- Manyara, Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater
Safari Overview
The annual wildebeest migration, marked by the iconic Mara River crossings, commences in July, progressing northwards through the Lobo and Wagakuria regions en route to the Masai Mara Game Reserve. By September, the wildebeest herds have dispersed across the expanse of the northern Serengeti National Park and the Masai Mara Game Reserve. Notably, certain sizable wildebeest groups opt to linger in this territory, and shifts in weather patterns may occasionally entice these herds to return from the Mara. As October arrives, the migration takes a southerly trajectory, heading towards the heart of the central Serengeti National Park.
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport, you will receive a warm welcome from your personal guide representing Suitable Tanzania Tour and Safaris. Once you reach your accommodation in Arusha, embrace the opportunity to unwind, rejuvenate, and immerse yourself in your initial encounter with the enchanting African ambiance. Your private safari guide is a seasoned expert, well-versed in Tanzania’s culture, national parks, and its incredible wildlife. A delectable dinner awaits you, setting the stage for a comfortable overnight stay at Ahadi Lodge.
Day 2: Tarangire National Park Exploration
Embark on an enriching journey from Arusha to Tarangire National Park. This vast park boasts endless grasslands, iconic baobab trees, and the perennial Tarangire River, which draws the largest elephant herds in northern Tanzania. Witness a multitude of animals congregating by the river, affording you the opportunity to spot elephants, giraffes, bushbucks, hartebeests, dik-diks, waterbucks, warthogs, and reedbucks throughout the year. The park is also home to buffalos, zebras, and wildebeests, often trailed by a range of predators such as lions. While leopards may make occasional appearances, cheetah sightings are rarer. Following a comprehensive game drive, you’ll retire to your chosen hotel or lodge for a restful overnight stay.
Day 3: Journey to Central Serengeti National Park
After a hearty breakfast, venture towards the heart of the Serengeti National Park, an expansive landscape characterized by boundless plains that extend as far as the eye can see. As you approach the central Seronera area, you’ll be welcomed by the rich wildlife habitat, featuring the Seronera River, a vital water source that attracts a diverse representation of the Serengeti’s species. The area teems with an array of wildlife, setting the stage for a rewarding afternoon game drive. Arrive in time for lunch and indulge in an afternoon filled with exploration and wildlife encounters. Your day concludes with a peaceful overnight stay at a campsite.
Day 4: Exploration of North Serengeti
Embark on an early morning game drive through the Central Serengeti, seeking out predator activities in their hunting pursuits. Return to camp for a satisfying breakfast before setting off with a picnic lunch towards the North Serengeti. The northern region hosts the renowned Great Wildebeest Migration, often crossing the iconic Mara River into Kenya’s Maasai Mara Reserve and later retracing their steps back to the Serengeti. Witnessing this migration is a remarkable spectacle, with a chance to observe the dramatic river crossings and the interactions with crocodiles. The North Serengeti also boasts a wealth of big cats, elephants, giraffes, impalas, and hippos. As the day winds down, you’ll head to your campsite for dinner and a restful overnight stay.
Day 5: Continued Exploration of North Serengeti
Day 5 unfolds as a full day dedicated to a comprehensive game drive in the Mara area of the North Serengeti. The region, known for its copious resident wildlife, offers a chance to witness the captivating crossing of the Mara River. This spectacle, where herds embark on crossings and sometimes return a few days later, is a remarkable sight. Although witnessing a crossing can be a matter of luck, it’s a spectacle that leaves an indelible mark. The area is characterized by stunning landscapes, including kopjes, woodlands, riverine vegetation, and open plains – reminiscent of Kenya’s famed Masai Mara Game Reserve. As the sun sets, retreat to your campsite for a well-deserved dinner and overnight stay.
Day 6: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Area
Start your day with an invigorating game drive in the North Serengeti before gradually making your way back to the central Serengeti. Depending on your interests, you might consider an optional activity such as visiting the Olduvai Gorge museum, a significant archaeological site in East Africa. Alternatively, explore the Laetoli Footprints, preserving the traces of humanity’s earliest existence dating back 3.6 million years. As the day progresses, your journey continues towards the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Settle in for a satisfying dinner and an overnight stay at a chosen hotel or lodge.
Day 7: Ngorongoro Crater and Departure
Commence your day with an early breakfast before descending into the Ngorongoro Crater – a steep and narrow road leading to this breathtaking location. As you traverse the varied landscapes of the crater, you’ll encounter an astonishing array of wildlife, potentially including the iconic Big Five – lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino, and leopard – within just a few hours. Alongside these impressive creatures, you’ll spot warthogs, wildebeests, zebras, hippos, and a remarkable variety of bird species. Following a morning dedicated to game viewing and a delightful picnic lunch, your exploration of the crater concludes. Depart from the crater in the late afternoon, heading towards Karatu for dinner and an overnight stay at a hotel or lodge.
Day 8: Lake Manyara National Park and Departure
Embark on your final safari adventure as you journey towards Lake Manyara National Park. Set along the Rift Valley Escarpment, this park centers around the alkaline Lake Manyara. The diverse vegetation creates a habitat for an array of animals, including monkeys within the forest, giraffes and antelopes on the grasslands, and elephants around the acacia trees. If luck is on your side, you might even catch a glimpse of the elusive Manyara lions lounging in the trees. With more than 400 bird species in the park, bird enthusiasts are in for a treat. After a