Day 1: Arusha to Tarangire National Park
Begin your safari with a scenic drive to Tarangire National Park, renowned for its iconic baobab trees and large elephant herds. Enjoy a full-day game drive exploring the park’s diverse landscapes and wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, and lions. Overnight at a lodge or camp near Tarangire.
Day 2: Tarangire to Mara River
Travel to the Mara River region, where you’ll witness the incredible Great Migration (seasonal). Explore the areas where wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles cross the river, often encountering predators in the process. Overnight near the Mara River.
Day 3: Full Day at Mara River
Continue your exploration of the Mara River area, spending the day tracking herds of wildebeest and watching crocodiles and lions along the riverbanks. The Great Migration offers exceptional wildlife photography opportunities. Overnight at your lodge or camp.
Day 4: Full Day at Mara River
Another full day at the Mara River, capturing the dramatic scenes of the migration, witnessing river crossings, and observing the intense interactions between animals and predators. Overnight at the Mara River.
Day 5: Mara River to Serengeti National Park
Drive to Serengeti National Park, one of the world’s most famous wildlife destinations. Explore the endless plains teeming with wildlife, including the Big Five. Enjoy a game drive and overnight in the Serengeti.
Day 6: Full Day in Serengeti National Park
Spend a full day in the Serengeti, exploring its diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife. Track lions, leopards, and elephants, and witness the Great Migration if you're traveling during the season. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.
Day 7: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater
After breakfast, head to Ngorongoro Crater. Descend into this spectacular caldera for a half-day game drive, spotting an abundance of wildlife, including black rhinos, lions, and elephants. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the crater before returning to the rim. Overnight near Ngorongoro.
Day 8: Ngorongoro to Lake Eyasi
Travel to Lake Eyasi for a cultural experience with the Hadzabe and Datoga tribes. Join the Hadzabe for a traditional hunt and learn about the metalworking skills of the Datoga. Overnight near Lake Eyasi.
Day 9: Lake Eyasi to Lake Manyara National Park
Drive to Lake Manyara National Park, famous for its tree-climbing lions and diverse birdlife. Explore the park’s varied habitats, including the lake’s shores and the acacia woodlands. Spot elephants, flamingos, and other wildlife during your game drive. Overnight near Lake Manyara.
Day 10: Lake Manyara to Arusha
Enjoy a morning game drive in Lake Manyara before heading back to Arusha. Spend the rest of the day relaxing or shopping in the local markets. Overnight in Arusha.
Day 11: Arusha to Mkomazi National Park
Drive to Mkomazi National Park, a lesser-known gem in Tanzania. Enjoy a game drive in this beautiful park, home to a variety of wildlife, including the endangered African wild dog. Mkomazi also offers spectacular views of the Pare Mountains. Overnight near Mkomazi.
Day 12: Mkomazi to Lake Natron and Return to Arusha
Travel to Lake Natron, a strikingly beautiful alkaline lake known for its vivid red waters and the surrounding volcanic landscape. Visit the nearby waterfalls and observe flamingos feeding in the lake. In the afternoon, return to Arusha, concluding your 12-day safari.