From Arusha : 11-day Amazing North Tanzania safari tour

Planning a safari in Tanzania can feel overwhelming — so many parks, tribes, and wildlife. This review covers an 11-day tour that promises a comprehensive glimpse of what Northern Tanzania has to offer, from the lush Ngorongoro Crater to the vast plains of the Serengeti. While we haven’t traveled personally, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a well-rounded, value-packed adventure suitable for wildlife enthusiasts and culture seekers alike.

What excites us most about this tour? First, the chance to spot the “Big Five” in their natural habitat, second, the opportunity to learn about local tribes like the Hadzabe and Datoga, and third, the focus on authentic, guided experiences across diverse landscapes. One point to consider is the tour’s pace — with so many national parks packed into just over a week, you’ll want to be prepared for some long days of game driving.

This tour suits travelers craving a deep dive into Tanzania’s wildlife and culture, especially those who enjoy well-organized group adventures that strike a balance between guided sightseeing and free time. It’s ideal if you want a comprehensive introduction to North Tanzania without the hassle of planning each detail yourself.

Key Points

• Incredible Wildlife: Expect diverse sightings, from elephants in Tarangire to the famous tree-climbing lions at Lake Manyara.
• Cultural Encounters: Optional visits to the Hadzabe and Datoga tribes offer unique insights into traditional lifestyles.
• Panoramic Views: The Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti offer some of Africa’s most iconic landscapes.
• Balanced Itinerary: Carefully curated stops ensure a mix of game drives, cultural visits, and relaxation.
• Experienced Guides: Most reviews mention guides like Muktar and Christopher, praised for their knowledge and friendly approach.
• Value for Money: At $3,745 per person, it offers a thorough safari experience with included meals, transfers, and park entrances.

Introduction: What to Expect from the 11-Day North Tanzania Safari

If you’re after a safari that hits all the major highlights of Northern Tanzania, this 11-day tour offers an impressive lineup of parks, landscapes, and cultural encounters. From the moment you land at Kilimanjaro Airport, the focus is on providing a seamless, immersive experience. The tour starts in Arusha, the safari hub, and quickly gets into the thick of it with a game drive in Arusha National Park, which is famous for its birdlife and scenic beauty.

Throughout the journey, you’ll visit renowned parks like Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater, and the Serengeti, each offering a different flavor of Tanzania’s wilderness. What makes this safari special is not just the wildlife sightings, but the stories and insights shared by guides who know these parks inside out. Many travelers mention guides like Muktar and Christopher, who bring passionate storytelling, local knowledge, and a friendly attitude that makes the experience more memorable.

A distinctive aspect of this tour is the optional visit to Lake Eyasi to meet the Hadzabe and Datoga tribes. These encounters provide a rare glimpse into traditional hunter-gatherer and herding lifestyles—adding a meaningful cultural dimension to an already rich wildlife adventure. The tour’s flexible structure also allows for some downtime at the lodge, especially after visiting remote areas like Lake Eyasi.

While the itinerary is packed, most reviews point out that the early mornings and long game drives are all part of the adventure. For those who love wildlife photography, the timing and variety of landscapes will keep your camera busy. The tour’s value is highlighted by inclusive meals, park fees, and airport transfers, making it a relatively worry-free way to see Tanzania’s natural wonders.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Day 1-2: Arusha and Arusha National Park

Your adventure begins in Arusha, often called the “gateway to safari.” Staying at Africa Safari Arusha gives you a comfortable base, and the first activity — a game drive in Arusha National Park — offers a chance to see smaller, lesser-visited parks with impressive bird species and scenic views of Mount Meru. We love how manageable and intimate Arusha National Park feels, especially if you’re eager to get into wildlife viewing without the crowds.

Day 3: Tarangire National Park

Known as the “home of the elephants,” Tarangire is renowned for its high concentration of wildlife outside the Serengeti. The landscape here is characterized by ancient baobab trees and wide-open plains, perfect for spotting herds of elephants, giraffes, and predators. The 6-hour game drive provides ample time to enjoy the park’s serenity and rugged beauty.

Day 4: Lake Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara is famed for its ecological diversity — from lush groundwater forests to the large soda lake itself. The park’s highlight for many visitors is the chance to see the elusive tree-climbing lions. This full-day drive is especially appreciated by reviewers who mention the park’s “large ecological variety” and the uniquely relaxed vibe, making it ideal for photography.

Day 5: Lake Eyasi & Tribal Visits

This optional day offers a cultural detour. Visiting the Hadzabe and Datoga tribes provides a rare glimpse into traditional hunter-gatherer and herding lifestyles. One reviewer called the Hadzabe “the last true hunters and gatherers,” describing the experience as “fascinating and humbling.” If you choose not to partake, the day can be spent relaxing at Africa Safari Karatu, preparing for the upcoming adventure.

