10 Days midrange Tanzania safari with Gardenia African Safaris

Trip Overview
Itinerary
Cost Info

Trip Overview

Experience the heart of East Africa on this 10-day midrange safari through northern Tanzania, organized by Gardenia African Safaris. From your arrival in Arusha to thrilling game drives in iconic parks like Tarangire, Lake Manyara, and the Serengeti, each day is carefully curated for wildlife encounters and cultural immersion. Highlights include the elephant-dotted plains of Tarangire, tree-climbing lions in Manyara, and the endless savannahs of Serengeti where the Big Five roam. A descent into Ngorongoro Crater offers a chance to see rhinos and flamingos in one of Africa's most biodiverse environments. Cultural visits to the Hadzabe and Datoga tribes near Lake Eyasi and the vibrant Mto wa Mbu village complete this immersive journey. With comfortable midrange accommodations, full-board meals, and knowledgeable guides, this safari is a perfect balance of nature, comfort, and local culture.

Itinerary

Itinerary Expand All

Day 1
Arrival in Kilimanjaro International Airport
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you'll be greeted by your safari guide and transferred to Arusha Villa, a comfortable lodge nestled at the base of Mount Meru. This evening offers a chance to relax and acclimatize, soaking in the serene surroundings and preparing for the adventure ahead.

Accommodation: Arusha Villa

Meals: Full Board
Day 2
Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park is a hidden gem, offering diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife. The park's unique topography includes the lush Ngurdoto Crater, the serene Momella Lakes, and the towering Mount Meru. Visitors can embark on walking safaris to observe giraffes, zebras, and buffaloes up close, while the forested areas are home to colobus monkeys and a variety of bird species. The park's proximity to Arusha makes it an ideal starting point for a Tanzanian safari adventure.

Accommodation: Arusha Villa

Meals: Full Board
Day 3
Tarangire National Park
Tarangire National Park is renowned for its large elephant herds and iconic baobab trees. During the dry season, the Tarangire River becomes a vital water source, attracting thousands of animals, including wildebeest, zebras, and giraffes. The park's diverse ecosystems, ranging from woodlands to swamps, support a rich array of wildlife and over 550 bird species. Tarangire offers a more tranquil safari experience compared to other parks, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

Accommodation: Acacia Tarangire Luxury Camp

Meals: Full Board
Day 4
Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara National Park is famous for its diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife. The park's groundwater forests are home to tree-climbing lions, a rare behavior observed in the region. The lake itself attracts thousands of flamingos and other water birds, especially during the wet season. Visitors can also spot elephants, giraffes, and baboons in the park's varied habitats. The park's accessibility and unique wildlife make it a must-visit destination on the northern safari circuit.

Accommodation: Kitela Lodge

Meals: Full Board
Day 5
Serengeti National Park (Central)
Terengeti National Park is one of the most iconic wildlife destinations in the world. Spanning over 14,000 square kilometers, the park is home to the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traverse the plains in search of fresh grazing. The Serengeti's diverse ecosystems support a rich variety of wildlife, including the Big Five: lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos. The park's vast landscapes and abundant wildlife offer unparalleled safari experiences year-round.

Accommodation: Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge

Meals: Full Board
Day 6
Serengeti National Park (Full Day)
Continuing your exploration of the Serengeti, today offers a full-day safari to track the Big Five and witness the dynamic wildlife interactions. Depending on the season, you may observe the dramatic river crossings of the Great Migration or witness predators in action. The Serengeti's vast plains provide an ever-changing backdrop for wildlife encounters, ensuring a day filled with unforgettable moments.

Accommodation: Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge

Meals: Full Board
Day 7
Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater
Departing from the Serengeti, you'll journey towards the Ngorongoro Crater, descending into the caldera for a picnic lunch and wildlife viewing. The crater floor is home to a dense concentration of wildlife, including black rhinos, lions, elephants, and flamingos. The rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes make it a highlight of any Tanzanian safari.

Accommodation: Plantation Lodge

Meals: Full Board
Day 8
Lake Eyasi – Cultural Visit
Lake Eyasi, located in the southern part of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, is home to the Hadzabe and Datoga tribes. The Hadzabe are one of the last remaining hunter-gatherer societies in Africa, and visitors can join them on early morning hunts and foraging expeditions. The Datoga are skilled blacksmiths and pastoralists, offering insights into traditional metalworking and cattle herding practices. A visit to Lake Eyasi provides a unique opportunity to experience the rich cultural heritage of these indigenous communities.

Accommodation: Plantation Lodge

Meals: Full Board
Day 9
Mto wa Mbu – Cultural Tour
Mto wa Mbu, meaning "River of Mosquitoes," is a vibrant village located at the base of the Great Rift Valley. The village is known for its diverse ethnic communities and rich agricultural practices. Visitors can engage in cultural tours, including banana beer brewing demonstrations, traditional cooking classes, and guided walks through local farms. Mto wa Mbu offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the daily lives and traditions of rural Tanzanian communities.

Accommodation: Farm House Ngorongoro

Meals: Full Board
Day 10
Departure
After breakfast, you'll be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your flight home, marking the end of a memorable Tanzanian safari. Reflect on the incredible wildlife encounters and cultural experiences that have made this journey truly unforgettable.