Tanzanian Safari Adventure: Exploring the Wild Heart of East Africa

Overview

Destinations: Tanzania
Duration: 10 days

Embark on an unforgettable safari adventure through Tanzania’s iconic national parks and conservation areas. This immersive tour takes you on a journey to Tarangire National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, North Serengeti, Central Serengeti, Lake Manyara National Park, and Arusha National Park. Witness the breathtaking landscapes, encounter diverse wildlife, and delve into the rich cultural heritage of Tanzania.

Your journey begins in Tarangire National Park, known for its large herds of elephants and diverse wildlife. Explore the park’s vast plains and woodlands, spotting lions, cheetahs, and an array of bird species. Continue to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, where the Ngorongoro Crater awaits—a natural wonder teeming with wildlife. Descend into the caldera and encounter the Big Five and other fascinating creatures. The adventure then takes you to the North Serengeti, where you witness the spectacle of the Great Migration (depending on the time of year). Observe thousands of wildebeests and zebras crossing the Mara River, as predators lurk nearby. In the Central Serengeti, immerse yourself in the heart of the savannah, encountering lions, elephants, giraffes, and more during thrilling game drives.

Lake Manyara National Park awaits with its stunning landscapes and diverse habitats. Spot tree-climbing lions, witness flocks of flamingos at the alkaline lake, and enjoy encounters with a variety of wildlife. Arusha National Park offers a unique experience with its montane forests, crater lakes, and the imposing Mount Meru. Take guided nature walks, go canoeing on Momella Lakes, and soak in the beauty of this lesser-known gem.

Throughout the tour, you’ll be captivated by the incredible wildlife encounters, from the majestic elephants of Tarangire to the tree-climbing lions of Manyara. Marvel at the ever-changing landscapes, from the vast Serengeti plains to the unique Ngorongoro Crater. Engage with the local Maasai communities, learn about their traditions, and gain insights into their way of life.

This safari adventure combines the best of Tanzania’s wildlife, landscapes, and cultural experiences. Capture breathtaking moments, relish the thrill of game drives, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Get ready for an immersive journey through Tanzania’s natural wonders and embrace the beauty of this East African paradise.

We take pride in offering you a unique and unforgettable experience. Our safaris are designed to be tailored to your preferences, ensuring that you have a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Whether you are interested in luxury safaris, family safaris, or adventure safaris, AOS has the perfect safari package for you.

“Nothing but breathing the air of Africa, and actually walking through it, can communicate the indescribable sensations.” – William Burchell

Highlights
  • From tracking elusive wildlife to providing in-depth knowledge of the local flora and fauna, our skilled guides will take you on a journey of discovery, immersing you in the sights, sounds, and stories of the African bush. With their keen eyesight, sharp instincts, and passion for the natural world, our guides will ensure that every moment of your safari is filled with wonder, excitement, and unparalleled adventure.

  • Indulge in comfort by staying at some of the best camps and lodges in East Africa, where every detail is designed to provide the perfect blend of comfort, style, and authenticity.

  • Witness the impressive herds of elephants that inhabit Tarangire National Park. The park’s diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife make for an exhilarating game drive experience.

  • Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, a natural wonder and home to a rich array of wildlife. Spot the Big Five and witness the unique interactions within this caldera.

  • Explore the North Serengeti, known for its stunning landscapes and the thrilling Great Migration river crossings. Witness the dramatic spectacle as thousands of wildebeests and zebras brave the waters.

  • Immerse yourself in the heart of the Central Serengeti, where the vast plains and diverse wildlife come alive. Spot lions, cheetahs, elephants, and more during your game drives in this iconic region.

  • Experience the beauty of Lake Manyara National Park, where lush forests, flamingos, and tree-climbing lions await. Enjoy a diverse range of wildlife encounters during your game drive.

  • Discover the scenic landscapes of Arusha National Park, with its montane forests, crater lakes, and stunning views of Mount Meru. Take a guided nature walk and go canoeing on Momella Lakes for a unique perspective.

  • Engage with local communities and experience Tanzanian culture through interactions with Maasai people. Learn about their traditions, lifestyles, and cultural heritage.