Day 6-7: Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti

The Ngorongoro Crater, often called the “8th Wonder of the World,” is a highlight for many travelers. Its volcanic rim offers sweeping views of the dense wildlife below. The afternoon game drive on Day 6 lets you see predators, elephants, lions, and more, in a setting that feels almost surreal.

Next, the Serengeti opens up with its endless plains and the iconic migration. A full-day game drive in this park promises sightings of wildebeest, zebras, and predators in their natural environment. Reviewers mention the Serengeti as a highlight, especially during the migration season, but even in the dry season, the vast landscapes and abundance of wildlife make it unforgettable.

Day 8-9: Exploring the Serengeti and Pololeti Game Reserve

The second game drive through Serengeti on Day 9 allows for more wildlife encounters before heading to South Serengeti. The scenery is tranquil, with the sense of expansive wilderness giving you a true feel for Africa’s iconic landscapes.

Day 10: Ngorongoro Crater Revisited

A full-day game drive inside Ngorongoro Crater allows a thorough exploration of its wildlife density. Many reviewers note the abundance of Big Five animals, including rare sightings of black rhinos. The crater rim offers breathtaking views that you’ll never forget.

Day 11: Departure

Your driver-guide will escort you back to Kilimanjaro Airport, closing the loop on an adventure packed with wildlife, landscapes, and cultural insights. Most reviews agree that the organization and transfers are seamless, making departure stress-free.

Transportation, Accommodation, and Value

The tour uses private vehicles, which are ideal for game drives, with most travelers mentioning comfortable, well-maintained 4x4s. The group size is generally small, which enhances the personal experience and allows guides to cater to individual interests.

Included meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) are a significant value addition, especially when combined with park entrance fees and transfers. The accommodation at Africa Safari Arusha and similar lodges provides a cozy base with good reviews on comfort and service.

At $3,745 per person, this tour offers great value considering the extensive itinerary, expert guides, and all the included services. For wildlife and culture lovers, paying for a well-organized tour like this often beats trying to plan a trip independently, especially when you factor in park fees and the logistical hassle.

Authentic Reviewer Insights

Many travelers praise the guides, particularly mentioning Muktar and Christopher, for their extensive knowledge and friendly approach. One reviewer appreciated Muktar’s storytelling, noting that he “did really his best to give us a trip to remember a lifetime.” Others highlight the stunning views, especially of Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti plains, calling the scenery “breathtaking” and “iconic.”

The value for money is also a common theme, with travelers feeling they received a comprehensive experience for the price. The optional visits to tribes receive mixed reviews—some say they’re a highlight, offering a rare cultural perspective, while others might prefer more leisure time.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Safari?

This 11-day North Tanzania safari is best suited for travelers seeking a thorough exploration of Tanzania’s top national parks with experienced guides leading the way. It’s perfect if you want diverse wildlife sightings combined with authentic cultural encounters like visiting the Hadzabe and Datoga tribes. The included meals, park fees, and transfers make it a practical choice for those wanting a hassle-free, all-in-one safari experience.

While the itinerary is packed, the variety of landscapes, the chance to see the Big Five, and the insights from guides make this a rewarding adventure. If your priority is quality wildlife viewing paired with cultural discovery in a well-organized package, this tour offers excellent value.

Travelers who appreciate a balance of guided game drives and some downtime, along with the opportunity to learn about local tribes, will find this tour particularly compelling. Just be prepared for some long days of traveling — but with so many memorable sights along the way, it’s more than worth it.

FAQ

What parks are included in the tour?
The tour visits Arusha National Park, Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater, and Serengeti National Park.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included for most days, ensuring you won’t have to worry about finding food in remote areas.

Can I visit the tribes during the tour?
Yes, there’s an optional activity to visit the Hadzabe and Datoga tribes at Lake Eyasi, offering a unique cultural experience.

What is the main highlight of the tour?
Most travelers agree the Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti are the standout experiences, with incredible wildlife and landscapes.

How is transportation arranged?
Private 4×4 vehicles are used for game drives and transfers, providing comfort and flexibility.

Is the tour suitable for families?
While not explicitly stated, most travelers can participate, and the itinerary is flexible enough for families with older children.

What’s the best time to take this safari?
While not specified, the tour’s flexibility means it likely runs year-round, but the best wildlife viewing typically occurs during dry seasons.

This 11-day safari in Northern Tanzania offers a well-balanced, authentic look at some of Africa’s most iconic landscapes and cultures. Perfect for wildlife lovers who want a comprehensive, guided experience with good value for money.