This 12-day safari itinerary in Tanzania is designed for adventure seekers who want to explore the country's diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. Starting in Arusha, the itinerary includes visits to iconic parks like Tarangire and the Serengeti, known for their abundant wildlife and scenic beauty. It features opportunities to see elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, and flamingos in their natural habitats. Activities include game drives, guided walking tours, and cultural interactions with local tribes. Each day is packed with chances to encounter unique species, from the large herds in Tarangire to the migratory birds at Lake Natron. The itinerary also includes hikes to waterfalls and a tour of the Ngorongoro Crater, providing a comprehensive overview of Tanzania’s natural wonders and rich cultural heritage.
Day 1: Arusha to Arusha National Park
Day 2: Arusha to Tarangire National Park
Day 3: Full Day Game Drives in Tarangire
Day 4: Transfer to Lake Manyara National Park
Day 5: Transfer to Lake Natron
Day 6: Lake Natron - Ngare Sero Gorge Hike
Day 7: Proceed to Central Serengeti
Day 8: Full Day Game Drives in Central SerengetiDay 9: Another Full Day Game Drives in Central Serengeti
Day 10: Morning Game Drives and Transfer to Ngorongoro/Karatu
Day 11: Ngorongoro Crater Tour
Day 12: Lake Eyasi - Hadzabe and Datoga Tribe Visit
Begin your adventure in Arusha National Park, just a short drive from the city. Enjoy a guided game drive through the park's diverse landscapes, home to wildlife such as giraffes, buffalo, colobus monkeys, and over 400 bird species, including the vibrant flamingo. After lunch, participate in a walking tour led by experienced guides, allowing for close observation of animals while learning about the ecosystem. The park’s serene environment and beautiful scenery create a fantastic introduction to Tanzania’s wildlife. Return to Arusha for a restful evening, preparing for the exciting days ahead.
Travel from Arusha to Tarangire National Park, known for its large elephant herds and iconic baobab trees. Upon arrival, enjoy your first game drive, where you can spot elephants, lions, leopards, and various antelope species such as kudu and impala. The park's unique landscapes provide ample opportunities for wildlife viewing, especially during the dry season when animals gather around water sources. In the afternoon, take a break at a picnic site surrounded by nature. After a full day of exploration, settle into your lodge for dinner and relaxation.
Spend a full day immersed in the wonders of Tarangire National Park. Start the day with an early morning game drive, maximizing your chances of seeing wildlife as they become active at dawn. Look for elephants, zebras, ostriches, and the elusive African wild dog. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park, allowing for a recharge before continuing the adventure. In the afternoon, explore different areas of the park, including swamps and woodlands, to discover more wildlife. Return to your lodge for dinner, reflecting on the day’s exciting encounters.
Today, travel to Lake Manyara National Park, famous for its diverse ecosystems and beautiful scenery. Upon arrival, embark on a game drive that reveals the park’s unique wildlife, including tree-climbing lions, large flocks of flamingos, and elephants. Keep an eye out for giraffes, hippos, and various bird species, such as pelicans and storks. Take breaks at scenic viewpoints for photographs and moments to appreciate the landscape. After a day of wildlife viewing, head to your lodge for a comfortable night’s rest, preparing for the next adventure.
Journey to Lake Natron, known for its striking scenery and as a breeding ground for flamingos. Upon arrival, enjoy birdwatching opportunities, particularly for spotting large flocks of vibrant flamingos and other birds like herons and pelicans. Take a leisurely walk along the shores of the lake, learning about the unique ecosystem and its importance to local wildlife. An optional guided hike allows for closer views of the surrounding landscapes and the nearby Ol Doinyo Lengai volcano. After a day of exploration, settle into your lodge for dinner and relaxation.
Today, choose between a full-day or half-day hike to Ngare Sero Gorge, leading to beautiful waterfalls. This hike provides a chance to explore stunning landscapes, encountering species such as baboons and various birds along the way. Opportunities for swimming in the natural pools await, adding to the adventure. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature before returning to Lake Natron. After the hike, relax at the lodge, sharing stories of the day’s discoveries and enjoying a well-deserved dinner.
Travel to Central Serengeti, renowned for its abundant wildlife and stunning landscapes. On the way, take short game drives, spotting animals such as wildebeests, zebras, and lions. Arriving in the Serengeti, check into your lodge, which provides comfortable accommodations and meals. In the late afternoon, venture out for another game drive, maximizing your wildlife encounters. Look for cheetahs, leopards, and hippos in the rivers. Return to your lodge for dinner and relaxation, discussing the day’s highlights.
Today is dedicated to exploring the Central Serengeti with a full day of game drives. Start early to witness the wildlife as they become active in the morning. Look for lions, elephants, and cheetahs while driving through the park's diverse habitats. Keep an eye out for migratory herds and their predators. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the bush, allowing for a peaceful break amidst nature. Continue exploring various areas in the afternoon, ensuring ample opportunities to witness captivating wildlife interactions. Return to the lodge for a relaxing evening, reflecting on the day’s adventures.
Continue the wildlife adventure with another full day of game drives in Central Serengeti. Different areas of the park may reveal new wildlife sightings, including giraffes, hyenas, and various bird species. Take breaks at scenic spots to enjoy the landscape and capture photos. A packed lunch allows for flexibility in your schedule, maximizing your time in the park. In the evening, return to your lodge for dinner and relaxation, sharing stories from another exciting day of exploration.
On the final morning in Central Serengeti, take advantage of a game drive to spot any remaining wildlife on your list. Early mornings can be fruitful, as animals are often more active. Look for any last-minute sightings of elephants, lions, or birds. After the morning drive, enjoy brunch at your lodge before transferring to Ngorongoro/Karatu. The journey offers scenic views and opportunities to appreciate the stunning landscapes. Upon arrival, check into your lodge and prepare for the next day’s adventure in the Ngorongoro Crater.
Explore the remarkable Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spend approximately five hours on a guided tour, where you can see a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, rhinos, lions, and buffalo. The crater's unique ecosystem provides excellent opportunities for spotting animals in a compact area. Look for various bird species as well, including ostriches and flamingos. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the crater, allowing for a peaceful meal surrounded by nature. After the tour, transfer to Lake Eyasi, where you'll settle into your lodge for the evening, reflecting on the day’s wildlife encounters.
On your final day, visit the Hadzabe and Datoga tribes near Lake Eyasi. This cultural interaction allows for insights into the traditional lifestyles and customs of these local communities. Participate in activities such as hunting demonstrations and traditional crafts, providing a unique understanding of their way of life. Keep an eye out for local wildlife during your visit. After the visit, enjoy lunch before returning to Arusha. Reflect on the incredible journey through Tanzania as you conclude your safari adventure and prepare for your onward travel.