This 13-day Tanzania safari offers a remarkable journey through the country’s most iconic wildlife and scenic landscapes. Begin in Tarangire National Park, famous for its towering baobabs and large elephant herds, then spend several days in the vast Serengeti National Park, exploring its plains, kopjes, volcanic soils, and open skies while encountering abundant wildlife, including predators, wildebeests, and zebras. Continue to the stunning Ngorongoro Crater, a natural wonder with lakes, forests, and grasslands supporting diverse species, followed by a visit to Lake Manyara National Park, known for tree-climbing lions and flamingo-lined shores. Explore Arusha National Park with its scenic landscapes and wildlife, then enjoy flexible days discovering the surrounding highlands, forests, and fertile soils before returning to Arusha, concluding a journey filled with unforgettable wildlife encounters and breathtaking natural beauty.
Day 1: Arusha to Tarangire National Park
Your safari begins with a scenic drive from Arusha to Tarangire National Park, a beautiful reserve known for its sweeping savannas, towering baobab trees, and impressive elephant herds. Enjoy your first game drive through the park’s diverse landscapes, where you may spot zebras, giraffes, wildebeests, and numerous bird species along the Tarangire River. As the sun sets, settle into your lodge or camp within or near the park. Overnight in Tarangire.
Day 2–6: Serengeti National Park
After breakfast, depart for the world-renowned Serengeti National Park, Tanzania’s most iconic wildlife destination. Spend five unforgettable days exploring its vast plains, rocky kopjes, and volcanic soils that stretch endlessly under open skies. Daily game drives take you across different regions of the park, where you may encounter wildebeests, zebras, lions, cheetahs, elephants, and countless bird species. Whether you witness a hunt, a migration crossing, or a serene sunset over the savanna, every moment in the Serengeti captures the spirit of Africa. Evenings are spent relaxing at your lodge or tented camp surrounded by the sounds of the wilderness. Overnight in Serengeti.
Day 7: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater Rim
After a morning game drive, travel toward the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, with an optional stop at Olduvai Gorge, the famous archaeological site known as the “Cradle of Mankind.” Continue to the crater rim and enjoy spectacular panoramic views of this vast natural amphitheater. Overnight at a lodge perched on the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater.
Day 8: Ngorongoro Crater
Descend early into the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s most remarkable wildlife sanctuaries. The crater’s floor is a rich mosaic of lakes, forests, and grasslands supporting a dense population of animals, including lions, elephants, zebras, hippos, and the endangered black rhino. Enjoy a full-day game drive and a picnic lunch by the hippo pool before returning to your lodge on the crater rim. Overnight at Ngorongoro.
Day 9: Lake Manyara National Park
Today you’ll head to Lake Manyara National Park, located at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment. The park is famous for its lush forests, pink flamingos, and tree-climbing lions. Enjoy a game drive through the park’s varied habitats, from groundwater forests to open plains and lakeshores teeming with birdlife. Overnight near Lake Manyara.
Day 10: Arusha National Park
After breakfast, continue to Arusha National Park, a small yet scenic gem with a remarkable range of habitats. From the forested slopes of Mount Meru to the sparkling Momella Lakes, the park offers excellent opportunities to see giraffes, buffaloes, colobus monkeys, and diverse bird species. Enjoy a leisurely game drive or guided walk, followed by an overnight stay near the park.
Day 11–12: Highlands, Forests, and Cultural Exploration
Spend two flexible days exploring the surrounding highlands and forests near Arusha. Discover fertile volcanic soils, lush vegetation, and rich local cultures. You may visit local villages, enjoy short hikes, or relax at your lodge while taking in the serene mountain scenery. These days offer a peaceful balance to your adventure-filled safari. Overnight near Arusha.
Day 13: Return to Arusha
After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed drive back to Arusha, marking the end of your unforgettable 13-day safari. Reflect on your incredible experiences—from vast Serengeti plains to the Ngorongoro Crater and tranquil forests—as you prepare for your onward journey.
