6-Day Tanzania Mid Range Safari
Tanzania’s Northern Circuit: A Six-Day Safari Expedition
Embark on a six-day odyssey through Tanzania’s legendary Northern Circuit, traversing its iconic landscapes in a specially modified safari vehicle. Picture yourself standing beneath a canvas pop-top, your perspective elevated, as your expert guide and driver unveils the secrets of this wild realm. Your journey begins in the vast plains of the Serengeti, a stage for nature’s grandest spectacle: the Great Migration, where a million wildebeest and a quarter-million zebra engage in a timeless dance of survival. From there, descend into the breathtaking caldera of Ngorongoro, a natural amphitheater teeming with wildlife, its panoramic views offering unparalleled photographic opportunities. Finally, explore the verdant shores of Lake Manyara, a sanctuary where lions defy gravity, ascending acacia trees, and pink clouds of flamingos paint the alkaline waters.
General Expectations:
- Diverse Wildlife:
- You’ll encounter a vast array of animals, including the “Big Five” (lions, leopards, elephants, rhinoceroses, and buffaloes), as well as zebras, giraffes, wildebeest, and numerous other species.
- Each park offers unique viewing opportunities:
- Lake Manyara: Known for its tree-climbing lions, diverse birdlife, and beautiful scenery.
- Serengeti: Famous for the Great Migration (depending on the time of year) and its vast open plains teeming with wildlife.
- Ngorongoro Crater: A natural wonder with a high concentration of animals in a relatively small area, including the endangered black rhino.
- Mid-Range Accommodations:
- Expect comfortable lodges or tented camps that offer amenities like private bathrooms, comfortable beds, and meals.
- These accommodations provide a balance between comfort and an authentic safari experience.
- Game Drives:
- You’ll spend a significant portion of your time on game drives in 4×4 safari vehicles with pop-up roofs for optimal viewing.
- Expect early morning and afternoon game drives, as these are the times when animals are most active.
- Professional Guides:
- Experienced and knowledgeable guides will accompany you, providing information about the wildlife, flora, and fauna.
- They’ll also help you spot animals and ensure your safety.
- Scenic Landscapes:
- Tanzania’s landscapes are breathtaking, from the lush forests of Lake Manyara to the endless plains of the Serengeti and the stunning views from the Ngorongoro Crater rim.
Day 1: Pick Up from The Airport
We’ll whisk you from the airport to Tulia Spa & Boutique, setting the stage for a day of Arusha discovery. Unearth the treasures of its local markets, witness the artistry of the Maasai, delve into its rich cultural heritage, and explore the captivating exhibits of the city museum.
Main Destination: Arusha City
Accommodation: Tulia Boutique Hotel & Spa
Day 2: Arusha to Lake Manyara National Park
With the morning sun casting long shadows, your exploration of Lake Manyara commences at half-past eight. The park, a haven for avian enthusiasts, promises a vibrant spectacle of flamingos painting the lake’s edge. Your quest for the elusive, arboreal lions, a rare and captivating sight, adds an element of thrilling anticipation to the day. The game drive unfolds, revealing the park’s diverse inhabitants: lumbering hippos at their favored pool, the geothermal wonders of the hot springs, and a supporting cast of buffalo, wildebeest, warthog, and a myriad of raptors and primates. As the afternoon wanes, the journey concludes, leading you to the tranquil embrace of Farm of Dreams Lodge in Mto wa Mbu, a sanctuary of rest after a day of wild encounters.
Main Destination: Lake Manyara National Park
Accommodation: Farm of Dreams Lodge
Day 3: Mto wa Mbu to Serengeti National Park
Our day begins with breakfast, followed by a scenic 6-hour drive to the legendary Serengeti National Park. Our route takes us through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, where we’ll pause for 20 minutes to marvel at the breathtaking views.
Next, you’ll have the opportunity to delve into the vibrant culture of the Maasai people with an optional village visit (20-45 minutes). Learn about their fascinating traditions, from their historical warrior practices to their unique relationship with the land. While some customs have evolved, the Maasai’s enduring spirit remains captivating.
We then continue to the Serengeti, the stage for one of nature’s greatest spectacles: the wildebeest and zebra migration. Our focus will be the Seronera area, the central Serengeti, known for its abundant wildlife. After arriving in the late afternoon and enjoying lunch, we’ll embark on an exciting game drive. We’ll explore the plains until late evening, culminating in a memorable Serengeti sunset.
Main Destination: Serengeti National Park
Accommodation: Safari Haven Serengeti Camp
Day 4: Seronera, Serengeti National Park
Begin your day with an invigorating early morning game drive, immersing yourself in the Serengeti’s incredible wildlife. After a fulfilling morning, we’ll return to camp for lunch and packing. Then, savor one last game drive as we leave the Serengeti, heading towards the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater. Our journey concludes at Ngorongoro Rhino Lodge, a two-hour drive, perched on the crater’s rim.
Main Destination: Central Serengeti
Accommodation: Ang’ata Ngorongoro Camp
Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Arusha Region
Imagine an early morning, then plunging into the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater at 6:15 am. Our mission: to seek out the legendary black rhino, the most prized sighting in this wildlife haven. Though the crater teems with animals, the rhino remains a true challenge. Following a delightful lunch amidst the natural wonder, we’ll enjoy an afternoon game drive before climbing back to the rim, and then begin your journey back to your Arusha hotel.
Main Destination: Ngorongoro Crater
Accommodation: Tulia Boutique Hotel & Spa
Day 6: Transfer to the Airport
This is your final day with us, we will drop you off at the airport at your preferred time.
END OF THE TOUR
Included
- Park fees(For non-residents)
- All activities(Unless labeled as optional)
- All accommodation(Unless listed as upgrade)
- A professional driver/guide
- All transportation(Unless labeled as optional)
- All Taxes/VAT
- Roundtrip airport transfer
- Meals(As specified in the day-by-day section)
- Drinks(As specified in the day-by-day section)
Excluded
- International flights(From/to home)
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
- Tips(Tipping guideline US$20.00 pp per day)
- Personal items(Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
- Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
- Some meals(As specified in the day-by-day se
- This tour starts and ends in Arusha
- Book your own international flights when using this operator
- A transfer from and back to the airport is included
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour can be arranged for an extra cost
Important to Know
Rates Per Person
*n/a = not available. This tour is unavailable for solo travelers or groups larger than 6 people.