7-Day Midrange Safari in Tanzania: Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Serengeti & Ngorongoro
Location
Full Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
Welcome to Tanzania! Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be greeted by your private safari guide and driver. Enjoy a warm Tanzanian welcome before being transferred to the elegant African Tulip Hotel, located in a quiet area of Arusha. This boutique hotel offers a tranquil setting with lush gardens, modern amenities, and exceptional service.
Spend the rest of your day unwinding after your journey. Relax by the swimming pool, enjoy a refreshing drink at the bar, or take in the ambiance of the hotel’s artfully designed interiors. Depending on your arrival time, you may choose to explore Arusha town or simply savor the comfort of your accommodation.
Accommodation Option: The African Tulip Hotel – a boutique hotel blending charm, comfort, and convenience.
Meals: Dinner at the hotel’s renowned Baobab Restaurant, featuring international and local dishes.
Day 2: Arusha to Tarangire National Park
After a hearty breakfast, set out for the enchanting Tarangire National Park, approximately two hours away. Known for its ancient baobab trees, large elephant herds, and seasonal migrations, Tarangire offers an authentic African safari experience. Enjoy thrilling morning and afternoon game drives, where you may encounter lions, giraffes, zebras, and over 500 bird species.
Pause midday for a delightful picnic lunch surrounded by the park’s captivating landscapes. By late afternoon, arrive at Tarangire Sopa Lodge, a serene retreat with spacious accommodations and breathtaking views of the park. After settling in, relax and indulge in a delicious dinner.
Accommodation Option: Tarangire Sopa Lodge – known for its excellent location and comfort.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (picnic), and Dinner.
Day 3: Tarangire to Lake Manyara National Park
Today, journey to Lake Manyara National Park, a scenic two-hour drive from Tarangire. Famous for its tree-climbing lions, vibrant birdlife, and soda lake, the park offers diverse ecosystems and stunning views. During your game drive, spot baboons, hippos, and flamingos among other wildlife.
Break for a picnic lunch in the park before heading to Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge, perched on the Rift Valley escarpment. Enjoy unparalleled views of the lake and surrounding landscape. Spend your evening unwinding in this tranquil haven, complete with an infinity pool and fine dining.
Accommodation Option: Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge – a stunning lodge with panoramic views and modern amenities.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 4: Lake Manyara to Serengeti National Park
After breakfast, travel to Serengeti National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The drive through the Ngorongoro Highlands offers picturesque landscapes and cultural insights. Arrive in the Serengeti by afternoon and embark on your first game drive, where you’ll witness the park’s iconic wildlife, including lions, elephants, and cheetahs.
In the evening, check into Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge, an elegant safari lodge blending luxury with the natural environment. Relax on your private deck or enjoy dinner under the African stars.
Accommodation Option: Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge – luxury tented suites offering stunning views and top-notch service.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 5: Full Day in Serengeti National Park
Spend an exhilarating day exploring Serengeti National Park, home to the Great Migration and an array of wildlife. Begin with a sunrise game drive, followed by breakfast back at the lodge. Continue with morning and afternoon game drives, where you may see zebras, wildebeests, and predators like leopards and hyenas.
Enjoy a picnic lunch in the bush, surrounded by the breathtaking savanna. Depending on the season, you might witness the awe-inspiring Great Migration. Return to your lodge in the evening for a relaxing dinner.
Accommodation Option: Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (picnic), and Dinner.
Day 6: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Begin your day with a short game drive in Serengeti before heading to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a journey that takes you through diverse ecosystems and traditional Maasai villages. Arrive at Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge, located on the crater rim with magnificent views of the caldera.
The afternoon is yours to relax, taking in the tranquil surroundings and preparing for the following day’s crater adventure.
Accommodation Option: Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge – renowned for its prime location and eco-friendly design.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 7: Ngorongoro Crater Tour & Departure
Wake early and descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, a wildlife-rich haven often referred to as the "Eighth Wonder of the World." Spend the day on the crater floor, spotting the Big Five and other wildlife like hippos, flamingos, and wildebeests.
Pause for a picnic lunch by a scenic spot before ascending the crater walls in the afternoon. Return to Arusha, where you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure flight.
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch (picnic).
Highlights: Black rhinos, breathtaking landscapes, and the Big Five.
Inclusions:
- Accommodation: 6 nights in luxury lodges and tented camps, including The African Tulip Hotel (Arusha), Tarangire Sopa Lodge, Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge, Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge, and Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge.
- Meals: Daily breakfast, lunch (picnic or at the lodge), and dinner (as specified in the itinerary).
- Transportation: Private safari vehicle with a professional driver-guide throughout the trip.
- Game Drives: Daily game drives in Tarangire National Park, Lake Manyara National Park, Serengeti National Park, and Ngorongoro Crater.
- Park Fees: All entrance fees to national parks and conservation areas.
- Ngorongoro Crater: A full-day tour of the Ngorongoro Crater, including descent to the crater floor for wildlife viewing.
- Professional Safari Guide: An experienced and knowledgeable safari guide for the entire journey.
- Picnic Lunches: Enjoy picnic lunches during your game drives, surrounded by Tanzania’s spectacular wilderness.
- Transfers: Transfers between Kilimanjaro International Airport and Arusha, as well as between all destinations in the itinerary.
- Water: Bottled water during the safari.
- Emergency Evacuation Insurance: Limited coverage for emergencies (details provided on request).
Exclusions:
- International Flights: International flights to and from Tanzania.
- Visa Fees: Visa costs for entry into Tanzania (if applicable).
- Personal Expenses: Any personal purchases such as souvenirs, gifts, or personal items.
- Tips and Gratuities: Gratuities for safari guides, lodge staff, and other service providers.
- Optional Activities: Activities not included in the itinerary, such as balloon safaris, Maasai village visits, or cultural experiences.
- Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance (medical, cancellation, etc.) is not included but is highly recommended.
- Drinks: Alcoholic beverages and drinks not included in meals.
- Laundry: Laundry services at the lodges or tented camps.
