8 Days Tanzania Safari | Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Lake Natron, Serengeti, Ngorongoro & Hadzabe
Customer Reviews
4.9
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Start Arusha
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End Arusha
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Age 12+
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Language English
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Cancel Free
Safari Description
The 8 days Tanzania safari is an immersive journey through Tanzania’s iconic national parks and cultural highlights. Explore the elephant-rich Tarangire, vibrant Lake Manyara, the unique flamingo-filled Lake Natron, the vast Serengeti plains, the wildlife-packed Ngorongoro Crater, and the ancient traditions of the Hadzabe tribe near Lake Eyasi. With expert guides, comfortable lodges, and thrilling game drives in a 4x4 vehicle, this adventure blends raw wilderness with cultural encounters for an unforgettable experience.
Trip Highlights
- Spot elephant herds and baobab trees in Tarangire National Park.
- Discover tree-climbing lions and flamingos in Lake Manyara.
- Visit the dramatic landscapes and flamingo colonies of Lake Natron.
- Track the Great Migration and predators in the Serengeti.
- Explore the Big Five in the Ngorongoro Crater.
- Engage with the Hadzabe tribe’s hunter-gatherer traditions.
- Enjoy expert-guided game drives in 4x4 safari vehicles.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arusha to Tarangire – Into the Wilderness
8:00 AM: Start your adventure in Arusha with breakfast, followed by a 2-hour drive to Tarangire National Park. Pass through vibrant villages and rolling hills. Inside the park, marvel at elephant herds by the Tarangire River, zebras, and predators under iconic baobabs. Enjoy a picnic lunch and continue your game drive. As dusk falls, settle into your lodge or camp near Tarangire or in Karatu.
Accommodation at:
- Tarangire/Karatu (e.g., Tarangire Safari Lodge or Karatu Simba Camp)
Meals: Breakfast (hotel), Lunch (picnic), Dinner (lodge/camp)
Day 2: Tarangire to Lake Manyara – Wildlife Diversity
7:00 AM: After breakfast, drive 1.5 hours to Lake Manyara National Park. Explore lush forests alive with baboons, tree-climbing lions, hippos, and flamingos. Enjoy a picnic lunch by the lake, then continue your game drive through varied ecosystems. Later, transfer to your lodge near Lake Manyara or in Karatu for dinner and rest.
Accommodation at:
- Lake Manyara/Karatu (e.g., Lake Manyara Wild Camp or Karatu Acacia Lodge)
Meals: Breakfast (lodge/camp), Lunch (picnic), Dinner (lodge/camp)
Day 3: Lake Manyara to Lake Natron – Remote Beauty
6:30 AM: After an early breakfast, embark on a 4-hour drive to the remote Lake Natron. Witness its striking red waters, home to thousands of flamingos, set against volcanic landscapes. Take a guided walk to the lake or nearby waterfalls, learning about the unique ecosystem. Enjoy a picnic lunch, then settle into your camp for a serene evening under the stars.
Accommodation at:
- Lake Natron (e.g., Lake Natron Tented Camp)
Meals: Breakfast (lodge/camp), Lunch (picnic), Dinner (camp)
Day 4: Lake Natron to Serengeti – Endless Plains
6:30 AM: Depart after breakfast for a 5–6 hour drive to Serengeti National Park, passing through scenic highlands. Begin an en-route game drive, spotting lions, cheetahs, and, in season, the Great Migration. Stop for a picnic lunch under an acacia tree. Arrive at your Serengeti lodge or camp as the sun sets, ready for dinner and stargazing.
Accommodation at:
- Serengeti (e.g., Serengeti Wild Camp or Serengeti Serena Lodge)
Meals: Breakfast (camp), Lunch (picnic), Dinner (lodge/camp)
Day 5: Full Day in Serengeti – Wildlife Immersion
6:00 AM: Begin with a sunrise game drive, capturing the Serengeti’s awakening. Return for breakfast, then explore the central Serengeti, tracking giraffes, elephants, and predators. Enjoy a picnic lunch by a river or kopje. Spend the afternoon on another game drive before returning to your lodge for dinner and a night under the stars.
Accommodation at:
- Serengeti (e.g., Serengeti Wild Camp or Serengeti Serena Lodge)
Meals: Breakfast (lodge/camp), Lunch (picnic), Dinner (lodge/camp)
Day 6: Serengeti to Ngorongoro – Highland Views
6:00 AM: Enjoy one final Serengeti game drive before breakfast. Drive 3–4 hours to the Ngorongoro Crater, stopping for a picnic lunch en route. Arrive at the crater rim by afternoon, where breathtaking views await. Settle into your lodge for a relaxing evening overlooking the caldera.
