8-Day Tanzania Safari: Lake Manyara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro & Tarangire
Location
Full Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
Welcome to Tanzania! Upon your arrival in Arusha, the gateway to Tanzania's safari destinations, a Pita Safaris representative will greet you with warm hospitality symbolic of East African culture. After a short transfer to your accommodation, you will have the rest of the day at leisure to acclimatize to the serene surroundings and prepare for the adventure ahead. Overnight in Arusha, where the anticipation for your safari will build under the African sky.
Accommodation Options:
Budget: Arusha Planet Lodge, Lower Mid-Range: Kibo Palace Hotel, Mid-Range: The African Tulip Hotel, Semi-Luxury: Arusha Serena Hotel, Luxury: The Glan Melia Hotel
Day 2: Lake Manyara National Park
Rise with the sun and depart for Lake Manyara National Park, a gem known for its verdant jungle-like forests and the shimmering lake that it enfolds. Your game drive will reveal a microcosm of the safari experience, with a chance to observe diverse wildlife, including tree-climbing lions, elephants, and myriad bird species. As the day unfolds, the dramatic Rift Valley escarpment will serve as a backdrop to your wildlife viewing. The night will be spent at an accommodation that offers comfort nestled within nature's embrace.
Accommodation Options:
Budget: Manyara Safari Lodge, Lower Mid-Range: Lake Manyara Tortilis Camp, Mid-Range: Kirurumu Manyara Lodge, Semi-Luxury: Lake Manyara Serena Lodge, Luxury: Lake Manyara Kilimamoja Lodge
Day 3: Serengeti National Park
With the dawn, set out with a packed lunch toward the fabled plains of the Serengeti. It's a journey that will take you through changing landscapes and into the heart of Tanzania's wilderness. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in an afternoon game drive across the Serengeti, where the land stretches into eternity, populated by herds of wildebeest, zebra, and the predators that follow them. As the sun sets on the vast savannah, retire to your accommodation for the night, the sounds of the wild a lullaby that promises another day of adventure.
Accommodation Options:
Budget: Serengeti Heritage Luxury Camp, Lower Mid-Range: Serengeti Tortilis Camp, Mid-Range: Serengeti Wilderness Camp, Semi-Luxury: Serengeti Serena Lodge, Luxury: Melia Serengeti Lodge
Day 4: Serengeti National Park
A full day in the Serengeti beckons, offering ample time to explore the depth and breadth of the park's wildlife riches. Today, your game drive will be extensive, allowing you to traverse different regions, witness the great migration (seasonal), and perhaps catch a glimpse of a stealthy leopard or a pride of lions in the midst of a hunt. The Serengeti's grandeur will unveil itself under the wide African sky, and by evening, you will return to your lodge or camp, hearts full from the day's encounters.
Following an exciting day of game drives, your driver will drop you off safely at your Serengeti accommodation for another restful night (see above). Enjoy a drink, unwind, eat, and sleep while in the Serengeti wildness. How could it get any better?
Day 5: Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Awake early for a morning game drive in the Serengeti, savoring your final moments in this wildlife haven. Then, embark on a journey to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The transition from the open plains to the highlands will be marked by scenic beauty and changing ecosystems. Arriving at the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, prepare for an awe-inspiring view before descending the next day. Overnight at a lodge or camp in Karatu, where the highland chill and starry skies are a prelude to the wonders of the crater.
Accommodation Options:
Budget: Ngorongoro Rhino Lodge, Lower Mid-Range: Ngorongoro Tortilis Camp, Mid-Range: Ngorongoro Angata Camp, Semi-Luxury: Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge, Luxury: Ngorongoro Lions Paw Camp
Day 6: Ngorongoro Crater
Today you will descend 600 meters into the Ngorongoro Crater, a world heritage site and a haven for wildlife. This natural amphitheater hosts one of the densest populations of lions in the world and is a conservation area where you might witness rhinos, elephants, and a variety of antelope species. Enjoy a full day of game viewing on the crater floor with a picnic lunch, an experience that many describe as akin to being inside a 'living' nature documentary. Return to Karatu for an overnight stay, reflecting on a day of unforgettable sightings.
Accommodation Options:
Budget: Country Lodge Karatu, Lower Mid-Range: Ngorongoro Coffee Lodge, Mid-Range: Ngorongoro Farm House, Semi-Luxury: Ngorongoro Oldeani Mountain Lodge, Luxury: The Manor at Ngorongoro
Day 7: Tarangire National Park
Depart to the less frequented but equally thrilling Tarangire National Park, famous for its large herds of elephants and baobab trees. Here, your game drive will allow you to explore the park's diverse landscapes, from seasonal swamps to the savannah and Tarangire River. Wildlife viewing continues to astonish as you come across various animals congregating around the water sources. Spend your last safari night in Tarangire, basking in the tranquility that only the African wilderness can offer.
Accommodation Options:
Budget: Sangaiwe Tented Lodge, Lower Mid-Range: Tarangire Tortilis Camp, Mid-Range: Tarangire Safari Lodge, Semi-Luxury: Tarangire Sopa Lodge, Luxury: Lemala Mpingo Ridge Tented Lodge
Day 8: Departure
Embrace the African sunrise on a morning game drive in Tarangire, saying your goodbyes to the wild. Then, journey back to Arusha, carrying the spirit of adventure with you. Once in Arusha, you will have the opportunity to freshen up and enjoy a farewell lunch, reminiscing about the week's extraordinary experiences. Afterward, a Pita Safaris representative will facilitate your transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA), ensuring that your departure is as smooth and comfortable as your arrival. As you ascend into the skies, you'll take a piece of Tanzania with you, etched forever in your memory.
Inclusions:
- All accommodation as detailed in a double occupancy room, with private facilities.
- All meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, prepared by expert chefs.
- Park fees and conservation charges for all national parks and reserves visited.
- Expert safari drivers/guides who will accompany you throughout your journey.
- Game drives in 4x4 safari vehicles, offering optimal wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Bottled water during game drives
- Airport transfers upon arrival and departure.
- All government taxes and levies
Exclusions:
- International flights and visas.
- Travel Insurance (highly recommended).
- Optional activities or experiences not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Hot air balloon safari over the Serengeti with a bush breakfast experience.
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, laundry, items of a personal nature.
- Tips and gratuities for safari guide and camp/lodge staff.
Important to Know:
- Children aged between 0-2 years are free of charge.
- Children aged 3-12 years pay 50% of the adult rate when sharing the same room with adults
- Children between 3-12 years pay 75% of the adult rate when staying in their separate room from adults
- Children 13 years and above are recognized as adults
