Tanzania & Zanzibar: The Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater & Island Shores - 10 Days

Itinerary

• Days 1-0: Arusha: Welcome to TanzaniaArrival Day

  The Great Migration, the tallest mountain in Africa and the world's largest game reserve are only a few of the grand things that make Tanzania one of the most sought after destinations in Africa. Starting this 7 day adventure in the Geneva of Africa gives you the opportunity to explore all the sides of Tanzania. We welcome you to Arusha, and to Tanzania, and invite you to let the endless adventure of wildlife encounters deepen your connection with the earth. Join your CEO and fellow travellers for a welcome briefing. Afterwards, head out for a delicious welcome dinner.

• Days 2-1: Ngorongoro Crater: Impressive Views and Crater Safari

  Millions of years ago when the volcano erupted, the world's largest intact and unfilled volcanic caldera was formed, creating Ngorongoro Crater. It is believed that animals like zebras, lions and rhinos fell into the crater almost 500,000 years ago and were trapped. The steepness of the crater is why you won't find a single giraffe inside. Travel to this incredible natural phenomenon and spend the day getting to know the landscape from both above at the breathtaking crater rim, and below on a safari drive and picnic near Hippo Lake on the crater floor. The day begins with breakfast at the hotel before continuing on from Arusha to Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Travel to the impressive Crater Rim View Point featuring the vast caldera below. Then, drive down into the crater for a unique safari experience and a picnic lunch amidst the sounds of the African bush near the tranquil Hippo Lake. From an incredible density of wildlife to the vast open sky, this is the glimpse of Tanzania you've been searching for. Dinner will be had the lodge accommodations near the crater.

• Days 3-2: Serengeti: Impressive Wildlife Safari Drives

  Ngorongoro Crater and The Serengeti are two of the world's most renowned safari destinations. Driving from one iconic spot to the next means three and a half hours of nonstop beauty, wildlife and adventure. But don't go anywhere, because your time in the Serengeti is just starting. So grab your binoculars and your camera and get ready to experience some of the most jaw-dropping wildlife encounters. Depart the lodge this morning for the Central Serengeti. The scenic drive takes you through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area to the Naabi Hill Gate, your entrance to the vast Serengeti National Park. Today is about maximizing your wildlife viewing opportunities. You will enjoy a safari drive en-route to your beautiful accommodations where you will have lunch before another afternoon wildlife drive out in the alluring landscape.

• Days 4-3: Serengeti: Wildlife of Tanzania

  Witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of the Serengeti, where millions of wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle flood the plains in their annual migration, trailed by the continent's most formidable predators. Prepare to be captivated as massive lions dissolve into the shimmering golden savannah, and towering giraffes emerge from the horizon, their grace humbling you as they stand right before your eyes. Choose to rise early for an exciting day of wildlife viewing and embark on the optional, once-in-a-lifetime chance to take to the skies on a Serengeti Balloon Safari, which includes a one-hour flight and a champagne breakfast upon landing. For those who choose to remain on the ground, enjoy an early morning safari wildlife drive in the area, followed by a delicious bush lunch back at the lodge. The afternoon brings another exhilarating safari wildlife drive in the Serengeti before being whisked away for sundowner drinks as the sun sets over the Serengeti. Return to the lodge to freshen up before gathering for a relaxing group dinner.

• Days 5-4: Karatu: The Beauty of Tanzania's Varied Landscapes

  Nestled in the highlands between Lake Manyara and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, the vibrant market town of Karatu offers an authentic glimpse into Tanzanian rural life and serves as a key gateway to the region's most iconic wildlife parks. Experience the lively energy and learn about the unique, local culture while simultaneously enjoying the stunning, rolling green landscapes. Karatu is a place to pause, absorb the local rhythm, and prepare for—or reflect on—the thrilling safari adventures just a short drive away. After breakfast at the lodge, embark on an immersive wildlife safari drive between the Serengeti and Karatu. Pass through the vast planes and fertile landscapes of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area before arriving at your lodge near Karatu. Enjoy time at leisure this afternoon to relax and simply bask in your lovely surroundings.

• Days 6-5: Karatu: Your OMG Day

  A Day of Choices featuring a morning safari adventure or an Elephant Caves hike makes for an unforgettable day. Hoping to rise with the sun? Travel to Lake Manyara National Park for an early morning safari drive and bush brunch. If you’re looking for a change of scenery, choose a guided walk to the famous Elephant Cave, a watering hole used by elephants for their essential mineral intake. Sit down for lunch at a local, organic farm. No matter which experience you choose today, you are guaranteed to feel the vast grandness that is so unique to the East African landscape. Enjoy free time this afternoon at the lodge before a group dinner in the evening.

• Days 7-6: Karatu to Zanzibar: Mto wa Mbu & the beaches of Tanzania

  Rise with the sun and enjoy a hearty breakfast at the lodge before embarking on a journey to the heart of East African culture in Mto wa Mbu. This vibrant town is a mosaic of life, home to 18,000 residents from 120 different tribes, offering a truly unique cultural immersion. Your journey continues as you transition from the savannas to the tropical paradise of Zanzibar. Prepare to be enchanted by the island's white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and the aromatic spice plantations that have earned it the nickname "Spice Island,” making Zanzibar the perfect final chapter to your East African adventure. Start your day with breakfast at the lodge before heading to Mto wa Mbu. Here, choose between a scenic bike ride through a banana plantation or a fascinating two-hour cultural village walk. The walk is a the tour operator-supported experience, where you'll connect with the community, visit the local market and farmer's fields, see traditional hut construction, and meet local artisans. Afterwards, enjoy a traditional local lunch of meat and plantains before departing for Arusha. Then, catch a flight to Zanzibar and transfer to your accommodation in Stone Town for the night.

• Days 8-7: Zanzibar: Deep history, beach BBQ, & idyllic swimming

  The captivating transition from the vast East African savanna to the tranquil shores of Zanzibar marks the perfect end to your adventure. Known as the 'Spice Island,' Zanzibar enchants with its promise of tropical paradise—imagine a day spent on pristine white-sand beaches, swimming in clear, turquoise waters, and diving into a vibrant underwater world on a snorkeling excursion. Your adventure into this island's soul begins with a guided walking tour through the labyrinthine alleys of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where the air is thick with the scent of cloves and history is etched into the coral stone buildings, revealing centuries of Swahili, Arab, Persian, and European influence. The morning begins with an exploration of historic Stone Town on a guided walking tour before embarking on a truly memorable coastal experience. A traditional dhow awaits to ferry you to the pristine shores of Nakupenda Beach, where a delicious BBQ lunch will be served right on the sand. After lunch, the idyllic waters invite you to snorkel or simply swim before the dhow returns you to Stone Town. The afternoon concludes with a transfer to the stunning white sands of Nungwi Beach on the northern tip of Zanzibar, allowing for time to settle into your new accommodation here. Dinner will be at your leisure this evening.

• Days 9-8: Zanzibar: A beach lover's paradise

  Today is yours to embrace the slow, idyllic pace of Zanzibar. Awake to the sound of the ocean and enjoy a leisurely breakfast. The pristine white sands and turquoise waters are at your doorstep, inviting you to simply relax, swim, and soak up the sun. For those seeking an unforgettable marine adventure, you have the option to embark on an optional excursion to Mnemba Island. This world-renowned marine reserve offers some of the best snorkeling and diving in East Africa, promising encounters with colorful coral gardens, tropical fish, and possibly even dolphins. Whether you choose a day of pure relaxation on the beach or an underwater exploration, your time on this tropical paradise is yours to shape. After a delicious breakfast at the hotel, the day is yours to explore the beauty and charm of Zanzibar at your own pace. You might choose to relax on the pristine white-sand beaches or take a dip in the turquoise waters. For an unforgettable experience, you can choose to depart on a visit to Mnemba Island Tour with Zanzibar Glass Boat. Lunch is on your own today. The group will gather together in the evening for a final dinner together in this idyllic setting.

• Days 10-9: Zanzibar

  Your adventure comes to an end at the airport today in Zanzibar. You can depart anytime after 2:30pm.