Accommodation at:
- Ngorongoro/Karatu (e.g., Ngorongoro Rhino Lodge or Karatu Acacia Lodge)
Meals: Breakfast (lodge/camp), Lunch (picnic), Dinner (lodge/camp)
Day 7: Ngorongoro Crater & Hadzabe – Wildlife and Culture
6:00 AM: Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a full-day game drive, spotting black rhinos, lions, and flamingos. After a picnic lunch, travel 1.5 hours to Lake Eyasi to meet the Hadzabe tribe, one of the last hunter-gatherer communities. Learn their traditions and skills. Return to your Karatu lodge for dinner.
Accommodation at:
- Ngorongoro/Karatu (e.g., Ngorongoro Rhino Lodge or Karatu Acacia Lodge)
Meals: Breakfast (lodge/camp), Lunch (picnic), Dinner (lodge/camp)
Day 8: Hadzabe to Arusha – Farewell to Tanzania
8:00 AM: After breakfast near Lake Eyasi, join an optional morning hunt with the Hadzabe. Then drive 3 hours back to Arusha, reflecting on wildlife and cultural highlights. Drop-off at your Arusha hotel or airport concludes your epic journey.
Accommodation: None
Meals: Breakfast (lodge/camp), Lunch & Dinner (not included)
Map
Gallery
Safari Packages with Accommodations
These prices may vary depending on the number of travelers.
Budget Packages
| Accommodation Combo (7 Nights) | Included | Price per Person (Low Season) | Price per Person (High Season) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ngedere Lodges & Camps (Mto wa Mbu) + Twiga Lodge & Campsite (Mto wa Mbu) + Lake Natron Tented Camp + Tumbili Public Campsite (Serengeti) + Tumbili Public Campsite (Serengeti) + Ngorongoro Simba Campsite + Lake Eyasi Simple Camp | Meals, park fees, game drives, transfers | $1,750 | $1,950 |
| Ngedere Lodges & Camps (Mto wa Mbu) + Twiga Lodge & Campsite (Mto wa Mbu) + Lake Natron Tented Camp + Tumbili Public Campsite (Serengeti) + Tumbili Public Campsite (Serengeti) + Karatu Simba Camp + Lake Eyasi Simple Camp | Meals, park fees, guided drives, transfers | $1,780 | $2,000 |
Mid-Range Packages
| Accommodation Combo (7 Nights) | Included | Price per Person (Low Season) | Price per Person (High Season) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aardvark Safari Lodge + Lake Manyara Serena Lodge + Lake Natron Safari Lodge + Serengeti Serena Lodge + Serengeti Serena Lodge + Ngorongoro Rhino Lodge + Lake Eyasi Safari Lodge | Meals, park fees, game drives, transfers | $2,200 | $2,450 |
| Aardvark Safari Lodge + Lake Manyara Serena Lodge + Lake Natron Safari Lodge + Serengeti Serena Lodge + Serengeti Serena Lodge + Karatu Acacia Lodge + Lake Eyasi Safari Lodge | Meals, park fees, guided drives, transfers | $2,250 | $2,500 |
Luxury Packages
| Accommodation Combo (7 Nights) | Included | Price per Person (Low Season) | Price per Person (High Season) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Four Seasons Safari Lodge Tarangire + Lake Manyara Tree Lodge + Lake Natron Luxury Camp + Serengeti Four Seasons Lodge + Serengeti Four Seasons Lodge + Ngorongoro Serena Lodge + Lake Eyasi Luxury Lodge | All meals, park fees, private game drives, transfers, luxury services | $3,200 | $3,500 |
| Four Seasons Safari Lodge Tarangire + Lake Manyara Tree Lodge + Lake Natron Luxury Camp + Serengeti Four Seasons Lodge + Serengeti Four Seasons Lodge + Ngorongoro Crater Lodge + Lake Eyasi Luxury Lodge | All meals, park fees, private game drives, transfers, luxury services | $3,300 | $3,600 |
Included:
- Park fees and government taxes
- Accommodation and meals as specified
- Professional English-speaking guide
- All safari drives in a 4x4 vehicle
- Transfers from/to Arusha
- Comfortable lodges or camps with essential amenities
- Bottled water during activities
Not Included:
- International flights to/from Tanzania
- Visa and passport fees
- Travel and health insurance
- Tips and gratuities
- Optional activities not mentioned in itinerary
- Personal expenses (souvenirs, beverages)
Optional Add-ons
Enhance your 8 days Tanzania safari with these optional add-ons:
- Hot Air Balloon Safari: Float above the Serengeti at sunrise for stunning views. Price: $550–$650 per person, including champagne breakfast.
