Safari Overview
This 6-day Tanzania safari covers Lake Manyara, Serengeti National Park, and Ngorongoro Crater. Expect thrilling game drives, diverse wildlife, and cultural encounters. Ideal for travelers seeking the Big Five, birdlife, and breathtaking East African landscapes.
Safari Route Map
Arusha → Lake Manyara → Serengeti → Ngorongoro Crater → Arusha
Safari Schedule
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
Arrive in Arusha, Tanzania’s safari capital. Transfer from Kilimanjaro Airport (32 mi / 52 km) to lodge. Optional city tour offers Mount Meru views and vibrant markets.
Details:
- Distance: 32 mi / 52 km
- Activities: Arrival briefing, relaxation, optional town exploration
- Accommodation: Arusha lodge/hotel
Day 2: Arusha to Lake Manyara
Drive to Lake Manyara National Park. En route, pass Mto wa Mbu village known for cultural diversity. Afternoon game drive reveals tree-climbing lions, elephants, and flamingos.
Details:
- Distance: 75 mi / 120 km
- Activities: Cultural stop at Mto wa Mbu, game drive in Lake Manyara
- Accommodation: Lodge near Rift Valley escarpment
Day 3: Lake Manyara to Serengeti
Travel via Karatu and Ngorongoro highlands into Serengeti. Scenic stop at crater rim viewpoints. Afternoon game drive across endless plains with wildebeest, zebras, and predators.
Details:
- Distance: 205 mi / 330 km
- Activities: Scenic drive, crater rim stop, Serengeti game drive
- Accommodation: Serengeti lodge/tented camp
Day 4: Full Day in Serengeti
Spend the day exploring Serengeti’s habitats. Spot lions, cheetahs, elephants, and seasonal Great Migration herds. Optional visit to Seronera River Valley for leopard sightings.
Details:
- Distance: Local game drives within Serengeti
- Activities: Morning and afternoon game drives, optional Seronera visit
- Accommodation: Serengeti lodge/tented camp
Day 5: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater
Depart Serengeti with game drive en route. Descend into Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO site teeming with rhinos, hippos, and flamingos. Picnic at Hippo Pool.
Details:
• Distance: 112 mi / 180 km
• Activities: En‑route game drive, crater exploration, picnic lunch
• Accommodation: Lodge on crater rim with panoramic views
Day 6: Ngorongoro to Arusha
Morning drive back to Arusha. En route, pass Karatu town and coffee plantations. Reflect on safari highlights before departure. Optional visit to local markets or cultural centers.
Details:
- Distance: 118 mi / 190 km
- Activities: Scenic drive, optional cultural stop
- Accommodation: Day room in Arusha lodge/hotel before departure
Important Note
If your travel plans require you to check out later than 10:00 AM, there is the convenience late check-out option for an additional fee, especially helpful for those with evening flights.
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Safari Pricing Terms of Service
Included in the Safari Price:
✔ Meet and greet services upon arrival and departure at the airport.
✔ Full-board accommodation during the safari (Luxury, Standard, or Budget based on package selection).
✔ Private safari guide (English as the standard language; additional language guides available upon request).
✔ Round-trip transfers between the international airport and safari destinations.
✔ National park entry fees.
✔ All meals throughout the safari experience.
✔ Safari vehicles equipped with:
- Ice chest stocked with mineral water.
- Wildlife guidebook for reference during game drives.
- Karibuni welcome packet with useful information for guests.
✔ Government taxes, VAT, and service charges related to accommodation and meals.
✔ Domestic flight to Zanzibar for package with Zanzibar Extension
✔ Any additional special services requested will be included in the final itinerary package.
Not Included in the Safari Price:
✖ Tanzania Visa Fees:
- $50 per person on arrival.
- USA and Canada passport holders: $100 per person.
✖ Personal Expenses:
- Laundry, telephone calls, alcoholic & non-alcoholic beverages, souvenirs, etc.
✖ Meals not specified in the itinerary.
✖ Domestic flights, unless explicitly mentioned in the itinerary.
✖ Optional/Add-on Tours:
- Hot air balloon ride: $500 per person.
- Other optional excursions available upon request.
✖ Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, local people for cultural tours and hotel staff.
✖ Any items of a personal nature not listed in the inclusions.
Tanzania Safari General FAQs
When is the best time to go on a safari in Tanzania?
The best time depends on your priorities:
- June to October: Dry season, ideal for wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources.
- January to February: Calving season in the Serengeti, offering incredible predator-prey interactions.
- March to May: Rainy season, fewer crowds, but some roads may be challenging.
What are the top national parks to visit?
Tanzania is home to several iconic parks:
- Serengeti National Park: Famous for the Great Migration and Big Five.
- Ngorongoro Crater: Dense wildlife populations in a unique volcanic setting.
- Tarangire National Park: Known for its elephant herds and baobab trees.
- Lake Manyara National Park: Great for birdwatching and tree-climbing lions.
- Ruaha National Park: Offers a more remote, rugged safari experience.
Do I need a visa to enter Tanzania?
Yes, most travelers require a visa. You can obtain one on arrival at the airport or apply online in advance. Tourist visas are typically valid for up to 90 days.
What vaccinations are required for Tanzania?
Recommended vaccinations include:
- Yellow fever (required if arriving from an at-risk country)
- Hepatitis A & B
- Typhoid
- Routine vaccines (MMR, tetanus, polio)
What should I pack for a safari?
- Lightweight, neutral-colored clothing
- Binoculars and a 300mm+ telephoto lens for photography
- Sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat
- Comfortable hiking shoes
- Extra camera batteries and memory cards
How much does a Tanzania safari cost?
Safari costs vary based on accommodation, season, and itinerary:
- Budget safari: $200–$400 per day
- Mid-range safari: $400–$800 per day
- Luxury safari: $800+ per day
Is Tanzania safe for safaris?
Yes, Tanzania is generally safe for tourists. Follow these precautions:
- Use reputable safari operators.
- Avoid walking alone at night in cities.
- Keep valuables secure.
- Follow park regulations and guide instructions.
What wildlife can I expect to see?
Tanzania is home to the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino), along with giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, hippos, crocodiles, and countless bird species.
What type of safari vehicles are used?
Most safaris use 4x4 Land Cruisers with pop-up roofs for optimal wildlife viewing and photography.
Can I do a self-drive safari?
While possible, self-drive safaris are challenging due to rough terrain and navigation difficulties. Hiring a professional guide is highly recommended.
What is the Great Migration, and when can I see it?
The Great Migration is the annual movement of over 1.5 million wildebeest and hundreds of thousands of zebras across the Serengeti and Maasai Mara.
- June to October: River crossings at the Mara River.
- January to February: Calving season in the southern Serengeti.
What are the accommodation options?
- Budget: Campsites and basic lodges.
- Mid-range: Comfortable lodges and tented camps.
- Luxury: High-end lodges with premium amenities.
Can I combine a safari with a Zanzibar beach holiday?
Absolutely! Many travelers end their safari with a relaxing beach retreat in Zanzibar, known for its white sandy beaches and turquoise waters.
What is the food like on safari?
Most lodges and camps offer buffet-style meals with a mix of local and international cuisine. Special dietary requests can usually be accommodated.
How long should my safari be?
A 5–10 day safari is ideal for visiting multiple parks and maximizing wildlife encounters.
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