Tanzania · Safari

8-Day Tanzania Wildlife Safari with Serengeti and Ngorongoro

8 Days Round trip from Arusha Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Encounter large elephant herds and iconic baobab trees in Tarangire National Park
02 Witness the Great Migration and game drives across the vast plains of the Serengeti
03 Explore Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for the Big Five
04 Spot tree-climbing lions and vibrant birdlife in scenic Lake Manyara National Park
05 Visit Lake Eyasi and experience the cultures of the Hadzabe and Datoga tribes

Embark on an 8-day Tanzania safari adventure through some of the country's most iconic wildlife destinations. Explore Tarangire National Park, famous for its elephant herds and baobab trees, continue to the Serengeti for game drives across its vast plains and the chance to witness the Great Migration, and discover the wildlife-rich Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The journey also includes a cultural experience at Lake Eyasi with the Hadzabe and Datoga tribes, before ending at Lake Manyara National Park, home to tree-climbing lions and vibrant birdlife.

Depending on the season, you might witness the Great Migration of wildebeests and zebras, or explore the park's diverse ecosystems while spotting predators, herbivores, and many bird species.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 8 Days

Tour type Shared

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Cities Arusha, Mount Kilimanjaro, Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Lake Manyara, Tarangire National Park, Lake Eyasi

Languages English, French

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arrival in Arusha

Main Destination: Arusha

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be met by our guide and transferred to your accommodation in Arusha for an overnight stay.
Relax and enjoy your first evening in Tanzania. Optional: take a short cultural tour in Arusha.

Day 02

Arusha to Tarangire National Park Safari

Main Destination: Tarangire National Park
After breakfast, depart for Tarangire National Park, approximately a 2-3 hour drive.
Enjoy a game drive in Tarangire, famous for its large elephant herds, diverse wildlife, and iconic baobab trees.
Lunch will be served within the park or at your accommodation.
In the afternoon, continue your game drive before heading to your lodge for the night.
Accommodation: Karatu Lodge, a comfortable lodge offering beautiful views and relaxation after a day of safari.

Day 03

Journey to Serengeti National Park

Main Destination: Serengeti National Park
After an early breakfast, drive to Serengeti National Park, approximately 4-5 hours.
Along the way, enjoy the scenic drive through the beautiful landscapes of the Tanzanian countryside.
Upon arrival in the Serengeti, embark on an afternoon game drive, exploring the famous plains teeming with wildlife.
Accommodation: Stay overnight in a lodge or tented camp in Serengeti, depending on your preference and availability.

Day 04

Full-Day Serengeti Game Drives

Main Destination: Serengeti National Park
Enjoy a full day of game drives in the Serengeti, one of the most iconic wildlife destinations in the world.
Depending on the season, you might witness the Great Migration of wildebeests and zebras, or explore the park's diverse ecosystems while spotting predators, herbivores, and many bird species.
Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park before continuing your game drive.
Accommodation: Return to your lodge or tented camp in Serengeti for the night.

Day 05

Serengeti Game Drive and Transfer to Ngorongoro

Main Destination: Ngorongoro Crater
After an early breakfast, enjoy a final morning game drive in the Serengeti before departing for Ngorongoro Crater, approximately 3-4 hours away.
Upon arrival, check in at your lodge and relax for a while before dinner.
Accommodation: Rhino Lodge, located on the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, offering stunning views and comfortable rooms.

Day 06

Ngorongoro Crater Safari and Return to Karatu

Main Destination: Ngorongoro Crater
After breakfast, descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a half-day game drive. This is one of the best places in Africa to see the Big Five: lion, leopard, buffalo, rhino, and elephant.
Enjoy a picnic lunch inside the crater, surrounded by the incredible wildlife and scenery.
After the game drive, return to Karatu in the late afternoon.
Accommodation: Overnight at Karatu Lodge.

Day 07

Cultural Experience at Lake Eyasi

Main Destination: Lake Eyasi
After breakfast, drive to Lake Eyasi, a serene and less-visited area famous for its indigenous tribes such as the Hadzabe and Datoga.
Experience a cultural tour where you will interact with the tribes, learn about their traditional way of life, and explore the unique surroundings of Lake Eyasi.
Return to Karatu in the afternoon.
Accommodation: Overnight at Karatu Lodge.

