Tanzania Safari

Tanzania Safari

Tanzania game reserves have some of the largest concentrations of wildlife on the African continent. The wide open plains of the Serengeti are home to over 2 million wildebeest and zebra migrating annually along ancient animal paths, constantly pursued by a host of predators. Throughout this diverse region animals in their countless millions roam freely through the vast expanses of land dedicated to conservation. With names like Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro this is where safaris were born. The fascinating Maasai people have roamed these plains for years living in complete harmony with the wildlife.

Quick Summary



Itinerary Detail

Day 1: Arusha

Arusha, Tanzania
Daily Summary
  • Transfer: Transfer from Kilimanjaro Airport to your lodge
  • Accommodation: Arusha Coffee Lodge
  • Meals: D

Upon arrival in Kilimanjaro you are met and transferred to your lodge.

Arusha, Tanzania

Arusha is the gateway to Tanzania’s northern safari circuit. Situated below Mount Meru on the eastern edge of the eastern branch of the Great Rift Valley, it has a mild climate and is close to the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, Tarangire and Kilimanjaro as well as having its own Arusha National Park.

Day 2: Tarangire National Park

Tarangire National Park
Daily Summary
  • Transfer: Road transfer Arusha to Tarangire National Park
  • Accommodation: Nimali Tarangire Camp
  • Meals: B, L, D

This morning you are collected from your hotel by your private safari guide who will give you a full safari briefing before heading off to Tarangire National Park. The drive to the Park entrance is approximately 2 hours. After your guide takes care of entrance formalities, you enter the Park en route to your camp. At this point timing is flexible as you stop for wildlife you encounter on the way.

Tarangire National Park

Tarangire, arguably northern Tanzania's most interesting park, is famous for the large herds of elephants and spectacular baobab trees - a fantastic choice for safari The permanent water of the Tarangire River lures large herds of migrant wildlife from the parched surrounding areas. In the peak of the dry season, Tarangire's resident populations of wildebeest, zebra, eland, elephant and buffalo rival those of the Serengeti. It is a place of dense woodlands, clusters of palm trees and thick stands of baobabs.


Day 3: Tarangire National Park

On safari in Tarangire National Park
Daily Summary

On safari in Tarangire National Park

Join your experienced, professional guide as you explore further into Tarangire, the sixth largest national park in Tanzania. The park is famous for its huge number of elephants, baobab trees and tree climbing lions. Visitors to the park can expect to see any number of resident zebra and wildebeest in addition to the less common animals. Other common animals include waterbuck, giraffe, and olive baboons. Home to more than 550 species, the park is a haven for bird enthusiasts who can expect to see dozens of species even in the dry season. The swamps are the focus of the largest selection of breeding birds anywhere in the world. Yellow-collared Lovebirds are a common bird sighting in the trees along the Tarangire River.

Day 4: Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro Crater

Manyara National Park
Daily Summary
  • Transfer: Road transfer Tarangire National Park to Ngorongoro Crater with stop at Manyara en route
  • Accommodation: Gibbs Farm
  • Meals: B, L, D

After breakfast you will drive to Lake Manyara National Park, departing with packed lunch. Enjoy a game drive in the Park, famed for its tree climbing lions and flamingoes on the lake! Later drive to your lodge near the Ngorongoro Crater.

Manyara National Park

Between the cliff of the Great Rift Valley and Lake Manyara, the unusually dense forest vegetation of Manyara National Park is supported by underground water that has traveled down the 1,968 foot rim of the Ngorongoro Crater. Babbling freshwater and hot springs provide a unique setting for the 380 species of birds and abundant wildlife that is found here including the famous Manyara tree-climbing lions. Although their behavior remains a mystery, it is quite possible to find an entire pride of lions stretched out in the branches of the acacia trees. Herds of buffalo, wildebeest and zebra are often found on the grassy plains as are giraffe – some so dark they appear to be black from the distance.

Ngorongoro Crater

Located in Northern Tanzania, the Ngorongoro Crater is best known for its natural beauty and abundance of diverse wildlife; which makes it one of Africa’s most popular safari destinations. Surrounded by Tanzania’s highlands, this UNESCO-listed crater is said to be the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera. Visitors can look forward to spotting the world-renowned Big Five and a host of other wildlife species including large herds of zebra and wildebeest. It is famed as one of Tanzania’s best tourist attractions offering visitors an array of wonderful activities including excellent bird watching, trekking, wildlife viewing and visiting a local Maasai village.

Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater

Ngorongoro Crater
Daily Summary

On safari in the Ngorongoro Crater

After breakfast drive into the Crater for a full day safari with a boxed lunch.

