Explore the soul of Tanzania on this immersive 8-day safari, taking you from the ancient baobabs of Tarangire to the dramatic depths of Ngorongoro Crater and the boundless plains of the Serengeti. With private game drives, a magical night safari, and authentic cultural experiences, this adventure blends wild beauty with local connection.
Highlights of Tanzania
An unforgettable journey through Tanzania’s iconic wilderness
Destination
Tanzania
Base Price
From $3556 Per person
Trip Duration
8
Days
Trip Overview
Highlight Experiences
Authentic Maasai Boma Visit
Engage meaningfully with the Maasai community, learning about their customs, ceremonies, and deep connection to the land.
Exclusive Night Safari in Tarangire
Venture into the African bush under a starry sky, watching for elusive nocturnal species like genets, bush babies, and lions on the prowl.
Ngorongoro Crater Exploration
Descend into the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera, home to a dense population of predators, grazing wildlife, and dramatic crater landscapes.
Optional Zanzibar Extension
Transition from safari to sea with a relaxing beach stay in Zanzibar’s turquoise waters and spice-scented culture.
Serengeti Safari Experience
Immerse yourself in the legendary Serengeti ecosystem, with front-row seats to the Great Migration (seasonal) and unforgettable game viewing year-round.
Thrilling Game Drives in Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater, and Serengeti
Spot the Big Five and a host of other wildlife across some of Africa’s most iconic landscapes, from baobab-dotted plains to the endless savannah.
Wildlife
Big Cats in Serengeti – lions, cheetahs, and leopards often seen on the hunt
Black Rhinos & Big Five in Ngorongoro Crater – a haven for iconic species
Colorful Birdlife – including lilac-breasted rollers, ostriches, and hornbills
Elephants & Baobabs in Tarangire – massive herds and dramatic scenery
Giraffes, Zebras & Wildebeest – in abundance across all parks, especially during the migration
Nocturnal Species – spotted on the night game drive: genets, bush babies, hyenas, and more
Rare Antelope Species – like the fringe-eared oryx and greater kudu in Tarangire
Clients Testimonials
What's Included
- Private 4x4 custom safari vehicle with pop-up roof, fuel, and English-speaking professional driver-guide
- All park entrance, conservation, concession, and crater fees
- Accommodation in selected lodges and camps (as per itinerary)
- Meals as indicated in the itinerary (Full Board or Bed & Breakfast)
- Drinking drinking water during all game drives
- Game drives in Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater
- Exclusive night game drive in Tarangire
- Cultural visit to a Maasai Boma
- Emergency evacuation coverage with AMREF Flying Doctors
- Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
- Government taxes and service charges
What's Not included
- International flights
- Visa fees for Tanzania
- Travel & medical insurance (highly recommended)
- Tips and gratuities for guide, lodge staff, and service providers
- Personal expenses (e.g. laundry, souvenirs, telephone calls)
- Optional activities (e.g. hot air balloon safari, spa treatments, extra excursions not listed)
- Additional meals and drinks not specified in the itinerary
Pricing
| People | USD | Room |
|---|---|---|
| 2 People | $4194 per person |
1 Double |
| 4 People | $3790 per person |
2 Double |
| 6 People | $3556 per person |
3 Double |
Location Map
Itinerary
Day 1 :
Arrival in Arusha
Upon arrival at the Airport, Your private driver will be waiting for you just outside the arrival terminal and will transfer you to your accommodation for a good night’s rest.
Today, you’ll leave the hotel and head to Tarangire National Park, arriving just in time for your afternoon game drive, which you can enjoy until sunset. Tarangire is famous for its ancient baobab trees and large herds of elephants, offering a truly iconic safari setting. You’ll explore the park’s varied landscapes and follow the winding Tarangire River, a lifeline for wildlife in the dry season.
A picnic lunch will be served along the way, with your guide selecting a scenic, shady spot where you can relax and soak in the beauty of the bush.
Day 3 :
Explore Tarangire National Park
Today, you’ll enjoy a full day of game drives with your private guide. Together, you’ll plan the day’s explorations based on your interests and wildlife activity. Your guide can bring a picnic lunch for you to enjoy in the park, or you can choose to return to the lodge for lunch, it's flexible and can be planned entirely around your preferences.
In the evening, you’re in for something truly special a night game drive with a guide from Tarangire Safari Lodge. This unique experience offers a completely different perspective of the park, as you track nocturnal animals and witness the bush come alive after dark.
Day 4 :
Transfer to Karatu
Enjoy a final game drive as you make your way toward the park gate, soaking in the last sightings of Tarangire wildlife.
On the journey to Karatu, you’ll stop at a Maasai boma for an authentic cultural experience. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to learn more about the traditions, lifestyle, and customs of this iconic local tribe.
Tonight you will stay at Crater Forest Tented Camp, a charming camp set on a highland coffee plantation at an altitude of 1,800 meters, right on the edge of the Ngorongoro tropical forest. From your tent, you might even spot wildlife such as elephants moving quietly through the trees.
Today, you will leave early for an unforgettable game drive in the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa's most iconic wildlife destinations.
Day 6 :
Central Serengeti Exploration
Today you will enjoy Serengeti, Tanzania’s most iconic safari destination.
Enjoy game drives in Central Serengeti with your private guide. Safari days typically start early around 6:00 to 6:30 AM when wildlife is most active. Morning game drives usually return by 10:00–11:00 AM, giving you time to relax during the warmer hours of the day.
Afternoon drives begin around 3:30 to 4:00 PM and end at sunset. With your private guide, you have the flexibility to plan your day to your liking including the option for full-day safaris with a packed lunch, allowing you to stay out and explore as long as you wish.
Day 7 :
Transfer to Arusha
Today you will transfer back to Arusha, where your guide will bring you to Tumbili Lodge. Sadly, it’s your last day on safari, but the beach is calling! Settle in at the beautiful Tumbili Lodge, unwind with a final sundowner in the peaceful garden, take a refreshing dip in the pool, and enjoy a lovely dinner to close your safari experience. It’s the perfect spot to relax and reflect before the next chapter of your journey begins.
Day 8 :
End of Safari
After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the airport in time for your flight back home, or you can choose to continue to Zanzibar.
Accommodations
Take a look at some of the beautiful places you’ll be staying at during your trip.
Crater Forest Tented Camp (Full Board)
Ikoma Tented Camp (Full Board)
Outpost Lodge (Full Board)
Tumbili Lodge Arusha (Full Board)
Frequently Asked Questions – Highlights of Tanzania
What does the 8-day Highlights of Tanzania Safari itinerary include?
The Highlights of Tanzania Safari is a classic 8-day journey through the country’s most iconic safari destinations. Starting in Arusha, you’ll visit Tarangire National Park, known for its dense elephant population and dramatic baobab landscapes; Ngorongoro Crater, one of the best places in Africa to see the Big Five in a single day; and Serengeti National Park, where the vast plains teem with wildlife year-round. With overnights in well-located lodges and tented camps, the itinerary is carefully designed to give travelers a rich and immersive safari experience without the rush of constant transfers.
How much time is spent on safari game drives during the tour?
This itinerary is centered on maximizing your time in the parks. You’ll enjoy a full day of game viewing in Tarangire, a crater floor drive in Ngorongoro that gives you access to some of the highest wildlife densities in Africa, and two nights in the Serengeti, allowing for morning and evening game drives. The schedule is well-paced so you can enjoy both the thrill of the safari and the comfort of your accommodations each evening.
What wildlife can I expect to see on this Tanzania safari itinerary?
On this safari, you’re likely to see an incredible range of wildlife. From massive elephant herds in Tarangire to prides of lions and wandering rhinos in Ngorongoro Crater, each park offers something distinct. The Serengeti, depending on the season, may also offer glimpses of the Great Migration in addition to cheetahs, leopards, zebras, giraffes, hyenas, and countless antelope species. It’s a top-tier itinerary for wildlife lovers and photographers alike.
What kind of accommodations are included in the tour?
Throughout the journey, you'll stay in a comfortable selection of lodges and tented camps that offer great access to the parks while providing a relaxing environment at day’s end. Accommodations typically include places like Tarangire Safari Lodge, Crater Forest Tented Camp, and Ikoma Tented Camp in the Serengeti. All meals are included, and the lodges are known for their warm hospitality, hearty cuisine, and prime locations surrounded by nature.
Who is the Highlights of Tanzania Safari best suited for?
This trip is ideal for travelers who want to experience the essence of northern Tanzania without the need for a longer itinerary. Whether you're a first-time safari-goer, a couple on a romantic adventure, or a family seeking wildlife immersion, this tour balances adventure, accessibility, and comfort. It can also be a great fit for those pairing a Tanzania safari with a beach extension in Zanzibar or additional time in East Africa.
Have questions about this itinerary? We’re here to help.
All of our itineraries can be adapted to suit your personal interests and preferences. Please feel free to discuss these with us so we can personalize your tour for your maximum enjoyment.