Day 08

Lake Manyara Safari and Return to Arusha

Main Destination: Lake Manyara National Park
After breakfast, head to Lake Manyara National Park, approximately 1.5 hours away.
Enjoy a morning game drive in the park, famous for its tree-climbing lions, diverse birdlife, and stunning scenery.
After the game drive, stop for lunch before returning to Arusha.
Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure or continue your onward journey.

Where this trip takes you

Tarangire National Park baobab trees, Serengeti National Park plains, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara National Park woodland

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Arusha 7 cities · 8 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

All park entry fees
Accommodation in lodges and tented camps as mentioned
Full-board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
Transport in a 4x4 safari vehicle with a professional guide
Game drives in Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, and Lake Eyasi
Cultural experience with the Hadzabe and Datoga tribes

What's Not Included

International flights
Travel insurance
Personal items and gratuities
Drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic)

What to bring

Clothing:
- Lightweight, breathable clothing: ideal for warm days, such as cotton shirts, T-shirts, and lightweight pants.
- Warm jacket or fleece: it can get chilly in the mornings and evenings, especially at higher altitudes like Ngorongoro Crater.
- Safari hat: for sun protection.
- Comfortable walking shoes: ideal for game drives and short walks around your accommodations.
- Swimwear: some lodges have pools where you can relax after a day of game viewing.
Accessories:
- Sunglasses: to protect your eyes from the sun.
- Binoculars: to get a closer look at wildlife during game drives.
- Camera: with extra memory cards and batteries for capturing the stunning landscapes and wildlife.
- Reusable water bottle: stay hydrated during your safari.
- Day pack: a small backpack for carrying essentials like water, camera, and snacks during your game drives.
Toiletries & Personal Items:
- Sunscreen: high SPF to protect your skin from the sun.
- Insect repellent: essential for keeping mosquitoes and other insects at bay, especially in the evenings.
- Personal hygiene items: toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, and other toiletries.
- Medications: if you have any specific medications, be sure to bring them, along with a small first aid kit (band-aids, pain relievers, etc.).
Health & Safety:
- Travel insurance: always a good idea to have comprehensive coverage that includes medical emergencies and trip cancellations.
- Malaria prophylaxis: consult your doctor before traveling about malaria prevention.
- Vaccination certificates: yellow fever vaccination is required for some visitors (check with your doctor or health center before traveling).
Documents:
- Passport: ensure it is valid for at least 6 months after your arrival date.
- Visa: depending on your nationality, you may need to apply for a visa before arrival.
- Emergency contact details: have a copy of important contacts, including your tour guide and emergency services.
Cash & Cards:
- Tanzanian Shillings (TZS): some places might not accept cards, so it's a good idea to carry local currency for small purchases and tips.
- Credit/debit cards: major cards are widely accepted in larger towns and hotels.
Optional Items:
- Flashlight or headlamp: useful for nighttime walks or if you're staying at a lodge with limited electricity.
- Portable charger/power bank: to keep your devices charged during long game drives.

Know before you go

Safari Vehicle:
- Travel in a 4x4 safari vehicle, designed for comfortable game drives and optimal wildlife viewing.
Accommodation:
- Stay in lodges and tented camps with essential amenities, including full-board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner). Some remote locations may have limited electricity.
Weather Conditions:
- The dry season (June to October) is ideal for wildlife viewing, while the rainy season (March to May) has fewer tourists but wetter conditions.
Health and Safety:
- Consult a doctor about malaria prophylaxis and bring any required vaccinations. It's recommended to have travel insurance covering medical emergencies.
Currency and Payment:
- Tanzanian Shillings (TZS) are used locally, though most lodges accept credit/debit cards. Always carry cash for remote areas. Tipping is customary for guides and lodge staff.
Group Size:
- Tours are typically in small groups for a more personalized experience, but private tours are available on request.
Travel Documents:
- Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival. Check visa requirements based on your nationality.
Special Considerations:
- The tour is suitable for most ages, but children's restrictions may apply at certain lodges or on specific activities. Confirm details when booking.