Day 1: Welcome to Arusha – Your Gateway to Tanzania’s Wilderness

Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, your guide will warmly greet you with a friendly “Jambo na Karibu Tanzania,” marking the beginning of your remarkable adventure. You’ll transfer to a peaceful mid-range Arusha lodge surrounded by lush gardens and local flora. This evening, unwind and immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings, preparing for the exciting journey ahead. Rest and rejuvenate as you prepare to begin your private safari the next day.

Day 2: Tarangire National Park

After breakfast, venture into the wild as your guide drives you to Tarangire National Park, a hidden gem known for its giant baobab trees and large elephant herds. As you explore this vast park, you’ll witness the park’s rich biodiversity, from antelopes and giraffes to predators like lions and leopards. The Tarangire River is a magnet for wildlife, especially during the dry season, ensuring thrilling sightings. As the sun sets, return to the camp, where you’ll enjoy dinner under the stars and fall asleep to the sounds of the African wilderness.

Day 3: Tarangire National Park Safari & Walking Tour

Your adventure begins with an early wake-up call and a hearty breakfast to fuel you for the day ahead. You will start the morning with a guided walking tour, allowing you to experience the diverse flora and fauna of Tarangire National Park up close. Afterwards, continue with a game drive through this renowned wildlife haven, famous for its large elephant herds, often seen grazing beneath the iconic baobab trees.

In addition to elephants, Tarangire is home to a wide array of wildlife, including zebras, wildebeests, giraffes, and several antelope species, all attracted to the park’s life-giving river. Birdwatchers will be thrilled by the impressive birdlife, with over 550 species recorded, making it one of Tanzania’s most prosperous birding destinations.

During the midday pause, enjoy a well-prepared packed lunch in the park's serene natural surroundings before resuming your game drive. As the sun sets, return to your lodge, where a delightful dinner awaits. This is the perfect end to a day immersed in the wonders of the African wilderness.

Day 4: Journey to Serengeti National Park

Today, your safari adventure continues as you travel to the world-renowned Serengeti National Park, passing through the scenic Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Famous for its vast, open plains and abundant wildlife, the Serengeti offers one of the most iconic landscapes in Africa, often featured in nature documentaries.

The annual wildebeest migration is one of the park’s most unforgettable natural phenomena. Over a million wildebeest, accompanied by zebras and gazelles, move in a thundering mass across the Serengeti’s endless plains. This spectacular journey is a must-see event for any wildlife enthusiast.

On your way to the Serengeti, enjoy a relaxing lunch break. By evening, you will arrive at camp, where you can unwind after a day of exploration. A delicious dinner will be served as you relax, enveloped in the peace and tranquillity of the African wilderness.

Day 5: The Great Migration – Full-Day Serengeti Safari

Start your day in the heart of the Serengeti, ready for a full day of exploration. With your private guide and a packed lunch, you will journey across the vast plains, seeking the iconic wildebeest herds as they embark on their legendary migration. Beyond the migration spectacle, the Serengeti teems with diverse wildlife, including lions, cheetahs, leopards, elephants, and various other species.

From July to October, witness the dramatic crossings of the Mara River in the northern Serengeti. Between January and March, experience the wonder of the calving season in the southern Serengeti and Ndutu areas. During other times of the year, enjoy the unique wildlife spectacles the central Serengeti offers.

Return to your camp for an evening of relaxation as the day ends. Savour a delicious dinner and enjoy stories around the campfire before retreating for a peaceful night in the African wilderness.

Day 6: Hot Air Balloon Safari and Game Drive in the Serengeti

Begin your day with an unforgettable choice: either soar above the Serengeti in a breathtaking hot air balloon (available at an additional cost) or embark on a thrilling full-day game drive. Witness the grandeur of the Great Migration as millions of wildebeests and zebras traverse the plains in an awe-inspiring spectacle. Keep a lookout for the Big Cats—lions, leopards, and cheetahs—as they follow the herds.

Immerse yourself in the Serengeti's vibrant ecosystem, observing elephants, buffalo, hartebeest, eland, giraffes, and other fascinating species. As the sun sets, return to your camp for a delightful dinner and a peaceful night’s rest, surrounded by the Serengeti's serene wilderness.

Day 7: Journey to Ngorongoro Conservation Area

After enjoying a morning game drive in central Serengeti and a packed lunch, you will set off for the remarkable Ngorongoro Conservation Area in the afternoon. This ancient natural wonder, formed by a massive volcanic eruption over two million years ago, is one of Africa’s most iconic landscapes. Upon arrival at your lodge, take some time to unwind and enjoy a delightful dinner. Prepare for the next day’s adventure, which promises exceptional wildlife viewing in the world-famous crater.

Day 8: Ngorongoro Crater Tour & Departure

After breakfast, descend into the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater for an unforgettable game drive, with a scenic stop for lunch. This ancient caldera, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is home to an astonishing variety of wildlife, including lions, zebras, buffaloes, and the elusive black rhino.

As you explore the crater floor, you’ll experience the beauty of this unique ecosystem, where animals roam freely against the dramatic backdrop of the crater’s towering walls. After your day of remarkable wildlife encounters, your guide will transfer you to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward journey. If your adventure feels too short, consider extending your trip with a relaxing beach escape to Zanzibar, Pemba, or Mafia. Contact our travel experts to customise the perfect extension to your Tanzanian safari.

Day 9: Departure from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)

Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy a free day to relax or explore the surroundings. Your driver will escort you to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your return journey.

If eight days in Tanzania felt too short, why not extend your adventure with a relaxing beach escape? Tanzania offers pristine beach destinations like Zanzibar, Pemba, and Mafia, ideal for unwinding after your safari. Reach out to our travel experts to customise your perfect Tanzanian safari extension.