8 Days Tanzania Private Safari

From

$2,100

Tour Overview

This enriching 8-day safari combines classic wildlife encounters with immersive cultural experiences. Begin in the elephant-filled landscapes of Tarangire National Park, then spend two activity-filled days in Lake Manyara, where you’ll enjoy not only game drives but also biking, village visits, farm tours, and local food tastings. Continue into the Serengeti for thrilling game drives across the world-famous plains, before finishing your journey in Ngorongoro, where you’ll descend into the crater and enjoy the comforts of two nights in the scenic Karatu region. This itinerary is ideal for travelers seeking a deeper, more balanced Tanzania experience.

Day by day

Day 1: Arusha – Tarangire National Park

Depart from Arusha in the morning and drive to Tarangire National Park, known for its iconic baobab trees, riverine landscapes, and massive herds of elephants. Spend the day exploring this unique ecosystem, which is especially rich in wildlife during the dry season. After an afternoon game drive, continue to your nearby lodge for dinner and overnight.

Accommodation: Sangaiwe Tented Lodge / Similar
Meals: Lunch & Dinner

Day 2: Tarangire – Lake Manyara – Cultural Bike Ride

After breakfast, transfer to the Lake Manyara area. After check-in and lunch at your lodge, enjoy a guided bike tour through the nearby village of Mto wa Mbu, where you’ll ride past banana plantations, local homes, and small farms. You’ll also visit a local market and may stop for tastings of traditional Tanzanian snacks. Return to your lodge for a peaceful evening.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3: Lake Manyara National Park – Farm Tour & Cooking Experience

In the morning, embark on a half-day game drive in Lake Manyara National Park, known for its rich birdlife, hot springs, and famous tree-climbing lions. After lunch, enjoy an authentic farm-to-table experience—explore a local farm and participate in a cooking session using local ingredients, followed by a traditional dinner shared with your hosts.

Accommodation: Marera Valley Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4: Lake Manyara – Serengeti National Park

After breakfast, begin the scenic drive through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area to Serengeti National Park. Stop for game viewing and photos en route as the landscape transforms from forested highlands to endless savannah. Enter the Serengeti and enjoy an afternoon game drive before arriving at your tented camp in time for sunset and dinner.

Accommodation: Serengeti Heritage Camp / Similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 5: Full Day in Serengeti National Park

Spend a full day exploring the vast Serengeti plains, home to the Big Five and, depending on the season, the Great Migration. Enjoy morning and afternoon game drives or choose a full-day safari with a picnic lunch in the bush. Optional: Hot air balloon safari at dawn (advance booking required).

Accommodation: Serengeti Heritage Camp / Similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 6: Serengeti – Karatu (via Ngorongoro Highlands)

Enjoy a final morning game drive in Serengeti, then head back through the Ngorongoro highlands to the charming town of Karatu. Stop along the way for scenic views and wildlife sightings. Settle into your lodge in the fertile hills outside the Ngorongoro Crater and enjoy a relaxed evening.

Accommodation: Marera Valley Lodge / Similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 7: Ngorongoro Crater Safari – Karatu

Today, descend into the UNESCO-listed Ngorongoro Crater, often called the “Eden of Africa,” for a half-day game drive. The crater floor hosts a dense concentration of wildlife, including elephants, lions, buffalo, flamingos, and rare black rhinos. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the crater before returning to your lodge in Karatu. In the afternoon, opt for a Maasai boma visit, local crafts workshop, or simply relax.

Accommodation: Marera Valley Lodge / Similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 8: Karatu – Arusha – Departure

After breakfast, begin your return drive to Arusha, with optional stops at cultural centers or souvenir markets along the way. Arrive in Arusha by early afternoon for drop-off at your hotel or airport, marking the end of your incredible Tanzanian safari.

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch