Tanzania · Safari

7-Day Serengeti Safari with Chemka Hot Springs and Napuru Waterfall

7 Days Round trip from Arusha Easy pace

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The journey

Trip highlights

01 Experience the iconic Big Five and more on game drives in Serengeti National Park
02 Explore the vast Serengeti, especially during the Great Migration of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles
03 Soak in the crystal-clear, warm waters of Chemka Hot Springs surrounded by lush greenery
04 Trek through the forest to discover the secluded Napuru Waterfall in a serene, pristine setting
05 Swim in the natural pools beneath the falls after your hike
06 Visit local Maasai villages to learn about the vibrant culture, traditions, and customs of the Maasai people
07 Enjoy wildlife viewing from the Ngorongoro Crater rim en route to Serengeti
08 Combine safari adventure with relaxation at Chemka Hot Springs and Napuru Waterfall

Embark on an unforgettable 7-day safari adventure in Tanzania, exploring the famed Serengeti National Park, the relaxing Chemka Hot Springs, and the beautiful Napuru Waterfall. This itinerary offers an incredible blend of wildlife encounters, natural wonders, and relaxation in the heart of Tanzania's stunning landscapes.

Embark on an unforgettable 7-day safari adventure in Tanzania, exploring the famed Serengeti National Park, the relaxing Chemka Hot Springs, and the beautiful Napuru Waterfall.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 7 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included · Budget

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Yes

Cities Arusha, Moshi, Mount Kilimanjaro, Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Languages English, French, German, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arrival in Arusha

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport.
Meet and greet your safari guide, then transfer to your accommodation in Arusha for an overnight stay.
Overnight in Arusha (option: lodge or hotel).

Day 02

Journey to Serengeti via Ngorongoro Crater Rim

Enjoy an early morning breakfast at the hotel.
Drive to Serengeti National Park, approximately 6-7 hours.
Stop at the Ngorongoro Crater rim for scenic views and a brief exploration.
Picnic lunch on the way.
Arrive in Serengeti and check in to your accommodation, either a safari lodge or tented camp.
Set out on an afternoon game drive through Serengeti, exploring the endless plains and spotting wildlife such as lions, elephants, giraffes, and more.
Dinner at the lodge or camp.
Overnight in Serengeti (option: tented camp or lodge).

Day 03

Full-Day Safari in Serengeti

Morning game drive: Wake up early for a sunrise game drive, when wildlife activity is at its highest.
Search for the Big Five - lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalo - as well as cheetahs, hyenas, and various bird species.
Midday rest: Return to your lodge for lunch and relaxation.
Afternoon game drive: Explore another section of the Serengeti, perhaps focusing on the migration route (seasonal), or visit the Seronera River area, known for its high density of wildlife.
Evening at leisure, with a bush dinner or sundowners.
Overnight in Serengeti.

Day 04

From Serengeti to Chemka Hot Springs

Breakfast at the lodge.
Morning drive from Serengeti to Chemka Hot Springs, approximately 6-7 hours.
- En route, stop at scenic viewpoints and enjoy a packed lunch.
- Arrive at Chemka Hot Springs, also known as Maji Moto.
- Relax in the natural hot springs, surrounded by lush vegetation. The crystal-clear blue waters are perfect for a soothing swim.
You also have the option to explore the area around the springs or take a nature walk.
Overnight camping near Chemka Hot Springs or in a nearby lodge.

Day 05

Another Full Day in Serengeti

Full day of safari: Spend the whole day exploring Serengeti. The park is huge, so there is always something new to see, whether it is lions hunting, cheetahs sprinting, or herds of wildebeests and zebras.
Optional activities: Hot air balloon rides, walking safaris, and visits to the Serengeti Visitor Centre or Maasai villages are great options.
Overnight in Serengeti.

Day 06

Chemka Hot Springs at the Foot of Kilimanjaro

Morning drive to Chemka Hot Springs: After breakfast, leave Serengeti and drive for around 3-4 hours to Chemka Hot Springs. Located in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro, Chemka, also called Kikuletwa, is a hidden gem. The natural hot spring is surrounded by palm trees and clear, turquoise water that is perfect for swimming.
Relax at Chemka: Spend the day relaxing in the warm, crystal-clear waters of the hot spring. You can also enjoy a picnic here.
Overnight near Chemka: There are a few small campsites and lodges near the hot springs, or you can head back to Moshi for the night.

