Embark on the journey of a lifetime across Tanzania’s most iconic landscapes! On this 7-day adventure, you’ll explore three of the country’s most famous national parks, with excellent chances to spot the legendary Big Five and countless other fascinating animals. Along the way, you’ll also experience authentic Tanzanian culture — from walking through a bustling village to dancing the night away in a local nightclub.
Destinations: Arusha • Tarangire • Lake Manyara • Ngorongoro Crater • Serengeti
Day by Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania – Welcome to Arusha
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where you’ll be warmly greeted and transferred to the Venus Premier Hotel in Arusha. After your long journey, relax and recharge — or, if time allows, take a guided stroll through Arusha town for a first taste of local life.
Day 2: Tarangire National Park & Night Safari
After breakfast, head out to Tarangire National Park, famous for its giant baobab trees and huge elephant herds. Enjoy a full-day game drive with picnic lunch, spotting lions, leopards, cheetahs, and more. In the evening, settle into Whistling Thorn Camp for dinner — then head out again for an unforgettable night safari, where you’ll search for nocturnal animals under the stars.
Day 3: Lake Manyara & Cultural Village Walk
Start your day with a guided walk through Mto wa Mbu village, where all of Tanzania’s 120 tribes live side by side. Visit banana plantations, rice fields, a local beer “factory,” and even meet woodcarvers crafting the famous Makonde art. Then continue to Lake Manyara National Park for a game drive through lush forests and along the sparkling lake. Watch for elephants, giraffes, monkeys, flamingos, and — if lucky — the park’s rare tree-climbing lions. Overnight at Ngorongoro Rhino Lodge on the crater rim.
Day 4: Ngorongoro Crater Safari → Serengeti
Wake up early for a full-day adventure in the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater, home to lions, cheetahs, hyenas, hippos, and the endangered black rhino. After your picnic lunch, journey on to the vast plains of the Serengeti, where you’ll enjoy dinner and a starlit evening at Serengeti Heritage Camp.
Day 5: Game Drives in Serengeti
Spend the day exploring the endless grasslands of the Serengeti National Park. With morning and afternoon game drives, you’ll have the best chance to spot predators in action, alongside herds of wildebeest, zebras, giraffes, elephants, and many more. Overnight at Serengeti Heritage Tented Camp.
Day 6: Sunrise Safari & Journey Back
Head out at dawn for a magical sunrise game drive, with breakfast served in the wild. Return to camp for lunch, then begin your journey back toward the Ngorongoro highlands. Dinner and overnight at Eileen’s Trees Inn, a cozy and welcoming lodge.
Day 7: Farewell in Arusha
After breakfast, drive back to Arusha for a traditional local lunch before heading to the airport for your onward flight — carrying unforgettable memories of your Tanzanian safari.
This itinerary blends breathtaking wildlife encounters with rich cultural experiences, giving travelers the very best of Tanzania in just one week!
Witness one of nature’s most spectacular events—the annual Great Migration, where over 1.5 million wildebeest, 400,000 zebra, and thousands of gazelle and eland move across the Serengeti–Mara ecosystem in search of fresh grazing. This extraordinary safari combines luxury accommodations, thrilling game drives, and the chance to see Africa’s most celebrated wildlife up close.
Recommended Travel Months: July & August
Small Group Experience: Minimum 2 travelers, maximum 36 guests
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha, Tanzania
Welcome to Tanzania! Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you’ll be greeted by your friendly Tanzania Wild Expeditions guide and transferred to your hotel in Arusha. Relax and settle in before your safari adventure begins.
• Accommodation: Four Points by Sheraton Arusha – The Arusha Hotel
• Meals: Dinner & Breakfast
🔗 Hotel Website
Day 2: Flight to the Northern Serengeti
After breakfast, take a scenic morning flight from Arusha to the Northern Serengeti. Upon landing, your adventure begins immediately with a game drive en route to your luxury tented lodge. In the afternoon, head out for your first Serengeti safari—keep your camera ready for lions, elephants, and more.
• Accommodation: Serengeti Mara Mara Tented Luxury Lodge
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
🔗 Lodge Website
Days 3 & 4: The Great Migration in the Northern Serengeti
Spend two unforgettable days exploring the Mara River region, home to some of Africa’s most dramatic wildlife encounters. Here, you may witness the heart-stopping spectacle of wildebeest braving crocodile-filled waters during their legendary river crossings. Resident wildlife is abundant too, with prides of up to 30 lions, cheetahs, leopards, and elephants roaming the plains.
