Tanzania Safari Adventure

Located at the foothills of Mount Meru, Arusha is often referred to as the gateway to Tanzania’s spectacular safari adventures. This vibrant town is surrounded by lush landscapes and boasts a rich cultural heritage. As a hub for travelers, it offers a glimpse into local life with bustling markets, colorful crafts, and welcoming smiles. Arusha is the perfect starting point for your journey into the wild, offering both comfort and authenticity.

Your home for the evening, Arumeru Lodge, is a tranquil oasis set in beautifully landscaped gardens. The lodge combines rustic charm with modern amenities, providing a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Relax in spacious, tastefully decorated rooms, and enjoy the serene sounds of nature all around. The lodge’s restaurant serves a mix of local and international dishes, ensuring your first meal in Tanzania is both satisfying and memorable. Whether you prefer lounging by the pool, strolling through the grounds, or simply soaking in the views, Arumeru Lodge is an ideal retreat to rest and recharge before your adventure begins.

Accommodations:  Arumeru Lodge (Dinner)

Your morning game drive introduces you to Tarangire’s breathtaking scenery, marked by towering baobab trees and vast savannahs. The park is renowned for its massive elephant herds—on a lucky day, you might see hundreds or even thousands roaming freely. Keep your eyes peeled for other wildlife as well, including lions, zebras, and a variety of bird species.

Enjoy a picnic lunch in the heart of the park, surrounded by nature’s beauty, before continuing your safari in the afternoon. The soft, golden light of late afternoon enhances the park’s charm, offering stunning photo opportunities and a chance to spot even more wildlife.

As the sun begins to set, you’ll arrive at Maweninga Camp, perched atop a rocky outcrop. From the camp’s terrace, take in the breathtaking sunset views that stretch across Lake Burunge, Lake Manyara, and even the distant Ngorongoro Crater. End your day with a delicious dinner and unwind in the cozy comfort of Ormatai Rock, where the sounds of the wild lull you into a peaceful night’s sleep.

Accommodations:  Maweninga Camp (Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner)

Spend your morning tracking the park’s famous elephant herds, marveling at graceful giraffes, and watching predators like lions and cheetahs in their natural environment. The park’s birdlife is equally impressive, with over 500 species to spot, including the vibrant lilac-breasted roller and majestic ostrich.

Midday, pause for a relaxing lunch at Tarangire Sopa Lodge, an inviting retreat nestled within the park. Enjoy a delicious meal while taking in the surrounding views, perhaps catching sight of wildlife wandering nearby.

After lunch, continue your safari, taking advantage of the afternoon’s golden light for more incredible wildlife encounters and photography opportunities. As the day winds down, return to Ormatai Rock, where another sumptuous dinner and the comforts of your camp await. Reflect on the day’s adventures under a canopy of stars, and rest up for the journey ahead.

Accommodations:  Maweninga Camp (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

En route, stop near a traditional Maasai village, where you’ll be treated to a unique cultural experience. The site offers a stunning panorama of Lake Manyara, an ideal backdrop for your visit. Enjoy a special bush lunch prepared in the traditional Maasai way, giving you a taste of local flavors and customs.

After lunch, continue your journey as you ascend the dramatic Rift Valley escarpment to reach Karatu. The charming town is known for its lush landscapes and vibrant agricultural community. Upon arrival at Bashay Rift Lodge, the rest of your afternoon is yours to enjoy. Take a refreshing dip in the lodge’s inviting swimming pool, or explore the scenic Bashay region, where rolling hills and coffee farms paint a picturesque scene.

Wrap up the day with a delightful dinner at the lodge, where fresh, locally sourced ingredients take center stage. Relax in the comfort of Bashay Rift Lodge and let the peaceful surroundings prepare you for the adventures ahead.

Accommodations:  Bashay Rift Lodge (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

After 2-3 hours in the bush, return to your vehicle for a well-deserved second breakfast, prepared by your driver and served in the serene surroundings.

Next, a short 15-minute drive brings you to the Datoga tribe. Renowned for their blacksmithing skills, the Datoga craft everyday items from iron using age-old techniques. Spend an hour learning about their craftsmanship and exploring their homes, gaining a deeper appreciation for their resourceful and artistic culture.

