Day 1: Airport – Arusha National Park

Upon arrival at the airport, you will be greeted by your driver-guide and transferred directly to Arusha National Park for a full day of game viewing. The park offers diverse habitats, from lush forests to open savannah, where you may spot giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, and the beautiful colobus monkeys. Enjoy a delicious picnic lunch at one of the scenic sites inside the park. In the late afternoon, head to your overnight accommodation just outside the park. Depending on your arrival time, you may instead transfer to Arusha town for rest before the safari begins in earnest the next day.

Day 2: Arusha National Park – Arusha Town – Longido

After breakfast near the park’s outskirts, travel to Arusha town for essential preparations. This may include exchanging currency, purchasing personal supplies, or exploring small local shops. The morning is relaxed, giving you time to enjoy the urban charm of Arusha before heading towards Longido. The exact schedule for today depends on the activities undertaken on Day 1. In the afternoon, drive through scenic countryside towards Longido, a settlement famous for its Maasai culture and spectacular views of the surrounding plains. Arrive in the late afternoon and check in at your accommodation, ready for the adventures that await in this unique region.

Day 3: Longido – Cultural and Natural Exploration

Longido is a vibrant Maasai pastoralist town, currently expanding rapidly following the discovery of ruby deposits. Today offers cultural immersion and natural beauty, beginning with a trek up Longido Mountain, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramas of the savannah. Visit a traditional Maasai village to learn about their customs, livestock practices, and rich traditions. Depending on the season (July to October), you may witness the Olpul ritual, a traditional Maasai healing practice involving herbal medicine. The day concludes with a hearty dinner and overnight at Tembo Club Guest House, offering simple yet welcoming accommodation with authentic local hospitality.

Day 4: Longido – Cultural Continuation and Community Engagement

Spend a second day in Longido deepening your understanding of Maasai culture. Participate in hands-on activities such as beadwork demonstrations or herding livestock with local families. Explore the bustling local markets where vibrant fabrics, crafts, and livestock are traded. For those interested in geology, learn more about the ruby mining activities that have recently transformed the town’s economy. The mountain trails offer another opportunity for shorter nature walks to spot indigenous plants and bird species. Return to Tembo Club Guest House for the evening, where you can relax under the expansive African night sky, surrounded by the tranquil sounds of nature.

Day 5: Longido – Lake Natron Area

Depart Longido for Lake Natron, travelling through the stunning Rift Valley landscapes. The route offers an ever-changing backdrop of plains, hills, and valleys, dotted with grazing zebras, gerenuk, and antelope. Along the journey, marvel at the geological formations and occasional Maasai settlements that add cultural richness to the scenery. Lake Natron’s dramatic setting, with the active volcano Oldonyo Lengai nearby, is unlike anywhere else in Tanzania. Arrive in the afternoon and settle into your chosen accommodation—either a simple camp or a traditional Maasai boma—where you’ll experience authentic Maasai hospitality. Enjoy a quiet evening in preparation for tomorrow’s lakeside and wildlife explorations.

Day 6: Lake Natron – Flamingos and Sunrise

Before breakfast, set out early to Lake Natron for an unforgettable experience of watching the sunrise over the shimmering waters. This alkaline lake is one of the most important breeding grounds for lesser flamingos, and you can witness thousands of them gathered along the shore. The cool morning air and vibrant birdlife create a magical atmosphere for photography and birdwatching. Return to camp for lunch and rest. If you opt for adventure, prepare for the challenging trek up Oldonyo Lengai, the sacred mountain of the Maasai, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Rift Valley and its unique volcanic landscapes.

Day 7: Lake Natron – Hot Springs and Birdwatching

Depending on activities from the previous day, spend today exploring the north-west side of Lake Natron. Visit the secluded hot springs near the Kenya border, an exclusive sanctuary for a large population of birds. Here, you can enjoy a peaceful birdwatching session, spotting species that thrive in this remote habitat. Picnic lunch will be served in the area, surrounded by spectacular views of volcanic hills and endless plains. Later in the day, return to your camp for relaxation. This serene location provides a perfect break before embarking on the more wildlife-intense stages of your safari in the coming days.

Day 8: Lake Natron – North Serengeti

Depart Lake Natron after breakfast, travelling through the wide plains of Loliondo towards the legendary Serengeti National Park. This scenic route passes traditional Maasai communities, wildlife-rich grasslands, and rolling hills. Upon entering the park’s northern region, you may encounter giraffes, elephants, and big cats along the way. Arrive at Lobo Camp, your base for exploring the northern Serengeti, by late afternoon. The camp is ideally positioned to witness seasonal wildlife movements and offers an authentic bush atmosphere. Enjoy a campfire dinner under the stars before resting, ready to experience one of the most famous wildlife spectacles on Earth tomorrow.

