9 Days Northern Tanzania Safari Circuit with Balloon

Overview

Embark on a thrilling 9-day Northern Tanzania safari circuit that combines iconic wildlife experiences, breathtaking landscapes, and a serene balloon adventure over the Serengeti. This journey takes you through Tanzania’s most celebrated parks—Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater—ensuring a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and luxury. Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and travelers seeking an unforgettable safari experience.

Safari Highlights

• Witness the Big Five in their natural habitats across the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.

• Marvel at flamingos and hippos in Lake Manyara.

• Explore the vast plains of the Serengeti with an early morning hot air balloon ride.

• Encounter ancient Maasai culture and villages.

• Enjoy game drives in Tarangire National Park with its majestic baobab trees.

• Experience luxury tented accommodations with meals included.

Itinerary

Day. 1: Arrival in Arusha

• Activities: Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, transfer to Arusha for overnight stay.

• Accommodation: Arusha Coffee Lodge or similar

• Meals: Dinner included

Day 2: Arusha – Tarangire National Park

• Activities: Morning briefing, drive to Tarangire (approx. 2–3 hours). Afternoon game drive exploring large elephant herds and unique baobab landscapes.

• Accommodation: Tarangire Safari Lodge or similar

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day. 3: Tarangire – Lake Manyara National Park

• Activities: Morning game drive in Tarangire, then transfer to Lake Manyara. Afternoon game drive with chances to spot tree-climbing lions and flamingos.

• Accommodation: Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge or similar

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Lake Manyara – Serengeti National Park

• Activities: Scenic drive to Serengeti (optional picnic en route). Afternoon game drive in Serengeti plains.

• Accommodation: Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge or similar

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day. 5: Serengeti – Full Day Game Drives

• Activities: Full day exploring the endless Serengeti savannah with morning and evening game drives. Spot predators and migratory herds.

• Accommodation: Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge or similar

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Serengeti – Hot Air Balloon Safari & Ngorongoro

• Activities: Early morning hot air balloon ride over the Serengeti. Champagne breakfast post-flight. Drive to Ngorongoro Crater for an afternoon lookout visit.

• Accommodation: Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge or similar

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day. 7: Ngorongoro Crater – Full Day Crater Safari

• Activities: Descend into Ngorongoro Crater for a full day of game viewing including lions, elephants, rhinos, and buffalos. Picnic lunch in the crater.

• Accommodation: Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge or similar

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Ngorongoro – Arusha

• Activities: Morning drive back to Arusha. Optional cultural visit to Maasai village or local markets.

• Accommodation: Arusha Coffee Lodge or similar

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day. 9: Departure

• Activities: Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure flight.

• Meals: Breakfast included

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.

• All activities as stated in the program above

• 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.