Tour Summary This safari takes you through three of Tanzania’s most iconic landscapes: the elephant-rich plains of Tarangire, the “Eighth Wonder of the World” (Ngorongoro Crater), and the lush groundwater forests of Lake Manyara. It strikes a perfect balance between adventure and comfort, utilizing high-quality midrange lodges located in the scenic Karatu highlands.
Why You Will Love This
The Big Five: High probability of spotting lions, elephants, buffalo, and leopards, with the best chance in the country to see the rare Black Rhino.
Diverse Landscapes: Experience everything from giant Baobab trees and savannahs to a prehistoric caldera and soda lakes.
Birdwatcher’s Paradise: From the pink hues of flamingos at Manyara to the raptors of Tarangire.
Time Efficient: Minimal driving time between parks, meaning more time spent with wildlife.
Your adventure begins with a 2.5-hour drive from Arusha into the heart of Tarangire National Park. After entering the gate, the action starts immediately as you enter a landscape dotted with ancient, towering Baobab trees.
From June through October, the Tarangire River becomes the only permanent water source in the region, attracting massive herds of up to 300 elephants at a time. You will navigate the river circuits in search of lions and leopards lounging in the branches of sausage trees. After a full day of sightings, you will head to the lush Karatu highlands to settle into your lodge.
Accommodation: Eileen’s Trees Inn (Karatu)
Meal Plan: Full Board (Lunch and Dinner at the lodge/picnic).
Rise with the sun for the headline event of your safari. After a short, scenic drive to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, you will descend 600 meters down the steep walls into the Ngorongoro Crater floor.
This self-contained ecosystem is a “Garden of Eden,” hosting over 25,000 large mammals. Because the animals rarely leave the crater, the density of wildlife is unparalleled. You’ll explore the Lerai Forest and the alkaline Lake Magadi, keeping your binoculars ready for the endangered Black Rhino. The open plains are a theatre for predator-prey interactions—watch for hyenas and prides of lions on the hunt.
Accommodation: Hhando Coffee Lodge (Karatu)
Meal Plan: Full Board (Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, and Dinner).
Your final day takes you to the base of the Great Rift Valley Escarpment. Lake Manyara offers a completely different atmosphere—a lush, green jungle fed by underground springs.
You will drive through mahogany and acacia woodlands, home to large troops of baboons and the world-famous tree-climbing lions. Reach the shores of the soda lake to witness thousands of flamingos painting the water pink. After a morning of discovery and a final bush lunch, you will begin your return journey, arriving in Arusha by the late afternoon.
Meal Plan: Breakfast and Picnic Lunch.
Safari Dining: The Lunch Experience
On a safari of this caliber, lunch is a flexible event designed to keep you in the heart of the action.
The Gourmet Picnic Box: Instead of returning to the lodge and missing wildlife sightings, you will enjoy a “Bush Lunch” at designated scenic sites.
What to Expect: A fresh, balanced meal including savory proteins (such as grilled chicken or beef), local pastries (samosas or quiches), garden-fresh salads or sandwiches, seasonal fruits, and a sweet treat.
The Setting: You’ll dine at spots like the Hippo Pool in the Crater, where you can enjoy your meal while watching hippos wallow just meters away.
| Inclusions | Exclusions |
| Professional English-speaking guide | International & domestic flights |
| 4×4 Safari Land Cruiser with pop-up roof | Tourist Visa fees |
| All National Park & Crater entry fees | Tips for the guide (Recommended $15–$20/day) |
| Full-board accommodation (BLD) | Travel insurance |
| Unlimited bottled water during game drives | Alcoholic beverages & sodas |
| Arrival & Departure transfers | Personal laundry & items of a personal nature |
We have selected lodges that provide a seamless transition from the ruggedness of the trail to the relaxation of the highlands.
Eileen’s Trees Inn / Hhando Coffee Lodge
Setting: Nestled in tropical gardens or overlooking working coffee plantations.
Amenities:
High-Speed Wi-Fi in common areas and rooms.
Swimming Pool for a refreshing dip after a dusty game drive.
Ensuite Bathrooms with hot rain showers and flushing toilets.
24/7 Electricity with universal charging stations for your camera gear.
Restaurant & Bar serving farm-to-table Tanzanian and International cuisine.
Clothing: Pack “layers.” Early mornings at the Ngorongoro rim can be chilly (10°C), while afternoons in the parks are warm.
Photography: Bring a lens with at least 300mm focal length for wildlife. Tarangire and the Crater offer excellent light for 4K video.
Charging: Most safari vehicles have 220V power points to charge cameras and phones during game drives.
Dust: During the dry season, the roads can be dusty. A lightweight scarf or “buff” is highly recommended.
Vehicle Style: We utilize closed-type 4×4 Land Cruisers with pop-up roofs for the best protection against dust and sun on long drives, but open-sided vehicles can be arranged for the Crater upon request.
Charging: Your vehicle is equipped with power points; keep your batteries topped up while you drive!
Available Accomodation Facilities
