Your international flights should be booked to arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) in Tanzania. Upon your arrival, regardless of the time or airline, please proceed through customs and immigration. After collecting your luggage, head outside to the paging area, where our Safari/Airport representative will be waiting with a pager displaying the DK Grand Safaris logo along with your surname or group name. Following a warm introduction, you’ll receive assistance with your luggage and be escorted to your vehicle.
You will then transfer to your city hotel for check-in and an overnight stay. The Mount Meru Hotel and Gran Melia both are situated at the foothills of Mount Meru, offers an idyllic retreat with breathtaking views and lush gardens overlooking the golf course—making it the perfect destination for your first night in Africa....
Arusha, often referred to as the safari capital of Tanzania, serves as a hub for travelers embarking on the popular northern safari circuit. Known as the “Geneva of Africa,” this vibrant city features picturesque street markets, artisan craft shops, fascinating museums, Makonde carving workshops, and a variety of restaurants, street cafes, and bars. It’s a wonderful place to immerse yourself in local culture and prepare for your adventure into the African bush.
Superior Accommodation: Mount Meru Hotel
Premium Luxury: Gran Melia Hotel
Meals Plan: Bed Only
Day 2
Lake Manyara National Park
After enjoying a hearty breakfast, check out and embark on your journey to Lake Manyara National Park for an exhilarating day of game viewing, complete with a delightful picnic lunch. Spanning approximately 330 square kilometers (125 square miles), including a stunning lake surface of 230 square kilometers (89 square miles), Lake Manyara National Park has been described by Ernest Hemingway as “the loveliest I had seen in Africa.” This remarkable park is renowned for its iconic tree-climbing lions and vast flocks of flamingos, creating a vibrant spectacle, while also featuring diverse ecosystems that support an impressive array of wildlife.
As you explore, keep an eye out for the park’s famous tree-climbing lions lounging in the branches, large troops of baboons frolicking on the rocky cliffs, and elephants roaming gracefully beneath the canopy of acacia trees. Giraffes will be seen browsing on tender leaves, and you may encounter herds of impalas and waterbucks. With over 400 bird species recorded, the park is truly a paradise for birdwatchers....
After a day filled with wildlife encounters, you will proceed to your lodge for late check-in and dinner. Nestled on the rim of the Great Rift Valley, the lodge offers breathtaking panoramic views of the lake and its surrounding landscapes. Upon arrival, take a moment to unwind with refreshing drinks on the terrace, soaking in the beauty of your surroundings as the sun sets over the horizon.
In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner prepared with locally sourced ingredients, showcasing the rich flavors of the region. This tranquil setting provides the perfect opportunity to reflect on the day’s adventures and share stories with fellow travelers. The ambiance of the lodge, combined with the stunning views, creates a truly memorable dining experience.
As night falls, listen to the soothing sounds of nature and relax, knowing that incredible experiences await you in the days to come. This serene retreat will rejuvenate your spirit and prepare you for the exciting adventures that lie ahead in the heart of Tanzania.
Superior Accommodation: Lake Manyara Serena Lodge or Maasai Eco Boma Lodge
Premium Luxury: Escarpment Luxury Lodge Manyara or Acacia Farm Lodge
Meals Plan: Breakfast(B), Lunch(L) & Dinner(D)
Day 3
Serengeti National Park
After enjoying a hearty breakfast, check out and embark on your journey to Serengeti National Park. You’ll experience a scenic drive through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, taking in breathtaking views as you pass vibrant Maasai villages. Here, you can observe the locals grazing their cattle on the slopes of the Ngorongoro escarpment. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, with opportunities for game viewing until reaching Naabi Hills. This spot offers convenient facilities, including parking, restrooms, and a picnic lunch area.
Following a leisurely lunch, the official game viewing begins. You’ll set off to explore the vast savannah grasslands in search of the Serengeti’s abundant wildlife. Look out for the iconic Big Five: giraffes, Cape buffalo, lions, cheetahs, and elephants....
