6 Days From the Big Five to Local Traditions

Overview

This 6-day itinerary combines classic wildlife safaris with enriching cultural encounters, providing a well-rounded Tanzanian adventure. Visit iconic parks like Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater while connecting with local communities and learning about their traditions.

Day By Day

Day 1: Arrival in Arusha

Morning/Afternoon: Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to your lodge in Arusha. Relax and recover from your journey.
Evening: Meet your guide for a safari briefing. Enjoy a welcome dinner featuring local Tanzanian flavors.
Accommodation: Arusha Serena Hotel, Gran Melia, or similar.

Day 2: Arusha to Tarangire National Park

Morning: After breakfast, drive (~2 hours) to Tarangire National Park, known for its large elephant herds and iconic baobab trees. Begin your game drive immediately upon entering the park.
Afternoon: Stop for a picnic lunch and continue exploring the park, spotting giraffes, lions, zebras, and numerous bird species near the Tarangire River.
Evening: Drive to a nearby lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.
Accommodation: Tarangire Safari Lodge or Maramboi Tented Camp.

Day 3: Tarangire to Mto wa Mbu for a Cultural Experience and Overnight in Karatu

Morning: Drive to Mto wa Mbu village (~1.5 hours) and embark on a guided cultural tour. Visit local farms, interact with artisans, and learn about the customs and daily lives of the community.
Afternoon: Enjoy a traditional Tanzanian lunch, featuring dishes like ugali, nyama choma (grilled meat), and banana stew, prepared by the locals.
Evening: Continue to Karatu (~1 hour) for a relaxing evening at your lodge.
Accommodation: Marera Valley Lodge or Acacia Farm Lodge.

Day 4: Karatu to Serengeti National Park

Morning: Depart early for Serengeti National Park (~4 hours) via the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Enjoy stunning views of the Ngorongoro Crater along the way.
Afternoon: Begin your game drive upon entering the Serengeti, focusing on the wildlife-rich Central Serengeti. Look for lions, leopards, cheetahs, and large herds of zebras and wildebeests.
Evening: Check into your lodge and enjoy a peaceful night surrounded by the Serengeti’s vast plains.
Accommodation: Serengeti Serena Lodge or Kubu Kubu Tented Camp.

Day 5: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater

Morning: Enjoy a morning game drive in the Serengeti, where you may spot predators like lions or cheetahs hunting in the open plains.
Afternoon: After a picnic lunch, drive (~3-4 hours) to Ngorongoro Crater. Stop at the crater rim for breathtaking views before continuing to your lodge for the evening.
Accommodation: Ngorongoro Serena Lodge or Rhino Lodge.

Day 6: Ngorongoro Crater Game Drive and Return to Arusha

Morning: Descend into Ngorongoro Crater, a wildlife haven home to the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino). Spot hippos, zebras, and flamingos as you explore the crater floor.
Afternoon: Enjoy a picnic lunch by the hippo pool before driving back to Arusha (~3-4 hours).
Evening: Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your flight or stay overnight in Arusha if needed.

Includes

Safari:
- Private 4×4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof.
- Professional English-speaking safari guide.
- Park entry fees (Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro).
- Game drives as per itinerary.
Cultural Activities:
- Guided cultural tour in Mto wa Mbu.
- Traditional Tanzanian lunch.
Accommodation:
- 5 nights in lodges or tented camps as per the itinerary.
Meals:
- Full-board meals during the safari.
Other Services:
- Bottled drinking water throughout the trip.
- Emergency evacuation insurance.

Excludes

International and domestic flights.
Tanzania visa fees.
Optional activities (e.g., hot air balloon safari in Serengeti).
Alcoholic beverages and additional meals not included.
Travel insurance.
Tips for guides, drivers, and lodge staff.
Personal expenses (laundry, souvenirs, etc.)

$2,189 to $2,804 per Adult

Price varies by group size (USD)

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