14 Days Mid-range Wildlife Drive-in Safari
Tour Overview
In these wonderful 14 days, you’ll literarily dive in the heart of African wilderness, from the endless plains of Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, to witnessing the authentic wildlife experience of the Lake Manyara, and marvel at the wildlife diversity in Tarangire National Park. Finally, unwind with a four-day beach holiday in Zanzibar. These must-do experiences make Tanzania truly unforgettable—a fine, open book waiting for you to celebrate.
Day to Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival at Kilimanjaro INT'L Airport (JRO)
Today, one of our safari representatives will meet you at Kilimanjaro International Airport. After you’ve finished all the immigration and custom formalities, walk through the arrival’s lounge to be met by our representative who will be holding a placard that displays our company logo, ready to usher you into the embrace of your booked hotel in Arusha. Unwind in the comfort of your hotel at leisure and anticipate the best of what Tanzania has in store for you in the next 9 days of your Tanzania safari.
Meals: D
Day 2: Tarangire National Park
Head to Tarangire National Park after breakfast for a thrilling full-day game drive. This mesmerizing wildlife reserve, adorned with gigantic ancient baobab trees, is nestled within an extensive ecosystem where animals roam freely, offering an unparalleled opportunity for an authentic and stylish game experience.
Known as a classic dry-season destination, especially from July to October, Tarangire boasts one of the highest concentrations of wildlife in Tanzania’s northern safari circuit. Referred to as the “elephant playground,” it’s renowned for hosting a significant number of elephants that can be easily observed until October. Throughout the year, you may also encounter hartebeests, wildebeests, zebras, elands, lesser kudus, gazelles, waterbucks, giraffes, impalas, leopards, and rhinos.
During the afternoon, indulge in a well-prepared packed lunch at a designated picnic spot before continuing your game-viewing adventure. As the early evening approaches, make your way to your luxurious lodge for a delightful dinner and overnight stay.
Meals: B / L / D
Day 3: Lake Manyara National Park
After enjoying a delightful breakfast at your lodge, set out for another captivating adventure to Lake Manyara.
While it may not boast the same abundance of wildlife as other destinations, its secluded vegetation zones reveal a trove of natural wonders. Named after its prominent feature, an alkaline lake nestled at the foot of wooded cliffs, Lake Manyara National Park offers more than meets the eye. Highlights include habituated baboon troops, blue monkeys in the groundwater forest, and diverse mammalian fauna such as elephants, buffaloes, Maasai giraffes, hippos, and antelopes. Notable sightings may include the elusive leopard, the renowned tree-climbing lions (though rare), its rich bird population, and the alkaline lake, which, during certain seasons, becomes a sanctuary for tens of thousands of flamingos.
Depending on the season, nearly two-thirds of the park’s total area may be submerged by the lake. Despite its compact size, Lake Manyara boasts a variety of vegetation zones, from savanna to marshes and acacia woodlands. This diversity supports various habitats, offering a unique glimpse into wildlife in its natural setting.
Indulge in a picnic lunch during the afternoon and then continue your game-viewing activities before retreating to your luxurious lodge in the early evening.
Meals: B / L / D
Days 4 & 5: Central Serengeti
After relishing a delectable breakfast at your lodge, journey to Central Serengeti, a sanctuary of unparalleled mammalian diversity, where hundreds of thousands of animals roam freely. Here, the apex predators hold sway, engaging in their majestic pursuits amidst a wealth of prey. Witness the awe-inspiring presence of nearly eight thousand spotted hyenas, united in formidable clans, alongside three thousand majestic lions, distinguished by their characteristic black manes.
In addition to these apex predators, the landscape is graced by the elegant presence of cheetahs, elusive leopards, and nimble bat-eared foxes, all contributing to the rich tapestry of the Serengeti’s ecosystem. Scavengers, including golden and side-striped jackals, along with various vulture species, play integral roles in this intricate web of life.
With over 520 bird species, the Serengeti serves as a haven for avian enthusiasts, offering sightings of numerous raptors and migratory birds. Amidst the expansive horizons and open plains, the sight of wildebeests, Thomson’s and Grant’s gazelles, and playful bat-eared foxes basking in the morning sun leaves an indelible mark on the soul. Embrace the tranquility of the wilderness, pondering the interconnectedness of all living beings and cherishing the privilege of bearing witness to nature’s marvels firsthand.
Meals: B / L / D
Day 6 &7: Ngorongoro to Serengeti
Set out on an exhilarating day of game-viewing, embarking on an exploration of the southern Serengeti plains near Ndutu after indulging in a delicious breakfast. These short-grass expanses serve as an ecological extension of the southern Serengeti, offering a quintessential Serengeti experience with expansive open plains and vast herds of wildebeests, particularly from December to April. Witness a diverse array of wildlife, ranging from bat-eared foxes to majestic lions, elegant ostriches, graceful secretary birds, and agile eland antelopes, among others.
Ndutu is renowned for its frequent cheetah sightings, providing ample opportunities for off-road exploration and presenting photographers with an abundance of captivating scenes. A pride of lions inhabits the rocky hills, known as koppies, offering an exhilarating nocturnal soundtrack and effortless morning sightings. These southern plains boast rocky outcrops, or koppies, which serve as havens for diverse wildlife. Lake Ndutu, a focal point during the wildebeest dispersal, promises dramatic game viewing experiences during and after the calving season.
On the 7th day, enjoy a full-day game-viewing drive to Moru Koppies, immersing yourself in the rich wildlife of the region before transferring back to your lodge in the early evening. Savor the culmination of an extraordinary day, reflecting on the unforgettable experiences encountered amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the southern Serengeti.
Meals: B / L / D
Day 8: Ngorongoro Crater
Following breakfast, set forth towards the Ngorongoro Crater, armed with a packed lunch to energize your adventure. Upon arrival, descend nearly 2,000 feet to the crater floor, spanning a vast 102 square miles. Known as the African Eden and eighth wonder of the world, the Ngorongoro Crater boasts impressive dimensions, stretching approximately 20 kilometers wide, ranking among the largest calderas globally.
Within its steep, unbroken walls unfold captivating spectacles, where lions, elephants adorned with notably large tusks owing to the fertile volcanic soil, buffaloes, and a plethora of plains herbivores such as wildebeests, Thomson’s gazelles, zebras, and reedbucks roam freely across the grasslands, swamps, and forests adorning the crater floor. Encounters with black rhinos are also commonplace, further enhancing the allure of this natural wonder.
The crater’s avian inhabitants are equally mesmerizing, especially around Lake Magadi, a soda lake nestled at the crater’s base, enticing hundreds of flamingos to grace its shallows. As the day gracefully transitions into evening, ascend the crater walls and make your way to your lodge for an enchanting overnight stay, cherishing the memories woven throughout the day’s extraordinary journey.
Meals: B / L / D
Day 9: Return to Arusha and Fly to Stone Town Zanzibar
Savor a delightful breakfast at the lodge before commencing your journey back to Arusha. As you traverse the picturesque landscapes, each showcasing the diverse beauty of the African savannah, immerse yourself in the mesmerizing scenery along the way.
Upon reaching Arusha, your driver will accompany you to the airport for your flight to Zanzibar. Upon arrival, our dedicated representative will extend a warm welcome and escort you to your prearranged accommodation on the spice islands. Zanzibar exceeds every expectation as a rare gem in travel destinations. Whether you crave cultural immersion, thrilling diving escapades, or simply seek solace in a serene beach retreat, Zanzibar caters to every desire.
Unwind and embrace the tranquility of your lodge, eagerly anticipating the delightful beach experiences that await you over the next four days on the captivating island of Zanzibar..
Meals: B / L / D
Day 10 & 11: Stone Town Tour
Wake up in the heart of the Spice Island and indulge in a delightful breakfast at your hotel. Today promises a unique experience as the captivating images of Tanzania’s mainland wildlife and landscapes seamlessly blend with your surroundings, offering a holistic holiday experience that not only satisfies but continually excites to the core.
Over the next two days, seize the wonderful opportunity to either luxuriate in a laid-back beach retreat or embark on exhilarating tours to Zanzibar Island’s must-visit spots. Explore Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where architectural influences echo the rich tapestry of cultures—from Portuguese and Arab slave masters to the Swahili influences prevalent in the local population. Your guide will lead you through the vibrant market, the serene 19th-century cathedral, and the labyrinthine streets, unraveling the distinct styles of Arab and Indian residences.
Alternatively, opt for a spice tour on the 9th day, offering an immersive experience of the Stone Town countryside. Engage with rural communities, gaining firsthand insight into their daily lives, and relish a Swahili lunch such as pilau—a spicy rice dish mixed with meat.
Meals: B / L / D
Day 12 - 13: Nungwi (Beach Escape)
Embark on a serene transition from exploring Stone Town to the tranquil haven of Nungwi Beach on the north coast. Renowned for its pristine crystal-clear waters, powdery white sands, and romantic accommodations, Nungwi epitomizes the quintessential Zanzibar coastal experience. Despite its popularity among tourists, the beach teems with a myriad of activities. Engage in thrilling water sports, embark on snorkeling day trips, leisurely stroll along the endless coastline, or even opt for a scenic horseback ride. Nungwi offers an all-encompassing beach getaway. For a slightly different but equally enchanting experience, explore the neighboring Kendwa Beach. Your days at Nungwi promise a blissful blend of relaxation and exploration.
Meals: B / L / D
Day 14: Departure Day
As this extraordinary 14-day Tanzania safari draws to a close, embrace the final chapter of your adventure. Begin the day with a delectable breakfast, and our team will ensure a seamless transfer to the airport for your homeward flight or onward travels. If your departure is slated for later hours, relish a leisurely lunch at the hotel before bidding farewell. From engaging in morning activities to unwinding in serene tranquility at the hotel, the time between waking up and your airport transfer is yours to savor every moment of this memorable journey.
Meals:
