9-Days Tanzania Classic Safari Experience

Welcome to Tanzania! Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll be greeted by your friendly guide and transferred to the charming Katambuga House in Arusha. Nestled among lush gardens, this boutique lodge offers a peaceful start to your safari. Take the afternoon to relax and soak in the tranquil atmosphere, perhaps enjoying a refreshing dip in the pool or a stroll through the gardens. In the evening, indulge in a gourmet dinner, prepared with fresh, local ingredients, as you prepare for the adventure ahead.

After a leisurely breakfast, embark on your journey to Tarangire National Park, a hidden gem known for its diverse landscapes and large elephant populations. Your first game drive begins as you enter the park, where you’ll witness the stunning contrast of ancient baobab trees and verdant river valleys. Keep your camera ready for sightings of lions, zebras, and the iconic elephants of Tarangire. Arrive at Oliver’s Camp, a luxury tented camp offering an authentic safari experience with all the comforts of home. After settling in, enjoy a sundowner as you watch the sunset over the savannah, followed by a delicious dinner under the stars.

Today is dedicated to exploring the wild beauty of Tarangire. Start with an early morning game drive, when the animals are most active. As the sun rises, the park comes alive with the sounds and sights of the bush. Look out for herds of buffalo, impalas, and perhaps even a leopard lounging in the trees. After a picnic lunch in the park, continue your exploration with an afternoon game drive, delving deeper into this unique ecosystem. Return to camp in the evening, where you can share stories of the day’s adventures around the campfire before retreating to your luxurious tent.

After breakfast, depart for Lake Manyara National Park, known for its diverse habitats and incredible birdlife. Enjoy a game drive through the park, where you might spot tree-climbing lions, large flocks of flamingos, and elephants strolling along the lakeshore. After your game drive, continue to Karatu and check in at The Plantation Lodge, a charming retreat set amid lush gardens. Spend the afternoon relaxing by the pool or exploring the grounds, and enjoy a farm-to-table dining experience in the evening, savoring the fresh flavors of the region.

Today, embark on an unforgettable journey into the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations. Descend into the crater floor, where you’ll find a diverse array of wildlife, including the Big Five. The crater’s unique ecosystem supports a dense population of animals, from rhinos grazing in the open plains to lions basking in the sun. Enjoy a picnic lunch by the hippo pool, surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of the crater. After a full day of exploration, return to The Plantation Lodge for a relaxing evening.

After breakfast, journey to the world-renowned Serengeti National Park, home to the greatest wildlife spectacle on earth. Along the way, enjoy the stunning views as you pass through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Arrive at Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge, where luxury meets the wild. After settling in, head out for an afternoon game drive in the Serengeti, where you’ll have your first chance to spot the park’s incredible wildlife, including elephants, lions, and perhaps even the elusive cheetah. Return to the lodge in the evening for a gourmet dinner, followed by a peaceful night in your luxurious tent.

Today is a full day dedicated to exploring the vast Serengeti plains. Begin with an early morning game drive, when the light is perfect for photography, and the animals are most active. Witness the drama of the wild as predators and prey interact in their natural habitat. Return to the lodge for lunch and some relaxation before heading out on an afternoon game drive. The Serengeti is famous for its large prides of lions, leopards hidden in the trees, and the endless herds of wildebeest and zebras that migrate through the park. As the sun sets, return to the lodge for a memorable dinner and time to unwind.

Your final full day in the Serengeti is a chance to soak in the magic of this extraordinary landscape. Perhaps start your day with an optional hot air balloon safari, gliding over the plains as the sun rises—a truly unforgettable experience. Continue with morning and afternoon game drives, exploring different areas of the park. Whether you’re watching a cheetah sprint after its prey or observing a herd of elephants as they move across the plains, every moment in the Serengeti is filled with wonder. Enjoy your last evening in the Serengeti with a special dinner under the stars.

After a final breakfast in the Serengeti, it’s time to say goodbye to this incredible wilderness. You’ll be transferred to the airstrip for your flight back to Arusha, with one last opportunity to spot wildlife as you drive through the park. Upon arrival in Arusha, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your onward journey, taking with you memories of an extraordinary adventure in Tanzania.