• Accommodation: Serengeti Mara Mara Tented Luxury Lodge
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Journey to the Central Serengeti
Today, travel south into the Central Serengeti (Seronera Valley), a region famous for its year-round wildlife and breathtaking scenery. With its river systems and open plains, the Seronera is often called the “heart of the Serengeti.” Enjoy lunch and an afternoon game drive in search of lions, leopards, and giraffes.
• Accommodation: Serengeti Kubu Kubu Luxury Tented Lodge
• Meals: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner
🔗 Lodge Website
Day 6: Full Day Safari in the Serengeti
Embark on a full-day safari across the legendary Serengeti. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to the greatest concentration of large mammals on Earth. From vast golden plains to dramatic rocky outcrops called kopjes, the Serengeti landscape is as iconic as the wildlife it supports.
• Accommodation: Serengeti Kubu Kubu Luxury Tented Lodge
• Meals: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: Ngorongoro Crater – Africa’s Eden
After breakfast, drive to the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater, the largest intact volcanic caldera on Earth. Descend 600 meters into this natural amphitheater for an unforgettable game drive. Here, wildlife thrives year-round—expect to see wildebeest, zebra, buffalo, elephants, and perhaps even the elusive black rhino. With one of the highest predator densities in Africa, lions, hyenas, and cheetahs are never far.
• Accommodation: Kitela Luxury Lodge, Karatu
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
🔗 Lodge Website
Day 8: Farewell, Tanzania
Enjoy a final breakfast before returning to Arusha. A dayroom at the Four Points by Sheraton Arusha allows you to relax and freshen up before your international flight. Bid farewell to Africa with memories of a lifetime.
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Why Choose This Safari?
✔ Luxury lodges & tented camps in prime wildlife areas
✔ Guaranteed window seat in 4x4 safari vehicles
✔ Expert local guides with insider knowledge
✔ A front-row seat to the Great Wildebeest Migration
Step into the legendary Serengeti, where nature’s greatest show unfolds before your eyes. Perfect for families with kids, couples, or solo travelers, this safari blends thrilling wildlife encounters with cultural immersion and breathtaking landscapes. Imagine watching wildebeest herds thunder across the plains, elephants gathering around ancient baobabs, giraffes stretching gracefully for acacia leaves, and lions on the hunt. This is the African holiday you’ve always dreamed of.
Group size: 2–36 travelers
Best time to travel: All year round
Day 1: Welcome to Tanzania – Arusha
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to Gran Meliá Arusha, a serene oasis set on 18 acres of lush coffee and tea plantations. With tranquil gardens, stunning views of Mount Meru, and modern luxury, it’s the perfect place to rest before your safari adventure begins.
• Accommodation: Gran Meliá Arusha
• Meals: Dinner & Breakfast
🔗 Hotel Website
Day 2: Arusha National Park – First Taste of the WildWake up to your first full day in Africa! Today’s adventure takes you to Arusha National Park, a hidden gem with stunning landscapes: grassy plains, volcanic craters, montane forests, and shimmering soda lakes. Choose your adventure—game drive, guided walk with a ranger, or canoe safari. Keep your eyes peeled for giraffes, buffalo, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and shy antelope.
• Accommodation: Gran Meliá Arusha
• Meals: Dinner & Breakfast
Days 3–4: Tarangire National Park – Land of Giants
Journey to Tarangire National Park, famous for its massive elephant herds and towering baobab trees (some more than 400 years old!). Spend your days surrounded by elephants—watching babies play, mothers guide, and bulls stand tall. The park’s mix of grasslands, woodlands, and wetlands makes it a wildlife haven.
• Accommodation: Tarangire Sopa Lodge
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
🔗 Lodge Website
Day 5: Lake Manyara – Flamingos & Forests
After breakfast, head to Lake Manyara National Park, a lush, jungle-like paradise. Explore dense forests home to elephants, baboons, and monkeys, then move to the lakeshore to see flamingos painting the water pink. Keep your camera ready for giraffes and zebra grazing nearby.
• Accommodation: Tloma Mountain Lodge
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
🔗 Lodge Website
Day 6: Cultural Connections in Karatu
Experience the rich culture of the Iraqw people. Visit local homes, farms, and even a school (if in session). Walk the green highlands with sweeping views over the Great Rift Valley, and enjoy time at your peaceful lodge nestled on a coffee plantation.
