From Arusha : 11 days Complete Africa Safari North Tour

Exploring Tanzania’s North: An 11-Day Complete Africa Safari

Embarking on an 11-day safari in Tanzania’s Northern Circuit promises an adventure packed with breathtaking landscapes, iconic wildlife encounters, and authentic cultural experiences. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the detailed itinerary, reviews, and inclusions paint a clear picture of what travelers can expect — and it’s pretty enticing.

What really draws us in are the stunning stopovers like Lake Natron, especially famous for its flamingos, the world-famous Serengeti, and the impressive Ngorongoro Crater. We love that this itinerary offers a balance of wildlife safaris, scenic landscapes, and even a Maasai cultural experience. The chance to fly from Zanzibar to Arusha to maximize safari time is another highlight.

One possible challenge is the fast-paced nature — with 10 nights in lodges and multiple national parks, it might feel like a whirlwind for those who prefer a slower, more contemplative pace. Still, this tour seems ideal for travelers who want to see a lot in a short amount of time and are eager to witness Tanzania’s top highlights.

This safari would suit travelers who are eager to combine game drives with cultural insights. It’s perfect for those wanting a comprehensive experience, from flamingos to elephants, in a well-organized package that balances adventure and comfort.

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Key Points

Diverse landscapes: From the flamingo-filled Lake Natron to the vast plains of Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater.
Wildlife highlights: Lions, elephants, giraffes, and the famous tree-climbing lions at Lake Manyara.
Cultural element: Maasai village visit offers insight into local life.
Well-organized logistics: All park fees and guided game drives included, plus transportation and lodges.
Expert guides: Knowledgeable safari drivers with local insights.
Value for money: Price covers a comprehensive itinerary with premium lodges and activities.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: An In-Depth Look at the 11-Day Tanzania Safari

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Arusha

Day 1: Arriving in Arusha

The safari kicks off with a pickup from Kilimanjaro Airport, where your driver-guide greets you warmly. Staying at the Africa Safari Arusha Lodge provides a comfortable base for your upcoming adventures. Arusha is considered Tanzania’s tourism hub and a strategic start point, with lush surroundings and a relaxed vibe. This first night is all about settling in, preparing for the journey ahead, and getting acclimated to Tanzania’s warm hospitality.

Day 2: From Arusha to Lake Natron

Your adventure begins with a scenic road trip towards Lake Natron, a mesmerizing alkaline lake famed for its flamingo colonies. The drive itself offers incredible views of the surrounding landscape — think open plains, distant volcanoes, and rural villages. Once there, the highlight is a hike to the Ngare Sero waterfalls, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim in natural pools amid lush greenery. Staying overnight at the Africa Safari Lake Natron lodge means waking up close to one of the most photogenic spots in East Africa.

Day 3: Flamingo Walk & Maasai Cultural Experience

This day is dedicated to exploring Lake Natron with a Maasai guide, giving you a deeper understanding of both the flora and fauna. The Flamingo Walk provides an up-close look at millions of Lesser Flamingos that call this lake home, a spectacle of nature’s resilience. Later, you’ll visit the Africa Safari Maasai Boma, where you’ll experience the Maasai way of living in a comfortable setting, blending culture with modern comfort. This part of the trip offers a rare opportunity to connect with local traditions—something many travelers find enriching.

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Day 4: Pololeti Game Reserve

Driving through the Pololeti Game Reserve offers a chance to spot a variety of wildlife, from hunting lions to grazing buffalo and roaming elephants. The landscape is characterized by open plains and kopjes, perfect for game viewing. Reviewers mention the guides’ expertise, making game drives both educational and exciting. Spending another night here allows you to soak in the peaceful natural surroundings, with plenty of chances for wildlife photo ops.

There's plenty more to explore in Arusha

Days 5-7: Serengeti National Park

The Serengeti needs no introduction — it’s the jewel of African safaris. Spending two days with full-day game drives means you’ll have ample opportunity to see big cats, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, and more. The Africa Safari Serengeti Ikoma lodge offers a comfortable base with stunning views over the plains.

For many guests, the highlight is the balloon safari option, which promises an unforgettable bird’s-eye view of the Serengeti’s expansive landscape. The guides are highly praised for their knowledge, making each game drive both informative and thrilling. Spending nights here, you’ll understand why the Serengeti is considered the heartbeat of African wildlife.

Day 8-9: Ngorongoro Crater & Lake Manyara

The next stop is the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site and often called the “8th wonder of the world.” It’s a massive volcanic caldera full of dense wildlife, including lions, rhinos, and flamingos. A full-day game drive inside the crater guarantees close encounters with animals in their natural habitat. Staying overnight at Africa Safari Karatu offers spectacular views of the Ngorongoro Highlands.

