Per person sharing
This 9-day expedition offers a profound and unique journey beyond the traditional safari, combining classic wildlife viewing with exceptional cultural immersion in Tanzania’s Northern Circuit. The adventure begins gently with a nature walk near Tarangire and a full day among its iconic elephant herds. It then ventures into the heart of local life with visits to the multicultural village of Mto wa Mbu and a rare encounter with the Hadzabe, one of East Africa’s last true hunter-gatherer tribes at Lake Eyasi.
The journey then shifts to the legendary wildlife arenas, featuring the dense animal populations of the Ngorongoro Crater and culminating in the vast, breathtaking plains of the Serengeti. Designed for the culturally curious traveler, this itinerary offers a rare opportunity to connect with ancient ways of life before experiencing Africa’s most celebrated natural wonders, creating a balanced and unforgettable narrative of both people and place.
9 Days
3 years
Tanzania
3 People
Moderate
Your Tanzanian adventure begins with a warm welcome upon landing at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). Your GUSA Africa driver-guide will greet you and assist with the approximately one-hour transfer to the charming Moivaro Coffee Lodge in Arusha. Depending on your arrival time, you may choose to receive a brief tour overview either today or tomorrow morning. The remainder of the day is entirely at your leisure to relax at the lodge, recover from your journey, and soak in the serene coffee plantation surroundings, preparing for the diverse experiences that commence tomorrow.
After breakfast, you embark on a scenic drive to the Tarangire region, passing through local villages and markets that offer a glimpse into everyday Tanzanian life. You will arrive at the Burunge Tented Lodge in time for check-in and lunch. In the afternoon, you have a choice: embark on a guided nature walk along the shores of Lake Burunge to observe birdlife and local flora, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the lodge. This gentle start allows you to acclimate to the African bush at your own pace before the game drives begin.
After breakfast with a packed lunch, you will spend a full day exploring Tarangire National Park. This park is renowned for its impressive concentrations of wildlife, especially its large herds of elephants, and its dramatic landscape dotted with ancient, towering baobab trees. The Tarangire River acts as a vital lifeline, attracting elephants, buffalo, giraffes, and numerous antelope species, along with predators like lions. You’ll enjoy a picnic lunch at a designated site within the park and continue your exploration throughout the afternoon before returning to the lodge at sunset.
Today is dedicated to cultural discovery. After breakfast, you will travel to the lively village of Mto wa Mbu, a remarkable melting pot of over 120 different Tanzanian tribes. A guided walking tour will take you through vibrant banana and rice plantations, where you can interact with local farmers. The experience includes a delicious lunch of authentic Tanzanian dishes. In the late afternoon, you will drive to the scenic highlands of Karatu and check into the Marera Valley Lodge, ending the day surrounded by peaceful garden sounds.
You’ll have an early start for a truly unique cultural experience. You will drive to Lake Eyasi for a visit with the Hadzabe people, one of the last remaining hunter-gatherer tribes in East Africa. You will have the opportunity to join them on a foraging expedition, learn about their ancient hunting techniques with bows and arrows, and witness how they make fire and gather honey. This immersive visit provides a rare and authentic glimpse into a vanishing way of life. You will return to your lodge in the afternoon for lunch and some time to relax and reflect on the morning’s profound experience.
After breakfast, you will drive to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Descending 600 meters into the Ngorongoro Crater is a breathtaking experience. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a natural amphitheater hosting an astonishing concentration of animals, including the rare black rhino, and boasts Africa’s highest density of predators. You will enjoy a full morning of game driving on the crater floor, followed by a picnic lunch. In the afternoon, you’ll ascend the crater walls and drive back to the Marera Valley Lodge.
After breakfast, you begin your scenic drive towards the legendary Serengeti National Park. The route takes you through the verdant highlands of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Upon entering the Serengeti, you’ll be greeted by the iconic endless plains. You will arrive at the luxury camp in time for lunch and some relaxation. In the mid-afternoon, you can choose to embark on your first Serengeti game drive or enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the camp, perhaps later sharing stories around the campfire.
A full day awaits to immerse yourself in the wonders of the Serengeti. You may opt for a breathtaking hot-air balloon safari at dawn (extra cost). Your guide will then lead you on extensive game drives, exploring diverse habitats in search of the Big Five, cheetahs, and hyenas. Depending on the season, you may witness the awe-inspiring Great Migration. You’ll return to camp for lunch and head out again in the afternoon, concluding with a spectacular Serengeti sunset.
Your wildlife safari concludes here, but the journey holds one final adventure: the scenic drive to the airstrip. Keep your eyes on the landscape for a last, special sight—a final gift from the wilderness to carry with you. After your flight to Arusha, you’ll enjoy a farewell lunch before transferring to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward journey, whether homeward or to the beaches of Zanzibar.
PAX
Price per person sharing
2 People
3 People
US $3,360
4 People
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