• Accommodation: Tloma Mountain Lodge
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 7: Ngorongoro Crater – Africa’s Eden
Descend into the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera: the Ngorongoro Crater. This natural wonder is home to the Big Five, with excellent chances of spotting black rhino and prides of lion. The crater floor is alive with wildebeest, zebra, gazelles, flamingos, and giant elephants.
• Accommodation: Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
🔗 Lodge Website
Days 8–11: Serengeti National Park – Endless Plains
Drive into the Serengeti, the most famous safari destination in the world. Its name comes from the Maasai word siringet, meaning “endless plains.” Witness the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebra cross the savannah in search of greener pastures—one of the greatest natural spectacles on earth.
Along the way, stop at Olduvai Gorge, the “Cradle of Mankind,” where Mary Leakey’s fossil discoveries reshaped our understanding of human evolution.
• Accommodation: Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
🔗 Lodge Website
Day 12: Farewell Tanzania
After breakfast, enjoy a final game drive en-route to the Seronera Airstrip. Fly back to Arusha and enjoy lunch at Fifi’s Restaurant & Café before relaxing at The Arusha Hotel. Later, transfer to Kilimanjaro Airport for your flight home, carrying memories of Africa’s beauty with you.
Highlights of This Safari
• Witness the Great Migration in the Serengeti
• Explore the wildlife-rich Ngorongoro Crater
• Meet local tribes and experience Tanzanian culture
• See elephants, lions, rhinos, giraffes, and more up close
• Stay in lodges and camps with spectacular views
When people talk about an African safari, one phrase comes up time and time again: “The Big Five.” This legendary group of animals is made up of the lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros. Originally, the term was used by hunters to describe the five most challenging animals to track and hunt on foot. Today, the meaning has shifted to something much more inspiring—seeing the Big Five in their natural habitats is considered the ultimate safari experience.
December – March | 10 Days / 9 Nights
Minimum: 2 travelers | Maximum: 36 guests
Every year, the Southern Serengeti comes alive with one of nature’s greatest spectacles — the Great Wildebeest Migration. From December to March, more than two million wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle gather across the sweeping plains, calving their young while predators prowl close by. It’s a breathtaking display of life, survival, and the raw beauty of Africa.
Recommended Travel Season: December – March
Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania – Arusha
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where our team warmly welcomes you. Transfer to the stunning Gran Meliá Arusha, a luxury oasis set on 18 acres of lush coffee and tea plantations. With panoramic views of Mount Meru, tropical gardens, and top-class amenities, it’s the perfect place to begin your safari journey.
Overnight: Gran Meliá Arusha
Meals: Dinner, Breakfast
🔗 Gran Meliá Arusha
Days 2–4: Central Serengeti – Endless Plains
After breakfast, fly to the legendary Serengeti National Park. The name “Serengeti” comes from the Maasai word for endless plains—and as you gaze across the golden savanna stretching beneath the vast blue sky, you’ll understand why.
Enjoy thrilling game drives in one of the most wildlife-rich regions in Africa, famous for lions, cheetahs, leopards, and massive herds of grazers. You’ll also explore areas once closed to the public, specially rehabilitated to protect cheetahs.
Overnight: Kubu Kubu Luxury Tented Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
🔗 Kubu Kubu Luxury Tented Camp
Days 5–8: Southern Serengeti – Ndutu & Lake Masek
Venture south to Ndutu and Lake Masek, the heart of the Great Migration. Here, wildebeest and zebra gather in staggering numbers, filling the landscape with movement and sound. This is also calving season — thousands of young wildebeest are born within weeks, attracting predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas. Witness the drama of survival as life and death unfold before your eyes.
Wake each morning to mist rising over the lake, and fall asleep under the stars in your luxury tented camp — close to the action, yet in total comfort.
Overnight: Lake Masek Luxury Tented Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
🔗 Lake Masek Tented Lodge
Day 9: Ngorongoro Crater – The Eden of Africa
Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most remarkable natural sanctuaries on Earth. Known as “Africa’s Garden of Eden,” the crater shelters over 25,000 large mammals — from zebra and wildebeest to black rhinos and massive bull elephants. It’s also home to one of the densest populations of lions anywhere in Africa.
Enjoy a picnic lunch on the crater floor before continuing your game drive in this extraordinary setting.
