Discover the soul-stirring landscapes and wildlife of Tanzania on a 7-day safari that takes you through the Northern Circuit’s most famed parks. Your adventure begins in Arusha and unfolds across the vast savannas of Tarangire, the lush fields of Karatu, the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, and the endless plains of the Serengeti. Alongside expert guides, you’ll come face-to-face with the majestic creatures that call these lands home, from towering elephants to elusive big cats.
This journey promises more than just sightings; it offers a profound connection to the natural world. Imagine the thrill of watching the great migration, experiencing the serene sunset over Ngorongoro, or simply absorbing the tranquility of the surrounding wilderness. It’s an adventure that captures the essence of Africa, leaving you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for nature’s wonders. In the context of a Tanzania big five safari, this expedition offers unparalleled opportunities to encounter the iconic lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros, completing the quintessential African safari experience.
Arusha stands as the vibrant heart of northern Tanzania, serving as the gateway to some of Africa’s most celebrated wildlife parks and reserves. This bustling city, nestled at the foot of Mount Meru, offers a blend of lively markets, intriguing cultural sites, and lush coffee plantations. Its strategic location makes it an essential stop for adventurers and safari enthusiasts embarking on their journey to explore the natural wonders of the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and beyond.
Despite its rapid growth, Arusha retains a sense of calm and charm, particularly in its quieter, garden-lined streets and local eateries that offer a taste of Tanzanian hospitality. The city’s atmosphere is a unique mix of urban energy and the serene beauty of its surrounding landscapes, making it a fascinating starting point or interlude in the Tanzanian safari experience.
Upon your arrival, a representative from Safari365 will be there to warmly welcome you to Tanzania. They will assist you with the necessary arrangements and ensure a smooth transfer to your accommodation for the night, the Rivertrees Country Inn. Rivertrees Country Inn is a charming and tranquil retreat located in the lush surroundings of Arusha, Tanzania.
Nestled between the Usa River and a coffee farm, this delightful inn offers a serene setting that serves as an ideal gateway to Tanzania’s famed safari destinations. The inn features comfortable and tastefully decorated accommodations, including cottages and rooms that blend traditional charm with modern amenities. Each room is designed to provide a cosy and relaxing ambiance, offering guests a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The gardens of Rivertrees Country Inn are a highlight, filled with vibrant flowers and towering trees, creating a serene atmosphere where guests can unwind and connect with nature. The soothing sounds of the Usa River add to the tranquillity of the surroundings, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and reflection.
For those looking to explore the area, Rivertrees Country Inn provides opportunities for guided walks on the coffee farm, birdwatching, and canoeing on the Usa River. Additionally, the inn can help arrange day trips to nearby attractions, such as Arusha National Park or the cultural village of Mto wa Mbu. Rivertrees Country Inn is also a convenient starting point for safaris to iconic destinations like the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire National Park.
Rivertrees Country Inn, nestled in the serene outskirts of Arusha, Tanzania, offers a tranquil retreat amidst lush gardens and the gently flowing Usa River. This charming inn serves as a perfect gateway to Tanzania’s famed northern safari circuit, including the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.
With its cozy cottages and rooms blending modern amenities with traditional Tanzanian charm, guests can enjoy comfort and style in harmony with nature. The inn is committed to sustainability, practicing environmental stewardship through its integration with the local landscape and community engagement, ensuring a minimal footprint on its pristine surroundings.
Location: Peacefully located near Arusha, offering easy access to Tanzania’s major safari destinations while providing a secluded haven of relaxation.
Sustainability: Emphasizes eco-friendly practices and community support, enhancing guests’ experience by fostering a connection with the local environment and culture.
Tip: Take advantage of the unique activities offered, such as guided walks on the coffee farm or canoeing on the Usa River, to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty and tranquility of Rivertrees Country Inn.
Tarangire National Park, located in the heart of Tanzania, is a wildlife enthusiast’s haven, renowned for its large herds of elephants and the majestic baobab trees that dot its expansive landscape. The park spans an area of approximately 2,850 square kilometers, offering a diverse habitat that includes grassy savannas, seasonal marshes, and the life-giving Tarangire River. This river becomes a vital source of water for animals during the dry season, making the park an excellent spot for game viewing as numerous species gather to quench their thirst.
Beyond its pachyderms and picturesque flora, Tarangire is home to a wide array of wildlife, including zebras, giraffes, buffaloes, lions, and over 300 species of birds, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise. The park’s relatively low visitor numbers compared to Tanzania’s more famous destinations ensure a more serene and intimate encounter with nature. With its undulating landscapes and the backdrop of the Great Rift Valley, Tarangire National Park offers a unique and unforgettable safari experience, embodying the essence of the African wilderness.
