Safari Overview
Embark on an this8-day safari adventure through the awe-inspiring landscapes of Tarangire, Ngorongoro crater, Serengeti, and Lake Natron in Tanzania. Beyond the thrilling game drives, this unforgettable journey takes you off the beaten path to explore hidden gems and delve into the rich cultural tapestry of this remarkable country.
In addition to the breathtaking wildlife encounters that await you in Tarangire, Ngorongoro, and Serengeti, this safari brings you to the mystical Lake Natron. Here, you will discover the vibrant hues of the soda lake and witness the majesty of Engare Sero Falls. Explore the unique birdlife and immerse yourself in the captivating landscapes of this lesser-known destination.
But the adventure doesn’t end there. Dive into the vibrant culture and traditions of Tanzania as you visit a Maasai village. Gain insights into their way of life, witness traditional dances, and learn about their deep connection to the land and wildlife. This immersive experience provides a deeper understanding of the local communities and their role in preserving the natural heritage of Tanzania.
This safari offers an extraordinary blend of thrilling game drives, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural immersion. Beyond the wildlife, you’ll get to witness the complexities and nuances of Tanzania, gaining a deeper appreciation for its rich history, diverse cultures, and
Safari itinerary
Arrival to Kilimanjaro - Transfer to Arusha
Your incredible 6-day Tanzania safari begins with an arrival in Arusha, where you will be greeted by our friendly team. After settling in at your accommodation, take the opportunity to relax and prepare for the exciting days ahead.
Tarangire National Park
Embark on a thrilling game drive in Tarangire National Park, known for its spectacular herds of elephants and the iconic baobab trees.
Depart immediately after breakfast for Tarangire National Park, which is located about 100 km from Arusha city along the route to Manyara, Ngorongoro.
The park covers an area of 2,600 square kilometers, about 100 km from north to south and about 25 from east to west but fits within a much larger ecosystem that includes Lake Manyara, Lake Natron and West Kilimanjaro, the Maasai steppes, some controlled hunting areas and the Tarangire Conservation Area that attempts to coexist human settlements and wildlife.
Huge, centuries-old baobab trees provide a backdrop to the wild natural landscape, yet play a very important role both in the park’s ecosystem and for local tribal communities who use seed shells as containers for water, make medicines from the leaves and pulp of the fruit, and make rope, paper and cloth from the bark.
Elephants in turn find refreshment, in the dry season, in the whips of these large trees in when they use the trunks of the trees as water reservoirs.
While it is true that Tarangire is always associated with elephants we would like to mention that bird lovers will find more than 500 species here.
Witness the incredible diversity of wildlife as you navigate through the park’s lush landscapes. Keep your eyes peeled for lions, zebras, giraffes, and a variety of bird species.
Ngorongoro Crater - Serengeti
Depart immediately after breakfast for an incredible experience, today you will take Game drive inside the world’s largest crater!
In fact, you will head to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, whose crater was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979.This is the best known and most frequented area of the entire Ngorongoro Conservation Area, but also the most scenic part with a concentration of animals unparalleled in the entire African continent.
Heavy rains contribute to the formation of small ponds, marshes, streams and help replenish the waters of Lake Magadi present in the crater. Rain and fog, which form as a result of the temperature difference between the crater floor, rim, and surrounding plateaus, are responsible for the unique microclimate on the slopes and within the caldera itself.
Inside the crater is an impressive concentration of fauna, one of the highest on the entire African continent; in fact, an estimated 25. 000 large animals, including numerous herbivores such as large herds of wildebeest and zebra, buffalo, Thomson’s gazelles, Grant’s gazelles, topi antelopes, baboons, hippos, and black rhinos; this is the only place in Tanzania where it is possible to spot them, thanks to the small size and bare landscape of the crater base. In truth, black rhinos also live within the Serengeti National Park but it is very difficult to spot them because, in addition to the vastness of the park, they are in a protected area where they cannot roam freely.
The lion population is very large and registers the highest density in Africa, it is not difficult to spot them thanks to the open spaces of the crater floor one is facilitated by the fact that these felines are accustomed to the presence of off-road vehicles to the point that they use them to hide during hunting and ambush prey or to shelter from the scorching sun of the middle hours of the day.
Inside the crater it is possible to stay a maximum of 6 hours.
After the game drive you will ahead to the Serengeti National Park. In about 3 hours drive you will arrive to Central Serengeti where you will spend the night
Serengeti National Park
Experience an entire day of thrilling game drives in the Serengeti ecosystem, home to some of the most diverse wildlife in Africa. With over 1.5 million wildebeests, 300,000 zebras, 500,000 Thompson’s gazelles, plus more than 2,700 lions, 1,000 leopards, and 500 cheetahs, the Serengeti is a haven for animal lovers. The ecosystem also has large populations of other animals such as huge herds of elephants, eland, impala, water antelope, giraffes, ostriches, genets, crocodiles, and hippopotamuses. In addition, the region boasts of over 400 species of birds – making it a paradise for birdwatchers.