Overnight: Kitela Lodge, Karatu
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
🔗 Kitela Lodge
Day 10: Return to Arusha – Departure
After breakfast, return to Arusha, with time for last-minute shopping and relaxation at the Gran Meliá Arusha (dayroom included). Later, transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your flight home — your heart full of memories from Africa’s greatest wildlife spectacle
• Lion – The King of Beasts
Known as the symbol of strength and courage, lions live in prides and are often spotted lounging under trees during the heat of the day. Their roar can be heard from miles away, sending a thrill through the wild.
• Leopard – The Master of Stealth
Shy and elusive, leopards are expert climbers and are often found resting in tree branches. Spotting one in the wild is a rare and unforgettable safari highlight.
• Elephant – The Gentle Giant
Africa’s elephants are the largest land mammals on Earth. They are highly intelligent, social, and protective of their family herds, leaving safari-goers in awe of their sheer size and graceful movements.
• Cape Buffalo – The Unpredictable
Powerful and imposing, the Cape buffalo is considered one of Africa’s most dangerous animals due to its unpredictable nature. They move in large herds, often grazing peacefully but always commanding respect.
• Rhinoceros – The Ancient Survivor
With their armor-like skin and iconic horns, rhinos seem almost prehistoric. Sadly, they are among the most endangered of the Big Five, making every sighting incredibly special.
Why the Big Five Matter!!
Encountering the Big Five on safari isn’t just about ticking animals off a list—it’s about experiencing the thrill of the wild, witnessing Africa’s natural beauty, and connecting with the stories of these iconic creatures that have shaped cultures, conservation efforts, and the spirit of adventure itself.
Our team does our best to ensure you get to see all Big Five on your safari adventure but, the chance of seeing Africa's black rhino is the rarest. Timing your safari in the dry season and a longer stay improves your chances. 212 Black Rhinos were documented in 2023 and best places to locate one is in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
This will depend on your safari goals. December to March is the time to see the Great Migration's calving season and high wildlife action. June to October is the peak dry season and large herds are moving across the plains. And if you want fewer crowds then try March to May.
Tanzania is generally considered a safe safari destination. We have low crime rates in our tourist areas but you should always exercise a high degree of caution against petty crime in the cities and potential terrorism.
We ensure the best possible safety on our safaris with reputable operators, reputable lodges and hotels, and we maitain a high safety standard for guests in Serengeti and Nogorongoro. We also take great care to guide you with safe protocals that you will need to be diligent in following, even though majority of our wildlife are calm and keep to themselves, all wildlife are unpredictable and dangerous.
Take percautions before travelling against diseases like malaria, talk to a doctor before travelling and respect our local customs.
Step into the heart of Africa with this unforgettable 11-day luxury journey through Tanzania’s most iconic safari destinations and the spice-scented shores of Zanzibar. From elephant-filled savannahs to world-class lodges and white-sand beaches, this is the ultimate East African escape.
Highlights of Your Journey
• Wander the baobab-dotted plains of Tarangire National Park, home to giant elephant herds.
• Descend into the lush Ngorongoro Crater, a wildlife haven often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World.”
• Experience the legendary Serengeti, following the Great Wildebeest Migration across endless golden plains.
• Relax in barefoot luxury on the pristine beaches of Zanzibar, with turquoise waters and palm-fringed shores.
Stay in some of Africa’s most unique and luxurious lodges:
Wake up on a coffee plantation at Arusha Coffee Lodge
Sleep among the treetops at Tarangire Treetops
Cozy up in charming cottages at The Manor at Ngorongoro
Stay at Serengeti Migration Camp, right in the heart of the Great Migration
Unwind in private beachfront villas at The Palms, Zanzibar
Minimum Travelers: 2
Group Size: Limited to 36 guests
Best Time to Go: July & August
Day-by-Day Journey
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to Arusha Coffee Lodge, a serene retreat nestled on a working coffee plantation. Enjoy a plantation walk, sip fresh-brewed coffee, or visit the Cultural Heritage Centre.
Dinner & Breakfast included.
Day 2–3: Tarangire National Park
Fly to Tarangire, famous for its elephants, baobabs, and tree-climbing lions. Stay at Tarangire Treetops, where luxury rooms perch high above the savannah. Enjoy daytime and even night game drives for a rare glimpse of nocturnal wildlife.
All meals included.
