7-Day Classic Northern Tanzania Safari
This well-rounded itinerary covers Tanzania’s iconic parks, offering breathtaking wildlife viewing and comfortable mid-range accommodation. Ideal for first-timers eager to experience the Big Five and the stunning landscapes of the northern circuit.
Day 1: Arrival & Transfer to Arusha
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to your charming lodge nestled in the foothills of Mount Meru. Relax in the serene surroundings and enjoy a welcome dinner featuring freshly prepared local and international dishes. Meet your expert guide and discuss the exciting safari journey ahead.
Day 2: Tarangire National Park
After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Tarangire National Park, known for its enormous elephant herds and iconic baobab trees. Spend the day on thrilling game drives searching for lions, leopards, giraffes, zebras, and over 550 bird species. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park before heading to your comfortable camp for dinner and rest under the African stars.
Day 3: Lake Manyara National Park
Travel to Lake Manyara National Park, famed for its tree-climbing lions and vast flocks of flamingos that paint the lakeshore pink. Take a full-day game drive exploring diverse habitats, from lush forests to open plains. Spot hippos, baboons, and a variety of birdlife. Return to your lodge in the afternoon and relax.
Day 4: Ngorongoro Crater
Descend into the spectacular Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa’s greatest wildlife sanctuaries. Enjoy a full day of game viewing with a picnic lunch overlooking the stunning crater floor. Look out for the Big Five, herds of wildebeest, zebras, and flamingos in this extraordinary ecosystem. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 5: Safari Drive to Serengeti National Park
Drive through the scenic Ngorongoro Highlands en route to the Serengeti, Tanzania’s oldest and most famous national park. Along the way, witness stunning landscapes dotted with acacia trees and Maasai bomas (villages). Arrive at your mid-range tented camp in time for lunch. Spend the afternoon on an exhilarating game drive spotting predators, herds of wildebeest, and the iconic Serengeti plains.
Day 6: Full Day in Serengeti
Spend a full day exploring the Serengeti with morning and afternoon game drives. Search for cheetahs sprinting across the plains, lions lounging in the shade, and herds of elephants wandering through the park. Your guide shares insights about animal behavior and conservation. Enjoy sundowners overlooking the endless savannah before dinner under the stars.
Day 7: Return to Arusha & Departure
After breakfast, enjoy a scenic drive back to Arusha with opportunities for last-minute photos of the stunning landscape. Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward flight, filled with memories of an unforgettable Tanzanian adventure.
9-Day Tanzania Wildlife & Cultural Safari
This itinerary combines exhilarating wildlife safaris with enriching cultural experiences, perfect for travelers wanting to explore Tanzania’s natural wonders and its rich tribal heritage.
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
Land at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to your comfortable lodge in Arusha. Unwind with a welcome drink and briefing about the exciting days ahead. Enjoy a traditional dinner while your guide introduces you to Tanzania’s vibrant culture and wildlife.
Day 2: Tarangire National Park
Set off early to Tarangire National Park, famous for its large elephant population and baobab trees. Spend the day on game drives spotting lions, giraffes, zebras, and a variety of birds. Learn about the park’s unique ecosystem and conservation efforts. Return to your lodge for dinner.
Day 3: Lake Eyasi & Hadzabe Tribe Visit
Travel to Lake Eyasi to visit the Hadzabe hunter-gatherers, one of Africa’s last remaining indigenous tribes. Participate in a fascinating walking safari with them, learning traditional hunting and gathering techniques. Gain a deep appreciation for their sustainable lifestyle. Overnight at a nearby lodge or camp.
Day 4: Cultural Immersion with Datoga & Maasai Communities
Visit the Datoga pastoralists, known for their metalwork and crafts, and later, a Maasai village. Experience traditional ceremonies, dances, and customs. Engage with local families and learn about their connection to the land and wildlife conservation. Overnight near the Ngorongoro Highlands.
Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater Safari
Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a day of incredible game viewing. Spot the Big Five and observe the crater’s rich biodiversity. Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by breathtaking scenery. In the evening, relax at your lodge nestled on the crater rim.
Day 6: Serengeti National Park
Drive to the Serengeti, passing through scenic landscapes and Maasai villages. Arrive at your tented camp and enjoy an afternoon game drive. Witness the vast herds of wildebeest, zebras, and the occasional sighting of elusive predators.
Day 7: Full Day Game Drives in Serengeti
Spend the entire day in the Serengeti on morning and afternoon game drives. Your expert guide will take you to the best spots to see lions, cheetahs, elephants, and maybe even a rare sighting of a black rhino. Enjoy a sundowner drink while watching the African sunset paint the sky.
Day 8: Visit to Oldupai Gorge & Cultural Museum
Travel to Oldupai Gorge, known as the “Cradle of Mankind,” to explore one of the most important paleoanthropological sites in the world. Visit the museum to learn about human evolution and early hominid fossils. Return to Arusha for a final dinner and overnight stay.
Day 9: Departure
Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your flight home or onward destination, carrying memories of a diverse and rich Tanzanian experience.
12-Day Tanzania Explorer Safari
This extended itinerary is perfect for safari lovers seeking a deeper dive into Tanzania’s wildlife and culture, with extra days in key parks and cultural villages. Experience varied landscapes and ecosystems, from savannahs to forests and volcanic highlands.
Day 1: Arrival & Welcome to Arusha
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to your lodge. Meet your guide and fellow travelers over a welcome dinner. Prepare for an adventure through Tanzania’s diverse landscapes and wildlife.
Day 2: Tarangire National Park
Explore Tarangire’s unique ecosystem known for elephants, tree-climbing lions, and over 500 bird species. Enjoy morning and afternoon game drives. Overnight at a lodge surrounded by the park’s famous baobabs.
Day 3: Lake Manyara National Park
Discover Lake Manyara’s lush forests and alkaline lake shores. See hippos, flamingos, and the elusive tree-climbing lions. Visit the local village to meet community members involved in conservation.
Day 4: Ngorongoro Crater
Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, a spectacular natural amphitheater. Enjoy a full day game drive spotting the Big Five, hippos, and flamingos. Overnight on the crater rim with stunning views.
Day 5: Serengeti National Park – Central Serengeti
Travel to the Serengeti, arriving at a tented camp in the heart of the park. Afternoon game drive to see lions, elephants, and wildebeest migrations (season dependent). Relax by the campfire after dinner.
Day 6 & 7: Serengeti National Park – Northern Serengeti
Spend two full days exploring the northern Serengeti, home to abundant wildlife and the dramatic Mara River crossings during migration season. Optional hot air balloon safari available for breathtaking aerial views.
Day 8: Cultural Visit to Maasai Village
Experience Maasai culture firsthand with a visit to a traditional village. Learn about their customs, traditional dress, and community life. Participate in a cultural dance and share a meal with the locals.
Day 9: Oldupai Gorge & Museum
Explore Oldupai Gorge, visiting archaeological digs and the museum showcasing early human history. Gain a new perspective on mankind’s origins.
Day 10: Lake Eyasi & Hadzabe Tribe
Visit Lake Eyasi to meet the Hadzabe tribe, one of the last hunter-gatherer societies. Join a guided walk learning ancient hunting techniques and survival skills. Overnight at a comfortable lodge nearby.
Day 11: Return to Arusha
Drive back to Arusha through stunning landscapes. Time permitting, visit a local market or craft center for souvenirs. Enjoy a farewell dinner celebrating your Tanzanian adventure.
Day 12: Departure
Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your flight home or onward travel, with memories of an unforgettable journey filled with wildlife wonders and cultural discoveries.
