Arusha: 7-Day Safari Tour with Materuni Waterfalls Hike

Setting out on a safari adventure through Tanzania’s Northern Circuit can feel like stepping into a wildlife documentary — except you’re the star. This 7-day safari with Hutland Tours Limited promises a well-rounded experience, combining thrilling game drives with cultural insights and a scenic waterfall hike.

What sets this tour apart? First, you get the chance to see the famous tree-climbing lions of Lake Manyara, a rare and captivating sight. Second, the visit to Materuni village offers a unique balance of adventure and local flavor, especially with the chance to learn about coffee farming and roasting. Lastly, the itinerary is thoughtfully designed to balance intense game viewing with moments of relaxation and cultural discovery.

One potential consideration is the long journey times between parks, which might be tiring for some. If you prefer ultra-luxurious accommodations or a more leisurely pace, this might not be your best fit. However, for those craving an authentic, action-packed experience with plenty of wildlife and cultural highlights, this tour hits many marks.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive Tanzanian safari that combines top wildlife viewing with memorable cultural encounters. It’s perfect if you’re keen to experience the Serengeti’s vast plains, Ngorongoro’s crater wildlife, and the local community life – all wrapped into one adventure.

Key Points

• Wildlife highlights include the Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, and Lake Manyara with unique animal sightings.
• Cultural and scenic experiences like the Materuni Waterfalls hike and coffee farm visit add a memorable local touch.
• Accommodation mostly consists of budget camps, offering a genuine safari feel and close wildlife proximity.
• Travel logistics involve some long drives, so expect a flexible schedule.
• All park fees and guided tours are included, making planning simpler.
• The tour is not suitable for children under 5, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Arrival in Arusha

Landing in Arusha sets the stage for your adventure. The transfer to your hotel is straightforward, and if you arrive early, there’s an optional city tour. Visiting the African Art Gallery and a Maasai market gives a glimpse into local crafts, traditions, and vibrant culture. This short introduction helps set your expectations and gets you in the right mindset for the days ahead.

Day 2: Tarangire National Park

Leaving Arusha, you’ll head toward Tarangire, famous for its elephant herds and ancient baobab trees. The game drive here is lively, with chances to spot big cats, herbivores, and the iconic elephants. The picnic lunch at the Tarangire River is a highlight, offering both scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities. Reviews mention that the guides are skilled at locating animals, which enhances the experience.

Day 3: Serengeti

The Serengeti is the crown jewel of Tanzanian safaris — vast, dramatic, and teeming with wildlife. You’ll spend the day on game drives, with the possibility of seeing lions, cheetahs, and migration herds. Returning to Simba campsite on the crater rim offers stunning sunset views and a sense of being right at the heart of wilderness. Guests appreciate the chance to witness the Serengeti’s expansive plains firsthand, although some note that the drive from Tarangire to Serengeti is lengthy.

More Great Tours Nearby

Day 4: Ngorongoro Crater

Descending into Ngorongoro Crater, often dubbed the “Garden of Eden,” gives a different perspective—an enclosed, wildlife-rich caldera with lush scenery. The focus here is on spotting black rhinos and other big game. After lunch, a game drive continues, with many travelers praising the chance to see animals in a relatively concentrated area. Spending the night at Fig Tree Camp atop the crater offers cool breezes and impressive vistas.

Day 5: Lake Manyara National Park

A shorter drive takes you to Lake Manyara, noted for its flamingos, birdlife, and tree-climbing lions — a rare spectacle. The park’s varied landscapes, including lakes, forests, and hot springs, provide excellent photography opportunities. Visitors mention that the hippo pool is an enjoyable stop, and some lucky travelers might see the famous lions lounging in the trees or stalking prey.

Day 6: Materuni Village and Waterfalls

This part of the trip offers a calmer pace and a chance to connect with local culture. The hike to Materuni Waterfalls is described as short but challenging, with lush scenery and rewarding views. Visiting a coffee farm, you’ll learn about the entire process from farm to cup, and even get hands-on roasting experience. Multiple reviews emphasize the authenticity and cultural richness of this part of the journey, with some describing it as a highlight of the tour.