- Walking Safari: Guided walks in safe areas around Tarangire or Ngorongoro. Price: $80–$120 per person for 2–3 hours.
- Maasai Village Visit: Experience Maasai culture and traditions. Price: $30–$50 per person, including local guide fees.
- Private Game Drives: Upgrade to a private vehicle for a personalized experience. Price: $150–$250 per vehicle per day.
Pre- and Post-Safari Hotel Stays
Stay in Arusha before or after your safari for added convenience:
- Budget: Arusha Backpackers or Mount Meru Hotel – clean and affordable.
- Mid-range: Arusha Coffee Lodge – boutique lodge with gardens and pool.
- Luxury: Arusha Serena Hotel – spacious rooms and fine dining.
Pre-safari stays allow for briefings and rest, while post-safari hotels provide a comfortable spot before departure.
Travel Logistics
Transfers
Transfers ensure a smooth and safe journey:
- Airport Pickup/Drop: Private transfers from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport. Price: $50 per way.
- Hotel to Safari Park Transfers: 4x4 safari vehicle transfers between Arusha/Moshi and parks. Price: $100 from Arusha to Moshi, $100 from Moshi to Arusha.
- Intercity Transfers: Comfortable road transfers in 4x4 jeeps, included in the safari package unless otherwise arranged.
Transfers are customizable based on arrival/departure times and comfort preferences.
Driving Hours
Expect 4–8 hours of driving per day, with early departures to maximize wildlife sightings.
Distance Covered Per Day
- Day 1: Arusha to Tarangire (~120 km).
- Day 2: Tarangire to Lake Manyara (~70 km).
- Day 3: Lake Manyara to Lake Natron (~200 km).
- Day 4: Lake Natron to Serengeti (~250 km).
- Day 5: Serengeti exploration (variable).
- Day 6: Serengeti to Ngorongoro (~145 km).
- Day 7: Ngorongoro to Hadzabe (Lake Eyasi) (~80 km).
- Day 8: Hadzabe to Arusha (~180 km).
Meals
Meals are included based on the accommodation package:
- Breakfast at the lodge.
- Lunch as a picnic or at lodges.
- Dinner at the lodge after game drives.
- Special dietary needs accommodated with advance notice.
Tips
Tipping is customary:
- Driver/Guide: $10–15 per day per person
- Lodge staff: $5–10 per day per person
- Optional: Balloon safari or Maasai village guides $5–10 per person
Passport & Visa
A valid passport is required. Most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival (~$50) or via eVisa. Check requirements before travel.
Vaccination
Health recommendations:
- Yellow fever vaccination (mandatory for some countries).
- Malaria prophylaxis recommended.
- Routine vaccinations (tetanus, polio, hepatitis A/B).
Insurance
Travel insurance covering medical emergencies and safari activities is advised.
Clothing
Dress for safari conditions:
- Lightweight, neutral-colored clothing.
- Warm layers for early mornings in Ngorongoro.
- Closed-toe shoes or boots.
- Hat, sunglasses, and scarf for dust protection.
What to Bring
Essentials for your safari:
- Binoculars and camera with extra batteries.
- Sunscreen and insect repellent.
- Reusable water bottle and snacks.
- Travel documents and medications.
- Small daypack for game drives.
For Children
- Discounts for Kids: Free for children under 5 with two adults; discounts for ages 6-12.
- Activity Suitability: Family-friendly with some restrictions for add-ons.
- Supervision and Safety: Parental supervision required.
Other Terms
A deposit is required at booking, with the balance due 30 days before departure. Cancellations over 30 days incur a small fee; within 30 days, non-refundable. Travel insurance is recommended. Itineraries may adjust due to weather or park regulations. Luggage limit: one checked bag and one carry-on.
Reviews
Overall Rating
4.9
Review Summary
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Transportation:
4.9
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Value for Money:
4.8
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Support Services:
5.0
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Organization:
4.9
Recent Reviews
160 reviews
"An amazing 8-day safari! Lake Natron’s flamingos and the Hadzabe cultural experience were unforgettable. The guides were exceptional!"
"The Serengeti and Ngorongoro were highlights, but Lake Natron’s unique scenery stole the show. Comfortable lodges and great organization."
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