Tanzania · Safari

9-Day Tanzania Safari through Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater

9 Days Round trip from Arusha Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Discover Tarangire National Park's giant baobabs and dense elephant populations
  • 02 Explore Lake Manyara's diverse ecosystems, with tree-climbing lions and flamingos
  • 03 Travel through the scenic Ngorongoro Highlands on the way to the vast Serengeti
  • 04 Experience the Central Serengeti's abundant resident wildlife and open savannahs
  • 05 Encounter predators such as lions, cheetahs, and crocodiles during game drives
  • 06 Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater to spot endangered black rhinos and abundant wildlife

Embark on a 9-day Tanzania safari adventure through East Africa's most celebrated wildlife destinations: Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Serengeti, and the Ngorongoro Crater. Witness towering baobab trees, massive elephant herds, tree-climbing lions, and, in season, the dramatic Great Migration across the Mara River. Enjoy expertly guided game drives, scenic landscapes, and close-up encounters with the Big Five.

Witness towering baobab trees, massive elephant herds, tree-climbing lions, and, in season, the dramatic Great Migration across the Mara River.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 9 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Easy
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Wheelchair access No
Cities Arusha, Mount Kilimanjaro, Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Lake Manyara, Tarangire National Park
Languages English, French, German, Italian, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Arrival in Arusha

  • Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where your professional guide will warmly welcome you.
  • Transfer to Planet Lodge in Arusha for check-in and relaxation.

  • Explore the tranquil lodge gardens or visit the vibrant Maasai Market if time allows.

  • Enjoy the serene atmosphere, complimentary Wi-Fi, and comfortable accommodation.

2
Day 02

Scenic Drive to Tarangire National Park

  • Eat breakfast at the lodge before beginning a scenic drive to Tarangire National Park.
  • Discover the park's famous baobab trees and witness northern Tanzania's largest elephant herds.

  • Observe giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, buffalo, and predators like lions and leopards during your game drive.

  • Check in at Tarangire Sopa Lodge for a restful overnight stay amidst peaceful surroundings.

3
Day 03

Game Drive in Lake Manyara National Park

  • Depart for Lake Manyara National Park after breakfast.

  • Observe the park's highlights, including its alkaline soda lake, tree-climbing lions, and flamingos.

  • Encounter elephants, hippos, baboons, and diverse birdlife during your game drive.

  • Return to Omega View Lodge for dinner and a comfortable overnight stay.

4
Day 04

Journey Through the Highlands to Serengeti Central

  • Leave Manyara behind and ascend through the Ngorongoro Highlands en route to Serengeti National Park.
  • Begin your afternoon game drive upon entering the park, spotting abundant wildlife along the way.

  • Arrive at Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge for overnight accommodation with private amenities and sweeping savannah views.

5
Day 05

Into Northern Serengeti and the Mara River Region

  • Depart Central Serengeti and drive north toward the Mara River region.
  • Witness the spectacular Great Migration during the season, where massive herds cross crocodile-filled rivers.

  • Experience predator-prey interactions as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas follow the herds.

  • Settle in at Serena Mbuzi Mawe Tented Camp for a night of comfort amidst the wilderness.

6
Day 06

Full-Day Game Drive in Serengeti North

  • Spend the day exploring the Mara River area during the migration season.
  • Watch dramatic wildebeest crossings and observe predators including Nile crocodiles and big cats.

  • Return to Mbuzi Mawe Tented Camp for the evening, enjoying the camp's luxurious yet immersive safari ambiance.

7
Day 07

Return to the Central Serengeti

  • Embark on a morning game drive before heading back south to the Central Serengeti.
  • Explore the rich ecosystems known for year-round wildlife including lions, leopards, and cheetahs.

  • Watch the sun set over the plains before settling in once again at Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge.

8
Day 08

Drive to the Ngorongoro Crater Rim

  • Enjoy an early game drive in Serengeti before departing for the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
  • Pause at scenic viewpoints along the way to admire the crater's dramatic landscape.

  • Arrive at Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge or a similar lodge perched on the crater rim for a breathtaking overnight stay.

9
Day 09

Ngorongoro Crater Safari and Return to Arusha

  • Begin the day with a descent into the Ngorongoro Crater for a half-day game drive.
  • Spot the endangered black rhino, large lion prides, and abundant hippos, elephants, and flamingos.

  • Exit the crater after lunch and drive back to Arusha.

  • Check in at Planet Lodge for your final evening, relaxing in the lodge's peaceful garden setting and reflecting on your safari adventure.

Departure (Next Day)

  • Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward journey.

