Today marks the beginning of your adventure as you depart from Arusha, the starting point for safaris in Northern Tanzania, heading towards the enchanting Tarangire National Park via the scenic Arusha – Dodoma highway. Along the way, you have the option to make a stop at a supermarket for any last-minute essentials. Traverse the picturesque Masai Steppe, with Tarangire National Park just about 2 hours away. Upon arrival, your driver will handle the necessary park paperwork before embarking on your first thrilling game drive. Tarangire is famed for its large elephant herds and majestic baobab trees dotting the landscape. Enjoy a delightful lunch at a designated picnic site, followed by afternoon game drives until the sun sets. Finally, settle in for the night at your chosen accommodation—Heart and Soul Lodge, Country Lodge, or similar—in Karatu. Lunch and dinner are provided.
Accommodation:
- Name: Heart and Soul Lodge / Kizumba Campsite
- Type: Lodge / Camping
- Level: Mid-range / Budget
After enjoying breakfast in Tarangire National Park, we embark on an early departure, beginning our journey across the floor of the Great Rift Valley. As we ascend the escarpment and make our way through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, you'll be treated to a delightful scenic drive, offering captivating views of the surrounding landscapes.
The journey through the conservation area unfolds as a leisurely and pleasant experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the stunning scenery and marvel at the breathtaking vistas along the way.
Upon our arrival in the Serengeti National Park during the afternoon, we dive straight into an exhilarating game drive, eagerly anticipating the wildlife encounters that await us. Our exploration continues until late in the day, soaking in the beauty of the Serengeti's vast plains and diverse ecosystems.
For lunch, we stop at one of the picturesque picnic sites, typically located at the Naabi Hill Gate. Here, you'll have the opportunity to stretch your legs and take in the surroundings while our guide takes care of necessary registrations and paperwork.
As the day draws to a close, we settle into our camp or lodge, where a warm campfire awaits us. Dinner is served, offering a chance to savor delicious meals while sharing stories of the day's adventures. Finally, we retire for the night, surrounded by the tranquility of the Serengeti wilderness. Your accommodation for the evening will be at either Thorntree Camp or Serengeti Heritage tented Camp, ensuring a comfortable and restful stay. All meals are included, ensuring you're well-fed and energized for the adventures that lie ahead.
> Accommodation:
✓ Name: Serengeti Heritage tented Camp / Nyani Campsite
✓ Type: Lodge / Camping
✓ Level: Mid-range / Budget
Rise early to embark on a sunrise game drive, a golden opportunity to encounter elusive nocturnal creatures and witness the awakening of diurnal species. Experience the magic of animals gathering along the roadsides to evade the morning dew, offering a chance for up-close encounters with wildlife. Following breakfast at the camp, indulge in a full day of game drives within the expansive Serengeti National Park.
Named after the Maasai word 'Siringit,' translating to "plains without end," the Serengeti lives up to its name with vast stretches of African Savannah awaiting exploration. Traverse these endless plains in search of a plethora of wildlife species, from the iconic wildebeests to majestic elephants, powerful lions, swift cheetahs, and elusive leopards. Amidst the rich tapestry of wildlife, witness the graceful movements of zebras, elegant elands, and a diverse array of resident and migratory bird species.
Retreat to the comfort of Thorntree Camp or Serengeti Heritage Tented Camp for a restful overnight stay, with all meals included. Experience the wonders of the Serengeti, where every moment promises adventure and discovery amidst the untamed beauty of nature.
> Accommodation:
✓ Name: Serengeti Heritage tented Camp / Nyani Campsite
✓ Type: Lodge / Camping
✓ Level: Mid-range / Budget
After enjoying breakfast at your accommodation, we will prepare to depart for one final exhilarating game drive in the Serengeti. Led by our professional safari guide, you will have the opportunity to explore the Seronera River Valley, renowned for its rich diversity of wildlife and bird species. Alternatively, your guide may suggest other promising locations within the Serengeti based on their expertise and insights.
Throughout the journey, your safari guide will maintain communication with other guides via VHF high-frequency radios installed in our safari vehicles. This ensures that your guide stays informed about wildlife sightings and can lead you to the most promising areas for exploration.
In the afternoon, we will commence our journey back to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, where we will check into Heart and Soul Lodge for dinner and overnight accommodation. Nestled amidst the natural beauty of the area, Heart and Soul Lodge offers a comfortable and inviting retreat after a day of adventure. Enjoy a hearty dinner and restful overnight stay, with all meals included for your convenience.
> Accommodation:
✓ Name: Heart and Soul Lodge / Migombani Campsite
✓ Type: Lodge / Camping
✓ Level: Mid-range / Budget
Start your day with breakfast at the lodge before embarking on an early descent to the floor of the Ngorongoro Crater for an unforgettable game drive experience. It's advisable to begin your descent right after breakfast or even opt for a packed breakfast to maximize your chances of encountering rare wildlife like the Black Rhinos. Spend the morning exploring the diverse habitats of the crater, known for its towering walls and remarkable concentration of wild animals, often dubbed as a natural zoo. With luck, you might even spot the iconic Big Five during your adventure.
After immersing yourself in the wonders of the Ngorongoro Crater until lunchtime, enjoy a picnic lunch at the designated hippo poolside site. Following your satisfying meal, ascend the crater rim and bid farewell to the conservation area. Your journey continues as you head back to Arusha, arriving later in the afternoon. This full-day excursion includes both breakfast and lunch, ensuring you're fueled up for an exciting day of exploration.