Day 4–5: Ngorongoro Highlands
Transfer to The Manor at Ngorongoro, surrounded by coffee estates. Enjoy horse riding, biking, or visits to Lake Manyara. Next morning, descend into the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, home to lions, rhinos, and flamingos.
All meals included.
Day 6–7: Serengeti National Park
Fly into the legendary Serengeti and stay at the award-winning Serengeti Migration Camp. Witness the Great Migration, spot predators on game drives, and savor sundowners under endless African skies.
All meals included.
Day 8–10: Zanzibar – Spice Island Escape
Fly to Zanzibar and check into The Palms, an intimate beachfront sanctuary
with just six villas. Spend your days swimming, snorkeling, or diving, and
immerse yourself in Swahili culture:
• Explore Stone Town
• Sail a traditional dhow at sunset
• Join a Swahili cooking class
• Visit Bwejuu village or take a reef safari at low tide
All meals included.
Day 11: Farewell Africa
Enjoy a final breakfast and relax with a day room before your transfer to the
airport for your flight home.
This luxury adventure blends thrilling safaris, world-class lodges,
and dreamy island escapes — the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation
Safari Highlights
• Tarangire National Park – Famous for its giant elephant herds, ancient baobab trees, and over 550 bird species. A quieter, more authentic safari away from the crowds.
• Lake Manyara National Park – Home of the legendary tree-climbing lions, flamingo-filled soda lakes, and lush groundwater forests set against the dramatic Rift Valley escarpment.
• Ngorongoro Crater – A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera. A natural Eden where the Big Five roam, alongside rare black rhinos.
• Serengeti National Park – Endless golden plains and the stage for the Great Migration, the largest wildlife movement on Earth. A paradise for lions, leopards, cheetahs, and countless wildebeest and zebra.
• Lake Natron – Remote, mystical, and stunning. Famous for its red-tinged waters, millions of flamingos, the Maasai “Mountain of God” Ol Doinyo Lengai, and off-the-beaten-path adventures.
Best Time to Travel: All year round
Group Size: Minimum 2 travelers, maximum 36 guests
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival – Arusha
Karibu Tanzania! Upon landing at Kilimanjaro International Airport, meet your representative and transfer to Arusha. Rest and recover at The African Tulip Hotel.
Meals: Bed & Breakfast
Day 2: Arusha National Park
Discover the lush landscapes of Arusha National Park, set against Mount Meru and Kilimanjaro. Game drives take you past flamingo-filled Momella Lakes and into Ngurdoto Crater, with wildlife ranging from giraffes and buffalo to playful monkeys and, if lucky, leopards. Return to Arusha.
Overnight: The African Tulip Hotel
Day 3–4: Tarangire National Park
Explore the Land of Giants, where elephants gather in great herds and baobab trees stand like ancient guardians. Expect lions, giraffes, and birdlife galore. Overnight in the park for two days of magical wildlife encounters.
Overnight: Tarangire Sopa Lodge
Day 5–6: Lake Natron Adventure
Travel through Maasai country to reach the surreal landscapes of Lake Natron. Explore waterfalls, hike to hidden gorges, visit a Maasai village, and marvel at the flamingos that flock to the alkaline lake.
Overnight: Lake Natron Tented Camp
Day 7–9: Serengeti National Park
Enter the legendary Serengeti, a land of sweeping savannahs and unforgettable wildlife. Spend three days tracking the Big Cats, herds of wildebeest, and—depending on the season—the awe-inspiring Great Migration.
Overnights: Taasa Lodge & Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge
Day 10: Serengeti → Ngorongoro Highlands
Enjoy one last Serengeti game drive before journeying to the Ngorongoro highlands. Overnight on the crater rim at a lodge with breathtaking sunset views.
Overnight: Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge
Day 11: Ngorongoro Crater Safari
Descend into the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” This lush volcanic bowl is packed with wildlife—lions, elephants, rhinos, hippos, zebras, and more. Picnic lunch inside the crater before heading to Lake Manyara escarpment.
Overnight: Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge
Enjoy a game drive through Lake Manyara, home of tree-climbing lions and pink flamingos. In the afternoon, return to Arusha.
Overnight: Four Points by Sheraton, The Arusha Hotel
Day 13: Departure
Relax with a day room before your evening transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport. Bid farewell to Tanzania with unforgettable safari memories.
This safari combines iconic highlights with off-the-beaten-path gems, perfect for travelers seeking both luxury and adventure.
