Day 1: Arrival in Arusha – Welcome to Tanzania
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport where you will be greeted by your guide and transferred to your hotel in Arusha. Depending on your flight arrival time, relax and acclimatize, or explore the local town for a taste of Tanzanian culture. Rest up for the adventure ahead.
Day 2: Arusha National Park – A Gentle Start to Your Safari
Begin your safari with a visit to Arusha National Park, a small but varied park offering great walking safaris and panoramic views of Mount Meru. Enjoy a canoe safari on Momella Lake to spot flamingos and hippos, or take a guided walk to learn about the park’s wildlife. In the afternoon, return to your hotel in Arusha for overnight.
Day 3: Tarangire National Park – Giants of the Savannah
Travel to Tarangire National Park, renowned for its massive herds of elephants and iconic baobab trees. Embark on a full day of game drives through the park’s diverse habitats, spotting wildlife such as giraffes, zebras, lions, and wildebeest. The park is especially stunning in the dry season when animals congregate around the Tarangire River. Overnight in a lodge near the park.
Day 4: Lake Manyara National Park – Tree-Climbing Lions
Drive to Lake Manyara National Park, known for its remarkable tree-climbing lions and vibrant birdlife, including large flocks of flamingos and pelicans. Explore the park’s varied ecosystems, from dense forests to open plains. After your game drive, head to Karatu for overnight, a charming town near the Ngorongoro Highlands.
Day 5: Maasai Cultural Experience & Ngorongoro Highlands
Visit a traditional Maasai village for an immersive cultural experience. Engage with the Maasai people and learn about their customs, dances, and daily life. After this cultural visit, journey to your lodge at the Ngorongoro Crater rim, where you’ll be treated to spectacular views of the world’s largest unbroken caldera.
Day 6: Ngorongoro Crater – The Garden of Eden
Today, descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. Spend the day on a game drive, spotting the Big Five, including the rare black rhino, lions, elephants, buffaloes, and leopards. Enjoy a picnic lunch by the Ngorongoro Crater floor and return to your lodge in the evening.
Day 7: Serengeti National Park – Enter the Plains of the Migration
After breakfast, depart for the iconic Serengeti National Park, passing through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Depending on the time of year, you may begin your migration adventure as you spot herds of wildebeest and zebras moving across the plains. Arrive in Central Serengeti (Seronera) and embark on your first game drive in the afternoon. Overnight in a lodge or tented camp inside the park.
Day 8: Full-Day Serengeti Safari – The Great Migration
Spend the day exploring the Serengeti on a full-day game drive. If you’re visiting during the Great Migration season (typically from May to October), witness one of the most spectacular wildlife events in the world. Massive herds of wildebeest and zebras cross the Serengeti plains, with predators close behind. You’ll also spot other animals such as giraffes, cheetahs, and lions. Return to your lodge for dinner under the African stars.
Day 9: Northern Serengeti – The Mara River Crossing (Seasonal)
Head to the Northern Serengeti to witness one of the most dramatic events in the Great Migration—the Mara River Crossing (best from July to October). This is where the wildebeest and zebras face a perilous river crossing, dodging crocodiles and trying to make it to the other side. It’s a truly awe-inspiring moment for any wildlife enthusiast. Enjoy a game drive in this area before returning to your camp or lodge for the night.
Day 10: Serengeti – Explore More & Optional Hot Air Balloon Safari
For your final full day in the Serengeti, embark on another exciting game drive to explore different regions of the park. You may choose to add an optional hot air balloon safari at dawn for a bird’s-eye view of the migration and the Serengeti’s vast plains. The opportunity to see lions, cheetahs, and other wildlife from the air is unmatched. In the afternoon, continue your game drive or relax at your accommodation.
Day 11: Return to Arusha – Farewell to Tanzania
After a final morning game drive in the Serengeti, head back to Arusha for your departure flight. Depending on your schedule, you may have time for shopping or a farewell meal in the city before heading to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your flight home.