Day 9: Serengeti Migration – Mara River Crossings

Today is dedicated to following the Great Migration, depending on the season. During migration months, the Mara River becomes the dramatic stage where wildebeest and zebra risk predator-filled waters to reach greener pastures. Witness the intense action as crocodiles lie in wait and predators lurk nearby. Even outside migration season, this area is rich in wildlife, offering sightings of lions, cheetahs, elephants, and abundant bird species. Your guide will position you in prime viewing spots for photography and observation. Enjoy a packed lunch in the wild before returning to camp for dinner and an evening recounting the day’s unforgettable moments.

Day 10: Lobo – Seronera

Set out at dawn for an early morning game drive, the best time to spot predators on the hunt. Witness lions, leopards, or hyenas searching for prey, alongside herds of grazing animals starting their day. Return to camp for brunch, then pack up and begin the journey towards the central Serengeti’s Seronera area. Travel slowly, enjoying game viewing en route. Seronera is famed for its year-round wildlife presence, especially big cats. Arrive in the afternoon and settle into your accommodation at Katikati Tented Camp. Enjoy dinner with the sounds of the Serengeti night as your natural evening soundtrack.

Day 11: Serengeti – Full Day Game Drive

Spend the entire day exploring the Seronera Valley, the wildlife-rich heart of the Serengeti. This area is home to large populations of lions, leopards, cheetahs, and numerous antelope species. The valley’s river provides a reliable water source, attracting animals throughout the year. Watch herds of elephants moving gracefully across the plains and hippos wallowing in the pools. Your guide will tailor the day to maximise sightings based on seasonal wildlife movements. A packed lunch allows you to stay in the bush longer, returning in the late afternoon to your camp for a relaxing evening under the star-filled African sky.

Day 12: Serengeti – Another Full Day Adventure

Enjoy another day in the central Serengeti to deepen your experience of this remarkable ecosystem. Venture into different parts of the park to track elusive species or revisit favourite locations for better photographic opportunities. The Serengeti offers endless variety, from vast open plains to rocky kopjes where lions rest in the sun. Your guide will interpret the complex interactions between predator and prey, providing fascinating insights into the natural world. A picnic lunch in the wild ensures minimal disruption to your adventure. Return to camp for your final evening in the Serengeti, cherishing the memories made in this iconic landscape.

Day 13: Serengeti – Ngorongoro Crater Rim

After breakfast, enjoy a final morning game drive in the Serengeti before departing towards the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Travel through varied landscapes, spotting wildlife along the way, and stop for a picnic lunch en route. Arrive at the crater rim in the afternoon, where the view of this vast natural amphitheatre is simply breathtaking. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to an incredible diversity of wildlife. Overnight at Simba Campsite, perched on the rim, where cool evening air and the sounds of nature create a peaceful atmosphere before tomorrow’s descent into the crater floor.

Day 14: Ngorongoro – Full Day Crater Exploration

Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater early in the morning for a full day of game viewing. This unique ecosystem supports nearly all of East Africa’s major wildlife species, including elephants, lions, hippos, and the rare black rhino. The crater floor’s grasslands, forests, and lakes create diverse habitats that ensure abundant sightings year-round. Enjoy a picnic lunch near the hippo pool, a picturesque spot for a break. Your guide will help you make the most of the day before ascending back to the rim in the evening. Overnight again at Simba Campsite, surrounded by highland views and fresh mountain air.

Day 15: Ngorongoro – Lake Eyasi or Karatu

After breakfast, drive towards the Lake Eyasi area, passing through scenic highland farmland and Maasai settlements. En route, enjoy panoramic views of the Ngorongoro highlands. Depending on preference and timing, you may choose to overnight in Karatu, a lively town offering comfortable lodges, or closer to Lake Eyasi for early access to tomorrow’s activities. Both locations provide a glimpse into the agricultural life of northern Tanzania. The day is relaxed, giving you time to prepare for cultural encounters with the Hadza and Barbaig communities, whose unique ways of life have remained largely unchanged for centuries.

