Day 2 | Tarangire National Park
Enjoy a full day game driving in this elephant and bird paradise. The landscape is incredible diverse and giant baobab trees scatter the park. Tarangire still has an authentic rawness and is as ‘wild’ as it gets in the northern circuit. One of the highlands of Tarangire is the lively Silale Swamp. Here you can see the largest selections of breeding birds anywhere in the world, including orange-bellied parrots, lovebirds and the largest flying bird, the Kori Bustard. The swamps is also the place to see lots of leopards and lions.
Day 3 | Tarangire – Ngorongoro Crater
After breakfast we drive towards the Ngorongoro Crater via Mto wa Mbu. This small village lies at the foot of the Rift Valley and is a colourful mix of 120 African tribes. We can stop here for a break to watch the daily life of the villagers or visit the local market. We continue driving to the Ngorongoro Crater which is about a 2 hours’ drive from Tarangire. Dinner and overnight will be at Ngorongoro Wildlife Lodge, which is located at the rim of the crater, offering great views down over the crater floor.
Day 4 | Ngorongoro Crater
Explore one of Africa’s Seven Natural Wonders today on a full day game viewing. Millions of years ago the peak of a huge volcano, larger than Kilimanjaro, collapsed and formed a crater of 20 km (12,5 mi) across with sides up to 600 metres (2,000 feet) deep. It has become home to all of Africa’s famous wildlife and has its own unique ecosystem.
The view from the rim into the crater floor is simply unreal with its pastel-coloured landscape and wildlife roaming the floor. Leopards, lions, hyenas and jackals can be found on the savannah as well as elephants, buffaloes, wildebeest, zebras, ostriches and rhinos. Lunch will be served at a lovely lakeshore in the crater. At the end of the afternoon we arrive at Ngorongoro Wildlife Lodge where you can relax and witness the sun dipping behind the rim of the crater.
Days 5 | Ngorongoro – Serengeti National Park
En route towards the Serengeti we drive through Olduvai Gorge, also known as the ‘cradle of mankind’. At this site the earliest human skull in the world was discovered and footsteps dating back three million years. Therefore this place is prehistoric and significant in understanding the early human evolution. Ulduvai Gorge is a steep valley of about 50 km (32 mi) long, situated in the Great Rift Valley, in the eastern part of the Serengeti. Dinner and overnight will be at the remote Serengeti Heritage Camp, where you stay close to nature.
Day 6 | Serengeti National Park
Full day of game drives on the endless plains of the Serengeti. Discover why this is one of the best places in Africa to go on safari. Flat-topped acacia trees and rivers dot the savannah. The abundance and variety of wildlife in this beautiful park is unsurpassed. It is the best place to witness the Big Five (rhino, elephant, buffalo, leopard, lion) and the largest overland migration of wildlife on earth. Return to Serengeti Heritage Camp in the afternoon where you can watch the sunset and enjoy dinner and some rest before your next day of game driving.
Day 7 | Serengeti National Park
Explore the Serengeti today during morning and afternoon game drives. Wildlife viewing in the Serengeti is good throughout the year, but if you want to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration, you need to be in the right area at the right time.
Depending on what time (season) you choose to go on safari, your guide knows where to go in the Serengeti. From July to October you can find the herds around the Mara River. Steep river banks, hungry crocodiles and fast flowing rivers make this river crossing extremely dangerous for the herds. Witness the epic battle of life and dead between predator and prey.
The sights are spectacular, impressive as well as dramatic. In the afternoon we drive back to Serengeti Heritage Camp, situated at the Seronera area.
Day 8 | Serengeti National Park
On this last day of your stay in Serengeti National Park, we will set out to another part of the park. Serengeti is immense and spans roughly 30,000 km2 (12,000 sq. mi), so there is so much to explore on a game drive. The flora and fauna have remained almost unchanged over the past hundreds of centuries.
All three African big cats are abundant as well as the Big Five and several very rare species like the black rhino, pangolin, black-and-white colobus monkey, Oryx and wild dog. Expect to be impressed by the natural beauty of the world’s most famous park. Dinner and overnight at Serengeti Heritage Camp.
Day 9 | Lake Manyara – Arusha
After breakfast you can enjoy your last safari day in Lake Manyara National Park. This park is not dominated by savannah, but by an enormous soda lake with huge flocks of flamingos. You can spot hundreds of olive baboons, elephants, hippos and if you are lucky Manyara’s tree climbing lions.
It is also a perfect place to see the spectacular 400 meter high Rift Valley Escarpment. After this memorable game drive, your safari adventure has come to an end. We drive back to Arusha and bring you to Kilimanjaro Airport for you flight home.
Safe travels and see you on your next adventure!
Accommodation
Where You’ll Stay
Where Every Detail Meets Your Dream
The excellent hotels listed in the itinerary serve as examples of the standard of accommodation offered on the trip. In cases where the listed hotels are not available, you will be offered hotels or lodges of an equivalent standard.
Everything You Need to Know
When is the best time to visit Tanzania?
Tanzania is a year-round destination, but the dry season from June to October is best for safaris, especially for spotting large wildlife and witnessing the Great Migration. If you’re interested in birdlife or lush green landscapes, the green season (November to March) is also a beautiful and quieter time to travel.
What can I expect from a safari with African Safaris Experts?
Expect a seamless, high-end experience combining thrilling wildlife encounters with comfortable, hand-picked lodges and professional local guides. Every detail is curated—from scenic game drives in private 4×4 vehicles to cultural visits with local tribes and personalized service throughout the journey.
Can I personalize my safari and beach itinerary?
Absolutely. All our trips are fully customizable. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, family, or private group—we tailor every element to your interests, including dates, accommodations, pace, and even special experiences like hot air balloon rides or beach dinners in Zanzibar.
Will I see the Big Five in Tanzania?
Yes! Tanzania offers some of the best chances in Africa to see all members of the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino—especially in places like Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti. Our guides are experts at tracking wildlife to give you the best possible sightings.
Is Tanzania safe for travelers?
Yes. Tanzania is generally very safe and welcoming for tourists. We work only with trusted local partners, and all transportation, guides, and accommodations meet high safety standards. As with any international travel, we recommend following local guidelines and securing travel insurance.
Do I need a visa to enter Tanzania?
Yes, most travelers require a visa to enter Tanzania. You can apply online via the official e-visa portal or obtain a visa on arrival at the airport. We provide all the necessary guidance and links once your trip is confirmed.
What should I pack for my safari and Zanzibar stay?
Pack light, breathable clothing in neutral colors for safari days, along with a warm layer for cooler evenings. Don’t forget a sunhat, sunscreen, insect repellent, comfortable walking shoes, swimwear, and a waterproof jacket. We’ll send you a detailed packing checklist before departure.