Tanzania Safaris

Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania – Journey to Tarangire National Park

Your adventure begins the moment you step off the plane at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), where you’ll be greeted by your friendly safari guide. After a warm welcome and briefing on your safari journey, you will board a comfortable 4×4 safari vehicle and drive towards Tarangire National Park—a two to three-hour scenic journey through Tanzania’s countryside.

As you approach the park, you’ll notice the landscape transitioning into vast savannahs dotted with ancient baobab trees. Tarangire is known for its massive elephant herds, and it won’t take long before you spot them along the Tarangire River.

Upon arrival, check in at your luxurious lodge or tented camp, where you will enjoy a delicious lunch before setting out on your first game drive. This afternoon drive allows you to experience the park’s rich biodiversity, including giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, lions, and leopards. You’ll also encounter a variety of bird species, making this a paradise for birdwatchers.

As the sun sets, return to your lodge for a relaxing evening, savoring a gourmet dinner under the African sky before retiring to your room for a restful night.

Day 2: Full-Day Safari in Tarangire National Park

Rise early for a hearty breakfast before embarking on a full-day safari in Tarangire National Park. Morning is the best time for game viewing, as animals are most active before the heat of the day sets in. Your guide will take you deep into the park’s vast plains and riverine woodlands, where you’ll have prime opportunities to witness:

✔ Elephants gathering at the Tarangire River to drink and bathe

✔ Predators like lions and leopards stalking their prey

✔ Cheetahs sprinting across the savanna

✔ Rare antelope species such as the fringe-eared oryx and gerenuk

At midday, you’ll stop for a picnic lunch in a shaded area, surrounded by the tranquil wilderness. After lunch, continue your game drive, exploring different terrains, including swamps, open plains, and dense acacia forests.

By late afternoon, return to your lodge for dinner and an evening of relaxation, perhaps enjoying a sundowner as you recount the day’s incredible sightings.

Day 3: Transfer to Lake Manyara National Park

After breakfast, depart Tarangire for a two-hour drive to Lake Manyara National Park, a hidden gem known for its lush groundwater forests, soda lake, and diverse wildlife. Arrive at your lodge in time for lunch and check-in.

In the afternoon, take a guided nature walk near the lodge or within the park. This experience allows you to explore the region’s smaller wonders, including:

✔ Unique plants and medicinal trees

✔ Colorful butterflies and birds

✔ Small mammals like bush babies and dik-diks

After the nature walk, return to the lodge for dinner and a peaceful night’s sleep, enjoying the calming sounds of the African wilderness.

Day 4: Game Drive & Treetop Walkway Adventure

Start your day with an early morning game drive, where you may spot the famous tree-climbing lions resting on the branches of large acacia trees. Other highlights include:

✔ Large troops of baboons and blue monkeys

✔ Hippos and crocodiles along the lakeshore

✔ Thousands of pink flamingos wading in Lake Manyara

Return to the lodge for lunch, followed by an afternoon adventure on the Treetop Walkway—one of the longest in Africa. Walk high above the forest floor, experiencing a bird’s-eye view of the lush canopy, where you may see colobus monkeys, eagles, and hornbills.

As evening approaches, return to your lodge for a delicious dinner and overnight stay.

Day 5: Transfer to Serengeti National Park

After breakfast, set out on a scenic drive towards the world-famous Serengeti National Park. The journey takes approximately four to five hours, but you’ll have plenty of opportunities to stop and admire the stunning landscapes and wildlife along the way.

Arrive at your luxury camp or lodge, where you’ll check in and enjoy a sumptuous lunch. After a short rest, you have the option to embark on an early evening game drive, where the golden light creates a perfect setting for photography.

Return to your accommodation for dinner and an overnight stay under the star-studded Serengeti sky.

Day 6: Hot Air Balloon Safari & Nature Walk

Wake before dawn for an unforgettable hot air balloon safari over the endless Serengeti plains. As you gently lift off, witness the breathtaking sunrise and the great herds of wildebeests, zebras, and elephants moving below. After an hour of floating over the landscape, land to enjoy a champagne breakfast in the bush.

Return to the lodge for a short rest before embarking on an afternoon guided nature walk. This is a fantastic opportunity to learn about:

✔ Animal tracking techniques

✔ The ecosystem’s plant life

✔ The Serengeti’s smaller creatures, such as dung beetles and lizards

Enjoy dinner and storytelling around a campfire before retiring for the night.

Day 7: Game Drive & Maasai Cultural Experience

Spend the morning on a game drive, tracking big cats like lions, leopards, and cheetahs, alongside thousands of grazing animals.

After lunch and a break, head to a Maasai village, where you’ll:

✔ Learn about the Maasai people’s traditions

✔ Participate in a traditional dance ceremony

✔ Visit their bomas (homesteads)

Return to the lodge for dinner and an evening of reflection.

