StephMyLife Tanzania: Safari Landscapes, Wildlife & Culture

Tanzania Safari Adventure: 8 Days of Game Drives, Walking Safaris & Tribal Encounters

Next August, come on a journey across Tanzania’s legendary parks with me! We’ll see the elephant herds of Tarangire and endless plains of the Serengeti, before descending into the Ngorongoro Crater, which is home to one of the highest concentrations of wildlife on earth. Along the way we’ll also visit a Maasai village to learn about their traditions and way of life. This will be a cultural experience you won’t forget!

Highlights Include:

• Walking safari in Arusha National Park with views of Mt. Meru & Kilimanjaro
• Spotting large elephant herds and giant baobab trees in Tarangire National Park
• Experience the Northern Serengeti and the Mara River area during the Great Migration season
• Visit a traditional Maasai village and learn about their culture
• Stay in luxury tented camps surrounded by wildlife
• Explore the Ngorongoro Crater — a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa’s natural wonders
• Travel in private safari jeeps with expert local guides
• Stay in hand-picked lodges and a luxury tented camp throughout the journey
• Short crater rim drive with sweeping views of the crater

This tour gives you the chance to witness some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife spectacles. You’ll see vast herds of elephants roaming beneath ancient baobab trees, and watch lions lazing in the golden grass of the Serengeti. We’ll also enjoy sunrise safaris, dinners under the stars, and the unforgettable Ngorongoro Crater to create a true bucket-list adventure.

Price

💲 EUR 2,499 per person (twin/double sharing)
💲 EUR 3,287 per person (private room)

✔ Round Trip Airport transfers (arrival & departure)
✔ 7 nights’ accommodation in lodges and luxury tented camps (twin share basis)
✔ All meals (7 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 7 dinners)
✔ All ground transfers on the tour, as specified in the itinerary
✔ Full day game drives in Tarangire, Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater
✔ Guided game drive at the iconic Ngorongoro Crater
✔ Guided walking safari at Arusha National Park
✔ Visit to an authentic Maasai village
✔ All national park entrance fees & conservation fees
✔ All ground transport in private 4×4 safari vehicle with driver/guide
✔ Professional safari and tour guide 
✔ Bottled drinking water throughout the trip

Not Included

✘ International flights to Tanzania
✘ Visas
✘ Travel insurance
✘ Tips for guides/driver
✘ Alcoholic & soft drinks not mentioned above

Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Arusha

On arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport you’ll be met by your driver and transferred to our accommodation in Arusha;  an intimate lodge set in the village of Sakina.

After checking in, you’ll have time to relax and recover from your journey before we gather in the evening. We’ll kick off the adventure with a trip briefing to get you ready for the week ahead, followed by a welcome dinner where you can get to know your fellow travellers. Dinner and a welcome drink (alcohol / non-alcoholic options are available)

Accommodation:Meru View Lodge
Included meals: Group Dinner + welcome drink

Day 2: Arusha National Park Game Drive

After breakfast, you will be picked up in our safari jeeps and transferred from Arusha to Arusha National park (30-45 mins). Here we will embark on a 6 hour game drive & walking safari.

This beautiful park offers sweeping views of Mt. Meru and Kilimanjaro, and a unique mix of landscapes. We’ll enjoy a morning safari in the jeep, then head out on a guided walking safari with an armed ranger. Walking through the bush gives you a completely different perspective as you spot giraffes, zebras, and monkeys up close, and hike past waterfalls and lakes.

After a picnic lunch, we’ll continue exploring the park before returning to our lodge. After a little time to freshen up and relax, we will meet for a group dinner to chat about the day (included).

Accommodation: Africa Safari Arusha
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Tarangire National Park Game Drive

This morning you have the option to take a balloon safari over the Serengeti (this is an add-on and not part of the trip!). After this, we drive to Tarangire National Park (approx. 2.5–3 hrs), one of Tanzania’s most underrated gems! The Tarangire River flows through the park, which constantly carries water, so that many animals migrate from dry regions during the annual dry season from July to October, resulting in the highest density of wildlife in Tanzania after the Ngorongoro Crater.

Tarangire is famed for its giant baobab trees, sweeping savannahs, and large elephant herds. This is also one of the best places to spot lions lounging in the grasslands!  We’ll arrive in time for lunch and spend the rest of the day on a game drive seeing elephant herds, zebra, wildebeest, impala, waterbuck, lesser kudu, African buffalo, giraffe, hippo, warthog, lion, cheetah, leopard, hyena and African wild dogs.

After the game drive, we will drive to our tented lodge on the edge of the park to check in and freshen up or take a dip in the pool. We will meet for dinner together under the stars at this beautiful lodge (included).

Accommodation: Lake Burunge Tented Lodge
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Serengeti National Park Game Drive and Masai Visit

After breakfast we set off across the Ngorongoro Highlands towards the Serengeti (approx. 3 hour). Besides being known for the great migration, the Serengeti is also home to over 3,000 Lions, 1,000 African leopards and the East African cheetah. It’s one of the best places to observe prides in their natural environment. Approximately 70 large mammal and 500 bird species are found here – including the Big 5!

At the park we will stop for lunch, and then head off on a game drive to spot wildlife and witness the Great Migration; the year-round movement of over 1.5 million wildebeest, hundreds of thousands of zebra, and gazelles across the Serengeti (Tanzania) and Maasai Mara (Kenya) in search of fresh grazing and water.

After the game drive, we’ll will visit an authentic Maasai village where they will show you how they get medicine from trees and shrubs by boiling the leaves, stems, and roots of some trees. The Maasai are known for their high jumping which is also a way of attracting a bride. The higher the jumps, the more of an eligible bachelor a man is. You will have a chance to sing and dance with them. You will also learn about their weapons such as spears and shields and their fighting skills.

You will be able to taste typical Maasai food which lets them survive in very harsh surroundings. You will see how the women are creating their traditional jewelry. Both men and women wear colorful handmade beaded ornaments on their ears and necks. Depending on our arrival time, it might get dark by the end of our visit. That will give you the opportunity to listen to the traditional Maasai chants and dancing, accompanied by a bonfire.

After the Masai visit we will drive to our luxury tented camp in the heart of the bush. After checking in and freshening up, we’ll meet for dinner together. A team of talented chefs will prepare fresh, gourmet meal for us to share under the stars by candlelight.

Accommodation: Kisura Serengeti Tented Camp
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Northern Serengeti: Witness the Great Migration at the Mara River

Today we explore the northern reaches of the Serengeti, which reaches all the way to the Kenyan border and the famous Mara River. This area is lush and green, with fewer crowds and excellent wildlife viewing.

We’ll embark on a full day game drive, stopping for a picnic lunch midway. We may be lucky to witness an incredible part of the Great Migration, where we will see wildebeest and zebra crossing the Mara River. The Mara River crossings happen between July & October and are the most iconic scenes, where thousands of wildebeest plunge into crocodile-infested waters, a mix of chaos and survival instinct. The northern Serengeti is also home to predators like lions and leopards which we will be trying to spot.

After a full day of game drives we return to our luxury camp for  another wonderful gourmet dinner under the stars. After we will have a few drinks & games around the campfire.

Accommodation: Kisura Serengeti Tented Camp
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Ngorongoro Crater Rim

Today we are doing a game drive in central Serengeti as we make our way to the Ngorongo Crater. This massive volcanic caldera was formed about 2–3 million years ago when a giant volcano erupted and collapsed in on itself. It’s about 20 km (12 miles) wide and 600 m (2,000 ft) deep. It’s the world’s largest intact, unfilled volcanic caldera.

One we arrive at the Ngorongoro Crater, we will embark on foot along the rim of the crater with a park ranger.  We can watch animals as they migrate over the crater rim towards the waterholes in the crater at daybreak. You can’t get any closer to nature in Tanzania! This activity will take 2-3 hours, after which we will head to our accommodation.

Tonight we will stay in a country lodge set on five acres of lush grounds on the edge of busy Karatu town. We’ll share a group dinner at the lodge, before games and a nightcap in front of the fire.

Accommodation: Country Lodge Karatu
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Ngorongoro Crater Game Drive

After breakfast, we take a short 45 minute drive from Karatu back to Ngorongoro Crater, where we will go on a game drive.

We’ll descend 600 metres onto the crater floor for a safari in one of the most extraordinary settings in Africa. With over 25,000 animals, Ngorongoro offers an unparalleled density of wildlife. The number of zebras, buffaloes, wildebeests, antelopes and gazelles is particularly large here. They are hunted by lions, hyenas and leopards. There are also elephants in the crater and, unusually in this area, hippos. Between 10 and 15 endangered black rhinos remain. The great herd migration in the Serengeti also passes through the Ngorongoro Crater.

We will stop for our lunch during our safari, and after we will making a long transfer back to Arusha. It’s a 4 hour drive, where we will check in and freshen up. We will meet for a goodbye dinner, to trade stories of the trip and say farewell (or see you soon!)

Accommodation: Africa Safari Arusha
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & leaving drink

Day 8: Departure

We will enjoy breakfast at the hotel at our leisure before preparing for our airport transfers.

Depending on your flight time, you’ll have a chance to explore town or shop for souvenirs before your airport transfer. This marks the end of your Tanzanian safari — or the beginning of your next adventure if you choose to extend to Zanzibar.

Included meals: Breakfast

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price?

All inclusions are listed in the ‘Cost’ section. This tour covers accommodation, all meals on safari, game drives, national park fees, and cultural experiences like a Maasai village visit. You’ll also have all transfers, a private safari jeep with a driver-guide, and bottled water included.

How many game drives will we do?

The itinerary includes multiple game drives across Arusha, Tarangire, the Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater. Expect at least 6 structured game drives, plus wildlife viewing en route when travelling between parks

Will we definitely see the Big Five?

Sightings can never be guaranteed, but Tanzania is one of the best places in the world to see the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino). Ngorongoro Crater has one of the highest predator densities in Africa, and the Serengeti is home to over 3,000 lions. The chances of spotting the Big Five across this itinerary are excellent.

What kind of wildlife will I see besides the Big Five?

Expect giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, cheetahs, hippos, antelopes, flamingos, and an abundance of birdlife. Tarangire is famous for elephants and baobabs, Serengeti for predators and the Great Migration, and Ngorongoro for its dense mix of species.

What type of accommodation will we stay in?

We use hand-picked lodges and tented camps in great safari locations: Africa Safari Arusha, Lake Burunge Tented Lodge, Kisura Serengeti Tented Camp, and Country Lodge Karatu. All offer comfort, character, and excellent access to the parks. Rooms are based on twin/double share, with a single supplement available.

Are meals included?

Yes. 20 meals are included: 7 breakfasts, 7 lunches, and 7 dinners. Dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice.

How many people will be in the group?

The group size for this tour is 18 people; Steph and 17 guests. If you are looking for a small-group safari tour, check out my Uganda Safari which is taking place the week before.

Do I need a visa for Tanzania?

Yes. Most travellers require a tourist visa (approx. $50 USD). This can be obtained online in advance or on arrival. Full instructions will be provided before the trip.

What level of fitness is required?

This trip is suitable for all fitness levels. Activities include short walks (like the Arusha walking safari and Ngorongoro rim), plus daily game drives. There are no long or strenuous treks.

What is the transport like?

We travel in private 4×4 safari jeeps with pop-up roofs, perfect for game viewing. Transfers between parks are included, with drive times ranging from 2–6 hours depending on the day.

What should I pack?

A packing list will be sent to you before departure with recommended clothing and gear. Neutral-coloured clothing, layers, sun protection, and a good camera/binoculars are essential.

Is alcohol allowed on the trip?

Yes, alcohol is available at lodges and camps. You’re welcome to buy drinks with dinner or relax with a sundowner after a day on safari.

Is tipping expected?

Yes, tipping is customary in Tanzania and is greatly appreciated. We recommend budgeting a small amount for guides, drivers, and porters on the treks. Guidance will be provided in your pre-trip information.

I’m a solo traveller — can I join?

Absolutely! Many of our guests join solo. You’ll be paired with a same-gender roommate if you book a shared room, or you can choose a single supplement if you’d like your own. Single rooms are subject to availability, as lodges are small. Book early if you would like a private room.

What is the weather like?

Tanzania’s climate is generally warm to hot during the day and cooler in the evenings, especially at higher elevations like Ngorongoro. Pack light layers and a warm jacket for early morning drives.

Is Tanzania safe to visit?

Yes. The areas we visit are considered safe for travellers, and you’ll be accompanied by experienced local guides and Steph throughout the trip.

Can dietary requirements be catered for?

Yes, whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free, the lodges and restaurants we work with can accommodate dietary needs. Please let us know in advance so we can make arrangements.

Do I need travel insurance?

Yes, travel insurance is mandatory for this tour. Your policy must include medical cover and cover for trekking activities.

What is the cancellation policy for the tour

We know plans can change, so we’ve kept our cancellation policy clear and fair:

• To secure your spot, a non-refundable deposit of 25% is required at the time of booking.
• Your final balance is due 8 weeks before departure.

If you need to cancel:

• 16+ weeks before your trip: You’ll only lose your deposit.
• 12–15 weeks before your trip: 50% of your trip cost is non-refundable.
• 8–11 weeks before your trip: 75% of your trip cost is non-refundable.
• Less than 8 weeks before your trip: Unfortunately, no refund can be given.

If we ever have to cancel, you’ll get a full refund or the option to transfer to another date.

Travel insurance is required to protect you in case of illness, flight cancellations, or other unexpected events.