Arusha: 7-Day Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater Safari

Traveling to Tanzania for a safari is often a bucket-list item, and this 7-day journey through the Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater promises an authentic glimpse into Africa’s top wildlife hotspots. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the detailed itinerary, passionate reviews, and expert guides suggest it’s a well-rounded, value-packed adventure that caters to wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

What immediately catches our eye are the opportunities to see the Big Five, the chance for an optional hot air balloon ride over the plains, and the inclusion of key highlights like Olduvai Gorge and Lake Magadi. However, at $4,650 per person, it’s a significant investment—so understanding what makes this tour special and whether it’s worth the price is essential. This safari looks like a fantastic choice for travelers seeking a comprehensive, immersive experience with knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery.

Contents show

Key Points

Expert-guided game drives ensure insightful wildlife sightings and local knowledge.
Coverage of key parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro offers diverse landscapes and abundant animals.
Optional hot air balloon safari provides a unique perspective over the plains at sunrise.
Visits to historical sites like Olduvai Gorge add cultural and prehistoric context.
All-inclusive price covers accommodations, park fees, meals, and transportation for worry-free travel.
Limited options for children and specific health considerations should be kept in mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the 7-Day Tanzanian Safari

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Arusha

Starting Point: Arusha, the Gateway to the Wilderness

Your adventure begins in Arusha, a charming town that acts as the jumping-off point for many Tanzanian safaris. The tour starts with an arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha Airport, where you will transfer to your hotel for some rest and orientation. This initial day gives you time to relax after your journey, explore local markets, or enjoy the lodge’s amenities. A good tip from reviews: many travelers appreciate having this buffer day to adjust and get familiar with the area, which often feels more accessible after a long international flight.

Transitioning into the Wildlife: From Arusha to Serengeti

On day two, you’ll leave Arusha early, heading towards the Serengeti National Park. The drive itself is part of the experience—scenic, with opportunities to spot local villages, farmland, and the first hints of wilderness. Most travelers opt for a game drive en route, giving your guides a chance to introduce you to the wildlife and terrain. Expect to arrive at your lodge or tented camp by midday, where you’ll settle in before heading out on your first afternoon game drive.

The Serengeti is renowned for its vast plains and high wildlife density, especially in the central Seronera region. Here, you might witness lions stalking prey, cheetahs resting after a chase, or elephants migrating across the horizon. The reviews highlight guides’ expertise in spotting animals, often pointing out subtle signs like bird movements or spoor that reveal hidden predators or prey.

Exploring the Seronera Region and Hippo Pools

Day three and possibly day four focus on exploring different parts of the Serengeti. The Seronera area is praised for its big cat sightings, with guides often highlighting the importance of patience and silence in spotting elusive predators. Visitors frequently mention the hippo pools, where the sight of massive hippos lounging or crossing the water offers a classic safari moment.

This section of the tour can include day-long game drives, with opportunities to witness lions hunting or cheetahs sprinting after prey—scenes that get your adrenaline pumping. Several reviewers mention the guides’ ability to predict animal movements based on their knowledge, making sightings more frequent and memorable.

More Great Tours Nearby

Special Optional: Hot Air Balloon Safari

A standout highlight is the hot air balloon ride over the Serengeti, available as an extra. Watching the sunrise from above, seeing herds of wildebeest and zebra ambling across the plains, and spotting predators from a bird’s-eye view elevates the experience. Many travelers consider this a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, though it does come at an additional cost. If budget permits, it’s often praised as a gentle, scenic way to see the vast landscapes and wildlife from a different perspective.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Arusha

Moving Toward the Ngorongoro Crater

On day five, after a morning game drive, you’ll leave the Serengeti for the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. A stop at Olduvai Gorge allows you to connect with human history, seeing the site of ancient hominid fossils—an unexpected but enriching addition. Many reviews appreciate this cultural touchstone, emphasizing how it complements the safari’s wildlife focus with a glimpse into early human life.

Arriving at a lodge on the crater rim, you’ll enjoy spectacular sunset views over the crater—a photographer’s dream. This part of the trip blends natural wonder with a sense of history, giving a more rounded experience.

The Iconic Ngorongoro Crater Safari

Day six’s highlight is a full-day descent into Ngorongoro Crater. Known for its high animal density, the crater’s volcanic walls create a natural arena where predators and prey coexist in a relatively compact area. Expect to see the Big Five, including the critically endangered black rhino, in a setting that feels both dramatic and intimate. The crater’s lakes, like Lake Magadi, are home to flamingos and hippos—scenes that frequently etch themselves into travelers’ memories.

Guides often mention the density of wildlife here—some call it the best chance for seeing a wide variety of animals in a single day. The crater’s terrain means game drives are more predictable for sightings, according to reviews, making it an ideal “big game” location.

Final Day: Departure and Local Experiences

On day seven, depending on your flight schedule, the tour may include a quick visit to Arusha for a coffee tour or cultural activities. This provides a chance to reflect on your adventure, purchase souvenirs, or simply relax before heading home. The transfer arrangements make it a smooth end to the trip, with many reviewers noting the professionalism and friendliness of the guides and drivers.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Knowledgeable Guides: The guides are praised for their expertise, often sharing insights into animal behavior, park history, and local customs. Many guests comment on their ability to spot wildlife others miss and to answer questions thoughtfully.
Diverse Landscapes and Wildlife: Covering both the Serengeti’s endless plains and the Ngorongoro Crater’s concentrated wildlife, the tour offers a well-rounded safari experience.
Inclusion of Cultural and Historic Sites: Visiting Olduvai Gorge adds depth beyond just animals, connecting travelers with the human story behind Tanzania.
High-Quality Accommodation: Staying in lodges or tented camps with scenic views enhances the overall experience, providing comfort after long days of game drives.

Areas to Consider

While the tour is comprehensive, the price point may be a barrier for some. Also, the itinerary is quite full, with long days of game drives, which might be tiring for those not accustomed to extensive outdoor activity. The tour isn’t suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or people with back problems, as noted. Finally, optional activities like the hot air balloon are extra, so budget accordingly if this is a priority.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Bring layers: mornings and evenings can be cool, even in the summer.
Pack a good camera and binoculars: guides often spot wildlife before guests do.
Reserve early: spaces for hot air balloon safaris tend to fill up fast.
Respect the environment: follow guidelines on littering, feeding animals, and smoking.

Final Thoughts

This 7-day safari offers a thorough, well-organized way to experience Tanzania’s iconic parks, led by guides who are passionate and knowledgeable. The combination of game drives, cultural visits, and optional aerial views balances adventure, education, and awe. For wildlife lovers and those wanting a deep dive into Tanzania’s natural beauty, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering the inclusiveness of accommodation, park fees, and meals.

The experience is best suited for travelers craving an authentic, immersive safari—ones prepared for some early mornings and full days of exploring. If you’re looking for a serious wildlife adventure with guidance from experts, this tour is hard to beat.

FAQ

What is included in the price of $4,650?
The price covers the 7-day safari, accommodations, transportation in a 4×4 vehicle, professional guides, all park fees, meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), bottled water, and airport transfers.

Are there optional activities?
Yes, the hot air balloon safari over the Serengeti is optional and comes at an additional cost.

What should I bring for the safari?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a hat, camera, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, and any personal essentials.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 12, pregnant women, or travelers with back problems.

How long are the game drives?
Game drives typically last most of the day, with early mornings and late afternoons being prime times for wildlife activity.

Do I need a visa to enter Tanzania?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality; check before traveling, and the tour operator recommends having travel insurance.

Can I book and pay later?
Yes, the tour allows you to reserve your spot and pay later, providing flexibility in planning your trip.

This safari from Yola Excursions promises an enriching, adventure-filled experience that balances wildlife, culture, and scenic beauty—sure to be a highlight of any Tanzanian journey.