Day 07

Napuru Waterfall and Return

Drive to Napuru Waterfall: In the morning, depart for Napuru Waterfall, located in the Pare Mountains, about a 1-2 hour drive from Moshi. This waterfall is lesser known, so you will experience it in a more serene, untouched environment.
Hiking and exploring: Hike through the lush landscape to reach the waterfall. It is a great place for photos, picnicking, and a little adventure.
Return to Arusha or Kilimanjaro: After spending the day at the waterfall, drive back to Arusha or Kilimanjaro, about 2-3 hours, depending on your departure time.

Where this trip takes you

Serengeti National Park plains, Ngorongoro Crater rim vistas, Chemka Hot Springs turquoise pools, Napuru Waterfall forest pools

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Arusha 5 cities · 7 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Accommodation:
- Lodging: Accommodation at lodges, camps, or hotels, based on your preference - budget, mid-range, or luxury - in and around the national parks, hot springs, and waterfall sites.
- Tented camps may be used in some locations, such as Serengeti, for a more authentic safari experience.
Transportation:
- 4x4 safari vehicle: All transport within Tanzania, including transfers between locations such as Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, will be provided in a comfortable 4x4 vehicle with a pop-up roof for better wildlife viewing.
- Fuel and driver: Fuel costs and the services of a professional driver-guide are included.
- Your guide will also provide insight into local wildlife and cultures.
- Airport transfers: Pick-up and drop-off from Arusha or Kilimanjaro Airport, depending on your entry point.
National Park and Conservation Fees:
- Park entry fees: Fees for entry into parks such as Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, and others are typically included.
- Conservation fees: Fees related to the conservation of wildlife areas and maintenance of public parks.
Safari Activities:
- Game drives: Daily game drives with your guide, including early morning and afternoon safaris in the national parks.
- Hot spring visit: Entrance fee to Chemka (Kikuletwa) Hot Springs.
- Waterfall hike: Entrance fee and guide for the Napuru Waterfall hike, including transportation to and from the site.
Meals:
- Full-board meals: Most safari packages include breakfast, lunch, and dinner served at your accommodation.
- Water and soft drinks: Bottled water is included.
Local Guide:
- Experienced driver-guide: An English-speaking guide will accompany you during the safari to explain the local culture, history, and wildlife.
Emergency Support:
- First aid kit: Your guide will typically have a first aid kit for basic medical needs.
Miscellaneous:
- Bottled water and snacks: During long drives or safaris, snacks such as nuts, fruit, and bottled water are commonly provided.

What's Not Included

International Flights:
- Flights to and from Tanzania are not included in most packages.
- You will need to arrange and book your flights separately.
Visa Fees:
- Visa requirements: Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter Tanzania.
- The visa fee is not included in the package.
- Yellow fever vaccination: Some countries may require proof of yellow fever vaccination.
- The vaccination costs and related documentation are generally excluded.
Travel Insurance:
- Trip insurance: Most tours do not include travel insurance, so it is highly recommended to purchase comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, cancellations, and lost luggage.
Alcoholic Beverages and Premium Drinks:
- Alcohol: Alcoholic drinks, including wine, beer, and spirits, are generally not included unless specified as part of a premium package.
- Premium soft drinks: Premium soft drinks, juices, or bottled beverages outside of the usual bottled water may not be included.
Personal Expenses:
- Souvenirs: Shopping or purchasing souvenirs from local markets and shops will be at your own expense.
- Laundry: Laundry services at your accommodations are typically not included and come at an additional cost.
Optional Activities:
- Hot air balloon ride: If you opt for a hot air balloon ride in Serengeti or other special excursions, these will typically incur additional charges.
- Maasai village visit: Visits to Maasai villages or cultural experiences outside the planned itinerary might be an extra cost.
- Tips and gratuities:
- Guide and driver tips: While tips are not mandatory, they are highly appreciated.
- Gratuities for your guide, driver, and camp staff are generally excluded and should be planned for.
- Porter tips: If you have porters assisting with your luggage, they would also expect tips.
Medical Costs:
- Medical emergencies: Any medical treatments or costs for medical emergencies are not typically covered under the tour package.
Extra Meals and Snacks:
- Meals outside the itinerary: Any meals taken outside the designated stops or meals in restaurants not included in your itinerary will be at your own expense.
Optional Transfers:
- Private transfers: If you wish to upgrade to private transfers or need additional transport services, such as a flight to Zanzibar, these will typically be extra.

What to bring

All safari items

Know before you go

Tented camps may be used in some locations, such as Serengeti, for a more authentic safari experience.
Some safari packages may offer picnic lunches during game drives or excursions.
Some soft drinks are often included, but alcoholic drinks are sometimes excluded.
Specialist guides may be available in some locations, such as during the waterfall hike or at Chemka Hot Springs.
Some tours include emergency evacuation services in case of an accident or medical issue.
Campfire or evening entertainment may be available at some accommodations.

Logistics