The largest unbroken caldera in the world, Ngorongoro Crater was formed nearly 2.5 million years ago. The 100 square mile crater floor contains one of the highest concentrations of predators in Africa who are drawn by the large herds of prey animals. Although the crater is dominated by lions and hyenas, the elusive serval cat can also be found prowling the marshes for water birds while cheetah are often seen pursuing small antelope. The crater floor is also one of the last habitats of the endangered black rhino. Bird life is prolific with regular visits by large flocks of migratory birds including flamingos, white storks and yellow wagtails.

Day 6: Southern Serengeti

Travel by road to the Southern Serengeti
Daily Summary
  • Transfer: Travel by road to the Southern Serengeti
  • Accommodation: Lemala Ndutu
  • Meals: B, L, D

After an early breakfast, you will depart to Ndutu with our guide and luxury safari vehicle. You have the option to arrive at the camp for a hot lunch or go for a longer game drive with packed lunch. Arrive at the camp for dinner and overnight.

Southern Serengeti National Park

Grassy plains studded with granite kopjes extend endlessly across the scenically beautiful Southern Serengeti, which stretches from the bottom of the Central Serengeti to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and Maswa Game Reserve. It’s one of the best areas to see the animals of the Great Migration: visit between December and May to see the huge herds of wildebeest, zebra and gazelle arriving to calve, and then at the beginning of the dry season making their way northwards again in search of green grass.


Days 7 - 8: Southern Serengeti

On safari in the Serengeti National Park
Daily Summary

On safari in the Serengeti National Park

You spend your time on safari in the Serengeti.
As large as the state of Connecticut, the Serengeti is most famous for its seasonal migration of wildlife that traverse the length of the Serengeti in search of fresh grazing, closely followed by a host of predators including lion, cheetah, leopard and hyena - literally "a moving feast." This mass concentration of wildlife and the ensuing interaction between predator and prey creates a spectacle unrivaled in the natural world.

Day 9: Central Serengeti

Central Serengeti National Park
Daily Summary
  • Transfer: Travel by road to the Central Serengeti
  • Accommodation: Elewna Pioneer Camp
  • Meals: B, L, D

After an early breakfast, you will depart to the Central Serengeti with our guide and luxury safari vehicle. You have the option to arrive at the camp for a hot lunch or go for a longer game drive with packed lunch. Arrive at the camp for dinner and overnight.

Central Serengeti National Park

The Central Seronera Valley and Southern Plains are vast, open grasslands ranging from north of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, dotted with acacia trees and teeming with wildlife from November to April, although resident game can be found here all year round. The Central Seronera Valley, has open plains, rocky outcrops and hills providing the perfect backdrop for any safari. The migration typically passes through in April/May but the resident game here is phenomenal with a high concentration of lion, leopard and cheetah. The migration can be viewed in the south or the west of Seronera from November to June which makes this a great area to be based from during this time.


Days 10 - 11: Central Serengeti

Central Serengeti
Daily Summary

On safari in the Serengeti National Park

Although the Great Migration dominates certain areas at certain times, wildlife viewing in the Serengeti is consistent throughout the year. The vast savannas and grasslands support substantial resident populations of giraffe, wildebeest, elephant, zebra and other typical plains animals, and of course, lion and other big predators.
COVID: During your time here your guide will take you to the Seronera medical centre for Covid testing if necessary. Covid test fee not included.

Day 12: Depart

Daily Summary
  • Transfer: Transfer camp to airstrip
  • Meals: B

Time permitting you will enjoy a morning game viewing activity followed by breakfast before being transferred to the airstrip in time for your flight.

Accommodation

Arusha Coffee Lodge

Arusha Coffee Lodge

Arusha Coffee Lodge features a divine aromatic and sensory experience. On the gently rolling foothills that cascade down the ever-present Mount Meru, lies the bustling town of Arusha. It is here, on the outskirts of town, hidden amidst one of Tanzania’s largest coffee plantations, that you will find the Arusha Coffee Lodge. Comprised of 30 Plantation Houses that decorate the evergreen coffee fields, the lodge was designed around the original landowner’s home, which dates back to the early 1900’s. The theme of coffee permeates throughout the property, creatively reflected in the colors, textures, styles and designs.

Nimali Tarangire Camp

Nimali Tarangire Camp

Nimali Tarangire is an exclusive luxury lodge located on the eastern boundary of Tarangire National Park that is renowned for its stunning baobab trees and large concentration of elephants. The lodge is situated alongside the riverbed and well hidden among the acacia & baobab trees. Natural materials are merged with contemporary decor, to provide guests with a unique and unforgettable bush experience. The main areas include a spacious lounge, library and a central dining area that overlooks the swimming pool and a waterhole that attracts wildlife.