Around midday, return to Bashay Rift Lodge for a late lunch, savoring fresh, locally inspired dishes. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure—relax by the pool, explore the verdant Bashay region on a bicycle, or simply take in the tranquil beauty of your surroundings. Another delicious dinner and a peaceful evening at the lodge round out this enriching day of cultural discovery.

Accommodations:  Bashay Rift Lodge (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Pause midday for a relaxing lunch at Ndutu Lodge, a charming retreat perfectly situated for observing the surrounding wildlife.

In the afternoon, your safari continues around the picturesque Ndutu and Masek Lakes. These tranquil waters are home to a variety of wildlife, including hippos lounging in the shallows and flocks of flamingos adding vibrant splashes of pink to the scenery.

For those seeking a deeper connection with this historic region, there’s an option to embark on a short trek in the nearby Olduvai Gorge. Known as the “Cradle of Mankind,” this area is rich with ancient fossils and archaeological discoveries that offer insight into our shared human history.

Return to Olduvai Ndogo Camp in the late afternoon, where a delicious dinner and the comforts of your tent await. Spend your evening reflecting on the incredible sights and sounds of the day as the Serengeti plains settle into a peaceful twilight.

Accommodations:  Olduvai Ndogo Lodge (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Midday, enjoy lunch at Ronjo Camp, a rustic yet welcoming spot situated in the heart of the Serengeti. This central location offers a prime opportunity to immerse yourself in the park’s vibrant wildlife.

In the afternoon, continue your safari through the Serengeti’s central rivers, including the Seronera and Banagi areas. Renowned for their dense concentrations of predators, this region provides an excellent chance to spot big cats such as lions, leopards, and cheetahs. Watch as these majestic creatures move stealthily through the golden grasslands, a sight that will leave you awestruck.

As the day progresses, head toward the Grumeti area, known for its rolling hills and diverse ecosystems. Upon arrival at Grumeti Hills, settle in for a delightful dinner and a relaxing evening. Surrounded by nature’s serenity, this lodge offers the perfect blend of comfort and adventure, preparing you for the next leg of your incredible journey.

Accommodations:  Grumeti Hills (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

As the morning progresses, travel toward the northern Serengeti for another exhilarating game drive. The rugged terrain and expansive savannah of this region provide a new perspective on the Serengeti’s breathtaking diversity.

Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the wild beauty of the park, then continue your journey into the famed Mara Zone. This area is particularly known for its role in the Great Migration, where wildebeest and zebra cross the crocodile-filled Mara River—a scene of both drama and survival.

Arrive at Mara River Post in the late afternoon, where you’ll be welcomed to your camp. Take some time to explore your surroundings and enjoy the stunning views of the river and its surroundings.

End the day with a delicious dinner and unwind under the starry African sky, ready for another day of adventure in the Serengeti.

Accommodations:  Mara River Post (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Pause for a picnic lunch in the heart of the wilderness or opt for a relaxed meal at the lodge. Either way, you’ll be surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Serengeti.

In the afternoon, continue your safari, seeking out the area’s diverse wildlife, including predators like lions and cheetahs, as well as elephants, giraffes, and an array of birdlife. The ever-changing landscapes and abundant fauna promise new surprises around every corner.

Return to Mara River Post in the evening, where a hearty dinner and the comforts of your camp await. Reflect on the day’s incredible wildlife encounters and prepare for your final adventures in this remarkable region.

Accommodations:  Mara River Post (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

At the airstrip, you’ll be assisted with boarding your flight back to Arusha. The scenic flight provides a spectacular aerial perspective of the Serengeti’s vast plains, allowing you to relive the journey from above.

Upon landing at the Arusha airstrip, you’ll be greeted and escorted to Shanga, a unique and inspiring social enterprise. Here, enjoy a delicious lunch in a tranquil setting while learning about Shanga’s mission to empower people with disabilities through creativity and craftsmanship.

After lunch, transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for assistance with boarding your international flight. As you depart, take with you unforgettable memories of Tanzania’s wildlife, landscapes, and cultures—a journey that will remain with you for a lifetime.

(Breakfast, Lunch)