Your day begins with an exciting and memorable safari adventure as you are warmly welcomed by your guide. The journey to Tarangire National Park takes approximately two hours, during which you can soak in the scenic beauty of the Tanzanian landscape.
Tarangire is renowned for being home to the largest elephant herds in northern Tanzania, and you can expect to witness these gentle giants in their natural habitat. As you venture deeper into the park, a world of diverse wildlife unfolds before your eyes. Majestic giraffes, imposing buffaloes, regal lions, and the iconic zebras and wildebeests grace the savannah, adding to the rich tapestry of wildlife encounters that await you. Tarangire’s landscape is a true spectacle, characterized by seasonal marshes and an endless tree savannah dotted with the mighty baobab trees. These ancient and iconic trees add a sense of timelessness to the scenery, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere.
Throughout the day, you’ll enjoy extensive game drives, giving you the opportunity to witness the intricate interactions between animals and marvel at the natural harmony that exists within the park. In the afternoon, you’ll arrive at the Nimali Tarangire Camp, your haven in the heart of the wild. Here, you can immerse yourself in the tranquility of the African bush and appreciate the beauty of a breathtaking sunset over the horizon. The camp’s cozy lounge area offers a place to relax and reflect on the day’s adventures, while the crackling campfire invites you to gather and share stories under the starlit sky. As you settle into the warm and inviting ambiance of Nimali Tarangire Camp, you’ll find yourself embraced by the magic of the African wilderness.
The sounds of nature and the comfort of the camp create an unforgettable experience, allowing you to fully embrace the essence of a Tanzania big five safari. With each passing moment, the allure of Tarangire’s wildlife and landscapes will captivate your heart and soul, leaving you with cherished memories of a Tanzania big five safari highlights itinerary that will stay with you for a lifetime.
Game Activity – game drive in Tarangire National Park
Nimali Tarangire Camp is a hidden gem located on the edge of the Tarangire National Park in Tanzania, offering an intimate and immersive safari experience. This exclusive camp is enveloped by the wilderness, allowing guests to connect deeply with the natural world. The luxurious tents are designed to blend into the landscape, providing comfort and elegance while minimizing environmental impact. Each tent offers stunning views of the surrounding savannah, inviting guests to relax in privacy and peace.
Location: Strategically situated to offer unparalleled access to Tarangire National Park, known for its dense wildlife populations and majestic baobab trees.
Sustainability: Nimali Tarangire Camp is committed to conservation and sustainability, employing eco-friendly practices such as water conservation, solar energy, and support for local conservation projects to ensure the preservation of the park’s natural beauty and biodiversity.
Tip: Don’t miss the opportunity for an early morning game drive; it’s the best time to observe wildlife as the park awakens. The camp also offers night drives and walking safaris for a different perspective on the African bush. In the context of a Tanzania big five safari, Nimali Tarangire Camp offers an ideal base for experiencing the wonders of Tarangire National Park and encountering the iconic lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros.
After a delicious breakfast, your day continues with another thrilling game drive in Tarangire National Park. During the dry season, between June and October, the Tarangire River becomes the lifeline for the park’s wildlife, attracting a concentration of animals in its vicinity. As you traverse the park, you’ll have the opportunity to witness the fascinating dynamics of wildlife interactions near this vital water source.
For lunch, you’ll stop at one of the picturesque picnic spots, where you can enjoy a delightful meal amidst the stunning landscapes of Tarangire. In the afternoon, you bid farewell to Tarangire National Park and set off on a scenic drive towards the multi-cultural town of Mto wa Mbu. As you ascend to the higher lands, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the iconic Masai Plains and the shimmering Lake Manyara. An obligatory photo stop offers the perfect opportunity to capture the beauty of the landscapes that unfold before you. The sweeping vistas and the vastness of the region serve as a reminder of the untamed grandeur of Tanzania’s wilderness.
Continuing your journey, you’ll arrive in the vegetation-rich crater highlands. Nestled amidst a coffee plantation and surrounded by beautiful gardens, your destination for the day is the inviting Kitela Lodge. The lodge’s serene setting offers a tranquil escape, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty of the lush surroundings. The coffee plantation provides a unique backdrop, and the lodge’s charming gardens invite you to take leisurely walks and savor the sights and scents of the African flora.
