10 Days Tanzania Classic Safari

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport, an Asilia guide will greet you and assist you into a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, providing a bottle of water and a cool towel for your convenience. The transfer to your lodge takes approximately 35 minutes to Rivertrees Lodge or 50 minutes to Lake Duluti Lodge. This journey offers a wonderful opportunity to chat with your driver about the local surroundings and begin acclimatizing to the beauty of Tanzania. Depending on your arrival time, you can unwind by the pool with a refreshing drink and a good book or indulge in a soothing massage to ease any post-flight tension. Both lodges feature in-house dining with a diverse selection of local and international cuisine, ensuring that every palate is satisfied before you settle in for a restful night’s sleep.

After a delicious breakfast, you’ll be greeted by your Asilia driver or driver-guide, depending on your chosen itinerary. Your safari begins with a drive through the bustling town of Arusha, heading westward. As you pass small settlements and markets, keep an eye out for bicycles laden with clusters of bananas in the vibrant town of Mto wa Mbu. Next, enjoy a game drive through Lake Manyara National Park, where you’ll immerse yourself in Tanzania's rich bush and wildlife. The park, centered around a large alkaline lake, attracts a diverse array of birdlife throughout the year. Between November and April, look for flocks of greater and lesser pink flamingos, alongside pelicans, storks, herons, and even hippos. On the grassy plains and within the acacia woodlands, keep watch for lions, elephants, giraffes, buffalo, zebras, and wildebeests. Enjoy a picnic lunch and a refreshing drink in the shade before continuing your journey towards Ngorongoro. As you ascend the steep walls of the Great Rift Valley, you’ll pass through the town of Karatu and enter the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The road climbs through lush, dense tropical jungle until you reach the crater rim road, where a spectacular viewpoint awaits. If the weather is clear, this stop is perfect for photos and stretching your legs. Continuing clockwise around the crater rim, you’ll eventually arrive at the welcoming space of The Highlands. Here, a scenic drive will take you through the green rolling highlands of Ngorongoro. As you circumnavigate the base of Ol Moti Crater, you might see goat herders and schoolchildren waving. After your arrival, enjoy a late lunch and spend the afternoon at your leisure, soaking in the breathtaking views from your veranda.

Today begins with an early start, aiming to be among the first vehicles on the crater floor. It’s likely to be cold and dark as you depart from camp, bundled in warm jackets and Maasai blankets. However, the chill quickly fades as you descend the inner walls of the stunning Ngorongoro Crater. Once you reach the crater floor, take some time to enjoy coffee and breakfast snacks while you immerse yourself in the game drive experience in this unique setting. A highlight of the day will be a picnic lunch by the hippo pool, where you can observe grunting rafts of hippos keeping you company as you refuel. By mid-afternoon, it’s time to ascend back up the caldera walls and return to the rim. After a refreshing break at camp, enjoy a drink at the bar before dinner. Overnight: Entamanu or The Highlands

Today, you can choose to either drive to Dunia Camp in the Serengeti or fly to Mwiba Lodge in the Mwiba Wildlife Reserve. Driving to Dunia Camp: The drive from the crater rim takes you through changing vegetation down to the open short grass plains of Ngorongoro and the Serengeti, providing a stunning introduction to the “southern plains.” While the journey offers beautiful scenery, it can be long and dusty, especially when vehicles pass in the opposite direction. At Naabi Hill Gate, you’ll pause to arrange park fees and can enjoy a picnic lunch under the trees. A quick walk up Naabi Hill rewards you with breathtaking views of the Serengeti, particularly spectacular when the Migration is in the south. The journey continues for approximately 2.5 hours to Dunia Camp, though this may vary based on wildlife sightings along the route. Arriving in the mid-afternoon allows you time to relax, freshen up, and soak in your new surroundings. Flying to Mwiba Lodge: If you opt for the flight, you’ll leave The Highlands after an early breakfast. The drive back around the crater rim leads you down the escarpment to Manyara Airstrip, where you’ll connect with a short flight to Mwiba. Upon arrival at Mwiba Airstrip, a guide will greet you and escort you to the wildlife reserve. After a game drive transfer to the luxurious Mwiba Lodge, enjoy a refreshing drink and lunch at the camp. You’ll have time to relax by the pool and acclimate to your new surroundings before heading out for an afternoon game drive. As the day comes to a close, indulge in a sumptuous dinner in camp while listening to the sounds of the surrounding bush from the comfort of your bed. Overnight: Dunia Camp or Mwiba Lodge

At Dunia Camp, your dedicated guide and private vehicle give you the freedom to tailor your game drives to your preferences. You can set off early at 6:00 AM with coffee and a packed breakfast, maximizing your morning wildlife experience. Alternatively, choose to take a picnic lunch and spend the entire day immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of the Serengeti. For a breathtaking view of the landscape, consider booking a hot air balloon safari. This unique experience allows you to soar high above the plains and witness the stunning sunrise over the Serengeti—a memory you won't soon forget. If you're staying at Mwiba Lodge, you have the added option of exploring the wilderness on foot with a professional walking guide. Alternatively, unwind at the lodge’s spa for a rejuvenating experience. Mwiba also offers night game drives, providing the chance to see elusive species that are rarely spotted during the day. If you prefer a leisurely afternoon, both Dunia and Mwiba have cozy spots to relax and soak in the beauty of your surroundings. Overnight: Dunia Camp or Mwiba Lodge

At Breezes Beach Club & Spa, you can tailor your experience to be as laid-back or active as you desire. Dive into the vibrant underwater world at the dive center, immerse yourself in local culture with a Swahili cooking class, or try your hand at various water sports available. From either Breezes or Zawadi Hotel, a myriad of activities awaits on Zanzibar Island. For couples seeking something unique, a romantic lunch on your private sandbank at "Infinity Island" is highly recommended. Alternatively, explore Stone Town with a walking tour, marveling at intricately carved doors and winding pathways that showcase the rich architectural heritage of the region. Whatever your interests, Zanzibar offers plenty to see and do, ensuring a memorable island getaway. Overnight: Breezes Beach Club & Spa or Zawadi Hotel

On your final day, a representative from Paul Tours will collect you from your hotel. They will assist you with your transfer to Zanzibar International Airport for your onward travel connections. Reflect on the unforgettable experiences of your journey as you prepare to depart from this beautiful island. Safe travels!