Tarangire National Park, Lake Manyara National Park, Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater

Where this trip takes you

Tarangire National Park, Lake Manyara National Park, Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Arusha 6 cities · 9 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • All airport transfers
  • Private 4x4 safari vehicle
  • Professional English-speaking driver/guide
  • All national park entry fees
  • Accommodation in private rooms (mid-range lodges)
  • All meals during the safari
  • Bottled drinking water throughout the trip
  • Soft drinks during game drives
  • Lunch boxes for full-day excursions
  • Souvenir/gift package

What's Not Included

  • International and domestic flights
  • Visa and travel insurance
  • Personal expenses (e.g., laundry, phone calls)
  • Tips and gratuities for guides and operators
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Any optional activities outside the itinerary

What to bring

  • Lightweight, breathable clothes in neutral colors (khaki, beige, olive green)
  • Long-sleeved shirts and pants (for sun and insect protection)
  • Warm jacket or fleece (mornings and evenings can be cold, especially in Ngorongoro)
  • T-shirt and shorts for hot afternoons
  • Rain jacket or poncho (especially during rainy seasons: March-May, November)
  • Comfortable walking shoes or boots
  • Sandals or flip-flops (for relaxing at camp or lodge)
  • Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
  • Insect repellent (with DEET or a natural alternative)
  • Lip balm with SPF
  • Personal medications (plus a basic first-aid kit)
  • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
  • Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, and more
  • Towel (quick-dry recommended if camping)
  • Small daypack for game drives
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Camera with charger and extra memory cards
  • Binoculars for wildlife viewing
  • Flashlight or headlamp (especially useful if camping)
  • Power bank or solar charger (power may be limited in remote areas)
  • Sunglasses and a hat with a brim
  • Travel pillow or neck cushion (for long drives)
  • Valid passport (with necessary visas)
  • Travel insurance documents
  • Copies of your booking confirmations
  • Park permits or receipts (if self-driving)
  • Cash in USD and Tanzanian shillings (for tips, souvenirs, and small purchases)
  • Credit or debit card (useful in towns and lodges, but not reliable everywhere)
  • Lightweight, breathable clothes in neutral colors (khaki, beige, olive green)
  • Long-sleeved shirts and pants (for sun and insect protection)

  • Warm jacket or fleece (mornings and evenings can be cold, especially in Ngorongoro)

  • T-shirt and shorts for hot afternoons

  • Rain jacket or poncho (especially during rainy seasons: March-May, November)

  • Comfortable walking shoes or boots

  • Sandals or flip-flops (for relaxing at camp or lodge)

  • Sunscreen (SPF 30+)

  • Insect repellent (with DEET or a natural alternative)

  • Lip balm with SPF

  • Personal medications (plus a basic first-aid kit)

  • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes

  • Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, etc.

  • Towel (quick-dry recommended if camping)

  • Small daypack for game drives

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Camera with charger and extra memory cards

  • Binoculars for wildlife viewing

  • Flashlight or headlamp (especially useful if camping)

  • Power bank or solar charger (power may be limited in remote areas)

  • Sunglasses and a hat with a brim

  • Travel pillow or neck cushion (for long drives)

  • Valid passport (with necessary visas)

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Copies of your booking confirmations

  • Park permits or receipts (if self-driving)

  • Cash in USD and Tanzanian shillings (for tips, souvenirs, small purchases)

  • Credit or debit card (useful in towns and lodges, but not reliable everywhere)

Know before you go

  • Visit between June and October for the best wildlife viewing during the dry season, especially in Serengeti and Tarangire.

  • Travel from November to March to witness the calving season in Serengeti, ideal for predator sightings.

  • Choose April to May for a greener landscape, fewer tourists, and possible rain showers.

  • Opt for guided safaris, either private or group, where all logistics are handled and a professional guide is included.

  • Consider self-drive safaris for flexibility, but be ready to manage navigation, park regulations, and camping gear.

  • Select from a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury lodges to budget-friendly camping setups.

  • Expect safari packages to include park fees, accommodation, meals, and guided game drives.

  • Account for additional costs like tips, drinks, souvenirs, balloon safaris, visas, and international flights.

  • Ensure your passport has at least six months of validity and apply for a tourist visa online or on arrival.

  • Obtain travel insurance and consult a doctor for recommended vaccinations such as Yellow Fever and Hepatitis A/B.

  • Understand that wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, as animals roam freely in their natural habitat.

  • Follow your guide's expertise to increase your chances of viewing the Big Five and witnessing the Great Migration.

  • Stay at lodges with en-suite bathrooms and included meals for comfort.

  • Choose tented camps for a more immersive experience, ranging from basic to luxury.

  • Use public campsites if on a strict budget, though facilities are often very basic.

  • Prepare for rough and dusty roads, especially in Serengeti and remote areas.

  • Allow for long travel days between parks and plan accordingly.

  • Expect limited or no Wi-Fi in remote areas, and bring a power bank for charging devices.

  • Use mobile networks in towns, though coverage is poor or absent in most parks.

  • Dress in layers, as mornings can be cold in Ngorongoro while afternoons may be hot in Manyara and Tarangire.

  • Pack sun protection, a rain jacket, and comfortable safari clothing.

  • Book lodges, camps, park permits, and crater entry months in advance, especially during high season.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Arusha, Tanzania
Tour start
Arusha, Tanzania
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 9 days finish where they began, in Arusha.

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Starting from

USD 3,475 /person
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Estimated room rates

Single Room $3,475.00 — $5,941.00
Double Sharing $3,475.00

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