Day 8: Transfer to Ngorongoro Crater

After breakfast, drive to Ngorongoro Conservation Area, stopping along the way for wildlife sightings. Check in at a lodge overlooking the crater and enjoy a relaxing evening with breathtaking views.

Day 9: Hot Air Balloon Safari & Olduvai Gorge

Enjoy a morning hot air balloon safari over the conservation area, followed by a visit to Olduvai Gorge, one of the world’s most important archaeological sites.

Return to your lodge for dinner and storytelling about the region’s rich history.

Day 10: Lake Magadi & Fever Tree Forest

Visit Lake Magadi, a paradise for flamingos and waterbirds, followed by an exploration of the Levai Fever Tree Forest, known for its tall yellow-barked acacias.

Enjoy a farewell dinner at your lodge, celebrating your journey through Tanzania.

Day 11: Return to Kilimanjaro International Airport

• After breakfast, transfer back to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure, carrying home unforgettable safari memories.

Day 1: Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport – Transfer to Arusha National Park

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will meet your professional safari guide, who will drive you to Arusha National Park, approximately 1.5 to 2 hours away. The park, covering 552 sq. km, is home to Mount Meru, the second-highest peak in Tanzania. The drive will introduce you to Tanzania’s lush landscapes before you settle into your accommodation for dinner and rest.

Day 2: Morning Game Drive – Afternoon Nature Walk

Start your day with a thrilling game drive through the park’s diverse landscapes, from open savannah to forested hills. Expect to see giraffes, Cape buffaloes, zebras, and possibly the elusive leopard.

After lunch at your lodge, embark on an afternoon nature walk through Ngurdoto Crater, a volcanic caldera often called the “Little Ngorongoro.” Surrounded by lush greenery and home to monkeys, baboons, and colorful birds, the walk provides an up-close experience of the park’s ecosystem.

Day 3: Visit Mini Serengeti & Buffalo Glade – Afternoon at Tululusia Hills

In the morning, explore the Mini Serengeti, a wide grassland teeming with herbivores such as zebras, buffaloes, and warthogs. Then, visit Buffalo Glade (Ujambo wa Mbogo), a marshy area known for its high concentration of Cape buffaloes and warthogs working together for survival.

After lunch, take a scenic hike to Tululusia Hills. The highlight is the 28-meter-high waterfall where visitors can enjoy a refreshing dip. Listen to the cascading water and take in the serene atmosphere before heading back to your lodge.

Day 4: Transfer to Tarangire National Park – Evening Game Drive

After breakfast, drive approximately 3-4 hours to Tarangire National Park, known for its vast elephant herds and ancient baobab trees. After lunch and some rest at your lodge, embark on an evening game drive, where you can spot elephants, wildebeest, cheetahs, and giraffes as they gather near the Tarangire River.

Day 5: Morning Nature Walk – Afternoon Cultural Visit

Start the day with a guided nature walk, an opportunity to explore the park’s flora and fauna on foot, including monkeys and exotic birds. In the afternoon, visit a Maasai Manyatta (village) to learn about their culture, watch traditional dances, and see their intricate beadwork.

Day 6: Morning Bush Meal – Afternoon Leisure

Enjoy an early morning game drive, ending with a bush breakfast in the heart of the park. Later, return to your lodge for an afternoon of leisure, where you can relax by the pool or enjoy the lodge’s amenities.

Day 7: Transfer to Lake Manyara National Park – Evening Game Drive

Drive approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to Lake Manyara National Park. After checking in at your lodge, embark on an evening game drive. Lake Manyara is famous for its tree-climbing lions, herds of elephants, and over 400 bird species, including pink flamingos along the lake’s shores.

Day 8: Morning Game Drive – Afternoon Treetop Walkway

Begin the day with another exciting game drive, spotting hippos, buffaloes, and perhaps leopards resting in the trees. After lunch, experience the Lake Manyara Treetop Walkway, a series of suspended bridges providing a bird’s-eye view of the forest canopy.

Day 9: Morning Canoe Safari – Afternoon Hot Springs Visit

Take a morning canoe ride on Lake Manyara, an excellent way to see wildlife up close, including hippos and water birds. In the afternoon, visit the hot springs within the park, where underground geothermal activity creates natural warm pools surrounded by scenic landscapes.

Day 10: Morning Community Walk – Departure

• On your last morning, take a guided community walk to interact with the locals and explore the vibrant culture surrounding the park. Later, you will be transferred back to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure flight.

Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania – Drive to Ngorongoro

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be greeted by your safari guide, who will brief you on the adventure ahead. As you step out into Tanzania’s fresh air, you will feel the excitement of the journey to come. Your guide will assist you with your luggage and lead you to a comfortable safari vehicle, ready to embark on the scenic drive towards the Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area. The journey takes approximately four to five hours, passing through breathtaking landscapes filled with rolling hills, small towns, and traditional Maasai villages. Along the way, you will witness the local way of life—children playing by the roadside, Maasai herders guiding their cattle, and farmers tending to their fields.

As you ascend towards Ngorongoro, the air becomes cooler, and the scenery changes to lush green vegetation. Upon arrival at your lodge or campsite, you will check in and settle into your accommodations. The lodge offers stunning views of the crater and a warm, welcoming atmosphere to help you unwind after the long journey. In the evening, you will enjoy a delightful dinner featuring local and international cuisine, prepared with fresh ingredients. As you dine, you might hear the distant calls of wildlife from the conservation area. After dinner, you can relax by the lodge’s fireplace or retreat to your room for a good night’s rest, preparing for the incredible safari experiences that await.

Day 2: Game Drive in Ngorongoro Crater & Maasai Cultural Visit

Your safari begins with an early breakfast before descending into the Ngorongoro Crater, one of Africa’s most remarkable natural wonders. The crater is a massive caldera, formed millions of years ago by the collapse of a volcanic mountain, creating a unique ecosystem that supports an incredible diversity of wildlife. As your safari vehicle navigates the winding roads leading into the crater, you will be greeted by breathtaking panoramic views of the vast landscape below.

Once inside the crater, the real adventure begins. The morning game drive offers an opportunity to witness a variety of wildlife up close, including large herds of buffalo, zebras, and wildebeests grazing on the open plains. The crater is also home to the Big Five—lions, elephants, leopards, buffaloes, and rhinos—so keep your eyes peeled for these majestic creatures. Near the crater’s wetlands, you may spot pods of hippos lazily wallowing in the water, while flocks of flamingos add a splash of pink to the scenery around Lake Magadi. Your guide will provide fascinating insights into the animals’ behaviors, the crater’s unique ecosystem, and the history of this geological marvel.

After an exciting morning of wildlife sightings, you will take a break for a picnic lunch at a designated spot within the crater, allowing you to soak in the beauty of your surroundings while enjoying your meal. In the afternoon, you will leave the crater and visit a Maasai village to experience the rich culture of this iconic East African tribe. The Maasai people are known for their deep-rooted traditions, distinctive clothing, and vibrant dances.

During your visit, you will be welcomed with traditional songs and dances, including the famous Maasai jumping dance. You will have the opportunity to learn about their way of life, explore a traditional manyatta (homestead), and even purchase handmade beadwork and crafts as souvenirs. After an enriching cultural experience, you will return to your lodge for a relaxing evening, enjoying a delicious dinner before retiring for the night.

Day 3: Bush Breakfast & Nature Walk

You will start the morning with a special bush breakfast, an unforgettable experience set in a scenic outdoor location within the park. As you sip on freshly brewed coffee and enjoy a spread of tropical fruits, pastries, and hot dishes, you will be surrounded by the sounds of the African wilderness. Birds sing from nearby trees, while the occasional movement in the distance might signal the presence of grazing antelopes or zebras. This immersive breakfast allows you to truly connect with nature while indulging in a delicious meal.

After breakfast, you will return to your lodge for a short rest before setting off on a guided nature walk. Unlike the game drives, where you observe wildlife from a vehicle, this walk allows you to experience the ecosystem on foot, guided by an expert tracker.

As you stroll through the crater’s forests and plains, you will learn about the various plant species and their medicinal uses, discover animal tracks imprinted in the soil, and listen to the calls of birds echoing through the trees. You might encounter small wildlife such as dik-diks, bushbucks, or playful vervet monkeys swinging from the branches. The walk provides a deeper appreciation of the delicate balance that sustains life in Ngorongoro. As the sun sets, you will return to your accommodation, where a warm dinner and a peaceful night’s sleep await.

Day 4: Hot Air Balloon Safari & Olduvai Gorge Exploration

Experience that few get to enjoy—a hot air balloon safari over the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Before dawn, you will be driven to the launch site, where the crew prepares the balloon for takeoff. As the sun begins to rise, you will ascend into the sky, floating effortlessly over the vast landscape below. From this breathtaking vantage point, you will witness herds of elephants moving gracefully across the plains, lions on the prowl, and zebras trotting in perfect harmony. The silence of the flight is only interrupted by the occasional blast of the burner, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the African wilderness. Upon landing, you will be treated to a traditional champagne breakfast in the bush, celebrating your incredible aerial adventure.

