Overview
Northern Tanzania offers unforgettable moments in some of Africa’s most iconic national parks. From the flamingo-dotted shores of Lake Manyara to the expansive grasslands of the Serengeti, each destination reveals its own rich ecosystem and wildlife drama. Stand on the edge of the Ngorongoro Crater, then descend into its basin where elephants and rhinos roam. End with the elephant corridors of Tarangire, where ancient baobab trees tower over herds of game. Along the way, visit Olduvai Gorge, a landmark of human history, and experience the land on foot with a guided walking safari.
Itinerary
Depart Arusha after breakfast and drive to Lake Manyara National Park, arriving in time for lunch. In the afternoon, enjoy a game drive through this compact but biodiverse park. Lake Manyara is home to tree-climbing lions, elephants, giraffes, hippos, and thousands of flamingos. The park’s mix of acacia forest and alkaline lake attracts both birdlife and large mammals. After the drive, head to the campsite for dinner and overnight.
Begin the day with breakfast before setting out for the Serengeti Plains. En route, stop at Olduvai Gorge, one of the world’s most important archaeological sites. It was here that the Leakey family unearthed fossil remains that helped trace the origins of humankind. After exploring the museum and surrounding area, continue into the heart of the Serengeti where your camp awaits.
Spend the day exploring the vast Serengeti ecosystem with morning and afternoon game drives. The park teems with wildlife including lions, cheetahs, hyenas, leopards, and large herds of wildebeest, zebra, and antelope. Depending on the season, you may witness part of the Great Migration, one of the planet’s most remarkable natural spectacles. Meals are served at the campsite.
After breakfast and a final morning game drive in the Serengeti, begin your journey to Ngorongoro Conservation Area. As you leave the open plains behind, the landscape rises into rolling highlands. Arrive at the crater rim in the late afternoon for dinner and overnight.
Set off early and descend over 2,000 feet into the Ngorongoro Crater for a full day of wildlife viewing. This intact volcanic caldera shelters an extraordinary range of animals, including lions, buffalo, elephants, and the endangered black rhino. A picnic lunch is enjoyed near a hippo pool. In the afternoon, ascend back to the crater rim and continue to your campsite located outside the park.
After breakfast, drive from Ngorongoro to Tarangire National Park. Known for its large elephant population and striking baobab trees, the park also hosts eland, oryx, lions, leopards, and over 500 bird species. Spend the afternoon on a game drive with picnic lunch inside the park. Dinner is served at the campsite.
Begin the day with a guided nature walk just outside the park. This offers a chance to connect with the landscape on foot and learn about smaller flora and fauna often missed during game drives. Afterward, depart for Arusha, arriving by midday to conclude your safari.
Inclusions
Includes
- Accommodation in listed lodges/camps (or similar)
- All meals during the safari
- Park entrance and conservation fees
- All ground transport in 4x4 safari jeep with pop-up roof
- Game drives as per itinerary
- English-speaking professional safari driver-guide
- Bottled water on game drives
- Airport transfers
Excludes
- International flights
- Visa fees
- Hot air balloon safari (optional, extra cost)
- Cultural village visits (optional, small fee)
- Travel insurance
- Tips and gratuities
- Personal expenses (drinks, laundry, souvenirs)
- Extra accommodation before/after the tour (available on request)
FAQs
You will encounter a wide range of wildlife including lions, elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, cheetahs, and occasionally black rhinos. Birdwatchers will also appreciate species such as flamingos, fish eagles, and pelicans.
The safari’s pace is moderate, but the game drives may involve long hours in vehicles and some bumpy roads. Families with children over six years old usually find this itinerary enjoyable.
Lightweight, neutral-colored clothing is recommended for game drives. Include a warm jacket or fleece for early mornings and evenings, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, and a camera.
