Day 1: Arrival in Arusha

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport, our driver will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel or campsite in Arusha. You’ll have time to relax after your journey or explore Arusha’s vibrant markets and cultural attractions. In the evening, meet your safari guide for a pre-safari briefing and preparation for the adventure ahead.

Main highlights: Arrival, rest, and pre-safari briefing.
Overnight: Budget campsite or lodge in Arusha.

Day 2: Arusha – Tarangire National Park

After breakfast, depart from Arusha for Tarangire National Park, one of Tanzania’s most picturesque parks known for its majestic baobab trees and large herds of elephants. Enjoy a full-day game drive through the Tarangire River valley, where animals like giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests gather to drink water. Lions and leopards are also often spotted here.

Main highlights: Elephant herds, baobab trees, and scenic landscapes.
Overnight: Budget campsite near Mto wa Mbu or Karatu.

Day 3: Lake Manyara National Park

After breakfast, head to Lake Manyara National Park, a small but incredibly diverse park nestled beneath the Great Rift Valley escarpment. Enjoy a full-day game drive spotting tree-climbing lions, flamingos, hippos, giraffes, and troops of baboons. The park’s lush forest and sparkling lake provide a stunning contrast to the dry savannah of Tarangire.

Main highlights: Tree-climbing lions, flamingos, and lush landscapes.
Overnight: Budget campsite in Karatu.

Day 4: Karatu – Serengeti National Park

After an early breakfast, drive toward Serengeti National Park, passing through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. As you descend into the Serengeti plains, you’ll be greeted by vast open grasslands dotted with acacia trees and wildlife as far as the eye can see. Enjoy an afternoon game drive through the Seronera Valley, home to resident big cats and countless grazing animals.

Main highlights: Scenic drive, Serengeti plains, and big cats.
Overnight: Budget campsite in Serengeti National Park.

Day 5: Full Day in Serengeti National Park

Spend the entire day exploring the world-famous Serengeti National Park. Depending on the season, you may witness the Great Wildebeest Migration, where millions of wildebeests and zebras cross the plains in search of greener pastures. Morning and afternoon game drives offer opportunities to spot lions, cheetahs, elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, and more. Enjoy the magnificent African sunset before returning to your campsite for dinner.

Main highlights: Full-day game drives and the Great Migration (seasonal).
Overnight: Budget campsite in Serengeti.

Day 6: Serengeti – Ngorongoro Conservation Area

After breakfast, enjoy a final early morning game drive in Serengeti before departing for Ngorongoro Conservation Area. On the way, you can stop at Olduvai Gorge (optional visit), a famous archaeological site known as the “Cradle of Mankind.” Arrive at the Simba Campsite on the crater rim for dinner and overnight, with stunning panoramic views of the crater below.

Main highlights: Morning game drive, Olduvai Gorge (optional), and crater rim views.
Overnight: Simba Campsite on the Ngorongoro Crater Rim.

Day 7: Ngorongoro Crater – Karatu

After an early breakfast, descend 600 meters into the Ngorongoro Crater, one of the most spectacular wildlife habitats on earth.

Enjoy a half-day game drive spotting lions, elephants, zebras, buffaloes, and the rare black rhino. The crater’s diverse ecosystem supports nearly every type of wildlife found in East Africa. After your picnic lunch by the hippo pool, ascend from the crater and drive to Karatu for a relaxing evening and overnight stay.

Main highlights: Big Five sightings and crater floor exploration.
Overnight: Budget campsite in Karatu.

Day 8: Karatu – Arusha / Departure

After breakfast, drive back to Arusha, enjoying scenic views of the highlands and Maasai villages along the way. Depending on your schedule, you may be transferred directly to the airport for your onward flight or spend an extra night in Arusha.

Main highlights: Scenic drive and cultural experiences.
Overnight: End of tour (optional extra night in Arusha).