8 Day: African Roots Tour

A Complete Look at the 8-Day African Roots Tour in Tanzania

Travelers with a love for wildlife, culture, and wide-open spaces will find this 8-day African Roots Tour from Serengeti Camping Safari a compelling way to explore Tanzania’s most iconic sights. With the chance to see the Big Five, witness the endless plains of the Serengeti, and meet the Hadzabe tribe, this trip offers a well-rounded experience that balances wildlife adventures with authentic cultural encounters.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it covers all the highlights of the northern safari circuit—Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro—and adds a unique twist with a visit to the Hadzabe tribe at Lake Eyasi. Second, the inclusion of 3 nights in the Serengeti provides ample time to truly immerse in the wilderness, rather than rushing through. Lastly, the guides are praised for their knowledge and helpfulness, making for a more comfortable and enriching experience.

One potential consideration is the price point of around $5,769 per person, which is on the higher side for some travelers. However, when you weigh this against the extensive itinerary, quality of accommodations, private game drives, and the unique cultural experience, it’s clear that the value adds up—especially in Tanzania where safaris tend to be costly.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive safari experience, appreciate authentic cultural interactions, and don’t mind a bit of long travel days. It’s ideal for those seeking a mix of wildlife, scenery, and cultural stories, all wrapped into a well-organized package.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Combines Tanzania’s top game parks with a cultural visit to the Hadzabes.
• Extended Time in Serengeti: Allows for more relaxed exploration and better wildlife sightings.
• Expert Guides: Well-reviewed guides enhance the safari experience with their knowledge and helpful attitude.
• Authentic Cultural Experience: Participation with the Hadzabes provides a rare peek into nomadic life.
• Private Safari Vehicles: Equipped with pop-up rooftops for optimal viewing and photography.
• Value for Money: Despite the higher cost, the mix of activities and exclusive experiences justify the price.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Tarangire National Park

Your adventure starts with a pick-up at 8 am from your hotel, heading straight into Tarangire, famous for its striking landscape and Giant Baobab trees. These ancient giants dominate the scenery, giving a surreal backdrop for game viewing. The park hosts the largest concentration of elephants in Tanzania, which means you’ll likely be watching elephant families interact and bathe in the river.

What we loved: The landscape here is so distinctive, with the towering Baobabs and the variety of wildlife, from lions and leopards to zebras and giraffes. Reviewers especially appreciated the chance to observe elephants in their social groups, which adds a special touch to the game drive.

Day 2: Lake Manyara National Park

A short drive across the Great Rift Valley delivers you to Lake Manyara, a smaller but incredibly scenic park. Its lush acacia forests and the lake itself make for stunning views, especially at sunset. The park is known for its vibrant birdlife, including flamingos, but also hosts lions, elephants, and hippos.

What travelers cite: The landscapes are described as “something that can’t be described with words,” and the game drives provide panoramic views that are almost painterly. The abundance of baboons and blue monkeys adds a lively atmosphere.

Days 3-5: Serengeti National Park

Traveling into the Serengeti is like entering the heart of Africa’s wilderness. The long drive across the endless plains is a spectacle in itself, with vast grasslands stretching to the horizon. This park is famed for the Great Migration, and with three nights here, you’ll have plenty of chances to witness its incredible wildlife movement.

Flexibility: The guides are praised for their flexibility, allowing you to tailor the days based on your interests—whether you want early morning game drives, relaxed afternoons, or even an optional hot air balloon ride (extra cost). The chance to see the Big Five in a single morning was highlighted in reviews, which underscores the park’s richness.

Day 6-7: Ngorongoro Crater

Early morning starts are recommended to catch the animals at their most active. Descending into the crater, you’ll find an astonishing concentration of wildlife—about 25,000 animals call this caldera home. Lions, elephants, hippos, and perhaps the rare black rhino are just a few species you might spot.

Highlight: The picnic lunch near Hippo Lake offers a tranquil moment amid the bustling animal activity. The crater’s dense wildlife population ensures a high chance of memorable sightings, as confirmed by guests’ accounts of seeing the Big Five and numerous bird species.

