December-7 Day Tanzania Safari – Wildebeest Calving Season–
A 7-day safari to Tanzania during the wildebeest birthing season in Ndutu (part of the Serengeti ecosystem) is a spectacular opportunity to witness one of nature's most dramatic events. The birthing season typically takes place in January to March, where over 8,000 wildebeests give birth every day. This itinerary will focus on Ndutu and the surrounding areas, including key national parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha and Transfer to Ndutu
- Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) near Arusha, Tanzania.
- Transfer (around 4-5 hours) to Ndutu in the southern part of Serengeti National Park.
- Afternoon at leisure or a brief game drive to explore the area.
- Relax at your accommodation, ready for your first safari the next day.
Day 2: Ndutu – Wildebeest Birthing Season Safari
- Early morning game drive in the Ndutu area, where the majority of the wildebeest birthing occurs.
- Wildebeest Birthing: Watch thousands of wildebeests giving birth, and see the young calves struggling to stand and join the herds. This is a great time to see predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas hunting vulnerable newborns.
- Other Wildlife: Look out for gazelles, zebras, and various predators. The area is rich with birdlife, including flamingos in some of the salt lakes.
- Return to your accommodation for lunch and a relaxing afternoon.
- Evening game drive to spot more wildlife or witness predator behavior as the light changes.
Day 3: Ndutu – Full Day Safari
- Full day exploring the Ndutu plains and surrounding areas.
- Early morning and late afternoon game drives, as this is when predators are most active.
- Experience the spectacular sight of wildebeest calves and other herbivores grazing in the golden light of dawn and dusk.
- Possible sightings of cheetahs and lions hunting, as they take advantage of the vulnerability of the newborns.
- Explore the Ndoongoro Crater, a nearby smaller volcanic crater within the area that can offer a different landscape with great wildlife.
Day 4: Ndutu to Serengeti National Park (Southern Serengeti)
- After breakfast, depart for a short drive to the southern part of the Serengeti (approx. 2 hours).
- Spend the day exploring the Serengeti National Park.
- Focus on game drives in the Seronera Valley, famous for its high concentration of predators like lions, cheetahs, and leopards.
- Visit the Moru Kopjes, which is a good spot for wildlife photography and possibly viewing black rhinos.
- Enjoy an evening game drive before returning to your lodge.
Day 5: Serengeti – Full Day Game Drive
- Full day in the Serengeti to explore more of its incredible landscapes and wildlife.
- Take a morning game drive in the Seronera Valley and Western Corridor, where the landscape transitions from open savannah to more wooded areas.
- Look for giraffes, elephants, and the ever-present predators in the area.
- Optional Activity: Take a hot air balloon ride (early morning) over the Serengeti for a unique perspective of the park and the wildebeest herds.
- In the afternoon, explore the Grumeti River area, where you may witness crocodiles and hippos in the river and search for predators on the hunt.
Day 6: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater
- After breakfast, drive to the Ngorongoro Crater (approx. 3-4 hours).
- This UNESCO World Heritage Site is often referred to as the "Garden of Eden" due to its rich biodiversity.
- Crater Tour: Explore the floor of the crater in the afternoon, looking for lions, elephants, buffalo, black rhinos, and a variety of bird species.
- The Ngorongoro Crater is unique because it is a collapsed volcano, creating a perfect natural habitat with high concentrations of wildlife.
- Overnight stay at a lodge or camp on the crater rim, offering panoramic views.
Day 7: Ngorongoro Crater to Arusha – Departure
- After an early breakfast, descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a final morning game drive.
- Look for any wildlife you may have missed, such as hyenas, jackals, and various bird species.
- Enjoy a picnic lunch inside the crater or at one of the designated areas.
- In the afternoon, drive back to Arusha (approx. 3-4 hours) for your departure flight.
- Depending on your flight time, you can visit a local market or shop for souvenirs in Arusha before heading to the airport.