  • Capture unforgettable moments during your game drives, witnessing incredible wildlife sightings, awe-inspiring sunsets, and the sheer beauty of the African wilderness.
Itinerary

Day 1 – Your Adventure Begins!
Today you begin your journey to Tanzania by arriving on international flight at Kilimanjaro. Our representative will meet you at the airport and transfer to Arusha, where you will spend a night after a long flight. 

Day 2 – A Journey from Arusha to Tarangire National Park
After an early breakfast, begin your journey from Arusha, a vibrant city in Tanzania. Make sure you have packed all the essentials for your safari adventure. Hit the road and embark on a scenic drive from Arusha to Tarangire National Park. The distance between the two is approximately 120 kilometres, and the journey takes around 2-3 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions.

Arrive at Tarangire National Park and check in at your lodge. Have a delicious lunch and relax while taking in the beautiful surroundings and leaving for your first game drive.

In the afternoon, begin your thrilling game drive in Tarangire National Park. As you explore the park’s diverse landscapes, keep your eyes peeled for the abundant wildlife that inhabits this area. Tarangire is known for its large herds of elephants, so spotting these majestic creatures is almost guaranteed. Enjoy the sunset observation. Take advantage of the golden hour while our guide finds a strategic spot for you to witness a breathtaking African sunset. Capture the mesmerizing colours as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the park.

After an exciting day, head back to your designated accommodation. Unwind, relax, and prepare for another day of adventure.

Day 3 – Explore the Early Morning Beauty of Tarangire and Transfer to Ngorongoro
Wake up before dawn to embark on an early morning game drive. The wildlife activity is at its peak during this time, and you have an excellent chance of spotting predators such as lions, leopards, and cheetahs as they start their hunt. Tarangire National Park is also a haven for bird lovers, boasting over 500 bird species. Keep your binoculars handy and try to spot some of the park’s resident and migratory birds, including the iconic Maasai ostrich and yellow-collared lovebirds.

Take a break from the game drive and enjoy a delightful picnic breakfast amidst the wilderness. Relish the scenic beauty around you as you savour your meal. Resume your game drive after breakfast, exploring different areas of Tarangire National Park. Our experienced guide will navigate through the park’s vast plains, woodlands, and riverine habitats, maximizing your chances of spotting a variety of wildlife. After your memorable time in Tarangire National Park, it’s time to continue your Tanzanian safari adventure by heading towards the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

Begin your drive from Tarangire towards the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, which is approximately 100 kilometres away. Enjoy the scenic drive as you leave Tarangire behind and enter the beautiful landscapes surrounding the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Marvel at the changing vistas, which can include rolling hills, vast plains, and lush greenery. Arrive at the lodge in time for a late lunch and spend afternoon at leisure – sun bathing, relaxing, enjoying the tranquility of this magical place and taking in its beauty and everything that you have seen and experienced in the first few days.

Day 4 – Experience Ngorongoro Crater
As you wake up to a new day in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, get ready for an unforgettable adventure exploring the renowned Ngorongoro Crater. Enjoy a delicious breakfast at your accommodation, fueling up for the day ahead. Make sure you have your camera, binoculars, and any other essentials handy.

Embark on a short drive from your lodging to the entrance of the Ngorongoro Crater. The journey typically takes around 30-45 minutes, allowing you to soak in the surrounding natural beauty. Upon arrival, begin your descent into the Ngorongoro Crater, a caldera formed by the collapse of an ancient volcano. As you descend, be prepared to witness a dramatic change in landscape and a sense of entering a pristine wildlife paradise.

Once inside the crater, we embark on an exhilarating game drive. The crater’s floor is home to a remarkable diversity of wildlife, including large herds of zebras, wildebeests, gazelles, and an abundance of predators such as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas. Our experienced guide will take you to explore the various habitats within the crater, from the grassy plains to the marshes and acacia woodlands. Keep a keen eye out for the iconic Big Five animals, as the Ngorongoro Crater is known for its high concentration of these species. Take a moment to visit the hippo pools within the crater. Observe these magnificent creatures as they wallow in the water, occasionally displaying their impressive jaws in territorial disputes or yawning displays.

Find a picturesque spot within the crater and enjoy a delightful picnic lunch surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife. Take this opportunity to relax and appreciate the awe-inspiring surroundings.

