7 Days Midrange Serengeti, Ngorongoro & Lake Manyara Safari
Experience the best of Tanzania's northern circuit on this 7-day midrange safari combining the vast plains of Serengeti, the wildlife-rich Ngorongoro Crater, and the scenic Lake Manyara. Your adventure begins in Arusha at Summit Safari Lodge, followed by road transfers to Serengeti where you'll spend 3 nights in comfortable tented camps, then continue to Ngorongoro and conclude with a night at Lake Manyara Tortilis Camp.
Our carefully selected midrange camps offer comfortable accommodations with en-suite facilities, private verandas, and excellent locations for wildlife viewing. The itinerary includes a spectacular hot air balloon ride over Serengeti (on day 4), cultural interaction at a Maasai boma, and optimal game viewing times throughout your safari. Travel between parks is by road, allowing you to experience the changing landscapes and wildlife of northern Tanzania.
This well-paced itinerary balances adventure with comfort, featuring morning and afternoon game drives in Serengeti, a full day exploring Ngorongoro Crater, and a half day in Lake Manyara National Park before departure. With experienced guides and comfortable accommodations, you'll enjoy Tanzania's wildlife wonders without compromising on quality.
Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania - Summit Safari Lodge
Your safari adventure begins with arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), where our representative will greet you and facilitate a seamless transfer to Summit Safari Lodge in Arusha. Check into your comfortable room featuring modern amenities and views of the surrounding landscape.
The afternoon is yours to relax by the pool or explore Arusha's cultural attractions. In the evening, meet your safari guide for a comprehensive briefing about your upcoming adventure. Dine at the lodge's restaurant, enjoying a mix of international and Tanzanian cuisine before retiring for the night.
Day 2: Drive to Central Serengeti - Tented Camp
After breakfast, depart for Serengeti National Park via the scenic Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Enjoy game viewing en route as you descend into the Serengeti plains. Arrive at your comfortable tented camp in the central Serengeti area in time for lunch.
After settling into your tent with en-suite facilities, embark on an afternoon game drive in the Seronera Valley, known for its year-round wildlife concentrations. Return to camp for dinner and overnight, listening to the sounds of the African night from your comfortable tent.
Day 3: Full Day Serengeti Safari - Game Drives
Begin your day with an early morning game drive when predators are most active, accompanied by your expert guide. Central Serengeti offers excellent wildlife viewing throughout the year. Return to camp for a hearty breakfast and some relaxation time.
The midday hours are perfect for enjoying the camp's facilities or simply relaxing on your private veranda. After lunch, venture out for afternoon game drives, tracking wildlife through diverse habitats. End the day with dinner at camp, sharing stories of the day's sightings.
Day 4: Hot Air Balloon Safari - Serengeti Exploration
An unforgettable dawn awaits as you embark on a hot air balloon safari (included) over the Serengeti plains. Float silently above the wildlife as the sun rises, followed by a champagne breakfast in the bush. Return to camp for relaxation before afternoon game drives focusing on different ecosystems.
Today's exploration might include the Seronera River Valley's leopard habitats or the Moru Kopjes' lion territories. Your guide will tailor the experience based on current wildlife movements. Enjoy a special farewell dinner at camp on your last night in Serengeti.
Day 5: Serengeti to Ngorongoro - Maasai Boma Visit
After breakfast, drive toward Ngorongoro Conservation Area, stopping at a traditional Maasai boma for authentic cultural interaction. Learn about Maasai traditions, customs, and their unique way of life coexisting with wildlife.
Continue to the rim of Ngorongoro Crater, checking into your comfortable lodge with stunning crater views. The afternoon is at leisure to enjoy the lodge facilities or simply relax while taking in the magnificent scenery. Dinner and overnight at the lodge.
Day 6: Ngorongoro Crater Full Day - Lake Manyara Tortilis Camp
Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater at dawn for a full day in this natural wonder. Enjoy breakfast at a scenic picnic site near a hippo pool, surrounded by wildlife. Search for the rare black rhino, large elephant herds, and abundant predators.
In the afternoon, ascend the crater walls and drive to Lake Manyara Tortilis Camp, arriving in time for dinner. The camp offers comfortable tented accommodations with views of the Great Rift Valley escarpment.
Day 7: Lake Manyara Half Day - Departure
After breakfast, enjoy a morning game drive in Lake Manyara National Park, known for its tree-climbing lions, large elephant herds, and diverse birdlife. The park's groundwater forest and alkaline lake create unique ecosystems supporting varied wildlife.
Return to camp for lunch before driving back to Arusha. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for last-minute shopping. Our representative will transfer you to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward flight, marking the end of your memorable Tanzanian safari.