Your package includes park fees, game drives in Tarangire, Ngorongoro, and Ndutu, as well as mineral water provided in the safari vehicle.
Please note that international flights, travel insurance, gratuities, and beverages are not included.
April – May – Green Season – Suggested Itinerary
Visiting during this time of year offers the advantage of fewer crowds and more affordable accommodations. The Central Serengeti offers excellent game viewing year round.
Embark on a memorable 6-night safari during low season, with stays at handpicked locations: 1 night in Arusha, 1 night in Tarangire, 1 night in Ngorongoro Crater, 2 nights in the Serengeti, and 1 final night in Arusha. Throughout your journey, you’ll enjoy your choice of accommodations, paired with a private safari guide and exclusive vehicle for a truly personalized experience.
Your package includes park fees, game drives in Tarangire, Ngorongoro, and the Central Serengeti, as well as mineral water in the safari vehicle.
Please note, international flights, travel insurance, gratuities, and beverages are not included
June-October – Wildebeest Migration River Crossing - Suggested Itinerary
This is peak season for visiting Tanzania. Due to the popularity of this experience and limited accommodations, planning in advance is essential.
Embark on an 8 night safari during peak season, with accommodations chosen to meet your needs. 1 night in Arusa, 1-night Tarangire National Park, 1 night Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area, 2 nights Central Serengeti, 2 night Northern Serengeti final night in Arusha.
Throughout your journey, you’ll enjoy your choice of accommodations, paired with a private safari guide and exclusive vehicle for a truly personalized experience.
Your package includes park fees, game drives in Tarangire, Ngorongoro, and the Central Serengeti, as well as mineral water in the safari vehicle.
Please note, international flights, travel insurance, gratuities, and beverages are not included
November Green Season – Suggested Itinerary
Visiting during this time of year offers the advantage of fewer crowds and more affordable accommodations. The Central Serengeti offers excellent game viewing year round.
Embark on a memorable 6-night safari during low season, with stays at handpicked locations: 1 night in Arusha, 1 night in Tarangire, 1 night in Ngorongoro Crater, 2 nights in the Serengeti, and 1 final night in Arusha. Throughout your journey, you’ll enjoy your choice of accommodations, paired with a private safari guide and exclusive vehicle for a truly personalized experience.
Your package includes park fees, game drives in Tarangire, Ngorongoro, and the Central Serengeti, as well as mineral water in the safari vehicle.
Please note, international flights, travel insurance, gratuities, and beverages are not included
Optional add on experiences, subject to location:
- Balloon safari
- Fly out of the national parks back to Arusha
- Cultural experiences – visit to a Masai Village or Hadze people
Olduvai Gorge - Kilimanjaro Hike (day or several days)
- Lake Manyana National Park
- Arusha National Park
- Bush breakfast/dinners (available at certain lodges)
- Sundowners (available at certain lodges)
- Massages (available at certain lodges)
- Zanzibar beach break
Great Migration Safari and Tanzanian Cultural Tour
Day 1: Depart the USA
Your adventure begins as you depart from the USA, eagerly anticipating the wonders of East Africa.
Day 2: Arrive in Arusha – Overnight at Arusha Planet Lodge
Touch down in Tanzania’s vibrant safari hub, Arusha, where the stunning backdrop of Mount Meru sets the stage for your journey. After a smooth transfer to your hotel, unwind and prepare for the thrilling days ahead.
Day 3: Transfer to Tarangire National Park – Full Day Game Drive & Overnight at Lake Burunge Baobab Tented Lodge (B, L & D)
The morning kicks off with a scenic drive to Tarangire National Park, famous for its towering baobab trees and large herds of elephants. Spend the day exploring this hidden gem of Tanzania, where you’ll have the opportunity to spot lions, giraffes, and a rich variety of birdlife. In the evening, relax at Lake Burunge Baobab Tented Lodge, surrounded by the natural beauty of the park.
