From Arusha: 11 days The Classics Northern Tanzania safari

Planning a safari in Tanzania can feel overwhelming, thanks to countless options and countless stories of spectacular wildlife encounters. This 11-day tour, offered by Beach & Safari, promises a comprehensive journey through the country’s most famous parks, giving travelers a chance to see the Big Five, explore stunning landscapes, and enjoy local culture. We’ve gathered insights from past travelers, official itineraries, and expert reviews to help you decide if this adventure is your perfect match.

What we love about this safari? First, the expert guides like Muktar, who know every animal call and hidden wildlife spot. Second, the well-rounded itinerary that covers all the key parks—Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and more—without feeling rushed. Third, the value for money: for around $4,073 per person, you’re getting 11 days of guided exploration, park fees, and meals. A possible consideration? The price might seem steep for some, but the quality of experience and inclusions make it worthwhile. This tour is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, first-timers eager for a thorough introduction to Tanzania, or anyone wanting a well-organized, authentic safari experience.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Covers all major northern parks, from Tarangire to Ngorongoro, with optional extras like a balloon safari.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Muktar, praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to spot animals others might miss.
• Inclusive Price: Includes park fees, meals, and pickup, offering good value for an all-in package.
• Authentic Experience: Small group size and private tour setup mean personalized attention and flexible scheduling.
• Wildlife Focus: Opportunities to see the Big Five, tree-climbing lions, and vast migration herds.
• Comfort & Convenience: Comfortable lodges like Africa Safari Serengeti Ikoma with wildlife-viewing backyards.

How the Itinerary Brings the African Wilderness to Life

Day 1: Arrival in Arusha

Your adventure kicks off with a pickup from Kilimanjaro Airport. Arusha is the hub for safari travelers and a perfect gateway to begin your journey. The city itself offers a taste of Tanzanian life, bustling markets, and lively streets, but most travelers are eager to head straight into the wild.

Day 2: Tarangire National Park

Known for its large elephant populations, Tarangire is a photographer’s paradise. You’ll love the way the tall, ancient Baobab trees frame the open plains. The day-long safari here allows you to encounter a variety of animals, from giraffes to zebras, and learn from guides who know exactly where the herds are hiding. One reviewer highlighted that they saw a diverse mix of wildlife, making it a great warm-up for the trip.

Day 3: Lake Manyara National Park

Famous for its tree-climbing lions, Lake Manyara offers a different landscape—lush, lakeside forests and soda lakes. The wildlife here is abundant, and if luck is on your side, you might spot lions lounging on branches, as one reviewer fondly recalls. The park’s varied terrain makes it a favorite among those wanting a mix of birdwatching and game viewing.

Day 4: Ndutu Lake and Ngorongoro Crater

In the afternoon, you visit Lake Ndutu, a renowned location for observing the Great Migration and predator-prey interactions. The scenery is stunning, with the lake’s shallow waters attracting large herds of wildebeest, zebras, and predators. Later, you get a chance to explore the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site, often called the “eighth wonder of the world” due to its breathtaking volcanic walls and dense wildlife population. Past travelers rave about spotting lions, elephants, and hyenas here, often describing it as one of the highlights of the trip.

Days 5-7: Serengeti National Park

Spanning over 14,700 square kilometers, the Serengeti is the star of any Tanzanian safari. Spending three days here, with options like a balloon safari (at an extra cost), means you get a chance to see the migration, vast herds, and predators in action. One reviewer mentioned, “The Serengeti was way better than I expected—your eyes become spoiled with so much wildlife,” highlighting how transformative these days can be.

Guide Muktar is praised repeatedly for his remarkable ability to find elusive animals. Travelers noted that the guides’ knowledge on flora, fauna, and animal behaviors elevated the experience. The nights are spent at lodges like Africa Safari Serengeti Ikoma, which boasts wildlife-viewing backyards—meaning you might wake up with giraffes grazing just outside your window.

Day 8: Loliondo and Pololeti Game Reserve

Driving through Loliondo offers a more off-the-beaten-path experience. You’ll see lions hunting, elephants roaming free, and perhaps even galloping antelopes. Reviewers appreciated the authentic, less crowded feel of this area, making it a perfect choice for those craving a more intimate wildlife encounter.

Day 9: Final Serengeti Safari

Another day in Serengeti maximizes your chances of spotting the Big Five—buffalo, elephants, lions, leopards, and rhinos. The vastness of the park means every game drive is different, with new animals and landscapes to explore.

