Safari in national parks: Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti
Experience the essence of Tanzania’s Northern Circuit on this thrilling 4-day safari adventure. Starting from Arusha, this journey takes you to the diverse landscapes of Tarangire National Park, famed for its large elephant herds and ancient baobab trees. Continue to the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, a natural wonder teeming with wildlife, including endangered black rhinos. From there, journey to the endless plains of the Serengeti home to the Big Five and the world-famous Great Migration. Each day promises unforgettable game drives, scenic vistas, and up-close wildlife encounters. Ideal for travelers with limited time who want to explore Tanzania’s top safari highlights without compromising on quality or experience.
Trip Itinerary
-
Day 1: Arusha to Tarangire National Parkrk
After breakfast in Arusha, depart for Tarangire National Park, a two-hour drive through the scenic Maasai steppe and countryside. Enjoy a full-day game drive in this wildlife-rich park known for its high density of elephants, towering baobab trees, and seasonal swamps. The Tarangire River, which runs through the park, attracts a variety of animals including lions, giraffes, zebras, and many bird species. Enjoy a picnic lunch inside the park before continuing your afternoon game drive. Later in the day, exit the park and drive to Karatu for dinner and an overnight in the highlands near Ngorongoro.
-
Day 2: Ngorongoro Crater to Serengeti National Park
Leave Karatu early and descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a morning game drive in this unique volcanic caldera, often called “Africa’s Eden.” Explore the crater floor in search of lions, buffaloes, elephants, hippos, flamingos, and the elusive black rhino. After a picnic lunch at the hippo pool, ascend the crater and drive onward to Serengeti National Park. Enjoy an en-route game drive as you enter the park’s vast savannahs through the Naabi Hill Gate. Witness dramatic scenery and spot wildlife along the way. Arrive at your Serengeti camp or lodge for dinner and an overnight stay in the heart of the wild.
-
Day 3: Full Day in Serengeti National Park
Today is dedicated to exploring the Serengeti with morning and afternoon game drives. The park is world-renowned for its abundant wildlife and seasonal migrations. Depending on the time of year, you may witness thousands of wildebeest and zebras crossing the plains, followed closely by predators like lions and hyenas. Visit the Seronera area, rich in water sources and wildlife activity, or venture into quieter parts of the park for a more exclusive safari experience. Enjoy lunch in the bush or return to camp for a midday break. In the evening, relax by the campfire and enjoy your final night in the Serengeti.
-
Day 4:Serengeti to Arusha
After an early breakfast, enjoy a final morning game drive as you exit Serengeti National Park. Watch for early risers and predators returning from their night hunt. Then begin the scenic journey back to Arusha, passing through Ngorongoro and the Great Rift Valley landscapes. Optional: you may opt for a scheduled flight from Serengeti to Arusha (additional cost) to shorten travel time. Upon arrival in Arusha, you’ll be dropped off at your hotel or transferred to the airport for your departure. This marks the end of your unforgettable 4-day Tanzanian safari.
Suggested Lodges & Camps
Safari Cost Include
Transfers
All transfers as outlined in the program.
Accommodation & Meals
- Accommodation in hotels and lodges as described in the program.
- Meals as specified in the program.
- Bottled water, soft drinks, hot coffee, and tea provided while on safari in the jeep.
Guiding & Game-Driving
- Services of a certified and experienced English-speaking safari guide.
- Comfortable 4×4 Land Cruisers with pop-up roofs, equipped with fridges, Wi-Fi, and power outlets.
- All national park fees, including park entry and concession fees.
- Free Wi-Fi availability in 60-75% of the traveled areas, depending on cell coverage in the wilderness.
- 24/7 phone support service for any assistance during the safari.
- Emergency air ambulance services provided by AMREF Flying Doctors.
- Binoculars (1 per vehicle) for enhanced wildlife viewing.
- Onboard medical kit for added safety and convenience.
Safari Cost Excludes
- Air tickets;
- Visa fee;
- Travel insurance;
- Tips to your safari guide ($30-50 per day per car).
Please Note
- By default, our tours include shared accommodation in twin/double rooms unless requested and agreed otherwise. Single supplements are available upon request. Please refer to the program for specific accommodation arrangements.
- Accommodations in Moshi and Arusha typically include breakfast only, unless otherwise requested and agreed upon. Refer to the program for detailed meal plans for each night.
- Most safari lodges do not include tea, coffee, soft drinks, or alcoholic beverages in their standard packages, allowing you to order and pay for only what you need directly at the hotel restaurants.
- Tented lodges, the most common type of accommodation in the savannah, often operate on solar energy. This may result in features such as bucket showers, limited Wi-Fi, and the absence of hair dryers, as part of their efforts to minimize environmental impact. We encourage you to research the accommodations in your program to ensure the safari aligns with your travel preferences.