Day 7: Departure

After breakfast, you’ll transfer back to Arusha Airport, concluding a tour that blends wildlife, scenery, and cultural insights. The seamless transfer is appreciated, especially after days of adventure.

What’s Included and What to Consider

Included are airport pickup and drop-off, all accommodation (mostly budget camps), all meals, park fees, and guided game drives. This makes budgeting easier and ensures no surprise costs during the trip. The guided tours are praised for their knowledgeable guides, many of whom are locals with a keen eye for wildlife and cultural stories.

Not included are international flights, visas, personal items, and travel insurance — standard for most tours, but worth planning for. Travelers should also bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a hat, a camera, snacks, sunscreen, water, and rain gear — essential for both comfort and safety.

A common concern is the long drives between parks, which can be tiring but also part of the authentic adventure. Some guests mention that the schedule is packed, so those who prefer a more relaxed pace might want to consider this.

The Value of This Experience

At around $4,300 per person, this tour offers a solid value considering the inclusions—park fees, guided game drives, and all meals are covered. The combination of top wildlife parks, cultural encounters, and scenic hikes makes it a comprehensive package. You’re not just watching animals from afar but also experiencing local life and stunning landscapes, which adds depth to your trip.

Reviews highlight that the guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making the game drives more engaging. The accommodation, while budget in style, offers a genuine safari experience that puts you close to nature, often with great views and a peaceful ambiance.

However, be prepared for the variable weather and the possibility of long travel days. The itinerary is ambitious, but it’s designed for those who want to maximize their time and get a true taste of Tanzania’s diverse landscapes and wildlife.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This safari is perfect if you’re seeking a comprehensive wildlife experience combined with cultural insights. It suits travelers who don’t mind some long drives and value seeing a variety of parks within a week. It’s also ideal for those interested in learning about local traditions, especially coffee farming, and want an authentic, immersive adventure.

If you’re looking for luxury accommodations or a slow-paced trip, this might not be the best fit. Instead, it’s suited to active travelers, wildlife enthusiasts, and cultural explorers eager to get a full picture of what Tanzania has to offer.

FAQ

• How many parks are included in this tour?

The tour visits four main parks: Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Lake Manyara.

• Are all park fees included?

Yes, park fees are included in the price, simplifying your planning process.

• What is the accommodation like?

Accommodation is mainly budget camps, providing an authentic safari camping experience that gets you close to nature.

• Is this tour suitable for children?

No, it’s not suitable for children under 5 years, as the activities and travel might be too demanding.

• Can I do this tour if I have mobility issues?

No, it’s not recommended for people with back problems or those requiring wheelchair access.

• What should I bring?

Pack comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a hat, camera, snacks, sunscreen, water, and rain gear for weather changes.

• Are meals included?

Yes, all meals specified in the itinerary are included, which helps with budgeting and convenience.

• What if I want to cancel?

You can cancel up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund, offering some flexibility if plans change.

Final Thoughts

This 7-day safari offers a well-rounded experience of Tanzania’s most renowned parks, from the expansive plains of Serengeti to the lush crater of Ngorongoro. The inclusion of cultural experiences like the Materuni Waterfalls and coffee farm adds a special touch that many travelers find enriching.

While some long drives are part of the package, the chance to see iconic wildlife, learn about local traditions, and enjoy breathtaking scenery makes it a compelling choice for adventurous spirits. The tour provides a good balance of organized guided activities and opportunities for personal discovery, making it suitable for those eager to dive into Tanzania’s rich natural and cultural tapestry.

If you’re after a safari that combines adventure, authenticity, and value, this trip delivers a memorable journey that goes beyond just spotting animals. It’s perfect for travelers who want to come away with stories and experiences that last a lifetime.

You can check availability for your dates here: