Travel
8 Days the Highlights of Northern Tanzania Safari
Duration
8 Days
Trip Highlights
Come on a safari that offers the ultimate Tanzania experience. Start your trip with a warm welcome in Arusha. Chase the Big Five in iconic destinations like the Tarangire National Park, the Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater, including an exciting night game drive in Tarangire. Immerse yourself in Maasai culture and visit with local artisans to round out your unforgettable adventure.
Itinerary
- Day 1: Welcome to Tanzania
- Day 2: Drive to Tarangire National Park
- Day 3: Full-Day Game Drive in Tarangire National Park
- Day 4: School Visit / Mto wa Mbu Cultural Experiences
- Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater Tour
- Day 6: Game Drive Enroute to Serengeti National Park – Scenic Views & Wildlife Adventure
- Day 7: Full day Serengeti National Park
- Day 8: Fly Back to Arusha & Transfer to JRO For your flight back home
Day by day description
Day 1: Welcome to Tanzania
Upon arrival in Tanzania, you’ll be warmly welcomed by your Nature in Spirit safari guide who will transfer you to Arusha, a beautiful one-and-a-half-hour drive. Depending on the weather, you may enjoy a glimpse of the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro along the way. As you journey through the countryside, feel free to ask your guide to stop whenever something catches your attention, whether it’s local life or stunning views. Once you arrive, enjoy a relaxing dinner and overnight stay at a comfortable lodge conveniently located in Arusha city, ready to begin your unforgettable Tanzanian adventure.
Day 2: Drive to Tarangire National Park
After breakfast, begin your journey to Tarangire National Park, enjoying a scenic drive through rolling hills and expansive savannas. Upon arrival, enjoy a delicious lunch amidst the park’s stunning landscapes. Known for its towering baobab trees, vast elephant herds, and classic African safari feel, Tarangire offers some of the most striking scenery in northern Tanzania. Settle into your lodge and take in the views before dinner, as you prepare for the adventures ahead.
Day 3: Full-Day Game Drive in Tarangire National Park
Enjoy a full day of exploration in Tarangire National Park, known for its vast landscapes, towering baobab trees, and large herds of elephants. Embark on a thrilling game drive across the park, where you’ll encounter giraffes, zebras, buffalos, and more, with the Tarangire River providing prime wildlife sightings throughout the day. The park is a birdwatcher’s paradise with over 500 species and offers rare opportunities to spot elusive predators like lions, leopards, and cheetahs. After a scenic picnic lunch, continue your adventure, then return to your lodge for dinner and overnight, reflecting on an unforgettable safari experience.
Day 4: School Visit / Mto wa Mbu Cultural Experiences
After breakfast, visit a local school near Tarangire National Park to interact with students and gain insight into the Tanzanian education system. Continue your journey to the vibrant village of Mto wa Mbu, known for its cultural diversity, as it is home to people from over 120 tribes. Enjoy a traditional Tanzanian lunch at a local family’s home, connecting with the family and savoring dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Spend the afternoon exploring the village, interacting with artisans, and sampling fresh fruits before returning to your lodge for dinner and overnight.
Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater Tour
The Ngorongoro Crater is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most iconic wildlife destinations in the world. This ancient caldera is home to a diverse range of species, including the Big Five—lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos—offering an exceptional safari experience. Enjoy a thrilling game drive across the crater floor, where you’ll encounter large herds of zebras, wildebeests, and flamingos, set against the stunning backdrop of the crater’s walls. After a day of wildlife sightings and panoramic views, return to your lodge for dinner and overnight, reflecting on an unforgettable adventure.
Day 6: Game Drive Enroute to Serengeti National Park – Scenic Views & Wildlife Adventure
After breakfast, embark on an exciting journey from Ngorongoro Conservation Area to Serengeti National Park, with an enroute game drive through the Ngorongoro Highlands. Enjoy panoramic views of lush landscapes and rolling hills, before arriving at the Serengeti, one of Africa’s most famous wildlife reserves. After a visit to a giant kopje for stunning views, check into your Serengeti camp and enjoy lunch. In the afternoon, set off for a game drive to spot the Big Five and other iconic wildlife, before returning to camp for dinner and overnight.
Day 7: Full day Serengeti National Park
Prepare for an exhilarating full-day game drive in Serengeti National Park, one of the world’s most iconic safari destinations. After an early breakfast, explore the park’s vast savannah, renowned for its incredible wildlife and the Great Migration of wildebeests and zebras. Spot the Big Five—lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos—along with predators like cheetahs and hyenas. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park, and continue your game drive, encountering a variety of birds, meerkats, and warthogs before returning to your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 8: Fly Back to Arusha & Transfer to JRO For your flight back home.
After an unforgettable safari in Serengeti National Park, it’s time to board a scenic flight back to Arusha, enjoying aerial views of the stunning landscapes, including Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti. Upon arrival at Arusha Airport, you’ll be transferred to Arusha Coffee Lodge for a delightful lunch amidst lush coffee plantations. Afterward, embark on a Shanga Tour, where you’ll discover the unique artistry and craftsmanship of local artisans, supporting a social enterprise that empowers people with disabilities. Finish your day with a transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your return flight, taking with you cherished memories of your Tanzanian adventure, from the vast plains of the Serengeti to the vibrant culture of Arusha.
Our Selected Accommodation
Accommodation on Safari in Tanzania
When planning a safari in Tanzania, where you stay is just as important as where you go. At Nature in Spirit, we handpick accommodations that are not only comfortable but also strategically located close to prime wildlife areas. This reduces long drives and maximizes your time in the bush, giving you more opportunities to experience the magic of nature.
Whether it’s a luxury tented camp in the Serengeti or a charming lodge overlooking Tarangire, the properties we work with offer outstanding service, excellent cuisine, and authentic safari hospitality. Each accommodation is chosen for its quality, atmosphere, and proximity to the action — so you don’t just visit the wild, you live in it.
Day 1: Welcome to Tanzania / Transfer to Arusha
Day 2: Tarangire National Park – Nature Walk & Night Game Drive
Day 3: Full-Day Game Drive in Tarangire National Park
Day 4: School Visit / Mto wa Mbu Cultural Experiences
Day 6: Game Drive Enroute to Serengeti National Park – Scenic Views & Wildlife Adventure
Day 7: Full day Serengeti National Park
Let us know your ideal type of accommodation - we'll match it to your journey.
Your safari experience is shaped not only by the landscapes and wildlife but also by where you rest each night. At Nature in Spirit, we carefully select accommodations that match your comfort level, travel style, and budget. Whether you’re looking for something simple and authentic or refined and exclusive, we’ll help you find the perfect fit.
Midrange – Practical Comfort,
Well-Located, and Reliable
Our Midrange lodgings are ideal for travelers who want comfort, great service, and a close connection to nature — without stretching the budget. These are well-run lodges or tented camps that offer all the essential amenities you need after a day of game drives: clean rooms, private bathrooms with hot showers, mosquito nets, and often lovely natural settings.
Meals are usually amazing with variety of local and international dishes, and WIFI is typically available in common areas. Some even feature swimming pools or fire pits for a relaxed end to your day. They may not be flashy, but they are full of character and offer excellent value in great locations near or within the parks.
Premium – Elevated Safari Living
with Style and Comfort
Premium lodging take your safari a step further, offering a refined, immersive experience. These are stylish lodges or tented camps designed to provide comfort and elegance while still keeping you close to the wild. Rooms are spacious and beautifully appointed, often with private decks, high-quality linens, and panoramic views.
Expect personalized service, excellent à la carte or gourmet buffet meals, and thoughtfully designed spaces — like open lounges, fire pits, or pools overlooking the savannah. In many cases, you can even enjoy wildlife sightings right from your room or dining area. It’s perfect for couples, honeymooners, or anyone wanting a touch of indulgence in the bush.
Luxury – Exclusive Safari Excellence for the Discerning Traveler
For those seeking the finest in safari luxury, our Luxury properties deliver a world-class experience in some of Tanzania’s most breathtaking locations. These are exclusive lodges and camps where no detail is overlooked — from the architecture to the cuisine, the guiding to the setting.
Here, you’ll find private villas or tented suites with plunge pools, luxury rain showers, premium linens, and terraces that open onto uninterrupted wilderness. Service is ultra-personalized, with private chefs, butlers, and guides available in many cases. These accommodations are ideal for special celebrations, VIPs, or travelers wanting a once-in-a-lifetime, all-inclusive safari at the highest standard.
Your perfect journey, tailored to your budget.
Your dream safari, shaped around your expectations — and your comfort zone.
At Nature in Spirit, we believe every journey should be personal, immersive, and within reach. Whether you’re seeking classic comfort, indulgent luxury, or an exclusive escape into nature, our experts will guide you to the accommodation that best fits your style — without compromise.
We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all safaris. Our team carefully listens to your wishes and curates a travel experience that reflects your priorities — whether that’s proximity to wildlife, elegant surroundings, or seamless service from start to finish.
To help you navigate your options, we offer a clear range of accommodation categories — Midrange, Premium, and Luxury — each selected with intention, and each offering a different kind of connection to Tanzania’s extraordinary landscapes.
We also tailor every trip with seasonality in mind, ensuring you benefit from the best possible value based on when and how you travel. From quieter, more intimate green seasons to the height of the Great Migration, we adapt every detail to align with your vision and budget.
With Nature in Spirit, you don’t just pick a lodge — you design a journey.
Let us help you create something remarkable, meaningful, and uniquely yours. Tanzania is waiting, and we can’t wait to take you there.
Included
- All park fees
- Night Game Drive
- Nature Walk
- Internal Flight (Seronera Airstrip– Arusha Airport)
- All meals and accommodations during the entire tour
- A high-quality safari land cruiser with pop up roof
- Arrival and departure transfers
- Highly experienced safari guide
- Unlimited mineral water on safari
- All government taxes
- AMREF Flying doctor’s emergency rescue
Excluded
- International Flights
- Travel Insurance
- Gratuities
- Drinks at the lodges
- Tips
HIGH SEASON PRICES
June - October
December - March
| NUMBER OF PAX | PRICE PER PERSON (USD) Midrange | PRICE PER PERSON (USD) Luxury | PRICE PER PERSON (USD) High end |
| 2 | $ 4094 | $ 4793 | $ 8418 |
| 3 | $ 3753 | $ 4723 | $ 8348 |
| 4 | $ 3365 | $ 4064 | $ 7689 |
| 5 | $ 3306 | $ 4033 | $ 7676 |
| 6 | $ 3122 | $ 3820 | $ 5604 |
LOW SEASON PRICES
April - May
November
| NUMBER OF PAX | PRICE PER PERSON (USD) Midrange | PRICE PER PERSON (USD) Luxury | PRICE PER PERSON (USD) High end |
| 2 | $ 3915 | $ 4477 | $ 6924 |
| 3 | $ 3534 | $ 4256 | $ 6847 |
| 4 | $ 3186 | $ 3748 | $ 6195 |
| 5 | $ 3103 | $ 3736 | $ 6150 |
| 6 | $ 2943 | $ 3505 | $ 5952 |
Mount Kilimanjaro Day Hike
Start your day with breakfast before setting off on an exhilarating journey to Londorossi Gate, located at an elevation of 2,100 meters. As you ascend more than 1,000 meters through vibrant tropical montane forests, you’ll encounter diverse wildlife, including playful colobus monkeys and the striking crested turacos. Keep an eye out for elephants migrating from Kenya’s Amboseli National Park. Upon reaching the stunning Shira Plateau, a UNESCO World Heritage Site situated at 3,400 meters, begin your hike towards Shira 1 Camp. Traverse the captivating Lion Gorge and admire the awe-inspiring Shira Pinnacles, with magnificent views of Kibo Peak and its surrounding glaciers. After the rewarding hike, enjoy a delightful picnic lunch amidst breathtaking scenery, before returning to Arusha for a delicious dinner and a restful overnight stay. Reflect on a day filled with adventure and the stunning natural beauty of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Serengeti Bush Dinner
Imagine sharing an unforgettable meal on the vast plains of Serengeti National Park, where romance meets adventure! A bush dinner offers a unique dining experience beneath a canopy of twinkling stars. Savor a delectable feast while the warm glow of a campfire surrounds you, accompanied by the enchanting sounds of wildlife in the night. Typically, tables are arranged just outside the camp, ensuring a perfect blend of intimacy and safety.
Arusha National Park Walking Safari
Walking safari in Arusha National Park promises an experience that will stay with you forever. Accompanied by a knowledgeable ranger, you’ll have the chance to observe majestic giraffes, formidable buffalos, zebras, warthogs, and agile blue monkeys. You will gain insights into the park’s remarkable plant and animal life. Along the way, you’ll encounter stunning sights such as a breathtaking waterfall, the Ngurdoto Crater and the serene Lake Momella. With a bit of luck, you might even spot vibrant flocks of flamingos and the striking Colobus monkey gracefully navigating the canopy.
Tarangire National Park Walking Safari
As you venture on a walking safari in Tarangire National Park, you’ll be captivated by the sight of towering baobab trees, expansive acacia woodlands, and impressive herds of elephants. Keep your eyes peeled for the migrating herds of cape buffalo, wildebeests, and zebras that may cross your path, along with the chance to encounter olive baboons, giraffes, impalas, and gazelles. For bird enthusiasts, the park is a paradise, boasting an incredible variety of over 550 bird species waiting to be discovered!
Tarangire National Park – Night Game Drive
Embarking on a night game drive transforms your safari experience into something extraordinary, revealing a world of nocturnal creatures that remain hidden during daylight hours. As the headlights of the safari jeep illuminate the darkness, you’ll witness the mesmerizing glow of their eyes. Your knowledgeable guide will share fascinating insights about these night-dwelling animals, assisting you in spotting elusive species like porcupines, civet cats, genets, bush babies, lions, and leopards. This adventure promises to be an unforgettable exploration of the wild after sunset.
Arusha National Park & Lake Duluti Canoeing
Experience the tranquility of Arusha National Park by embarking on a canoe safari across its serene lakes. Immerse yourself in the soothing sounds of nature as you listen to the chorus of birds that inhabit the area. With a bit of luck, you might catch a glimpse of hippos, giraffes, buffaloes, elephants, flamingos, and other wildlife along the shores. An armed ranger will accompany you, ensuring both your safety and providing expert guidance throughout your adventure.
Local markets Visit – Arusha, Karatu & Mto wa Mbu
The local markets of Tanzania, stretching from Mto wa Mbu to Arusha and Karatu, present a lively blend of culture and trade. In Mto wa Mbu, visitors are greeted by a vibrant selection of fresh produce and handmade crafts, allowing for meaningful interactions with a variety of local sellers. Arusha’s markets shine with exquisite Maasai crafts and stunning Tanzanite stones, showcasing the rich heritage of the area. Meanwhile, Karatu’s energetic markets brim with fresh farm products and unique artisanal creations, offering a window into the everyday life of Tanzanians. These dynamic marketplaces not only provide exceptional shopping opportunities but also invite you to dive deep into the heart of Tanzanian culture.
Home Hosted Lunch / Cooking Lessons – Mto wa Mbu & Karatu
Experience the authentic flavors of Tanzania right on a vibrant banana farm. Choose three traditional dishes to explore and master their preparation. Dive into the art of cooking pilau (fragrant spiced rice), makande (a delightful blend of corn and brown beans), or ndizi nyama (savory plantains with meat), and savor the true essence of Tanzanian cuisine!
Cycling Tours
Experience a refreshing escape from your safari adventures with a mountain bike tour in Mto wa Mbu. Nestled near Lake Manyara National Park, this charming village serves as a lush oasis amidst the expansive Maasai plains, where the fertile land nurtures rice, coffee, and bananas thanks to abundant groundwater. Over the course of 2 to 3 hours, this bike tour offers stunning vistas of Lake Manyara as you navigate through the village streets, glide past vibrant banana and coffee plantations, and visit a local school.
Visit Banana Plantations
In Tanzania, bananas rank among the most extensively cultivated crops, playing a vital role in the daily diet of countless households across Africa. With around 20 different varieties grown throughout the country, bananas are a staple food source. A visit to a banana plantation will enlighten you on this topic, as well as provide insights into the diverse cultivation techniques, banana species, and their various applications. For instance, while plantain bananas are primarily used for cooking, sweet bananas are enjoyed fresh, and a special variety is even utilized in the production of local beer or wine.
Coffee Tours
Have you ever considered the incredible journey that coffee takes on before it reaches your cup? Discover how the entire process unfolds at a Tanzanian coffee plantation, where you can follow the path from seed harvesting to brewing that delightful, aromatic beverage that kickstarts our mornings. Tanzania elevates the coffee-making experience to new heights. Visitors can enjoy a captivating tour guided by experts, gaining a deep appreciation for the craft of coffee production as they stroll through endless rows of lush coffee trees.