Day 4: Tarangire to Manyara to Karatu – Maasai Village & Local Lunch (B, L & D)
After breakfast at the lodge, head to Manyara enjoy a traditional lunch with a local family and immerse yourself in the authentic culture of the region. In the afternoon, visit a Maasai village and experience the vibrant customs of one of East Africa's most iconic tribes. Continue your journey to Karatu, where you’ll stay overnight at the charming Ngorongoro Coffee Lodge, nestled amidst lush coffee plantations.
Day 5: Full Day Game Drive in Ngorongoro Crater – Overnight at Signature Luxury Tented Camp (B, L & D)
Prepare for one of the most incredible safari experiences as you descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Often referred to as the “Garden of Eden,” this collapsed volcanic caldera is home to an abundance of wildlife, including rhinos, lions, elephants, and wildebeest. After a thrilling game drive, spend the night at the Signature Luxury Tented Camp, a sophisticated blend of comfort and wilderness.
Day 6: Two Game Drives in Serengeti National Park – Overnight at Signature Luxury Camp (B, L & D)
Rise early and head to the Serengeti National Park, world-famous for its vast plains and the spectacular Great Migration. Embark on two exhilarating game drives, where you’ll encounter herds of wildebeest, zebras, and predators in pursuit. This area of the Serengeti is known for large prides of cats. Stay overnight at Signature Luxury Camp, where the sounds of the African night will lull you to sleep.
Day 7: Serengeti Game Drive (Optional Hot Air Balloon Ride) Overnight at Tanzania Bush Tented Camp (B, L & D)
Spend the day immersed in the Serengeti’s beauty. Take another game drive across this expansive landscape, or, for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, opt for a hot air balloon ride at dawn for breathtaking views of the savannah and its wildlife below. Break in the lodge followed by an afternoon game drive.
Day 8: Great Migration Tracking - Overnight at Tanzania Bush Tented Camp (B, L & D)
Spend the day trying to spot the wildebeest and zebras crossing the Mara River. Witness millions of wildebeests and zebras traverse the Serengeti in search of fresh grazing ground. After, retreat to the Tanzania Bush Tented Camp for a night under the stars, surrounded by the wilds of Africa.
Day 9: Serengeti Game Drive – Flight from Serengeti to Arusha for Departure (B)
On your final day, embark on an early morning game drive, where millions of wildebeest and zebras traverse the Serengeti in search of fresh grazing grounds. Later, board a flight back to Arusha, where you’ll catch your international flight home, taking with you unforgettable memories of Tanzania’s iconic landscapes and wildlife.
Price Includes:
-All night’s accommodation on Safari with Food as mentioned to the itinerary
-Park fees and concessions fees
-All activities mentioned on itinerary (game drives, Maasai village and local lunch)
-Mineral drinking water throughout the trip,
- Local flights from Serengeti to Arusha and airport transfers
-Safari Vehicle and local tour guide/safari expert
Cost $5,199
Price Excludes:
-Soft drinks, Alcoholic beverages and personal expenses at accommodations
-Gratuities for guides and staff
-Medical and travel insurance coverage
-International flights and visa expenses
-Optional activities such as hot air balloon ride
13 Day Tanzania Safari with Zanzibar Beach Break
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
- Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) near Arusha.
- Transfer to your accommodation in Arusha for an overnight stay to relax after your flight.
- Depending on your arrival time, explore Arusha, or relax at your lodge/hotel.
Day 2: Arusha to Tarangire National Park
- Early breakfast and drive to Tarangire National Park (approx. 2-3 hours).
- Known for its large elephant herds and iconic baobab trees.
- Go on an afternoon game drive, where you can spot elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and various bird species.
- Enjoy an evening game drive and return to your accommodation for a restful night.
Day 3: Tarangire National Park to Ngorongoro Crater
- After breakfast, drive to the Ngorongoro Crater (approx. 2-3 hours).
- Ngorongoro Crater is a UNESCO World Heritage site, often referred to as the "Garden of Eden" due to its high concentration of wildlife.