Later in the afternoon, you will visit Olduvai Gorge, one of the most significant archaeological sites in the world. This site, often referred to as the “Cradle of Mankind,” has yielded some of the earliest human fossils, providing valuable insights into our ancestors’ evolution. At the Olduvai Museum, you will explore fascinating exhibits displaying ancient tools, fossilized remains, and discoveries made by renowned archaeologists. As you stand on the edge of the gorge, overlooking the rugged landscape, you will reflect on the deep history embedded within these ancient rocks. After an informative and thought-provoking visit, you will return to your lodge for a relaxing evening.

Day 5: Lerai Forest & Lake Magadi Excursion

Journey through the Lerai Fever Tree Forest, a mystical woodland known for its towering acacia trees and abundant wildlife. As you explore this serene environment, you will encounter a variety of animals, including black rhinos, elephants, and antelopes. The golden sunlight filtering through the yellow-green canopy creates a magical atmosphere, perfect for photography. After a peaceful morning in the forest, you will enjoy a picnic lunch before heading to Lake Magadi in the afternoon.

Lake Magadi, a shallow soda lake within the crater, is famous for its vast population of pink flamingos. As you approach the lake, you will be mesmerized by the sight of thousands of these elegant birds wading through the alkaline waters, their reflections shimmering under the sunlight. The lake also attracts other wildlife, such as zebras, wildebeests, and even lurking predators waiting for an opportunity to hunt. Sitting by the water’s edge, you will take in the beauty of this natural wonder before returning to your lodge for a final celebratory dinner.

Day 6: Departure

You will wake up early for breakfast, savoring your last moments in the heart of Ngorongoro. After checking out, your guide will drive you back to Kilimanjaro International Airport, marking the end of your unforgettable journey. As you travel through the familiar landscapes one last time, you will reflect on the incredible wildlife encounters, cultural experiences, and breathtaking sights that made this safari an adventure of a lifetime. Upon arrival at the airport, you will bid farewell to your guide and board your flight home, carrying with you a treasure trove of memories from Tanzania’s spectacular wilderness.

Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Serengeti National Park

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be greeted by your safari guide who will brief you about the journey ahead. From here, embark on a scenic drive to Serengeti National Park. Depending on road conditions and the entry gate used, the journey could take several hours, offering you a chance to enjoy stunning landscapes along the way.

Once inside the park, get your first glimpses of Serengeti’s abundant wildlife, from zebras and giraffes grazing on the vast plains to herds of elephants making their way to water sources. The Serengeti is home to the world-famous Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebras move in search of greener pastures, creating a spectacular wildlife event.

Upon arrival at your lodge or camp, enjoy a warm welcome, relax, and prepare for the adventures ahead.

Accommodation Options:

• Luxury: Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti – Spacious rooms with private terraces overlooking the plains.
• Mid-range: Serengeti Kati Kati Tented Camp – Cozy en-suite tents with a true safari atmosphere.
• Budget: Serengeti Acacia Camps – Comfortable tents with essential amenities for a budget-friendly safari.

Dinner and overnight at your accommodation.

Day 2: Morning Game Drive & Afternoon Community Walk

Wake up early for a morning game drive, the best time to spot predators on the hunt. The cool morning temperatures make for an active wildlife scene, with lions, leopards, and cheetahs seen prowling the savannah. You’ll also encounter elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, and countless antelope species. Your guide will take you through various terrains, from open grasslands to rocky outcrops known as kopjes, which serve as excellent lookout points for big cats.

After an exhilarating morning, return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation before heading out for a cultural experience in the afternoon.

In the late afternoon, visit a local Maasai village, where you’ll be welcomed by the Maasai elders. Learn about their traditional way of life, including cattle herding, traditional dances, and unique customs. You’ll also have the opportunity to interact with Maasai women and learn about their intricate beadwork, which plays an essential role in their culture.

Dinner and overnight at your accommodation.

Day 3: Hot Air Balloon Safari & Nature Walk

Start the day with an extraordinary hot air balloon safari over the Serengeti at sunrise. As you gently float above the vast plains, you’ll witness the park from a unique aerial perspective, spotting animals below as they move through the landscape. This once-in-a-lifetime experience ends with a delicious bush breakfast, surrounded by the beauty of the African wilderness.

After a relaxed lunch at the lodge, head out for an afternoon nature walk. Led by experienced guides, this walk allows you to explore the Serengeti on foot, gaining insight into the smaller wonders of the ecosystem. Discover different plant species, track animal footprints, and spot birds like the lilac-breasted roller, secretary bird, and martial eagle.

Dinner and overnight at your accommodation.

Day 4: Return to Kilimanjaro International Airport

• After breakfast, enjoy a final scenic drive through the Serengeti as you make your way back to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure flight. Reflect on the incredible memories made during your adventure, from breathtaking wildlife encounters to cultural exchanges that have left a lasting impression.