As the day begins to wind down, we start our ascent from the crater floor, bidding farewell to the diverse ecosystem within. The drive up offers scenic views of the crater’s rim and the surrounding plains. Return to your accommodation near the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and enjoy some leisure time. Reflect on the incredible wildlife encounters and stunning landscapes you experienced during your day in the Ngorongoro Crater.

Day 5 – Central Serengeti Wonders
As you continue your remarkable Tanzanian safari journey, it’s time to leave the Ngorongoro Conservation Area behind and embark on a scenic drive to the renowned Central Serengeti. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your accommodation, preparing yourself for the day’s adventure. Make sure to check out and gather all your belongings.

Bid farewell to the captivating landscapes of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area as you embark on your journey to the Central Serengeti. The distance between the two locations is approximately 150 kilometres, and the drive can take around 3-4 hours. As you leave the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, savour the ever-changing vistas that unfold before you. The drive takes you through the vast plains of the Serengeti ecosystem, offering picturesque views of grasslands, scattered acacia trees, and perhaps even wildlife sightings in the distance.

As you make your way towards the Central Serengeti, stop at your lodge for check-in and lunch. Soak in the natural surroundings and anticipate the wildlife encounters that await you in the Central Serengeti. In the afternoon, resume your journey towards the heart of the Serengeti, where you’ll be welcomed by the iconic landscapes and abundant wildlife. Embark on an exhilarating game drive, exploring the vast plains in search of the Serengeti’s famous residents, including the Big Five. Keep a watchful eye as you traverse the Serengeti’s open plains and riverine habitats. Look out for prides of lions basking in the sun, herds of elephants gracefully roaming the savannah, and leopards stealthily perched on tree branches. Our experienced guide will share their knowledge and help you spot the incredible diversity of wildlife.

As the day draws to a close, return to your designated accommodation in the Central Serengeti. Take some time to unwind, relax, and appreciate the tranquility of the wilderness surrounding you. Enjoy a delicious dinner, relishing the flavours of Tanzanian cuisine. Reflect on the day’s adventures and immerse yourself in the ambiance of the Serengeti. You might even hear the distant calls of wildlife as the night settles in.

Days 6-7-8 – Immerse in Nature at Serengeti National Park
You will spend the next three days exploring Serengeti and immersing yourself in its nature and beauty. Embark on an exciting adventure as you drive from the Central Serengeti to the picturesque North Serengeti. The distance between the two regions can vary depending on the specific route chosen and the wildlife sightings along the way. Enjoy the scenic drive as you make your way through the iconic landscapes of the Serengeti. Take in the vast plains, rolling hills, and acacia-dotted savannah, while keeping a lookout for wildlife sightings along the route.

This journey is an exciting game drive. The Serengeti is known for its incredible wildlife population, so keep your eyes peeled for the diverse array of animals that call this region home. Upon reaching the North Serengeti, settle into your accommodation, have a delicious lunch and take some time to relax and rejuvenate.

In the afternoon, embark on an exhilarating game drive in the North Serengeti. Explore the lush grasslands, riverine forests, and the banks of the Grumeti and Mara rivers, which are teeming with wildlife. Keep an eye out for elephants, giraffes, zebras, lions, and the possibility of witnessing the dramatic river crossings during the Great Migration (depending on the time of year). Return to your lodge in time for dinner and overnight rest.

The following day, wake up early to catch the magical sunrise over the North Serengeti. Head out for a game drive, taking advantage of the wildlife activity during the early hours. Witness the predators returning from their nightly hunts and the herbivores beginning their day.

Have breakfast in the wilderness and enjoy a delightful meal in the heart of the Serengeti, surrounded by nature’s beauty. Listen to the sounds of the wilderness and relish the tranquility of your surroundings.

Spend the day exploring the North Serengeti’s diverse ecosystems and wildlife habitats. Our experienced guide will navigate through the region’s iconic locations, maximizing your chances of spotting a variety of animals, including wildebeest, zebras, gazelles, leopards, and cheetahs. Marvel at the stunning scenery and capture incredible photographs of the wildlife in their natural habitat. Visit Maasai community and learn about their vibrant culture and traditions.

The following morning, after breakfast, bid farewell to the North Serengeti and begin your journey back to the Central Serengeti. Take in the last views of the pristine landscapes and cherish the memories created during your time in the North Serengeti.