Day 8: Lake Eyasi and the Hadzabe Tribe

The tour closes with an entirely different experience—visiting the Hadzabe, one of Africa’s last true nomadic tribes. Waking up before dawn, you’ll join the tribe in their morning routines, whether hunting with bows and arrows or gathering fruit. This is a raw, genuine look into traditional life that few safaris include.

Review insight: Guests mention the photographic opportunities are “out of this world,” and the chance to participate in daily activities offers a connection that’s rare on typical safaris.

Transportation and Comfort

Throughout the tour, you’ll be in a 4×4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof, ensuring excellent wildlife viewing and photo opportunities. The vehicles are described as comfortable and well-equipped, which makes long drives more bearable. The tour is private, so your group will enjoy a personalized experience with a dedicated guide.

Food and Accommodation

All meals—including breakfast, lunch, and dinner—are included, typically served at your lodges or camps. The tour emphasizes convenience and comfort, letting you focus on the sights rather than managing logistics. Reviewers appreciated the organization, noting that every detail was taken care of smoothly, which is crucial on a multi-day adventure.

Cost and Value

At $5,769 per person, this safari isn’t cheap. However, considering the private transfers, multiple national parks, cultural interaction, and the length of the trip, many travelers found the price justified. The inclusion of all fees and taxes, along with expert guides and private game drives, adds to the overall value.

Authenticity and Guide Expertise

Reviews echo the importance of knowledgeable guides who go beyond just driving. Guests mention guides like “very helpful and patient,” with a deep understanding of wildlife behaviors and park history. This expertise makes a difference, transforming a scenic drive into an educational experience that enriches every sighting.

Cultural Insights

The visit to the Hadzabe tribe is often highlighted as a tour highlight—a rare opportunity to see traditional bush life up close. Guests describe the experience as “out of the beaten track,” with excellent opportunities to learn about hunting techniques, traditional customs, and the tribe’s resilience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This safari is perfect for adventurous travelers who want to experience a broad range of Tanzanian landscapes and cultures in one trip. It suits those who value authentic cultural encounters along with wildlife safaris. It’s also ideal if you prefer a well-organized, private experience rather than group tours, and if you’re prepared for some long days in the vehicle.

Final Thoughts

The 8-Day African Roots Tour offers a thoughtful blend of wildlife, scenery, and culture. It’s a safari that will satisfy wildlife enthusiasts eager to see the Big Five and witness the Great Migration, plus those intrigued by Tanzania’s indigenous tribes. The guides’ reputation for knowledge and helpfulness enhances the experience, making each game drive more than just a chance to see animals—it’s a story about life in the wild.

While the price may seem steep at first glance, the combination of extensive destinations, comfortable transport, and unique cultural visits justifies it for travelers seeking a comprehensive Tanzanian adventure. If you’re after a safari that balances iconic wildlife sightings with meaningful cultural moments, this tour delivers a memorable, enriching experience.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup is included, making it convenient to start your adventure without worrying about logistics.

How long are the game drives each day?
Typically around 6 hours per day, but your guide can tailor the schedule based on your preferences and wildlife activity patterns.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included throughout the trip, ensuring you’re well-fed after long days of exploration.

Can I participate in activities with the Hadzabe tribe?
Absolutely. You will join them in their daily routines, such as hunting or gathering, providing a rare cultural experience.

What kind of vehicle is used for safaris?
A 4×4 safari jeep with a pop-up roof, designed for optimal wildlife viewing and photography.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, the tour is private, so only your group will participate, offering a more personalized experience.

What is the best time to take this tour?
While the tour details don’t specify the season, Tanzania’s dry season (June-October, and January-February) generally offers better wildlife viewing.

Are there options for extra activities?
Yes, you can opt for an early morning Balloon Safari at an additional cost, adding a bird’s-eye view of the plains.

How flexible is the itinerary?
The guides are praised for their flexibility, allowing you to customize game drives and daily schedules to suit your interests.

This 8-day safari in Tanzania promises a rich blend of wildlife, scenery, and culture, perfect for travelers eager to see the true heart of Africa with knowledgeable guides leading the way.