7 Days Ngorongoro–Tarangire–Manyara Safari Circuit

Overview

This 7-day safari takes you through three of Tanzania’s most iconic parks: the wildlife-rich Tarangire National Park, the scenic Lake Manyara National Park, and the world-renowned Ngorongoro Crater. Expect breathtaking landscapes, thrilling game drives, and up-close encounters with Africa’s most fascinating wildlife. Designed for travelers who want a balanced experience of nature, culture, and comfort, this itinerary offers carefully selected lodges and camps for an unforgettable adventure.

Safari Highlights

• Witness the ancient baobab trees and elephant herds of Tarangire National Park

• Explore the birdlife and tree-climbing lions of Lake Manyara National Park

• Descend into the wildlife paradise of the Ngorongoro Crater

• Spot the Big Five and a variety of plains game on daily game drives

• Stay in handpicked lodges and tented camps offering comfort and authentic safari experiences

Brief Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrival in Arusha – Overnight stay

• Day 2: Transfer to Tarangire National Park – Game drive

• Day 3: Full-day safari in Tarangire

• Day 4: Drive to Lake Manyara – Afternoon game drive

• Day 5: Transfer to Ngorongoro – Evening leisure at lodge

• Day 6: Full-day game drive inside Ngorongoro Crater

• Day 7: Return to Arusha – Departure

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport where you will be met by your safari guide and transferred to your lodge in Arusha. Rest and prepare for your safari adventure.

• Accommodation: Arusha Serena Hotel or similar

• Meals: Dinner

Day. 2: Arusha – Tarangire National Park
After breakfast, drive to Tarangire National Park, famous for its elephants and baobabs. Enjoy a game drive en route to your lodge.

• Accommodation: Tarangire Sopa Lodge or similar

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Full Day in Tarangire National Park
Spend a full day exploring Tarangire’s varied landscapes. Look out for large elephant herds, lions, giraffes, and over 550 bird species. Picnic lunch will be served in the park.

• Accommodation: Tarangire Sopa Lodge or similar

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day. 4: Tarangire – Lake Manyara National Park
After breakfast, depart for Lake Manyara National Park. Known for its flamingos and tree-climbing lions, this park offers a mix of woodland, grassland, and the Rift Valley escarpment views. Afternoon game drive before heading to your lodge.

• Accommodation: Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge or similar

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Lake Manyara – Ngorongoro Highlands
In the morning, drive towards Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Settle into your lodge on the crater rim or highlands with stunning views of the crater below. Spend the evening at leisure.

• Accommodation: Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge or similar

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day. 6: Ngorongoro Crater Safari
Today, descend 600 meters into the Ngorongoro Crater for a full-day game drive. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to the densest population of wildlife in Africa. Expect sightings of rhinos, lions, zebras, buffalo, and more. Picnic lunch in the crater floor.

• Accommodation: Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge or similar

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Ngorongoro – Arusha – Departure
After breakfast, drive back to Arusha. Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy last-minute shopping before being transferred to the airport for your onward journey.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Package Inclusive

• Accommodation as specified in the itinerary.

• All meals as indicated (breakfast, lunch, dinner).

• Private 4×4 safari vehicle with professional English-speaking guide.

• Park entrance fees, conservation levies, and game drives.

• Bottled drinking water during safari activities.

• Scheduled activities listed in the itinerary

Package Exclusive

• International and domestic flights (unless stated).

• Travel insurance and Tanzania visa.

• Personal expenses, tips, laundry, and souvenirs.

• Alcoholic beverages and drinks not included in meals.

• Optional activities not listed in the itinerary.

Travel Advisory / Important Notes

1. Health & Safety

   • Ensure you have relevant vaccinations (yellow fever certificate may be required).

   • Carry personal medications and first aid essentials.

   • Drink bottled water provided; avoid untreated tap water.

2. Clothing & Gear

   • Lightweight, breathable, neutral-colored clothing for game drives.

   • Comfortable hiking shoes and sandals for walking safaris or forest treks.

   • Warm layers for early mornings and evenings.

   • Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and insect repellent.

   • Camera, binoculars, and extra batteries/memory cards.

3. Weather & Terrain

   • Tanzania has wet and dry seasons; terrain may be muddy or dusty depending on the time of year.

   • Be prepared for long drives between parks.

4. Cultural Etiquette

   • Respect local customs and communities.

   • Ask permission before photographing people in villages.

5. Safari Conduct

   • Follow your guide’s instructions during game drives and forest walks.

   • Maintain a safe distance from wildlife; do not feed animals.

   • Keep noise levels low to avoid disturbing wildlife.

6. Connectivity

   • Mobile signal may be limited in remote parks.

   • Wi-Fi is often only available at lodges or main camps.