From Arusha: Safari in Serengeti, Tarangire, and Ngorongoro

Travelers dreaming of the classic African safari will likely be drawn to Tanzania’s incredible landscapes and abundant wildlife, and this 7-day tour offers a comprehensive glimpse into the heart of it. While we haven’t personally joined this exact trip, detailed reviews and itineraries reveal a well-rounded experience that balances game drives, cultural encounters, and scenic drives.

What makes this particular safari appealing? First, the expert guides are often highlighted for their knowledge and enthusiasm, helping you spot elusive animals and understand the local ecosystems. Second, the variety of parks covered ensures you see everything from elephants and lions in Tarangire to the dramatic Ngorongoro Crater. Third, the inclusion of cultural visits, like a Maasai boma, adds a meaningful dimension beyond just wildlife.

One possible consideration is the price point of $5,720 per person. While this includes most essentials—meals, park fees, and luxury accommodations—it’s a significant investment. Travelers should weigh this against the quality of guides, vehicles, and inclusions.

This tour suits those who value authentic safari experiences, are comfortable with long game drives, and want a mix of wildlife viewing and cultural insights. It’s especially suitable for travelers who appreciate in-depth guided trips and are prepared for a week on the move.

Key Points

• Comprehensive 7-day itinerary covering major parks and cultural sites in Tanzania.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with local knowledge and wildlife spotting tips.
• Diverse activities include game drives, walking safaris, canoeing, and a Maasai boma visit.
• Luxury accommodations provide comfort after days of adventure.
• All park and crater fees included, ensuring smooth travel without hidden costs.
• Suitable for travelers who seek authentic, well-rounded safari experiences and are comfortable with full-day game drives.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary

This safari begins with a bang—your first day entails a walking safari in Arusha National Park alongside an armed ranger. This close-to-nature experience delivers a more intimate connection with the environment, offering sightings of giraffes, colobus monkeys, and flamingos. The addition of canoeing on Momella Lake is a nice touch, giving travelers a chance to see waterbirds and possibly hippos in their natural habitat.

On Day 2, you head to Tarangire National Park, known for its impressive elephant herds and iconic baobab trees. The highlight here is the game drive, where you’ll spot herds of elephants and perhaps lions lounging in the shade. The afternoon is dedicated to visiting a Maasai boma, which many guests find to be a heartfelt peek into local customs and traditions. It’s a chance to ask questions, see traditional dances, and learn about Maasai life firsthand.

Day 3 takes you to Lake Manyara and Mto wa Mbu Village. This combination allows for a scenic village biking tour, which many reviewers appreciated as a break from vehicle safaris. You’ll get to mingle with locals, see banana plantations, and taste Tanzanian dishes, providing a cultural flavor that complements the wildlife adventures.

The journey continues to the Serengeti on Day 4, where a scenic drive with wildlife viewing en route sets the tone. Arriving in time for an afternoon game drive, you’ll step into one of Africa’s most famous landscapes. The Serengeti’s vast plains are home to lions, cheetahs, elephants, and possibly the Great Migration—if timing aligns.

Spending a full day in Serengeti (Day 5) means more chances to see predators stalking prey, herds of elephants, and other iconic savannah species. Whether you prefer two game drives or a single full-day with a picnic, this segment offers ample opportunity to witness wildlife in action.

Day 6 is dedicated to the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most concentrated wildlife areas in Africa. Descending to the crater floor for a 4-5 hour tour, you’ll encounter rhinos, lions, hippos, and perhaps even elusive leopards. The crater’s unique caldera shape creates a natural enclosure, boosting your chances of seeing a diverse array of animals in a relatively compact area.

Finally, on Day 7, the trip winds down with a return to Arusha. A stop at a local craft market gives you a chance to pick up souvenirs, while the drive offers a last look at Tanzanian landscapes. Transfer services to Kilimanjaro International Airport or your hotel are included, making departure straightforward.

What Sets This Safari Apart

Guides and vehicle quality are frequently praised—many reviewers mention guides like Peter or Joseph, who are described as “knowledgeable and passionate,” making game drives both educational and fun. The private 4×4 Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof ensures you get an unobstructed view and space to stretch out, which is crucial for long drives.

Cultural experiences are a highlight, with visits to Maasai villages adding depth and understanding of local ways of life, which many find enriching compared to a purely wildlife-focused tour.

The accommodation options range from luxury tents to lodges, providing comfort after full days of activity. Many reviewers note that the lodges are well-located, with some offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.

Pricing and inclusions are quite comprehensive, covering all park and crater fees, cultural activities, meals, and airport transfers. Such inclusivity means fewer surprises and a more relaxed trip.

Timing and logistics are well thought out, with most drives optimized for wildlife activity, especially early mornings and late afternoons. The tour’s 7-day structure balances full days of exploration without feeling overly rushed.

Practical Considerations & Tips

Travelers should come prepared with comfortable shoes, a good camera, sunscreen, insect repellent, and plenty of water. The tour advises packing light, breathable clothing, and a hat for sun protection. Since smoking, plastic bottles, and alcohol in the vehicle are prohibited, plan accordingly.

The price of $5,720 per person might seem steep, but considering the inclusions—luxury accommodations, expert guides, all park fees, and meals—the value is significant for a comprehensive safari of this caliber. It’s ideal for those who want a hassle-free, all-inclusive experience with a focus on authentic wildlife encounters and culture.

Participants should be aware that the tour isn’t suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or travelers with back problems or mobility challenges. Flexibility in booking is available, with a cancellation policy allowing full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance.

The Sum Up

This 7-day Tanzanian safari from Arusha offers a rich blend of wildlife viewing, cultural insights, and scenic drives. The well-organized itinerary covers key parks like Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Tarangire, all while providing comfortable accommodations and expert guides to enhance your experience.

It’s best suited for travelers who seek an immersive, authentic safari adventure that balances game drives with meaningful cultural exchanges. The inclusion of activities like walking safaris and village visits adds unique touches that elevate this trip beyond a standard wildlife tour.

While the price is notable, the comprehensive nature of this package—covering everything from park fees to meals—means you can enjoy a seamless safari without surprises, making it a solid choice for those serious about exploring Tanzania’s wildlife and traditions.

If you’re looking for a trip that combines the thrill of spotting Africa’s iconic animals with genuine cultural engagement, this safari is definitely worth considering.

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FAQ

What is included in the price of $5,720?
All park and crater fees, cultural activity costs, private 4×4 Land Cruiser with pop-up roof, all listed meals, luxury or mid-range accommodations (on request), guides, and airport transfers are included.

Are accommodations comfortable?
Yes, the tour offers luxury or mid-range lodges and tents, chosen for comfort and scenic locations, providing restful evenings after busy days.

How long are the game drives?
Most game drives are full or half days, with the Ngorongoro tour lasting about 4-5 hours on the crater floor and full days in Serengeti.

Can I expect wildlife sightings every day?
While wildlife is abundant, sightings depend on the time of day and luck. Guides are skilled at tracking animals, and early morning drives increase your chances.

Is the tour suitable for families?
It’s not recommended for children under 5, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues. It’s best suited for adventurous adults comfortable with long drives.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, insect repellent, water, and lightweight clothing suitable for warm days and cooler evenings.

How flexible is the booking?
You can reserve now and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind for planning your trip.

This Tanzania safari offers an authentic, well-rounded adventure for wildlife lovers and culture enthusiasts alike. With professional guides, thoughtful logistics, and diverse activities, it promises a memorable journey into the wild heart of Africa.

You can check availability for your dates here: