Itinerary

1. Day 1: Arusha to Ngorongoro Crater & Descent

   • 8:00 AM: Depart from your accommodation in Arusha after breakfast. Your safari vehicle and driver-guide will pick you up. Enjoy the scenic drive towards the Ngorongoro Conservation Area (approximately 3-4 hours).

   • Late Morning: Arrive at the Ngorongoro Conservation Area gate and complete the necessary registration formalities.

   • Afternoon: Drive along the crater rim, taking in breathtaking panoramic views of the caldera below. Your guide will share information about the formation and ecology of this unique ecosystem.

   • Late Afternoon: Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for an afternoon game drive. The crater is home to a high concentration of wildlife, including the "Big Five" (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo), as well as zebras, wildebeests, hyenas, and a variety of birdlife.

   • Evening: Ascend from the crater and drive to your chosen accommodation near the crater rim or in the Karatu area. Enjoy dinner and relax after your first day of safari.

2. Day 2: Ngorongoro Area to Central Serengeti

   • Morning: After breakfast, enjoy a final short game drive in the Ngorongoro area, perhaps visiting a Maasai boma (traditional village) for a cultural experience (optional).

   • Late Morning: Begin your journey towards the central Serengeti National Park (approximately 3-4 hours drive, excluding game viewing stops). The drive will take you through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and onto the vast plains of the Serengeti.

   • Afternoon: Arrive at your accommodation in the central Serengeti and check in. After lunch, embark on an afternoon game drive in this iconic part of the Serengeti. The central Serengeti is known for its abundant resident wildlife, including large prides of lions, cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, and various antelope species.

   • Evening: Enjoy dinner at your lodge or camp and listen to the sounds of the African bush.

3. Day 3: Full Day Game Drive in Central Serengeti

   • Morning & Afternoon: Enjoy a full day of game driving in the central Serengeti. You can opt for an early morning game drive to witness the sunrise and active wildlife, followed by a midday break at your accommodation, and then an afternoon game drive. Alternatively, you can have a packed lunch and spend the entire day exploring different areas of the central Serengeti. Your experienced guide will navigate the best spots for wildlife sightings based on the season and animal movements.

   • Optional Activities: Consider a hot air balloon safari over the Serengeti plains at dawn for a truly unforgettable experience (this needs to be booked in advance).

   • Evening: Return to your accommodation for dinner and relaxation.

4. Day 4: Serengeti Game Drive & Return to Arusha

   • Morning: Enjoy a final early morning game drive in the Serengeti, maximizing your chances of spotting wildlife before your departure.

   • Late Morning: After breakfast, begin your drive back towards Arusha (approximately 6-7 hours). You will have the option for a packed lunch en route to make the journey more efficient.

   • Late Afternoon/Evening: Arrive back at your accommodation in Arusha, marking the end of your 4-day safari adventure.