From Arusha: 7-Day Northern Tanzania Safari

Planning a safari across northern Tanzania? This 7-day tour offers an immersive journey through some of Africa’s most iconic parks, including the Serengeti and Ngorongoro. While it’s priced at $3,800 per person, it’s packed with engaging wildlife encounters, breathtaking scenery, and authentic cultural experiences, making it a worthwhile investment for wildlife lovers and adventure seekers.

We love the chance to see the Big Five in their natural habitat, the opportunity to visit lesser-known but equally stunning locations like Lake Natron, and the chance to learn from guides who truly know their terrain. The itinerary seems thoughtfully designed to balance game viewing with cultural encounters, like visiting a Maasai village.

One possible consideration is the early mornings and long drives involved—this is part of the authentic safari experience but might be tiring for some travelers. This tour is ideal for those who want a comprehensive, guided safari that covers multiple parks, offers good value, and favors wildlife and nature enthusiasts over luxury.

If you’re someone eager for a well-rounded Tanzanian safari with an emphasis on wildlife viewing, stunning scenery, and knowledgeable guides, this trip probably ticks most boxes.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Lake Natron, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro.
• Wildlife experiences include seeing elephants, lions, cheetahs, and the elusive black rhino.
• Cultural interactions such as visiting Maasai villages enrich the authentic experience.
• Scenic diversity from soda lakes with flamingos to the vast Serengeti plains.
• Expert guides provide valuable insights and help spot wildlife others might miss.
• Value for money considering park fees, accommodations, and guided game drives.

This tour promises an immersive experience through Tanzania’s most celebrated wildlife areas, with a well-rounded schedule that balances game drives, scenic stops, and cultural visits. It’s priced at $3,800 per person, which, when you consider the included park fees, accommodations, and guided drives, offers solid value for those seeking a comprehensive safari.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Day 1: From Arusha to Tarangire National Park

The adventure kicks off after breakfast in Arusha, where your guide will meet you for a briefing and a prompt departure. The drive to Tarangire is about 2 hours, and you’ll notice how the landscape shifts from Tanzanian townscapes to the iconic African bush.

Tarangire is famous for its large elephant herds, which can number in the hundreds, thick baobab trees, and the unusual spectacle of tree-climbing pythons—a unique feature that surprises many first-time visitors. As you settle into your lodge, Suricata Boma, you’ll start to feel the pulse of this wildlife-rich area.

During your afternoon game drive, expect to see herds of wildebeest, zebra, and giraffes, along with predators like lions stalking the plains. The guides are generally seasoned professionals, often praised for their sharp eyes and knowledge. One reviewer appreciated that their guide, Peter, knew exactly where to look for elusive leopards and the best spots for sunrise photos.

Day 2: Exploring Lake Manyara National Park

After breakfast, you’ll head to Lake Manyara, a small but diverse park that packs a punch in wildlife and scenery. The lake itself attracts countless bird species—especially flamingos—earning it the nickname “the loveliest lake in Africa.”

You’ll also encounter troops of baboons, large herds of elephants, and hippos in the lake’s water. The lush groundwater forest near the park gates is a highlight, with giant fig and mahogany trees providing a canopy that’s teeming with monkey activity.

Many reviewers comment on the variety of birdlife here, making it a paradise for birders. The terrain is relatively gentle compared to other parks, so game viewing tends to be accessible and rewarding. Guides often point out interesting behaviors, like elephants bathing or birds nesting, enhancing the experience.

Day 3: The Unique Charm of Lake Natron

The journey continues to Lake Natron, an otherworldly soda lake famous for its vibrant red waters and flamingos. The drive from Lake Manyara takes around 4 hours, giving you a chance to see more of Tanzania’s diverse landscapes.

Lake Natron is a photographer’s dream—its surreal, mineral-rich waters shimmer against the backdrop of the rugged volcanic environment. Flamingos here breed in the thousands, creating spectacular pink clouds during breeding season. Some travelers find the scenery breathtaking enough to linger.

Optional activities include a waterfall hike, swimming in the alkaline waters (with caution), or even a night ascent of nearby Ol Doinyo Lengai—though this last requires seismic safety checks. The accommodations here, such as Africa Safari Lake Natron, are comfortable, offering a rustic but cozy base.

Travelers mention the quiet, almost mystical atmosphere of this area, with one reviewer highlighting the chance to witness flamingos up close and enjoy the solitude away from busy parks.

Day 4 & 5: The Serengeti and the Great Migration

The highlight for many is the world-famous Serengeti National Park. The drive from Lake Natron takes around 4-5 hours, and you’ll arrive in time for an afternoon game drive. The Serengeti’s vast plains are home to lions, cheetahs, leopards, and an incredible array of herbivores like zebras, gazelles, and buffalos.