- Afternoon game drive in the crater floor. Look for lions, elephants, buffalo, black rhinos, and more.
- Visit the Ngorongoro Crater viewpoint for panoramic views of the crater.
- Overnight stay at a lodge or camp on the crater rim with spectacular views.
Day 4: Ngorongoro Crater to Serengeti National Park (Southern Serengeti)
- After breakfast, depart for the Serengeti National Park (approx. 4-5 hours).
- Spend the afternoon exploring the southern Serengeti, an area that is rich with wildebeests during the wildebeest migration and calf birthing season.
- Enjoy a game drive in the southern Serengeti, observing the wildebeest calving and predators that follow.
- Check into your lodge or camp in the Serengeti for the night.
Day 5: Serengeti – Wildebeest Migration Crossing the Mara River
- Early morning game drive in the Serengeti, heading towards the Mara River area (depending on migration timing, it’s usually between July and October).
- Witness the wildebeest migration crossing the Mara River, one of nature's most spectacular events.
- See massive herds of wildebeest and zebras attempting to cross the river, often facing peril from crocodiles and lions waiting on the banks.
- Spend the day following the migration and observing the drama unfold as wildebeest try to navigate the river crossing.
- Return to your lodge/camp for an overnight stay.
Day 6: Serengeti – Full Day Game Drive
- Full day of exploring the Serengeti with a focus on the wildebeest migration and other wildlife.
- Morning and afternoon game drives in different regions of the Serengeti.
- Look for big cats such as lions, cheetahs, and leopards, as well as elephants, giraffes, and hippos in the rivers.
- Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park or return to your accommodation.
- Overnight in the Serengeti.
Day 7: Serengeti to Lake Manyara National Park
- After breakfast, drive to Lake Manyara National Park (approx. 4-5 hours).
- Enjoy an afternoon game drive in Lake Manyara, known for its tree-climbing lions, large herds of elephants, and flamingos in the lake.
- Stay overnight at a lodge or camp near the park.
Day 8: Lake Manyara to Tarangire National Park
- After breakfast, drive back to Tarangire National Park (approx. 2-3 hours).
- Spend the day on a game drive, focusing on the park’s diverse wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, zebras, and antelope.
- Enjoy an evening game drive before returning to your accommodation for the night.
Day 9: Tarangire to Arusha and Transfer to Zanzibar
- After breakfast, drive back to Arusha (approx. 2-3 hours).
- Upon arrival, transfer to Arusha Airport or Kilimanjaro International Airport for your flight to Zanzibar.
- Upon arrival in Zanzibar, transfer to your beach resort for a relaxing 4-day beach break.
Day 10-13: Zanzibar Beach Relaxation
- Spend the next 4 days relaxing on the pristine beaches of Zanzibar.
- Zanzibar offers stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and plenty of opportunities for relaxation.
- Enjoy the warm, turquoise waters and soft white sands of Nungwi, Kendwa, or Bwejuu beaches.
- Optional Activities:
- Snorkeling or scuba diving in the coral reefs.
- Visit Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, for its rich history and culture.
- Take a boat trip to Prison Island or Mnemba Island for more exploration or dolphin watching.
- Explore spice farms and learn about Zanzibar’s spice history.
- Enjoy the evenings with beach dinners, sundowners, and the beautiful sunset views.
Day 13: Departure
- Depending on your flight time, enjoy a relaxing morning at the beach.
- Transfer to Zanzibar Airport for your departure flight home.
Key Highlights of the Trip:
- Serengeti Wildebeest Migration: Witnessing the dramatic Mara River crossing, an iconic natural spectacle.
- Ngorongoro Crater: Exploring one of the world’s most biodiverse and spectacular wildlife environments.
- Tarangire National Park: Known for its large elephant herds and stunning baobab trees.
- Lake Manyara National Park: Home to tree-climbing lions and incredible birdlife.
- Zanzibar: A relaxing 4-day beach break on beautiful tropical beaches with options for cultural exploration, water sports, and relaxation.