In addition, you may spot topi, zebras, wildebeest, impalas, and an impressive array of bird species—over 500 in total—making the Serengeti a true paradise for birdwatchers. Be sure to watch for notable species such as the Kori bustard, ostrich, and African fish eagle.
The name “Serengeti” is derived from the Maasai word “Siringet,” meaning “the place where the land runs forever.” Established in the 1920s and officially designated a national park in 1951, the Serengeti was initially a grazing area for the Maasai, many of whom were relocated to the Ngorongoro Highlands. The park gained international recognition in the 1950s through the influential conservation film “Serengeti Shall Not Die,” directed by Bernhard Grzimek and his son, Michael.
Covering an area of 5,700 square miles (14,763 square kilometers), the Serengeti is larger than the state of Connecticut in the USA. In 1981, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve due to its exceptional biodiversity and ecological significance.
After a thrilling day of wildlife exploration, you will proceed to your camp or lodge for check-in. Here, you can unwind and reflect on your experiences before enjoying a delightful dinner. The evening will be a wonderful opportunity to share stories with fellow travelers, surrounded by the enchanting sounds of the African night.
Superior Accommodation: Serengeti Serena Lodge or Kubu kubu Tented Lodge
Premium Luxury: Nanyukie Lodge Serengeti or Elewana Pioneer Camp
Meals Plan: Breakfast(B), Lunch(L) & Dinner(D)
Day 4
Serengeti National Park
This day is dedicated to exploring the wonders of Serengeti National Park, with morning and afternoon game drives that showcase the diverse landscapes along the flowing rivers of Seronera and the expansive savannah grasslands. These areas are rich in wildlife, featuring a mix of birds, mammals, and reptiles. The iconic kopjes—large granite and gneiss outcroppings formed by volcanic activity—dot the plains, providing shelter for various species and creating stunning backdrops for your adventure.
The Serengeti ecosystem is known for its high density of big cats, including lions, cheetahs, and leopards, making it an exhilarating destination for those eager to spot these majestic predators. In addition to the impressive resident wildlife, the park is famous for the annual wildebeest migration. ...
This spectacular event sees millions of herbivores, such as wildebeest, zebras, topis, and gazelles, journeying from the southern plains to the Masai Mara Game Reserve in search of greener pastures and water. This epic migration, characterized by dramatic river crossings filled with crocodiles, epitomizes the “survival of the fittest” and typically occurs from July to October.
For an extraordinary experience, consider opting for a hot air balloon safari. Rising before dawn, you’ll float above the landscape, witnessing the enchanting vistas and wildlife below as gentle winds carry you deeper into the reserve. The breathtaking 360-degree views of the vast African savannah provide ample opportunities for photography and reflection. After your flight, a delightful champagne breakfast will be served under the shade of one of the iconic Serengeti trees, adding a touch of luxury to your adventure.
Following breakfast, your safari continues with another game viewing, or you can enjoy a leisurely drive back to your camp or lodge. Reflect on the unforgettable experiences of the day, the incredible wildlife you’ve encountered, and the stunning landscapes you’ve witnessed in this magnificent corner of the world.
Superior Accommodation: Serengeti Serena Lodge or Kubu kubu Tented Lodge
Premium Luxury: Nanyukie Lodge Serengeti or Elewana Pioneer Camp
Meals Plan: Breakfast(B), Lunch(L) & Dinner(D)
Day 5
Ngorongoro Crater
After an early morning breakfast at the lodge/camp, you’ll check out and set off for the magnificent Ngorongoro Crater. As you arrive, the anticipation builds for your descent into this unique wildlife sanctuary, where diverse landscapes—basins, swamps, springs, rivers, plains, forests, and salt lakes—create an extraordinary ecosystem.
Often referred to as “Africa’s Eden,” Ngorongoro Crater is one of the world’s most breathtaking natural wonders, formed millions of years ago by the collapse of a giant volcano. This geological marvel has become a thriving habitat for a plethora of wildlife, supported by lush vegetation that has flourished over the ages.