Gibbs Farm

Gibbs Farm

Gibb's Farm lies at the heart of Africa's Great Rift Valley in a tranquil spot in the Ngorongoro Highlands, just 5km from the village of Karatu in Tanzania. It’s the perfect place to explore beautiful scenery, go on guided walks to nearby waterfalls or take part in a bird-watching trip, or take a drive to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area which hosts one of the largest concentrations of wildlife in Africa. Each of the 20 cottages at Gibb’s Farm features rich wooden floors and classic interiors adorned with artwork, a wraparound fireplace which warms the bathroom and living area, and wraparound windows combine to create cozy accomodations with panoramic views of the gardens and Ngorongoro Forest Reserve. Enjoy watching a daily coffee bean roasting session which takes place on the patio; along with buffet-style breakfasts and lunch, and set 4-course meal dinners.

Lemala Ndutu

Lemala Ndutu is situated inside the Ngorongoro Conservation Area at the border of the Southern Serengeti, just 40 minutes from the Ndutu airstrip. During the months of December to March, this mobile camp shares its surroundings with the 1.5 million migratory animals that have come to rest, graze, and calve. From July to October, this very camp relocates and resides up in the Northern Serengeti on the Mara River to experience a different stage of the migration (Lemala Mara). Game-viewing here is spectacular. With wildebeest and zebra grazing near the permanent marshes, there are always predators in tow. Lion, cheetah, leopard, and hyena are frequently spotted hunting in Lemala Ndutu’s back yard. Nine canvas tents are spacious and comfortably furnished. The main areas boast luxury with chandeliers and leather sofas in the living and dining rooms. The campfire is the perfect place for guests to come together to share stories and a sundowner to end their day on safari. The staff here is very attentive and you will always be well looked after. The camp feels large and permanent, despite being a mobile camp. This is great if you are a little nervous or unsure about being in a tent in the middle of the wilderness. The tents are stable and comfortable without denying you a wilderness experience.

Elewna Pioneer Camp

Elewna Pioneer Camp

Located in South Central Serengeti - Tanzania - (within the Moru Kopjes area), Serengeti Pioneer Camp is ideally situated to offer superlative access to the annual migration and the ‘Big 5’ with sweeping views overlooking Moru Kopjes, Lake Magadi and the endless plains. Each of Elewana Collection’s camps and lodges has its own individual style and feel. Serengeti Pioneer Camp continues this tradition. Paying homage to the mobile camps of the 1930’s, a time when an African safari was truly a journey into the unknown, Serengeti Pioneer Camp’s ‘zero footprint’ and close proximity to nature combines to make an unmistakably distinctive and truly individual offering. Comprising of twelve-tented accommodations, all of which have en-suite facilities including a flushing toilet, vanity basin, and showers, the tent interiors are designed to evoke the very best of an era long-gone but certainly not forgotten.

Details

Details

Price Includes

• All accommodation as indicated in the itinerary
• All transfers as indicated in the itinerary. All transfers are private unless otherwise indicated.
• Price is based on one transfer for all passengers on the itinerary. In the event people arrive/depart on different flights, additional transfers may be required at an extra cost.
• All meals as indicated in the itinerary.
• Private guide & vehicle for duration of safari
• Park fees unless specified otherwise
• All tours as indicated in the itinerary. All tours are private unless otherwise indicated. Standard entrance fees included.
• Internal light aircraft flights on safari if specified.
• 24/7 local assistance in all countries.

Price Excludes

• International and domestic scheduled flights unless shown as included.
• Gratuities.
• Any Covid or related testing required during the trip.
• Quarantine costs due to Covid-related issues.
• Optional activities offered by lodges and payable directly.
• Travel Insurance.
• Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages unless specified in the itinerary.
• Meals not specified in the itinerary.
• Items of a personal nature.
• Laundry unless specified in the itinerary.
• Visa fees.
• Airport departure taxes.
• Any items or services not specified in the itinerary.

Why Maxim Tours?

Why Maxim Tours?

Uncommon Safaris for Discerning Adventurers

Experience Matters

Since 1993 Maxim Tours’ passion for exotic destinations has made us a highly sought after Boutique Tour Operator for discerning travelers. After three decades we continue to exceed our clients' expectations. Our approach over these many years is simple; offer the very best service and travel experience at the most competitive prices while balancing the importance of sustainable tourism with a high quality travel product.

Premier Guides 

Maxim Tours' guides have a reputation for being the best in the business. Experts in their fields, friendly and interesting,  a good guide will bring the most out of every excursion while creating lifelong memories.  

24/7 Support

At no time during your adventure will you be alone. Our local partners are available 24/7 in the event you need any assistance while traveling. We will monitor your progress and take care of any unexpected developments so that your trip continues unhindered.

Responsible Tourism

Responsible and sustainable tourism should be more than just a phrase - it has to be an ongoing and tangible commitment to balancing tourism with the upliftment of local communities and preservation of the natural environment. Maxim Tours actively supports camps and lodges whose business models reflect this commitment.