7 Days Serena Experience to Serengeti Great Migration

Traveling to Tanzania for a safari is a bucket-list dream for many, and this particular 7-day tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into some of the country’s most famous parks. While we haven’t personally been on this exact trip, the reviews and detailed itinerary paint a picture of an authentic, adventure-packed experience that balances wildlife encounters with comfort and expert guidance.

What we love most about this tour? First, it combines iconic destinations like the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, with expert guides who seem to make all the difference. Second, the accommodation at Serena lodges promises a blend of style and authentic safari ambiance. Lastly, the possibility of catching the great migration—depending on timing—raises the excitement level considerably.

One thing to consider is the price point of $4,700 per person, which is a significant investment. It’s important to weigh this against the included accommodations, guided tours, and access to prime wildlife spots. This tour is best suited for travelers seeking a comprehensive Tanzanian safari with knowledgeable guides, comfortable lodging, and a focus on iconic wildlife viewing.

Key Points

• All-inclusive accommodations and transportation simplify logistics and enhance comfort.
• Expert guides like Samwel, Jacob, and Florian are praised for their sharp spotting skills and anticipation.
• The tour offers a perfect balance of game drives and cultural insights, especially through passing the farm areas and highlands.
• Serengeti and Ngorongoro are highlights, with opportunities to see the Big Five and witness the migration (season-dependent).
• The tour’s full-board arrangement ensures you’re well-fed and rested for each day’s adventures.
• Authentic lodges like the Serena properties add to the experience, blending luxury with local charm.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Arusha

Upon arriving in Arusha, you’re welcomed by your driver from Meru Slopes Tours and transferred to your hotel. The day is spent relaxing or exploring your surroundings in this vibrant gateway city. In the evening, a tour briefing helps set expectations and answer last-minute questions—an essential step for first-timers navigating the logistics of a safari. Staying on a full-board basis means you won’t need to worry about meals, allowing you to settle in comfortably and prepare for the adventure ahead.

Day 2: Tarangire National Park

You’ll start early, with a 3-hour drive to the Tarangire National Park, renowned for its majestic elephants and towering baobabs. The park’s name derives from the Tarangire River, the main water source for wildlife during dry seasons. Expect a full-day game drive, where guides like Saleem are known for their sharp eyes—one reviewer mentioned how he “anticipates well” and is quick to spot elusive animals. The park’s diverse terrain promises encounters with lions, leopards, and herds of wildebeest.

Staying at the Farm of Dreams Lodge offers a rustic yet comfortable overnight option, perfect for unwinding after a long day of wildlife viewing. The lodge’s setting enhances the authentic safari feeling, with a chance to enjoy the starry sky in the evening.

Day 3: From Tarangire to Serengeti via Ngorongoro

Breakfast kicks off a busy day as you drive through the fertile highlands, passing the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The highlight here is the Ngorongoro Crater, a volcanic caldera filled with diverse animals and stunning scenery. One reviewer called it “a sight of unimaginable beauty,” emphasizing the crater’s unique ecosystem. It’s a must-see for wildlife lovers, offering dense animal populations and excellent photographic opportunities.

Continuing onto the Serengeti, you arrive around midday to settle into your lodge. The Serengeti’s name, meaning “endless plains,” hints at the vastness and diversity of landscapes—grassy plains, lakes, and hills. The guides are known for their expertise in tracking wildlife, and the landscape promises some stunning vistas for your camera.

Days 4 & 5: Game Drives in Serengeti

Two full days are dedicated to exploring the Serengeti National Park, arguably Africa’s most iconic wildlife sanctuary. The focus here is on the annual migration of zebras and wildebeest, which varies seasonally. One reviewer noted that in November and December, animals move south, whereas from April to June, they head north. This movement makes timing crucial if your goal is to witness the migration.

Expect to see a variety of animals—impalas, buffalo, crocodiles, hippos—and perhaps even predators like cheetahs and leopards, which are frequently spotted. The guides, praised for their sharp eyes and anticipation, will help you get the best views and photos.

Day 6: Ngorongoro Crater Exploration

Early morning is the best time to appreciate the crater’s landscape, with some reviewers highlighting the spectacular sunrise views over the edge. Descending into the crater, you’ll encounter wildebeest, zebras, lions, elephants, and over 500 bird species. The dense animal population offers excellent chances for wildlife viewing, and the unfenced nature of the reserve means animals roam freely.

