Itinerary

1. Day Trip Safari to Empakai Crater from Arusha

   Early Morning: Depart from Arusha

   • Departure: Leave Arusha early, typically around 5:30 AM to maximize your time at Empakai. The drive is approximately 3 to 4 hours (about 150-160 km), depending on the route and road conditions.
   • Route: The journey will take you through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, passing beautiful savannah landscapes and Maasai villages along the way.

   Mid-Morning: Arrive at Empakai Crater

   • Arrival Time: You should arrive at Empakai Crater by 9:00 AM or 9:30 AM, depending on stops and travel time.

   • Empakai Crater Overview:

     • Empakai is a beautiful 6 km wide caldera formed by a collapsed volcano, creating a lush, forested environment with a large lake in the bottom. It is less touristy than the Ngorongoro Crater but just as stunning.
     • The caldera is home to a wide range of wildlife, including buffalo, zebras, giraffes, and various antelope species, and is also a prime spot for birdwatching, especially flamingos that often frequent the lake at the bottom.

   Midday: Explore Empakai Crater

   • Hike Down to the Lake:

     • After arrival, you’ll embark on a guided hike down to the lake, which takes about 1 to 1.5 hours depending on your pace.
     • The trail is steep but manageable, with beautiful views over the caldera walls, dense vegetation, and an ever-changing landscape. Along the way, you may spot various wildlife grazing in the area.
     • The hike provides an excellent opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the area up close, with panoramic views over the caldera and its lush forested slopes.

   • Lake Empakai:

     • Upon reaching the bottom, you’ll find a beautiful soda lake, often home to flamingos and other bird species. The sight of the birds in this tranquil setting is a unique experience.
     • This is a great spot for photos and a short rest, absorbing the peaceful atmosphere of the crater.

   Afternoon: Lunch and Scenic Views

   • Lunch: You will have a picnic lunch, either at the lake (if accessible) or back at a viewpoint overlooking the crater. Your guide can provide a packed lunch, or you can enjoy it at one of the designated picnic areas.
   • Optional Walking Safari: After lunch, if you have time, you can take a short walk around the crater's rim or through the forest, depending on your energy levels.

   Late Afternoon: Departure and Return to Arusha

   • Departure from Empakai Crater: After your visit, begin the drive back to Arusha, leaving around 2:30 PM or 3:00 PM.
   • Arrival in Arusha: You should be back in Arusha by 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM, depending on traffic and stops.