Within the crater, you’ll encounter an impressive array of animals, including elephants, Cape buffalo, hyenas, lions, jackals, zebras, and wildebeest. Over 550 bird species also call this area home, all benefiting from the freshwater resources that nourish the ecosystem. It’s interesting to note that giraffes are absent here, likely due to the steep descent into the crater....
Key highlights of your exploration include Lake Magadi, a shallow soda lake teeming with birdlife; the hippo pool, a popular picnic spot where you can observe these magnificent creatures; Mandusi Swamp, known for its large elephant population; Lerai Forest, a haven for baboons; and the ancient stone burial mound believed to be the resting place of the Datooga people, offering a glimpse into the region’s cultural history.
After a day filled with unforgettable wildlife encounters, you’ll ascend back to your lodge or camp for check-in. Take time to unwind and refresh yourself—perhaps with a hot shower—before dinner. As you reflect on the incredible experiences of the day, the sights and sounds of the crater will linger in your memory, creating a lasting connection to this remarkable landscape. Enjoy a leisurely evening as you prepare for the adventures that lie ahead.
Superior Accommodation: Ngorongoro Serena Lodge or Ngorongoro Lions Paw Lodge
Premium Luxury: Neptune Ngorongoro Luxury Lodge or Ngorongoro Craters Edge
Meals Plan: Breakfast(B), Lunch(L) & Dinner(D)
Day 6
Depart
After breakfast, you’ll check out and set off for Arusha Town, where a delicious lunch awaits you at a local restaurant. This is the perfect chance to reflect on your incredible experiences in Tanzania while savoring some traditional Tanzanian cuisine, perhaps trying dishes like ugali, nyama choma, or pilau.
Following your meal, you’ll be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your international outbound flight. As you journey to the airport, take a moment to absorb the scenic landscapes one last time. The lush hills, vibrant villages, and the majestic outline of Mount Kilimanjaro will serve as a beautiful farewell to this stunning country.
Internet Access: Available at lodges/camps where applicable.
Park & Conservation Fees: Included as per the package.
Customized Safari Service: Enjoy an unmatched private safari experience.
Guaranteed Departures: Minimum of two guests required.
Shared Game Drives: For unforgettable safari experience in the parks.
24/7 On-Call Support: Provided by the DK Grand Safaris concierge team.
Photography Gear: Bean bags for stabilizing photography.
WiFi Services: Available in safari vehicles, depending on connectivity.
Safari Essentials: Binoculars (on request) and field guide books provided in the safari vehicle.
Farewell Meal: Organized by the Concierge team at an Arusha restaurant.
Service Charges and Taxes: Includes current service charges, hotel taxes, and government taxes as legislated.
Game Drives: Conducted in a custom-built 4×4 Land Cruiser, featuring ample legroom.
Beverages: Complimentary and unlimited bottled water, and soft drinks in the safari vehicles.
Safari Cap/Hat: Provided for sun protection while on safari.
Private Airport Transfers: Included upon arrival and departure, regardless of airline or time.
Transportation & Sightseeing: Transfers, sightseeing, and game viewing as detailed in the itinerary.
Accommodation: Preferred rooms /tents (double or single) in classic hotels, camps, and lodges as specified in the itinerary.
Meals: Full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner) while on safari; bed and breakfast in city hotels.
Driver Guides: Local, professional, English-speaking, knowledgeable, and highly experienced.
Emergency Air Evacuation Cover: To the nearest health facility; excludes hospitalization and medical expenses in Tanzania.
Package Exclusions
Visa Fee: Costs for visa.
Travel Insurance: Coverage for unexpected events, such as trip cancellations, lost luggage or medical emergencies, is not included.
International Flights: Airfare to and from Tanzania is not included in the package.
Tips: Gratuities for hotel, camp, lodge staff, and driver guides are not included.
Hot Air Balloon Ride: An optional activity in the National Park, offering stunning aerial views.
Pre and Post-Safari Tours & Excursions: Any tours or excursions before or after your safari itinerary are not included e.g. Day Room in Arusha
Optional Activities: Any Optional activities may be or not specifically mentioned in the itinerary are not included.