As the day comes to a close, you can unwind and reflect on the incredible experiences you’ve had in Tarangire National Park. Kitela Lodge’s warm hospitality and comfortable accommodations provide a restful sanctuary, allowing you to rejuvenate and prepare for more adventures in the days to come. In this idyllic haven, surrounded by nature’s bounty, you’ll find peace and contentment as you embrace the essence of the Tanzanian highlands and the unforgettable memories of your safari journey.
Game Activity – game drive in Tarangire National Park
Kitela Lodge is perched on the edge of the Ngorongoro Highlands, offering a serene and luxurious retreat amid Tanzania’s rugged landscapes. The lodge is a sanctuary of comfort, with cozy rooms and cottages set among lush gardens and a working coffee farm, providing guests with a unique glimpse into the agricultural heritage of the region. Each room is elegantly designed to complement the natural beauty of the highlands, ensuring a peaceful and rejuvenating stay.
Location: Nestled in the fertile highlands near Karatu, Kitela Lodge offers easy access to the Tarangire and Ngorongoro Conservation Area, placing guests in the heart of Tanzania’s safari territory.
Sustainability: Embracing eco-friendly practices, Kitela Lodge prioritizes sustainability through water conservation, organic farming, and supporting local communities, contributing to the preservation of the region’s natural and cultural heritage.
Tip: Take advantage of the lodge’s location to explore the nearby coffee plantation or enjoy a day trip to the Ngorongoro Crater for an unforgettable safari experience. Kitela Lodge combines luxury with a commitment to conservation, offering guests an immersive and mindful journey into Tanzania’s wilderness.
The Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Tanzania, is the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera. It’s a unique wildlife haven, home to the densest lion population in Africa and the Big Five. This natural amphitheater creates a rich ecosystem, supporting over 25,000 large animals.
Surrounded by steep walls, the crater floor covers about 260 square kilometers, offering diverse landscapes from grasslands to forests. It’s a self-contained wildlife paradise, offering an unparalleled safari experience. In the context of a Tanzania big five safari, the Ngorongoro Crater provides an exceptional opportunity to encounter iconic African wildlife, including lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinoceroses, all within the breathtaking backdrop of this ancient volcanic formation. The Ngorongoro Crater is indeed a snapshot of African wildlife diversity and ecological beauty.
Your day begins with a thrilling drive into the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes. As you descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, you’ll be captivated by the picturesque grass steppes and lush acacia forests that provide a haven for a vast array of wildlife.
The Ngorongoro Crater is often referred to as the “Garden of Eden” due to its unique and abundant ecosystem. In this remarkable crater, you have the exceptional opportunity to spot almost all the species of animals found in the East African savannah, making it a wildlife enthusiast’s dream come true. In just a few hours, you’ll have the chance to encounter the legendary Big Five – the majestic lion, the gentle giant elephant, the formidable buffalo, the elusive rhinoceros, and the elusive leopard. Each sighting is a testament to the thriving biodiversity within the crater’s boundaries. After indulging in extensive game viewing and observing the fascinating behaviors of the wildlife, you’ll enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the awe-inspiring scenery of the crater.
As the afternoon unfolds, it’s time to bid farewell to the highlands of Ngorongoro and continue your journey to the iconic Serengeti. The drive takes you through the vast and seemingly endless plains of the southern Serengeti, a land teeming with life and natural wonders. Finally, you’ll reach the Seronera Valley, a central region of the Serengeti known for its remarkable wildlife sightings and lush landscapes. Your home for the next three nights will be the luxurious Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge, an oasis of comfort and serenity in the heart of the wild. Settle into the lodge, where warm hospitality and superb amenities await you. The tranquil surroundings of the lodge and the sounds of the African bush create a perfect atmosphere for relaxation and contemplation. In the context of a Tanzania big five safari, this journey offers encounters with the iconic lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros, immersing you in the wonders of the African wilderness.
Ngorongoro Crater descent with picnic lunch
Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge, situated in the vast Serengeti plains rather than the Ngorongoro Crater, offers an enchanting escape into the wild heart of Tanzania. This exquisite lodge blends the excitement of a classic safari with the comfort of luxury accommodations, providing guests with spacious tents that offer panoramic views of the Serengeti’s breathtaking landscapes. Each tent is designed to offer both elegance and comfort, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of their surroundings while enjoying modern amenities.
Location: Perfectly positioned in the central Serengeti, Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge offers unparalleled access to the Great Migration and year-round wildlife sightings, making it an ideal base for exploring Tanzania’s most famous national park.
