Are you ready to embark on a breathtaking adventure through the stunning landscapes of Tanzania? Look no further! In this article, we will provide you with an incredible 14-day itinerary that will take you on a journey to explore the wonders of this beautiful country. From the vast plains of Serengeti National Park to the picturesque beaches of Zanzibar, get ready to immerse yourself in the rich culture, abundant wildlife, and exhilarating experiences that Tanzania has to offer. So grab your passport and get ready for an unforgettable trip of a lifetime!
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport
Welcome to Tanzania! Your adventure begins as you arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport. The airport is located near Arusha, the gateway to some of Tanzania’s most incredible national parks and wildlife reserves. Take a moment to soak in the excitement of being in a new country, and get ready for an unforgettable journey.
Transfer to hotel in Arusha
After clearing customs and collecting your luggage, you will be greeted by our friendly local guide who will transfer you to your hotel in Arusha. The transfer takes approximately 45 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and get your first glimpse of Tanzania’s natural beauty.
Rest and relax
Once you arrive at your hotel, take some time to rest and relax after your long journey. Arusha is a charming town surrounded by lush landscapes, and your hotel offers a comfortable and tranquil retreat. Take this opportunity to settle in, unwind, and prepare for the adventures that await you in the coming days.
Day 2: Arusha National Park
Morning: Breakfast at the hotel
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel. Energize yourself for a day full of exploration and wildlife encounters.
Visit Arusha National Park
Today, you will visit Arusha National Park, which is located just a short drive from your hotel. This lesser-known gem is a hidden treasure, offering breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, you will embark on a thrilling game drive and have the chance to spot an array of animals, including giraffes, zebras, buffalos, and various species of primates.
Explore Momella Lakes and Ngurdoto Crater
While exploring Arusha National Park, make sure to visit the Momella Lakes and Ngurdoto Crater. The Momella Lakes are a series of shallow, alkaline lakes that are home to a wide variety of bird species. Keep your binoculars handy to catch a glimpse of flamingos, pelicans, and other waterbirds.
The Ngurdoto Crater, often referred to as the Little Ngorongoro, is a collapsed volcanic crater with lush vegetation and a dense population of wildlife. Take a moment to appreciate the breathtaking views from the rim and capture some memorable photos of this natural wonder.
Afternoon: Picnic lunch
Midway through your day, enjoy a delightful picnic lunch amidst the beautiful surroundings of Arusha National Park. Savor the flavors of local cuisine while immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of the park.
Visit the Meru Waterfall
After lunch, take a short hike to the stunning Meru Waterfall. Surrounded by lush rainforest, the cascading waters create a tranquil atmosphere and offer a refreshing escape from the warm Tanzanian sun. Take your time to admire the beauty of the waterfall and enjoy the serenity of nature.
Evening: Return to hotel in Arusha
As the day comes to a close, head back to your hotel in Arusha. Reflect on the incredible experiences of the day and relish in the anticipation of the adventures that await you in the days ahead.
Day 3: Tarangire National Park
Morning: Breakfast at the hotel
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel in Arusha. Fuel up for another exciting day of wildlife encounters and breathtaking landscapes.
Transfer to Tarangire National Park
Today, you will embark on a journey to Tarangire National Park. A comfortable vehicle will transport you from Arusha to the park, allowing you to enjoy the scenic drive and observe the changing landscapes along the way. Look out for glimpses of wildlife as you make your way to this remarkable destination.
Game drive in the park
Upon arrival at Tarangire National Park, get ready for an exhilarating game drive. The park is renowned for its large elephant herds and its picturesque baobab trees that dot the landscape. Keep your camera at the ready as you may also encounter lions, leopards, zebras, wildebeests, and an abundance of birdlife. Your experienced guide will navigate through the park, ensuring that you have the best opportunity to spot and learn about the unique wildlife in the area.
Afternoon: Lunch
After an exciting morning, take a break for a delicious lunch amidst the natural beauty of Tarangire National Park. Sit back, relax, and appreciate the incredible sights and sounds that surround you.
Continue exploring the park
After lunch, resume your exploration of Tarangire National Park. With its diverse ecosystems and rich biodiversity, there is always something new to discover around every corner. Marvel at the impressive wildlife and immerse yourself in the sheer magnificence of this untamed wilderness.
Evening: Transfer to accommodation in Tarangire
As the day draws to a close, you will be transferred to your accommodation near Tarangire National Park. Settle in and take in the tranquility of your surroundings. This is your chance to relax and connect with nature before another day of unforgettable adventures.
Day 4: Lake Manyara National Park
Morning: Breakfast at the accommodation
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at your accommodation near Tarangire National Park. Enjoy the flavors of Tanzania while preparing for another day filled with incredible wildlife encounters.
Drive to Lake Manyara National Park
Today, you will embark on a scenic drive from your accommodation to Lake Manyara National Park. The drive offers captivating views of the countryside and glimpses of local life, immersing you in the rich culture and natural beauty of Tanzania.
Game drive in the park
Upon arrival at Lake Manyara National Park, get ready for an immersive game drive. This park is known for its diverse habitats, ranging from the alkaline lake to lush forests and open grassy plains. Keep your eyes peeled for the famous tree-climbing lions, as well as elephants, hippos, buffalo, and an abundance of bird species. Your experienced guide will share their expertise, providing fascinating insights into the park’s wildlife and ecosystems.
Afternoon: Picnic lunch
Midway through your day, take a break for a delightful picnic lunch amidst the breathtaking scenery of Lake Manyara National Park. As you refuel, take in the sights and sounds of the park and appreciate the unique beauty that surrounds you.
Explore the park further
After lunch, continue your exploration of Lake Manyara National Park. The park’s dense foliage and varied landscapes make it a haven for wildlife, providing ample opportunities to witness natural wonders up close. Whether it’s a herd of elephants bathing in the lake or a flock of flamingos wading through its waters, be prepared to be amazed by the incredible wildlife encounters that await you.
Evening: Transfer to accommodation near Lake Manyara
As the day comes to an end, you will be transferred to your accommodation near Lake Manyara. Reflect on the day’s adventures and savor the anticipation of the experiences yet to come in this captivating part of Tanzania.
Day 5: Serengeti National Park – Central Serengeti
Morning: Breakfast at the accommodation
Begin your day with a delicious breakfast at your accommodation near Lake Manyara. Take your time, as today promises to be a day filled with awe-inspiring sights and unforgettable encounters.
Transfer to Serengeti National Park
Today, you will embark on the journey to one of the most iconic and famous national parks in the world – Serengeti National Park. A comfortable transfer will take you through the beautiful landscapes of Tanzania, allowing you to appreciate the vastness and grandeur of the African wilderness.
Game drive en route to central Serengeti
As you make your way towards central Serengeti, enjoy a game drive en route. The Serengeti is renowned for its vast open plains, which provide the ideal habitat for the annual wildebeest migration. Keep your eyes peeled for herds of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles as they navigate their way across the Serengeti in search of fresh grazing lands.
Afternoon: Lunch
Pause for a delicious lunch amidst the spectacular scenery of the Serengeti. Take a moment to savor the flavors of Tanzania while soaking in the unparalleled beauty that surrounds you.
Explore central Serengeti
After lunch, it’s time to explore the heart of the Serengeti. This region is teeming with wildlife year-round, offering you the chance to spot lions, leopards, elephants, giraffes, and a myriad of other species. Listen to the calls of the wild and witness the breathtaking landscapes that make the Serengeti such a legendary destination.
Evening: Transfer to accommodation in central Serengeti
As the sun begins to set, you will be transferred to your accommodation in central Serengeti. Relax and unwind in the comfort of your lodge or camp, taking in the sounds of the African bush and reflecting on the incredible experiences of the day.
Day 6: Serengeti National Park – Northern Serengeti
Morning: Breakfast at the accommodation
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at your accommodation in central Serengeti. Prepare yourself for yet another day filled with thrilling wildlife encounters and breathtaking landscapes.
Game drive in central Serengeti
This morning, embark on an exhilarating game drive in central Serengeti. With its vast plains and abundant wildlife, this area provides incredible opportunities for sightings and memorable experiences. Look out for predators in action, including lions on the hunt or leopards resting on tree branches.
Afternoon: Lunch
After an exciting morning, take a break for a delicious lunch in the heart of the Serengeti. Marvel at the untouched beauty that surrounds you and recharge for the adventures that lie ahead.
Transfer to northern Serengeti
After lunch, bid farewell to central Serengeti as you make your way to the northern part of the park. The northern Serengeti is famous for its river crossings during the annual wildebeest migration, an awe-inspiring spectacle that showcases the raw power of nature.
Explore the migration and river crossings
Upon arrival in northern Serengeti, immerse yourself in the drama of the wildebeest migration and witness the spectacular river crossings. As thousands of wildebeest and zebras gather along the banks of the Mara River, watch in awe as they navigate the crocodile-infested waters. This is a truly unforgettable experience, showcasing the incredible resilience and bravery of these animals.
Evening: Transfer to accommodation in northern Serengeti
As dusk settles over the plains, you will be transferred to your accommodation in northern Serengeti. Sit back, relax, and reflect on the astounding natural wonders you have witnessed throughout the day.
Day 7: Ngorongoro Conservation Area – Olduvai Gorge
Morning: Breakfast at the accommodation
Begin your day with a delicious breakfast at your accommodation in northern Serengeti. Energize yourself for a day of exploration and discovery in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Drive to Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Today, you will embark on a scenic drive from northern Serengeti to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. As you journey through the Tanzanian countryside, enjoy the ever-changing landscapes and the opportunity to spot wildlife along the way.
Visit Olduvai Gorge and museum
En route to the Ngorongoro Crater, take a fascinating detour to Olduvai Gorge, one of the world’s most important paleoanthropological sites. Explore the museum and learn about the discoveries made in this area, which have contributed significantly to our understanding of human evolution. It’s an enriching experience that will take you back in time and deepen your appreciation for the fascinating history of our species.
Afternoon: Lunch
Pause for a delightful picnic lunch amidst the natural beauty of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Take in the panoramic views and savor the flavors of Tanzania while preparing for the afternoon’s wildlife encounters.
Game drive in the crater
After lunch, descend into the magnificent Ngorongoro Crater for a thrilling game drive. The crater is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a unique ecosystem that supports a vast array of wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for the “Big Five” – lions, elephants, buffalos, leopards, and rhinoceros, as well as cheetahs, hyenas, and a myriad of other species. Your skilled guide will ensure that you make the most of your time in this wildlife paradise.
Evening: Transfer to accommodation near Ngorongoro Crater
As the sun begins to set, you will be transferred to your accommodation near the Ngorongoro Crater. Settle in and relish the peacefulness of the surroundings, knowing that you have experienced a day filled with extraordinary encounters and unforgettable moments.
Day 8: Ngorongoro Crater
Morning: Breakfast at the accommodation
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation near the Ngorongoro Crater. Energize yourself for a full day of exploration and wildlife encounters in one of Africa’s most iconic natural wonders.
Descend into Ngorongoro Crater
After breakfast, descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a full day of game viewing. The crater’s enclosed nature and abundant water supply create an ideal habitat for wildlife, resulting in extraordinary density and diversity.
Full day game drive in the crater
Embark on a thrilling game drive in the crater, immersing yourself in the incredible sights and sounds of this unique ecosystem. Keep your camera ready as you may encounter not only the “Big Five” but also an array of birdlife, wildebeests, zebras, gazelles, and many other species. Take your time to soak in the opulence of the crater and appreciate the intricate balance of nature that exists within its boundaries.
Afternoon: Picnic lunch
Midway through your day, take a break for a delightful picnic lunch amidst the breathtaking scenery of the Ngorongoro Crater. Savor the flavors of Tanzania while absorbing the magnificence of the surroundings.
Explore the diverse wildlife
After lunch, continue your exploration of the crater’s diverse wildlife population. Keep your eyes peeled for unique encounters, such as the endangered black rhinoceros or the elusive serval cat. Your experienced guide will provide fascinating insights into the behaviors and adaptations of the animals you encounter, making this a truly educational and enriching experience.
Evening: Ascend from the crater and transfer to accommodation
As the day draws to a close, ascend from the Ngorongoro Crater and make your way to your accommodation. Reflect on the incredible moments of the day and savor the anticipation of the remaining days of your Tanzanian adventure.
Day 9: Lake Eyasi – Hadzabe Tribe
Morning: Breakfast at the accommodation
Fuel up with a delicious breakfast at your accommodation near the Ngorongoro Crater. Today, you will venture off the beaten path and immerse yourself in the unique culture of the Hadzabe tribe.
Drive to Lake Eyasi
Embark on a scenic drive from your accommodation to Lake Eyasi, a picturesque soda lake located in the Rift Valley. The drive offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes and provides insight into the rural communities that call this region home.
Visit the Hadzabe tribe
Upon arrival at Lake Eyasi, you will visit the Hadzabe tribe, one of the last remaining hunter-gatherer tribes in Tanzania. Immerse yourself in their ancient way of life as you accompany them on a hunting and gathering experience. Learn about their traditional techniques, which have been passed down through generations, and gain a deep appreciation for the harmony they maintain with nature.
Experience their hunting and gathering techniques
Under the guidance of the Hadzabe, you will have the unique opportunity to learn their hunting and gathering techniques firsthand. Witness their remarkable skills as they track wildlife, gather food, and navigate the natural surroundings. This immersive cultural experience is truly enlightening and offers a profound connection with a way of life that has existed for thousands of years.
Afternoon: Lunch
Take a break for a delicious lunch amidst the enchanting landscapes of Lake Eyasi. As you indulge in the flavors of Tanzania, take a moment to reflect on the incredible cultural exchange you have just experienced.
Interact with the Datoga tribe
In the afternoon, interact with another indigenous tribe of the region – the Datoga. The Datoga people are skilled metalworkers, known for their intricate beadwork and craftsmanship. Engage in conversations, observe their traditional practices, and gain insights into their unique way of life. This cultural exchange offers a deeper understanding of Tanzania’s diverse heritage.
Evening: Transfer to accommodation near Lake Eyasi
As the day comes to an end, bid farewell to the Hadzabe and Datoga tribes and make your way to your accommodation near Lake Eyasi. Relax and reflect on the extraordinary cultural experiences you have had today, knowing that you have gained a deeper appreciation for the diversity and richness of Tanzania’s people and traditions.
Day 14: Departure
Morning: Breakfast at the accommodation
Savor a final breakfast in Tanzania at your accommodation near Lake Eyasi. Relish the flavors and reflect on the incredible experiences you have had throughout your 14-day adventure.
Transfer to Zanzibar Airport
After breakfast, bid farewell to the mainland as you transfer to Zanzibar Airport. This marks the end of your Tanzanian journey, but the memories and experiences you have collected along the way will last a lifetime.
Flight back home
Board your flight back home, carrying with you the beauty of Tanzania, its diverse wildlife, and the warmth of its people. As you reflect on your time in this remarkable country, know that you have experienced a truly authentic African adventure, one that has allowed you to connect with nature, immerse yourself in vibrant cultures, and create memories that will forever hold a special place in your heart.
Whether it’s the vast plains of the Serengeti, the ancient traditions of the Hadzabe tribe, or the captivating landscapes of the Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on your soul. So, until we meet again, kwaheri (goodbye), and may your future journeys be filled with the same sense of awe and wonder that Tanzania has bestowed upon you.