Meals and Beverages: Meals and beverages other than those specified in the itinerary are not included.
Statutory Increases: Any increases in fees or charges beyond our control (e.g., government taxes, park fees) will be your responsibility.
Excess Baggage Charges: Charges for excess baggage levied by airlines are the responsibility of the traveler.
Health Regulations and Requirements: Compliance with all health regulations and requirements applicable to your visit, including necessary vaccinations, is your responsibility.
Yellow Fever Vaccination: It is mandatory to bring your vaccination certificate as proof of vaccination. (However the government of Tanzania requires proof of yellow fever vaccination upon arrival if you are traveling from a country with risk of yellow fever.
PREMIUM LUXURY SUPPLEMENTS:
Gratuities: For all lodges & camps staff and the driver guide.
Exclusive Safari Experience: Private and customized safari tailored for your tour group only.
Professional Safari Director: Access to a Safari Director in addition to your driver-guide, available 24/7.
Complimentary Beverages: Unlimited bottled water, local beers, and soft drinks available in the safari vehicles.
All-Inclusive Drinks: Complimentary bottled water, soft drinks, local beers, house wine, and local branded spirits at the lodges and camps.
Laundry Services: Available during the entire safari for your convenience.
Upgraded Accommodation: Transition from superior/standard accommodations to luxury lodgings.
TOP HIGHLIGHTS AT LAKE MANYARA NATIONAL PARK
...
Tree-Climbing Lions: One of the park’s unique features is the famous tree-climbing lions. Keep an eye out for these majestic cats lounging on the branches of acacia trees, a rare behavior among lion populations.
Bird Watching: With over 400 bird species recorded, Lake Manyara is a birdwatcher’s paradise. Look for colorful species such as the African fish eagle, violet-backed starling, and many more.
Game Drives: Enjoy game drives through the park’s varied landscapes. Spot elephants, buffalo, giraffes, and various antelope species as you explore the diverse habitats.
Diverse Ecosystems: Experience a unique blend of ecosystems, from lush groundwater forests and open savannahs to the soda lake itself, which attracts a wide variety of wildlife.
Flamingo Population: Witness the stunning sight of thousands of flamingos feeding along the shores of Lake Manyara, particularly during the wet season. Their vibrant colors create a breathtaking spectacle.
Cultural Experiences: Engage with local communities around the park, learning about their traditions and ways of life. Participate in cultural tours to understand their relationship with the land and wildlife.
Scenic Picnic Spots: Enjoy a picnic with stunning views of the lake and surrounding landscapes. Designated picnic areas offer a great place to relax and take in the beauty of nature.
Wildlife Monitoring: Learn about conservation efforts in the park, including wildlife monitoring programs aimed at protecting endangered species and their habitats.
Photography Opportunities: Capture stunning images of wildlife, landscapes, and vibrant sunsets over Lake Manyara. The varied terrain provides endless possibilities for great photography.
Unique Flora: Explore the park’s diverse plant life, including giant fig trees, acacias, and various indigenous species that contribute to the park’s rich ecosystem.
TOP HIGHLIGHTS AT NGORONGORO CRATER
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Unique Ecosystem: Experience the incredible biodiversity within the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera, which hosts a variety of habitats, including grasslands, forests, and a soda lake.
Big Five Sightings: The crater is a prime location to see the “Big Five”—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros—often within close proximity, making it a premier safari destination.
Spectacular Views: Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from the crater rim, where you can see the expansive caldera below, surrounded by steep walls and lush vegetation.
Diverse Wildlife: Beyond the Big Five, spot a variety of wildlife, including wildebeest, zebras, hippos, and numerous bird species. The rich ecosystem supports an impressive range of animals.
Crater Floor: Descend into the crater floor for a unique game-driving experience. The compact area allows for easier wildlife viewing and often results in high concentrations of animals.
Lake Magadi: Visit the soda lake within the crater, which attracts flamingos and other bird species, providing excellent opportunities for bird watching and photography.
Photography Opportunities: Capture stunning images of wildlife set against the dramatic backdrop of the crater’s landscapes, especially during sunrise and sunset.
TOP HIGHLIGHTS AT SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK
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The Great Migration: Witness one of nature’s most spectacular events, the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebras move in search of greener pastures. This event typically occurs between June and October, with the herds crossing the Mara River.
Big Five Sightings: The Serengeti is home to the “Big Five” (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros). Enjoy thrilling game drives to spot these iconic animals in their natural habitat.
Diverse Wildlife: In addition to the Big Five, the park boasts an incredible variety of wildlife, including cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, hippos, and numerous antelope species, making every safari unique.
Bird Watching: With over 500 species of birds, including the iconic African fish eagle and various colorful weavers, the Serengeti is a paradise for birdwatchers.
Scenic Lookouts: Visit viewpoints like the Ngorongoro Crater rim for breathtaking panoramas of the park’s landscapes and wildlife.
Serengeti National Park Visitor Center: Learn about the park’s history, conservation efforts, and diverse ecosystems at the visitor center, which provides educational resources for visitors.
Photography Opportunities: The stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife create countless opportunities for photography, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.
Internet Access: Available at lodges/camps where applicable.
Park & Conservation Fees: Included as per the package.
Customized Safari Service: Enjoy an unmatched private safari experience.
Guaranteed Departures: Minimum of two guests required.
Shared Game Drives: For unforgettable safari experience in the parks.
24/7 On-Call Support: Provided by the DK Grand Safaris concierge team.
Photography Gear: Bean bags for stabilizing photography.
WiFi Services: Available in safari vehicles, depending on connectivity.
Safari Essentials: Binoculars (on request) and field guide books provided in the safari vehicle.
Farewell Meal: Organized by the Concierge team at an Arusha restaurant.
Service Charges and Taxes: Includes current service charges, hotel taxes, and government taxes as legislated.
Game Drives: Conducted in a custom-built 4×4 Land Cruiser, featuring ample legroom.
Beverages: Complimentary and unlimited bottled water, and soft drinks in the safari vehicles.
Safari Cap/Hat: Provided for sun protection while on safari.
Private Airport Transfers: Included upon arrival and departure, regardless of airline or time.
Transportation & Sightseeing: Transfers, sightseeing, and game viewing as detailed in the itinerary.
Accommodation: Preferred rooms /tents (double or single) in classic hotels, camps, and lodges as specified in the itinerary.
Meals: Full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner) while on safari; bed and breakfast in city hotels.
Driver Guides: Local, professional, English-speaking, knowledgeable, and highly experienced.
Emergency Air Evacuation Cover: To the nearest health facility; excludes hospitalization and medical expenses in Tanzania.
Package Exclusions
Visa Fee: Costs for visa.
Travel Insurance: Coverage for unexpected events, such as trip cancellations, lost luggage or medical emergencies, is not included.
International Flights: Airfare to and from Tanzania is not included in the package.
Tips: Gratuities for hotel, camp, lodge staff, and driver guides are not included.
Hot Air Balloon Ride: An optional activity in the National Park, offering stunning aerial views.
Pre and Post-Safari Tours & Excursions: Any tours or excursions before or after your safari itinerary are not included e.g. Day Room in Arusha
Optional Activities: Any Optional activities may be or not specifically mentioned in the itinerary are not included.
Meals and Beverages: Meals and beverages other than those specified in the itinerary are not included.
Statutory Increases: Any increases in fees or charges beyond our control (e.g., government taxes, park fees) will be your responsibility.
Excess Baggage Charges: Charges for excess baggage levied by airlines are the responsibility of the traveler.
Health Regulations and Requirements: Compliance with all health regulations and requirements applicable to your visit, including necessary vaccinations, is your responsibility.
Yellow Fever Vaccination: It is mandatory to bring your vaccination certificate as proof of vaccination. (However the government of Tanzania requires proof of yellow fever vaccination upon arrival if you are traveling from a country with risk of yellow fever.
Contact us for the booking procedure and Important Information for your safari.