Spending the night at the Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge provides spectacular views of the crater floor at sunset—perfect for unwinding after a busy day.

Day 7: Return to Arusha

Your safari concludes with a morning drive back to Arusha or the option to extend your trip with a beach stay in Zanzibar. The transfer is straightforward, taking about an hour, and is included in the package. It’s the perfect time to reflect on your adventure, and perhaps plan your next safari.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Detailed Guides: Reviews consistently praise the guides’ expertise, like Samwel, Jacob, and Florian, for their animal-spotting skills and ability to anticipate the wildlife’s movements. Their knowledge elevates the experience from a simple game drive to a genuine wildlife encounter.

Authentic Accommodation: Staying at Serena properties adds a layer of comfort and style without sacrificing the safari feel. The lodges are well-located, offering panoramic views and easy access to wildlife hotspots.

Wildlife Opportunities: The itinerary maximizes chances to see the Big Five, the migration, and countless other species. The inclusion of Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti ensures visitors encounter some of Africa’s most iconic landscapes and animals.

Value for Money: At $4,700 per person, this tour provides all transport, full-board accommodations, and guided game drives, which adds convenience and comfort. While pricier than some options, the reviews suggest that the quality of guiding and lodging justifies the investment.

Practical Considerations

Transportation: The tour uses private transport, which means more flexibility and comfort during drives. The timing—starting at 8:00 am each day—allows for early game drives, crucial for animal sightings.

Duration: At just under a week, the trip is intensive but well-paced, balancing travel with wildlife viewing. The full-day game drives in Serengeti and Ngorongoro are the highlights.

Group Size: This is a private tour, so only your group participates, allowing for personalized attention. This also helps with flexibility—whether you want to spend more time at a certain spot or adjust your schedule slightly.

Included Meals: Full-board means you’re covered for breakfast, lunch, and dinner most days, which simplifies planning and budgeting.

Tips and Extras: Tips are not included, so bringing some cash for guides and lodge staff is advisable. You might find that your guides are eager to share their knowledge and appreciate small gratuities.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This safari is ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive, guided experience with seasoned guides and comfortable accommodations. It suits those who are keen to see the Big Five, witness the migration (season permitting), and enjoy classic Tanzanian scenery. It’s perfect for first-timers looking for a well-organized trip, or seasoned safari enthusiasts who want expert guidance and luxury lodges.

The Sum Up

This 7-day Serena safari offers a well-crafted mix of wildlife, scenery, and comfort that appeals to travelers eager for a genuine Tanzanian adventure. The guides’ expertise and stunning landscapes are the central highlights, making it a solid choice for those who want more than just a basic game drive.

While the price may seem high, the included accommodations, expert guiding, and access to prime wildlife viewing locations provide strong value—especially for travelers who prioritize comfort and authenticity. Whether it’s your first safari or a repeat visit, this tour has the potential to deliver unforgettable moments amid Africa’s most iconic landscapes.

If you’re after a balanced, well-organized safari that combines scenery, wildlife, and luxury, this tour could be a perfect fit.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
Since the tour involves several full-day game drives and some uneven terrain, it may not be ideal for those with mobility issues. It’s best to check with your provider about specific accommodations.

What is the best time to see the Great Migration?
The migration timing varies seasonally—November and December see animals moving south, while April to June they head north. Your guide can advise on the current migration pattern during your booking.

Are meals included during the entire tour?
Yes, the tour provides full-board accommodations, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner on most days.

How large are the groups?
This is a private tour, so only your group will participate, allowing for personalized experiences and flexibility.

What kind of vehicle is used for game drives?
While not explicitly stated, the tour generally uses private, comfortable vehicles suitable for full-day game drives with good visibility and space.

What makes the Serena lodges special?
They offer a blend of comfort, style, and authentic safari ambiance, often with impressive views of the surrounding landscapes.

Can I extend the trip after the tour?
Yes, you can choose to extend your stay with an add-on like a beach holiday in Zanzibar, which is a popular choice after safari adventures.

How far in advance should I book?
Given the popularity of Tanzanian safaris, booking several months ahead is recommended, especially if you want to catch the migration or secure specific lodges.

To sum it up, this tour delivers a well-rounded Tanzanian safari experience, emphasizing expert guidance, iconic wildlife viewing, and comfortable lodges. It’s a great choice for travelers who want to see the highlights without sacrificing quality or ease.