Sustainability: The lodge emphasizes eco-conscious living, employing sustainable practices such as water conservation, solar energy, and initiatives aimed at minimizing its environmental footprint, ensuring that your stay contributes to the preservation of this magnificent ecosystem.
Tip: Take advantage of the early morning and late afternoon game drives for the best wildlife viewing opportunities. The lodge’s strategic location means you’re never far from spectacular animal encounters, including the chance to spot the Big Five. Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge is a perfect blend of adventure and luxury, offering an unforgettable safari experience.
Serengeti National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Tanzania, is celebrated for its vast, open landscapes and rich wildlife. It’s home to the annual Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traverse its plains in search of fresh grazing. Known for its predator population, the park offers exceptional sightings of lions, leopards, and cheetahs.
The Serengeti’s ecosystem is one of the oldest on earth, providing a unique and unspoiled landscape that stretches over 14,763 square kilometers. Its endless plains, dotted with acacias and rock outcrops, are iconic symbols of the African savannah. The park is a symbol of Africa’s natural beauty, offering a profound wilderness experience. In the context of a Tanzania big five safari, the Serengeti adds another layer of excitement with its impressive lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros sightings, completing the quintessential African safari experience.
Over the next two days, your Tanzania big five safari highlights holiday continues in the Serengeti National Park. With the expertise of your experienced guide, you’ll be taken to the best spots to observe the diverse array of animals that call the Serengeti their home.
Throughout your safari in the Serengeti, Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge will be your haven of comfort and luxury. The lodge’s ideal location allows you to make the most of your time in the Serengeti, as it provides easy access to prime game-viewing areas. At the end of each exhilarating day, you’ll return to the lodge to unwind, share stories of your wildlife encounters, and enjoy the warm hospitality and amenities provided by Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge.
Game activity with private game drives in the Serengeti National Park
Continue your safari in the Serengeti National Park. As you venture through the savannah, you’ll encounter a mesmerizing variety of wildlife. The Serengeti is a haven for elephants, buffaloes, lions, cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, zebras, Thomson’s gazelles, and many other captivating species. Each sighting is a moment of awe and appreciation for the beauty of nature’s diversity.
The Seronera Valley, nestled in the central part of the Serengeti, offers fantastic game viewing opportunities year-round. This lush and fertile region attracts a multitude of animals, creating a remarkable stage for observing their behaviors and interactions. In the context of a Tanzania big five safari, the Serengeti showcases its impressive array of wildlife, including the iconic lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros, ensuring an unforgettable safari experience.
Game activity with private game drives in the Serengeti National Park
As your unforgettable safari in the Serengeti draws to a close, there may be a chance to embark on one last magical game drive in the early morning. It’s an opportunity to savor the final moments in the African wilderness, soaking in the sights and sounds of the untamed landscape.
Following your exhilarating morning game drive, you’ll return to Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge for a hearty breakfast. After breakfast, your safari guide will accompany you to the airstrip, where you’ll bid a fond farewell to the Serengeti. Here, you’ll board a small aircraft that will carry you back to Arusha. The aerial view provides a unique perspective, offering you a glimpse of the Serengeti’s expanse and the intricate patterns of life below.
As your safari comes to an end, you’ll carry with you a treasure trove of memories and experiences that will forever resonate in your heart. The sights, sounds, and sensations of the Serengeti will leave an indelible mark on your soul, reminding you of the remarkable natural wonders that our world has to offer. With the comfort of knowing that more adventures await, you’ll depart from Arusha with a sense of gratitude for the remarkable journey you’ve undertaken and the incredible wildlife and landscapes that have left an everlasting impression on your spirit. In the context of a Tanzania big five safari, this journey encapsulates the essence of safari adventure, offering encounters with the iconic lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Serengeti.
Morning Game Drive
6 safari activities in Tanzania.
Transport in a 4×4 safari vehicle
Professional, English-speaking guide
6 nights’ stay in lodges and tented camps (depending on availability, accommodation of a similar standard will be booked)
Meals according to the itinerary
Mineral water, soft drinks and house wine Activities as per itinerary
All national park fees
Flight Serengeti National Park – Arusha
Flying Doctors insurance (AMREF) during the safari
Additional flights (international and domestic)
Meals not indicated in the itinerary
Drinks not specified above
Optional activities
Tips
Personal expenses
Visa fees
Travel insurance
International
+27 21 418 1325
United States
+1 332 331 8723
Australia
+61 2 9188 9430
Brazil
+55 11 2476 1102
United Kingdom
+44 330 341 0702