Day 10: Ngorongoro Crater

The tour concludes with a full-day game drive in the Ngorongoro Crater. It’s a unique experience—descending into a volcanic caldera filled with dense wildlife, often in a relatively small area. One reviewer called it “the most memorable part of the trip,” emphasizing the diversity and density of animals in this natural amphitheater.

Day 11: Departure

The driver will escort you back to Kilimanjaro International Airport, with plenty of photos and stories to share. This smooth end ensures you leave Tanzania with a full heart and a camera full of wildlife snapshots.

What Makes This Tour Special?

Knowledgeable Guides & Personal Service

The standout feature, according to reviews, is guides like Muktar, who are celebrated for their extensive knowledge, friendly demeanor, and ability to spot elusive animals. Reviewers mention that he made their safari memorable, with one describing him as “Mr Google” because of his impressive animal-spotting skills.

Authentic & Comfortable Lodges

Staying at lodges such as Africa Safari Serengeti Ikoma provides a comfortable base with the bonus of wildlife in your backyard. Past guests appreciated the cleanliness, food quality, and the warmth of staff.

Extensive Wildlife Encounters

Expect to see all the iconic animals—from lions lounging in acacia trees to herds of wildebeest crossing plains—especially during the Serengeti and Ngorongoro days. One reviewer described it as “the most adventurous journey” of their life, thanks to the incredible wildlife sightings.

Good Value for Money

While $4,073 might seem steep, it’s important to recognize that this price includes park fees, meals, and transfers. The reviews emphasize the quality of guides, accommodations, and the organized nature of the tour, making it a worthwhile investment for those serious about wildlife.

Practical Details & Considerations

Transportation & Timing

Travelers are picked up directly from Kilimanjaro Airport, which simplifies logistics. The tour lasts about 11 days, with most days dedicated to game drives lasting around 5-6 hours. The small group/private setup ensures you’re not lost in a crowd, allowing for more personalized attention.

Inclusions & Exclusions

The tour covers all park entrance fees, meals (breakfasts, lunches, dinners), and pickup/drop-off. One expense to keep in mind is the visa, which is not included but is a standard requirement for most travelers.

Flexibility & Booking

This is a private tour, meaning your group will be the only participants. The tour can be canceled up to 6 days in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if plans change.

Authentic Traveler Insights

Multiple reviewers consistently praise guides like Muktar and Alfonso, citing their deep knowledge, friendly approach, and keen eyesight. One described their guide as fluent in German, which shows the level of professionalism and personalized service you can expect.

Travelers loved the diversity of landscapes—from the lush lakesides of Manyara to the endless plains of Serengeti—and the well-maintained lodges that offered both comfort and a front-row seat to wildlife.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This 11-day safari from Arusha is ideal for adventurous travelers who want a thorough, guided exploration of Tanzania’s top parks. It suits those who value expert guidance, authentic encounters, and a well-organized itinerary covering multiple parks in one trip. If you’re looking for a high-quality experience with good value for money, this safari checks all the boxes.

However, if your budget is tight, or you prefer a more relaxed pace with fewer days of game drives, you might want to explore other options. But for wildlife lovers craving a comprehensive, authentic safari with the chance to see the Big Five and the Serengeti migration, this tour offers a memorable adventure.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers all park entrance fees, breakfast, lunch, dinner, and pickup from Kilimanjaro Airport, providing a hassle-free experience.

Are the accommodations comfortable?
Yes, reviews mention stays at lodges like Africa Safari Serengeti Ikoma, which are praised for their cleanliness, friendly staff, and wildlife views.

How much time is spent on game drives each day?
Most days involve approximately 5-6 hours of game viewing, giving plenty of opportunities to see animals and capture photos.

Can I customize the itinerary?
This is a private tour, so customization options are likely available, but you’d need to confirm with the provider.

Is this tour suitable for first-time safari travelers?
Absolutely; the itinerary offers a comprehensive introduction, and guides are experienced in making guests comfortable and informed.

What is the best time to go?
While the exact months aren’t specified, the safari’s timing aligns with the typical dry season, ideal for wildlife viewing.

Are there optional activities?
Yes, like a balloon safari in Serengeti, which comes at an extra cost and offers a breathtaking aerial view of the plains.

What should I pack?
Light, neutral-colored clothing, binoculars, camera gear, hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent are recommended.

This safari promises an authentic, well-rounded glimpse into Tanzania’s most iconic parks, delivered with expert guidance and comfortable accommodations. It’s a trip for those eager to see Africa’s wilderness in all its glory — a true adventure worth every penny.