Due to its subsoil composition consisting mainly of volcanic rocks, tall trees grow sparingly across most parts of the Serengeti, and grasslands dominate – increasing the already high chances of coming face-to-face with the animals.
Get ready for an unforgettable experience in the Serengeti ecosystem and come face-to-face with some of Africa’s most majestic and awe-inspiring creatures.
Serengeti National Park - Karatu
Second full day game drive in the Serengeti National Park.
Lake Natron
Very early morning departure for Lake Natron in the north of the country, about an 8-hour drive along a challenging but scenic and picturesque road. Game drive en route on the way out of the park.
This road trip passes through a variety of sites: towns and villages, savanna and forest, and will allow you to spot animals such as antelope, wildebeest and zebra.
Lake Natron occupies a depression created by the sinking of the Earth’s lithosphere and is fed by highly alkaline underground springs that seep from Ol Doinyo Lengai the only volcano in the world known to erupt white, “cold” lava composed of sodium and potassium carbonatite.
The scenarios you will see on this day are profoundly different from those seen so far. You will enter a predominantly desert ecosystem in an area dotted with Maasai villages.
Depending on your arrival time you might make an initial visit in the afternoon such as the Maasai village.
Please note: driving times may vary depending on road conditions at the time of travel
NOTE: There are no luxury lodges in Natron. However we will consider luxury glamping tent
Lake Natron and waterfalls - Arusha
The landscape is dominated by Ol Doinyo Lengai, an active volcano located south of Lake Natron. The lake, with a maximum length of 56 km and a width of 22 km, is fed mainly by the southern Ewaso Ng’iro River and mineral-rich hot springs.
Because the water cannot drain out of the lake, evaporation levels are very high, leaving behind natron (sodium carbonate decahydrate) and trona (sodium sesquicarbonate dihydrate).
The high concentration of natron gives the lake extreme alkaline levels making Natron Lake one of the deadliest lakes on the planet. Despite this, the lake and its surroundings are rich in rare flora and fauna. In this harsh environment, a unique ecosystem has developed, creating fascinating opportunities for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers.
Salt marshes and freshwater wetlands have formed, creating a habitat for long-legged waterfowl. The lake is also home to two endemic fish species: Alcolapia latilabris and Alcolapia ndalalani.
Lesser flamingos are Lake Natron’s most famous attraction. 75% of the world’s population of lesser flamingos was born in this lake. The lesser flamingos gather on the lake between August and October to lay their eggs, which hatch during the rainy season in November.
The surrounding area is also home to other species that can survive in this dry, dusty landscape, including kudu, oryx, gerenuch, zebra and ostrich. Luckiest adventurers may even spot a golden jackal.
This is followed by a visit to the Ngare Sero waterfalls. With a walk of about 40 minutes you will cross a unique mix of arid volcanic rocks and lush tropical palms to arrive at the waterfalls where you can take a refreshing dip. Bring comfortable walking shoes and a bathing suit.
After lunch you will leave to return to Arusha where you will arrive in about 5 hours.
Transfer out airport
At the indicated time we will proceed with the transfer out to Kilimanjaro or Arusha airport. End of services
What is included (and what is not)
- 4×4 Toyota Land cruiser with pop up roof unlimited mileage for exclusive use and gasoline
- Professional driver/driver and related expenses (accommodation, food) english speaking – On request italian or french speaking
- Accommodations for as mentioned in double rooms
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner as mentioned
- Entrance fees to national parks per person and per day you will visit
- Concession fees per person per night for sleeping in national park areas and under its administration if you opt for lodges and tented camps
- Fee for car descent to Ngorongoro crater
- Daily car fees in Ngorongoro, Tarangire, Serengeti and Natron Lake
- Visit to the Maasai Village
- Visit of Lake natron and the waterfalls
- Bottled water for all safari days
- VAT and taxes
As a reminder, the daily fee for the parks are valid for 24 hours after which you will have to pay extra fees (for any delays at the request of the client as the timings are designed to fit within the 24 hours) which will be the responsibility of the traveler.
What is included
- Flight to Tanzania
- Tanzania entry visa (apply online before departure at official website https://eservices.immigration.go.tz/visa/ and you must fill out this form https://afyamsafiri.moh.go.tz/
- Compulsory Health insurance
- Extra expenses – Alcohol and soft drinks in lodges, souvenirs
- Entrance fees to parks not mentioned or extra fees if staying longer than 24 hours
- Tips
- Activities not mentioned or quoted as optional
- Transaction costs bank transfer payment (to be paid by the client)
- Anything not mentioned in “costs include”
What is not included
Prices
Rates are per person and exclude international flight from/to your home country. This tour is offered in US dollars (USD).
All prices are indicative and might change according to the season and lodges availabilities. Please contact us for more details and prices.
| Season | 2 People | 4 People | 6 People |
|---|
Serengeti National Park
Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Tarangire National Park
Arusha
Lake Natron
Karatu
Four Points Arusha
Ngorongoro Oldeani Mountain Lodge
Ole Serai Luxury camp Seronera
Africa Safari Lake Natron
Ngorongoro Neptune luxury lodge
