Tanzania Expeditions and Hezron. We wanted a personalized trip at a reasonable price. What were your experiences with them and is this a legitimate company? They have been really slow at getting back to us about questions we have.