7 Days Safari Manyara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Mto Wa Mbu

7 Days Safari Manyara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Mto Wa Mbu

Setting out on a week-long safari through Tanzania offers a chance to witness some of Africa’s most iconic landscapes and wildlife. This tour, organized by GRACEPATT SAFARIS, promises a blend of classic game viewing, cultural insights, and comfortable accommodations. While it’s not a budget trip, the $4,295 per person fee reflects a well-rounded experience with experienced guides, park entry fees included, and multiple highlights that make every dollar count.

What we love about this safari is the focus on truly iconic spots—Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire—which are among the best for seeing animals in their natural environment. The inclusion of a night game drive adds a rare chance to see nocturnal wildlife, and the cultural visit to Mto wa Mbu offers a meaningful break from the game drives, adding depth to your experience. A potential consideration is the long drives between parks, which can be tiring, but they are part of the adventure and give you a real feel for the vastness of Tanzania’s landscapes.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive Tanzanian safari that combines wildlife, scenery, and culture. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable with a full itinerary that includes early mornings and long drives, and if you’re eager to see the Big Five in their prime habitat.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Iconic parks: Visit the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire for diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife.
• Wildlife spectacle: Witness the migration of wildebeests and zebras, plus large herds of elephants, lions, buffalo, and more.
• Cultural experience: Enjoy a meaningful visit to Mto wa Mbu village, learning about local customs and lifestyle.
• Expert guides: Led by knowledgeable safari drivers who can spot wildlife many might miss.
• Comfortable accommodations: Stay at well-chosen lodges and camps, blending convenience with authentic safari feels.
• All-inclusive value: Park fees, most meals, and transport are included, reducing surprises.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect and Why It Matters

Day 1: Arrival in Arusha

The adventure begins with your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where your guide will greet you and transfer you comfortably to the Springlands Hotel. This initial night is about settling in, with the excitement building as you prepare for the days ahead. The hotel’s location in Arusha provides easy access to the parks and is a good base for rest after your journey.

Day 2: Tarangire National Park

After breakfast, you’ll head to Tarangire, renowned for its striking landscape of grassy plains, barren hills, and baobab trees. The park’s water sources attract large herds of elephants, along with zebras, buffalo, and predators like lions. You’ll probably love the way the landscape changes dramatically here compared to other parks, making for fantastic photo opportunities. Expect to spend the day spotting wildlife near waterholes—this is prime elephant territory and one of the best places to see large herds.

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Day 3-4: Serengeti National Park

A scenic drive from Tarangire takes you to the Serengeti, crossing the Ngorongoro Conservation Area—an area rich in wildlife and scenery. The Serengeti’s vast open plains are perfect for spotting the Big Five and cheetahs. Day 3 includes a late afternoon transfer to Ikoma Wild Camp, where the chance of a night game drive offers a thrilling glimpse at creatures active after sunset.

Day 4 is all about a full-day game drive—expect early mornings, packed with opportunities to witness predator-prey interactions, lion prides lounging in the shade, and herds of wildebeest and zebras moving across the plains. This part of the safari is often described as the highlight, with many reviewers noting it’s “unbelievable to see so many animals in their natural habitat.”

Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater

You’ll descend into the Ngorongoro Crater—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—and spend the day exploring this natural wonder. The crater’s unique ecosystem supports a dense concentration of wildlife, from leopards and cheetahs to hyenas and antelope.

Guests often comment on how the crater feels like a wildlife zoo in the open; with good visibility, it’s an excellent chance to see large herds of animals congregating around water bodies. After a full day of game viewing, you’ll return to your hotel for rest, reflecting on the surreal sights of the day.

Day 6: Mto wa Mbu Cultural Tour

After a morning meal, the tour shifts from wildlife to community. Visiting Mto wa Mbu offers an authentic taste of Tanzanian village life with visits to markets, local homes, and farms. You’ll gain insights into traditional crafts, local food, and customs—an enriching contrast to the wildlife stops. Many travelers appreciate this segment for adding a human touch to their safari experience, bringing a new appreciation for Tanzanian culture.

In the late afternoon, you’ll head back to Arusha for your last night at Springlands Hotel, relishing the comfort and reflection on your journey.

Day 7: Departure

Your safari concludes with a transfer back to Kilimanjaro International Airport, equipped with memories of incredible landscapes and wildlife encounters.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While the price might seem steep, it covers a comprehensive itinerary, including all park entry fees, transport in a private 4×4 Land Cruiser, experienced guides, most meals, and accommodations. The inclusion of night game drives and a cultural tour adds unique touches that many safaris overlook, making it a well-rounded experience for those eager to see both nature and local life.

The guides, often praised for their knowledge and attentiveness, are a key part of the experience. They don’t just point out animals—they tell stories, share insights about behaviors, and help you get the best shots. Many reviews highlight how their expertise makes the safari more engaging and educational.

The accommodation options balance comfort with the adventure feel—nothing too fancy but cozy enough to relax after long days exploring. Meals are included as specified, allowing you to focus on the experience rather than logistics.

Who Is This Safari Best For?

This tour appeals most to travelers who want an immersive, all-in-one Tanzanian safari experience. It’s ideal for those who enjoy wildlife photography, nature, and cultural learning, and are comfortable with a packed schedule. If you prefer luxury or a more leisurely pace, this might not be your ideal choice. However, if you’re after a balanced exposure to Tanzania’s wildlife and community, this trip offers excellent value.

FAQs

What is included in the price?
The price covers transport in a tailor-made 4×4 Land Cruiser, services of a professional guide, park entry fees, most meals, pick-up and drop-off, and bottled water during game drives.

Are international flights included?
No, travelers are responsible for their international flights to and from Tanzania.

Do I need a visa for Tanzania?
Visa fees are not included, so you should check the current requirements before traveling.

What kind of accommodations are provided?
Stays are at hotels and camps such as Springlands Hotel and Ikoma Wild Camp, which balance comfort with authentic safari ambiance.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specified, the itinerary’s focus on wildlife and cultural experiences makes it suitable for families with older children comfortable with long drives and early mornings.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable shoes, a sun hat, camera, sunscreen, water, insect repellent, and binoculars for wildlife viewing.

Are meals included?
Most meals as per the itinerary are covered, except personal expenses or extra snacks.

Is it possible to customize this tour?
The core itinerary is fixed, but you can reserve and pay later to keep your plans flexible—check with GRACEPATT SAFARIS for specific customization options.

How long are the drives between parks?
While the exact times aren’t specified, expect some long drives as Tanzania’s parks are spread out, offering scenic views and wildlife spotting opportunities along the way.

What is the best time of year to go?
The itinerary is suitable year-round, but wildlife sightings are typically best during the dry season (June to October), when animals gather around water sources.

To sum it up, this 7-day safari by GRACEPATT SAFARIS offers a thoughtfully curated experience that balances iconic wildlife encounters with cultural insights. It’s especially suited for travelers eager to see the Big Five, witness the Great Migration, and learn about Tanzanian village life—all in one rewarding trip. The guides’ expertise, combined with well-chosen lodges and inclusive fees, makes for a hassle-free adventure that delivers on value and authenticity. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or a culture seeker, this tour promises memorable moments in one of Africa’s most stunning landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here: