Lake Manyara National Park is situated in the northern region of Tanzania, just 126 kilometres west of Arusha. Spanning 330 km², it features a stunning alkaline lake at its core that serves as a refuge for numerous bird species. During the period from November to April, the lake’s shores become a magnet for thousands of greater and lesser pink flamingos, as well as yellow-billed storks, pink-backed pelicans, and groups of hippos!
The park boasts diverse landscapes, including marshlands, grassy plains, and acacia woodlands, creating a habitat for tree-climbing lions and elephants with impressive tusks. Visitors can explore the Maji Moto hot springs and immerse themselves in warm, crystal-clear waters surrounded by lush trees.
The park also offers a unique point to witness the Rift Valley Escarpment, a remarkable geological formation that reaches a staggering 400 metres in height. Formed approximately 20 to 25 million years ago, this rift runs along the eastern side of Africa, adding to the park’s allure and providing an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts.
Tarangire is renowned for its colossal elephant herds which can be seen in the hundreds during the dry season. During the dry season vast herds of animals such as wildebeests, zebras, and lions migrate into the park in search of water forming a smaller-scale but captivating wildlife migration reminiscent of the Serengeti migration.
Beyond its wildlife sanctuary, Tarangire boasts ancient baobab trees, delights bird enthusiasts, and introduces visitors to unique creatures like dwarf mongooses. Whether in a day or night game drive or a walking tour, Tarangire promises a symphony of nature’s wonders and unforgettable encounters.
7:00 AM – 9:00 AM: Depart from Arusha for Tarangire National Park.
9:30 AM – 12:30 PM: Morning game drive in Tarangire National Park. Explore the diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, and lions.
12:30 PM – 1:30 PM: Enjoy a picnic lunch at a designated site within the park or a hot lunch with stunning views.
1:30 PM – 5:30 PM: Continue your game drive in Tarangire National Park, focusing on areas where wildlife concentrations are highest.
5:30 PM: Head to your accommodation inside Tarangire National Park or near Lake Manyara National Park.
7:00 AM – 8:00 AM: Have breakfast at your accommodation and depart for Lake Manyara National Park.
9:00 AM – 12:30 PM: Morning game drive in Lake Manyara National Park. Explore the diverse habitats and search for tree-climbing lions, flamingos, and other wildlife.
12:30 PM – 1:30 PM: Enjoy lunch at a picnic site within the park.
1:30 PM – 2:30 PM: Continue your game drive in Lake Manyara National Park, focusing on areas where you haven’t explored yet.
3:00 PM – 6:00 PM : Depart Lake Manyara National Park and head to your accommodation in the Serengeti National Park.
6:00 AM: Have an early breakfast at your accommodation.
6:30 AM – 11:30 AM: Start your morning game drive in Serengeti National Park, maximizing your chances of spotting wildlife during the cooler hours of the day. Visit different areas of the park, such as the Seronera Valley or the Moru Kopjes, known for their abundant wildlife populations.
12:00 PM: Enjoy a packed lunch provided by your lodge/camp, served at a scenic spot within Serengeti National Park.
1:30 PM – 5:30 PM: Afternoon game drive in Serengeti National Park. Explore the vast plains and search for the “Big Five” and other wildlife species. Then return to your accommodation in the Serengeti for dinner and relaxation.
6:00 AM: Have an early breakfast at your accommodation.
6:30 AM – 11:30 AM: Start your morning game drive in Serengeti National Park, maximizing your chances of spotting wildlife during the cooler hours of the day. Visit different areas of the park, such as the Seronera Valley or the Moru Kopjes, known for their abundant wildlife populations.
12:00 PM: Enjoy a packed lunch provided by your lodge/camp, served at a scenic spot within Serengeti National Park.
1:30 PM – 5:00 PM: Afternoon game drive in Serengeti National Park. Explore the vast plains and search for the “Big Five” and other wildlife species. Then return to your accommodation in the Serengeti for dinner and relaxation.
6:00 AM: Have an early breakfast at your accommodation
7:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Drive towards the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at a designated picnic site within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
1:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for an afternoon game drive. Explore the diverse habitats and search for the “Big Five” and other wildlife species.
6:00 PM: Depart from Ngorongoro Crater and head to your accommodation near the crater rim.
6:00 AM: Have an early breakfast at your accommodation.
7:00 AM: Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a morning game drive. Enjoy your final safari experience in this unique and stunning crater.
12:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Enjoy a packed lunch provided by your accommodation, served within the crater.
2:00 PM: Ascend out of the crater and begin your journey back to Arusha.
5:00 PM: Arrive back in Arusha, where you’ll be dropped off at your accommodation or transferred to the airport for your departure. End of tour.
Note: This itinerary is customizable based on your preferences and interests. Additional activities such as guided walks or cultural visits can be arranged upon request.