Enjoy a leisurely drive back to the Central Serengeti. Take this opportunity to relax, reflect on your experiences, and spot any wildlife sightings along the way. Upon reaching the Central Serengeti, check in to your accommodation and settle in. Take some time to relax, freshen up, and relish the peaceful atmosphere of the Central Serengeti. In the afternoon, embark on yet another game drive in the Central Serengeti. Explore the diverse habitats and search for any wildlife you may have missed during your previous visit. Capture the last glimpses of the Serengeti’s incredible beauty and return to your accommodation for dinner and overnight.

Day 9 – Connect with Nature at Lake Manyara National Park
Today embark on an exciting journey as you drive from the Serengeti to Lake Manyara National Park. Explore the diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife during a thrilling game drive. Enjoy a delicious breakfast at your accommodation in the Central Serengeti. Prepare yourself for the day’s adventure and ensure that you have all your belongings packed.

Bid farewell to the Central Serengeti and set off on your drive towards Lake Manyara National Park. The distance between the two destinations can vary depending on the specific route chosen and the prevailing road conditions.

Enjoy the scenic drive as you make your way through the picturesque landscapes of Tanzania. Admire the changing vistas, from the Serengeti plains to the lush greenery that surrounds Lake Manyara. Upon reaching the entrance of Lake Manyara National Park, begin your exciting game drive in Lake Manyara National Park. This small but diverse park is known for its unique ecosystems, including the alkaline lake, dense woodlands, and the famous tree-climbing lions. Keep your eyes peeled for the park’s abundant wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffalo, hippos, and an array of bird species.

Have lunch at your lodge and resume your game drive in the afternoon, exploring different areas of Lake Manyara National Park. Our experienced guide will navigate through the park’s diverse habitats, increasing your chances of encountering a variety of wildlife. As the day draws to a close, return to your accommodation for dinner and overnight. Reflect on the incredible wildlife encounters and beautiful landscapes you experienced during your time at the park.

Day 10 – Arusha National Park and Farewell Tanzania
Enjoy a delicious breakfast at your accommodation. Prepare yourself for the day’s journey and ensure that you have all your belongings packed. Bid farewell to Lake Manyara National Park and set off on your drive towards Arusha National Park. The distance between the two destinations is approximately 70 kilometres, and the journey takes around 1-2 hours, depending on the road conditions and traffic.

Upon reaching the entrance of Arusha National Park, start your exploration of the Park with a guided nature walk. Immerse yourself in the park’s diverse landscapes, which include lush montane forests, crater lakes, and the imposing Mount Meru in the backdrop. Our knowledgeable guide will introduce you to the park’s flora and fauna, sharing insights about the unique ecosystem.

Find a scenic spot within Arusha National Park and enjoy a delightful picnic lunch amidst the natural beauty. Take this opportunity to relax, soak in the surroundings, and appreciate the serene atmosphere of the park.

Experience the tranquil waters of the Momella Lakes by embarking on a canoeing adventure. Enjoy the serenity as you paddle through the shallow waters and observe the diverse birdlife and other wildlife that frequent the lakeside.

As the day comes to an end, bid farewell to Arusha National Park and start your journey towards Kilimanjaro International Airport. Make your way to the airport as you reflect on the incredible experiences you had during your safari adventure in Tanzania and as you say goodbye to this beautiful country.

What's Included
  • Immersive safari experience with the attentive and knowledgeable services of an experienced English-speaking safari guide.

  • Comfortable accommodations and healthy meals, including unforgettable experiences of breakfast in the savannah.
     
  • Regional wine and beer served during your mealtimes, while your vehicles are stocked with refreshing soft drinks and bottled water to keep you hydrated during your safari adventure.

  • Complimentary Wi-Fi at all camps and lodges.
     
  • All ground transportation, providing you with comfortable and convenient transfers between destinations and ensuring a seamless and stress-free journey.

  • Seamless airport transfers, as well as all game park, national park, and conservancy fees, allowing you to simply relax and revel in the unforgettable experiences that await you on your journey.
     
  • Extensive safety protocols perfected by over 25 years of on-the-ground expertise.

  • An unforgettable visit to Tarangire, Serengeti and Lake Manyara National Park as well as to the world renown Ngorongoro Crater.
EXTENSIONS

Maasai Mara, Diani Beach, Zanzibar, Seychelles, Cape Town

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