Day 16: Lake Eyasi – Cultural Encounters and Birdwatching

Spend today immersed in the cultural and natural wonders of Lake Eyasi. Join the Hadza people for a traditional hunting expedition, learning their ancient tracking skills and gathering techniques. Visit the Barbaig community to experience their pastoral lifestyle and distinctive dress. In the afternoon, walk along the lake’s shores for birdwatching, spotting flamingos, pelicans, and other waterbirds. This remote area offers a rare chance to engage with cultures that have thrived here for generations. Overnight in either Karatu or Lake Eyasi, reflecting on the day’s enriching experiences and the hospitality of the communities you’ve met.

Day 17: Lake Eyasi/Karatu – Manyara Area

Depart after breakfast and head towards the Lake Manyara region, stopping at Mto wa Mbu. This multicultural town offers a rich blend of Tanzanian cultures, with opportunities for craft shopping, local food tasting, and a guided village walk. A highlight is the walk to a nearby waterfall, set amidst lush forest and offering a refreshing break. In the afternoon, settle into your accommodation near the park—either a comfortable lodge or a well-equipped campsite. The evening is free to relax and prepare for tomorrow’s exploration of Lake Manyara National Park’s remarkable wildlife and diverse ecosystems.

Day 18: Lake Manyara National Park – Full Day Game Drive

Spend a full day exploring Lake Manyara National Park, famous for its tree-climbing lions, large elephant herds, and rich birdlife. The park’s varied habitats include groundwater forests, open savannah, and the shimmering lake itself. You may spot flamingos, hippos, giraffes, and a variety of primates. A picnic lunch at a scenic site allows you to enjoy the surroundings while watching wildlife pass by. The park is also home to a dense population of baboons, often seen along the forested entrance road. Return to your lodge or campsite in the evening for dinner and relaxation after a rewarding day in nature.

Day 19: Lake Manyara – Tarangire National Park

After breakfast, travel to Tarangire National Park, known for its vast elephant herds and iconic baobab trees. Enjoy a full day of game viewing, with lunch served in the bush. Tarangire’s diverse habitats support lions, leopards, wildebeest, buffaloes, and an impressive array of bird species. During the dry season, the Tarangire River becomes a vital water source, attracting wildlife from miles around. In the evening, settle into your accommodation inside the park, where the sounds of nature surround you. The atmosphere is pure wilderness, offering a magical overnight experience beneath the African stars.

Day 20: Tarangire – Full Day and Night Game Drive

Dedicate the day to exploring more of Tarangire’s diverse landscapes. Morning and afternoon game drives offer opportunities to spot predators and herds in different settings. Enjoy a bush lunch in the wild before returning for a short rest. As evening falls, embark on a night game drive, a rare opportunity to witness nocturnal species such as bushbabies, porcupines, and elusive leopards on the hunt. The experience provides a completely different perspective on the African bush. Return to your camp or lodge late in the evening, with the night sounds of Tarangire as your lullaby.

Day 21: Tarangire – Arusha

After breakfast, enjoy a half-day game drive in Tarangire, making the most of your final hours in the park. This is a chance to revisit favourite spots or track animals you may have missed earlier. By late morning, begin your journey back to Arusha, arriving in the afternoon. Check in to your hotel and enjoy some leisure time in town. Depending on your departure schedule, this may be your final overnight in Tanzania or a relaxing prelude to a cultural exploration of Arusha on the following day.

Day 22: Arusha – Town Tour and Departure

Conclude your safari with a guided tour of Arusha, exploring its vibrant markets, cultural heritage sites, and museums. Learn about Tanzania’s history, art, and the various ethnic groups that shape its identity. Visit the Natural History Museum or Maasai Market for last-minute souvenirs. Enjoy a final Tanzanian meal before your transfer to the airport for your departure flight. This marks the end of your extraordinary 22-day journey, filled with wildlife encounters, cultural insights, and unforgettable landscapes, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.

Inclusions:

• Pick up & drop off at Arusha town (any hotel)
• Game viewing in 4×4 Land Cruiser with pop-up roof on exclusive basis
• Services of a professional English-speaking driver guide
• Accommodation as per itinerary
• Meals as per itinerary
• Drinking water while on safari provided in safari vehicle
• Park fees and conservations fees as per itinerary
• 18% VAT on park fees and game drives for safari.

Exclusions:

• Tourist visas
• Personal travel/medical insurance
• Optional activities not mentioned in itinerary
• Soft drinks or alcoholic beverages unless provided at accommodations
• Tips for driver guide and lodge/camp staff
• Any international flights and departure taxes
• Any items of personal nature (laundry service, telephone/internet bills, souvenirs)