The following day, you’ll explore Lake Manyara National Park, known for its tree-climbing lions and diverse birdlife, including pink flamingos. The park’s lush environment contrasts sharply with the savannahs, providing different scenery and wildlife encounters. Reviewers mention the “famous tree-climbing lions” as a unique highlight.

Days 10-11: Tarangire National Park & Departure

Your final wildlife adventure takes you to Tarangire National Park, famed for its large herds of elephants and iconic Baobab trees. The park hosts Tanzania’s highest concentration of wildlife outside the Serengeti, making it a fitting conclusion to the safari. Spending the night at Africa Safari Lake Manyara means you’re close to the park and can enjoy one last game drive before heading back to Arusha.

On the last day, your driver-guide will take you back to the airport, leaving with incredible photos and memories of a well-rounded safari experience.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Expert Guides and Well-Organized Logistics
Guests consistently highlight the guides’ local knowledge and friendly demeanor. The guides not only spot animals swiftly but also share fascinating insights into wildlife behavior and local cultures. The itinerary’s logistics seem smooth, with transfers, park fees, and accommodations all taken care of, allowing you to relax and focus on the experience.

Authentic Encounters and Scenic Diversity
From the flamingos of Lake Natron to the elephants of Tarangire, each stop offers a different flavor of Tanzania’s ecosystem. The inclusion of cultural elements, like the Maasai village visit, enriches the safari beyond just wildlife spotting, providing meaningful connections to local traditions.

Accommodation and Meals
Staying at carefully chosen lodges close to the parks means you’re never far from wildlife action or stunning vistas. Full-board meals are included, which is a significant value considering the remote locations.

Value for Money
At $3,915 per person, the tour covers park entrance fees, guided game drives, transfers, accommodations, and meals. Many travelers find this to be a good deal considering the number of parks and diverse experiences included, especially when compared to individual park visits or self-organized trips.

Practical Considerations

While the itinerary is packed, it’s designed for those eager to see Tanzania’s top sights in one trip. The pace is lively, so patience and flexibility are helpful traits. The tour involves multiple early mornings and long drives, but the payoff is the chance to witness some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife and landscapes.

The fly from Zanzibar at the start helps optimize time, especially if you’re combining this safari with a beach holiday. The lodges are well-located, and the all-inclusive nature simplifies planning, but travelers should be prepared for some vehicle noise and bumpy roads during transfers.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This safari is ideal for adventure seekers and wildlife lovers who want a comprehensive, guided experience without the stress of planning logistics themselves. It suits travelers who enjoy seeing multiple parks in one trip and are comfortable with a somewhat active and fast-paced itinerary. The cultural component also appeals to those wanting a well-rounded understanding of Tanzania’s people and traditions.

The Sum Up

This 11-day safari offers a fantastic way to experience Tanzania’s most famous parks, landscapes, and wildlife in one well-organized package. The inclusion of guides with local expertise, comfortable lodges, and diverse stops makes it a strong choice for those wanting a complete and authentic African safari adventure.

While the schedule is busy, it’s perfect for travelers eager to cover a lot of ground and see everything from flamingos at Lake Natron to lions in the Serengeti. The tour balances wildlife, scenery, and culture, providing a rich tapestry of experiences that leave lasting impressions.

Ultimately, it delivers a high-value, memorable trip for those ready to explore Tanzania’s natural beauty and vibrant ecosystems in style.

FAQ

What is included in the price of $3,915?
The tour covers airport transfers, an experienced guide driver, all park fees, accommodation in lodges on a full-board basis, all guided game drives, and entry tickets into national parks.

Are meals included?
Yes, the price includes full-board meals at the lodges, making it easier to enjoy your trip without worrying about additional food costs.

Can I add extra activities like a balloon safari?
Yes, optional extras such as a Balloon Safari can be booked — an experience that many reviews describe as unforgettable.

What are the accommodation options?
Guests stay at carefully selected lodges near each park, providing comfort and stunning views, often with easy access to wildlife.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
While not explicitly stated, the focus on wildlife and nature suggests it’s best suited for adults or older children comfortable with long safaris and early mornings.

What should I pack for this trip?
Bring lightweight clothing, a good camera, binoculars, sun protection, and layers for varying temperatures, especially early mornings and evenings.

How flexible is the itinerary?
The tour operates on a fixed schedule with the option to pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance, offering some flexibility for travelers’ plans.

This comprehensive safari tour, blending wildlife, landscapes, and cultural experiences, promises an authentic and memorable Tanzanian adventure for those eager to see the best of Africa in one trip.