Day 1: Arrival in Arusha

Upon your arrival at the serene heart of Tanzania, the city of Arusha extends a warm embrace. Maua Villa, nestled within a lush, hidden garden, provides more than just accommodation—it’s an encounter for the senses. At Maua Villa, take the opportunity to meander through the vibrant gardens, becoming acquainted with the local flora and fauna. An evening of relaxation awaits as you’re serenaded by the gentle sounds of the night creatures, ensuring you’re well-rested for the escapades that await.

Day 2-3: Journey from Arusha to Tarangire National Park

Begin the day with breakfast before departing at 7 a.m. with your safari guide to Tarangire National Park. Spend the whole day immersed in game drives, observing the rich tapestry of wildlife in the park. A midday picnic offers a delightful meal and a chance to witness wildlife congregating around the Tarangire River from an observatory with stunning views—where the thrill of a hunt may unfold before you.

As dusk falls, continue your exploration of Tarangire, known for its significant elephant population and the majestic baobab trees dotting its nearly 3000 sq km expanse. The park’s lifeblood, the Tarangire River, draws herds from across the park during the dry season, making it a rival to the Serengeti for its wildlife spectacle. Your day in the wild concludes with a retreat to Maramboi Tented Lodge for dinner and an overnight stay nestled within this breathtaking landscape.

Day 4: From Tarangire’s Wilderness to the Wonders of Manyara National Park

Today, you’ll transition from the sprawling landscapes of Tarangire to the diverse ecosystem of Manyara National Park. The journey between these two parks offers a scenic drive through the Tanzanian countryside, showcasing a mix of lush forests and open grasslands.

Upon arrival at Lake Manyara, renowned for its spectacular flamingo-lined lake, lush forests, and tree-climbing lions, you’ll embark on an afternoon game drive. This drive provides a chance to observe a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat, including elephants, hippos, and potentially leopards. As the day winds down, you’ll check into Manyara Lakeview Oasis, a serene retreat offering breathtaking views of the Rift Valley and the park below. Here, you can relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings, reflecting on the day’s adventures. The evening concludes with a delightful dinner.

Day 5: Crater Wonders: From Manyara’s Beauty to Ngorongoro’s Majesty

Your safari adventure transitions from the scenic landscapes of Manyara to the awe-inspiring Ngorongoro Conservation Area. After breakfast, you’ll embark on a picturesque drive towards the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Upon arrival, you’ll experience the thrill of descending into the world’s largest inactive, intact, and unfilled volcanic caldera. The Ngorongoro Crater, a natural sanctuary for wildlife, offers an unparalleled opportunity to observe a high concentration of animals in a relatively small area, including the chance to spot the elusive Big Five. The unique ecosystem inside the crater is home to diverse habitats, ranging from lush forests to grassy plains, providing an ideal backdrop for a day full of wildlife exploration and spectacular photographic opportunities.

After a day filled with remarkable sights and encounters, your journey continues to the Ngorongoro Coffee Lodge. Nestled in a serene highland setting, the lodge offers a cosy retreat to unwind and reflect on the day’s adventures. Here, you’ll enjoy a peaceful evening, complete with a delightful dinner, surrounded by the comforting ambience of the Tanzanian highlands.

Day 6: Journey from the Ngorongoro Highlands to the Serengeti Plains

Today, your safari adventure takes you from the Ngorongoro highlands to the iconic Serengeti National Park. The journey unfolds with a scenic drive, offering a vivid transition from Ngorongoro’s lush highlands to the Serengeti’s expansive savannahs. This route, rich in changing landscapes, sets the stage for the day’s experiences.

Upon arriving in the Serengeti, you’ll be immediately greeted by its vast plains and diverse wildlife. An afternoon game drive in this renowned park offers chances to observe an array of animals in their natural habitat, including the Big Five and the spectacular scenes of the Great Migration, depending on the season.

The day’s exploration culminates with an overnight stay at Acacia Central Camp, nestled in the heart of the Serengeti. Here, you’ll have the unique opportunity to unwind and soak in the tranquil atmosphere of the African wilderness. As night falls, the sounds of the Serengeti envelop the camp, providing a serene backdrop for reflection on the day’s adventures.

Day 7-8: Discovering Central Serengeti

Awake to the early light of dawn breaking over the Central Serengeti. As the natural world stirs around you, prepare for a day of personalised discovery in the heart of this iconic national park.

Tailor your days in the Serengeti with the guidance of your expert guide. Choose between an early morning game drive to catch the wilderness coming to life, followed by a relaxed lunch and some downtime at Acacia Central Camp. Later, you can embark on another game drive in the afternoon. For those who wish to maximise their time in the wild, a full-day game drive with a packed picnic lunch offers an immersive experience.

The Seronera River Valley, a hotspot within the Central Serengeti, offers an incredible display of wildlife year-round. The dry season brings an even more remarkable abundance of animals, such as impalas, buffalos, hippos, and an array of big cats. Your day’s adventure concludes with a night at Acacia Central Camp, a place that harmonises comfort with the untamed spirit of the wilderness, all under a blanket of African stars.

Day 9: Serengeti Dawn and Departure to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)

Your final day begins with the soft light of sunrise over the Serengeti. After an early morning repast, you will be whisked away to the airstrip for your flight, soaring over the sprawling plains one last time as you make your way to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). With no further accommodation scheduled, your journey concludes with the memories of the Serengeti’s splendours accompanying you as you travel homeward.