You’ll stay at Matawi Serengeti Camp, praised for its comfortable tents and friendly staff. The camp offers a genuine safari feel, with the chance to spot wildlife from your tent or the communal areas.

The second full day is dedicated to exploring more of the Serengeti’s endless landscapes. Expect to see predators stalking prey from scenic kopjes, which offer great vantage points. The guides often mention how rare it is to see all species in one day, but the chances are high here.

One reviewer loved the guides’ ability to find lions resting on a kopje early in the morning, emphasizing their skill at tracking wildlife. You’ll also visit a Maasai village, gaining insight into the local culture and traditional lifestyle.

More Great Tours Nearby

Day 6: Ngorongoro Conservation Area

After breakfast, you’ll set out for Ngorongoro, known for its immense volcanic caldera—a natural wildlife haven. The drive provides spectacular views, and arriving at the crater rim is breathtaking.

Descending into the crater, you’re entering an ecosystem teeming with life. The crater’s floor hosts elephants, rhinos, lions, and countless other species in a concentrated area, making game viewing potentially spectacular. The chance to see the rare black rhino elevates this experience, and guides often emphasize conservation efforts here.

You’ll stay at Ngorongoro Marera Mountain View Lodge, which offers comfort and stunning vistas. Many review the crater as the highlight of the trip, with some noting sightings of big cats and large herds of buffalo up-close.

Day 7: Return to Arusha

The last day begins with a final game drive in Ngorongoro, giving you a chance to soak in the scenery and wildlife before heading back to Arusha. The drive offers a scenic farewell to Tanzania’s wilderness.

Your guide will likely share insights about conservation and local communities, rounding out the experience. The journey back takes about 4 hours, giving you time to reflect on what you’ve seen and learned.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This safari isn’t just about ticking off animals; it’s about the connections you form with wildlife and nature, guided by professionals who know these lands intimately. The inclusion of lesser-visited areas like Lake Natron adds an exclusive touch, away from the crowded parks.

The guided game drives are often praised for their depth of knowledge. Reviews mention guides like “John,” who seem to be not just spotters but storytellers, sharing facts and anecdotes that bring the landscape and wildlife alive.

Transportation in sturdy 4×4 vehicles is standard, and the schedule allows for ample time to enjoy each location. The accommodations, especially in the Serengeti, strike a balance between comfort and authenticity—a key factor for travelers who want a true safari feel without roughing it.

Value and Practicality

For $3,800, this tour includes all park fees, six nights of accommodation, meals, and guided game drives, making it a comprehensive package. The cost may seem high, but considering the included experiences and access to top parks, it’s competitive for a safari of this caliber.

Travelers have appreciated the flexibility—keeping the itinerary relatively relaxed with enough time at each park to see key wildlife. The guides’ knowledge and the quality of the vehicle make the long drives manageable and enjoyable.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This safari is ideal for adventurers eager to see Africa’s big game in a relatively short period. It suits those who appreciate guided tours with a focus on wildlife, scenery, and cultural insights. The tour is not recommended for very young children or travelers with mobility issues due to early starts and long drives.

This 7-day northern Tanzania safari offers well-rounded access to some of Africa’s most beloved parks, guided by experienced professionals who enhance every moment. From the iconic plains of the Serengeti to the fiery waters of Lake Natron, you’ll encounter a variety of landscapes and creatures that make Africa unforgettable.

For wildlife enthusiasts, this tour provides excellent opportunities to see the Big Five and experience the vibrancy of African ecosystems firsthand. The cultural component, with visits to Maasai villages, adds a personal touch that elevates it above a simple wildlife chase.

While it involves early mornings and long drives, those are part of the authentic safari experience and appreciated by many who want more than just a fleeting glimpse of the wild. The overall value, considering the inclusions, guides, and diverse locations, makes it a solid choice for travelers looking for an adventurous, authentic Tanzanian safari.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers 6 nights of accommodation, daily meals, guided game drives in a 4×4 vehicle, park entrance fees, and transfer to and from Arusha.

Are guides experienced?
Yes, the guides are described as knowledgeable, often praised for their ability to spot wildlife and share insightful information about the parks.

Does the tour include cultural experiences?
Yes, the itinerary includes a visit to a Maasai village, providing a glimpse into local traditions and lifestyles.

What should I bring?
Pack comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, insect repellent, and binoculars for better wildlife viewing.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s generally not suitable for children under 5, considering early mornings and long drives, and may not be ideal for pregnant women or those with certain health conditions.

How long are the drives?
Long drives are typical, especially between parks, but they are made as comfortable as possible with good vehicles and expert guides.

Do I need a visa or vaccinations?
You may need a visa and possibly yellow fever vaccination—check your country’s requirements before traveling.

This safari promises an authentic, well-paced exploration of Tanzania’s wildlife and landscapes, perfect for those who want a meaningful adventure in Africa.

You can check availability for your dates here: