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8-day Northern Tanzania Safari: Arusha, Lake Manyara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and mto wa mbu, Tarangire

8-day Northern Tanzania Safari: Arusha, Lake Manyara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and mto wa mbu, Tarangire

Safari Overview

Eight days to see the very best of Tanzania's northern wildlife circuit — this comprehensive camping safari covers all five major destinations of the northern parks region in a single, well-paced itinerary that balances game viewing time with the practical realities of driving between parks. Arusha National Park, Lake Manyara, the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire are each given the time they deserve — with enough days in the Serengeti for the full emotional impact of Africa's most famous savannah to land completely. Accommodation throughout is in carefully selected public campsites and budget lodges, maintaining the authentic outdoor experience that serious safari travellers value. This is the full northern circuit at a price point that makes it accessible to backpackers, students, young professionals, and budget-conscious travel groups who want a genuine eight-day Tanzania adventure without compromise on the wildlife experience. Expert guiding, 4x4 safari vehicle, all park fees, and full camping equipment included. Ideal for solo travellers, small groups, and couples who prioritise experience over accommodation luxury. Best time: June to October for dry-season concentrations. Contact Shammah Wonders Safaris for group rates and current availability.
8-day Northern Tanzania Safari: Arusha, Lake Manyara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and mto wa mbu, Tarangire Route

Day to day description

Arrival Kilimanjaro International Park - Arusha Town

Today you arrive directly to Kilimanjaro International Airport (time and flight to be confirmed) and will be transferred to your pre-safari lodge in Arusha. 

Approximate driving time: 1-2 hours to lodge
Accommodation: Pazuri Inn
Meals included: Dinner

Day 1 Arusha Town - Arusha National Park

You will have a breakfast at your Lodge Then Drive to Arusha National Park for Morning and afternoon game drives — giraffe, buffalo, colobus monkeys, flamingos on the Momella Lakes, and Mount Meru rising above. An armed ranger walk is available in the afternoon for those wanting a ground-level experience.  Later, return to your accommodation in Arusha for a delectable dinner and a restful overnight stay, concluding your unforgettable day of exploration and adventure.

Approximate driving time: 1 hours to Arusha National park
Accommodation: Pazuri Inn
Meals included: Breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner

Arusha Town - Arusha National Park photo 1
Arusha Town - Arusha National Park photo 2

Day 2 Arusha Town- Lake Manyara National Park - Mto Wa Mbu

Today you will be picked from your lodge in Arusha and begin a thrilling adventure drive to Lake Manyara National Park with full day game drive in the park — groundwater forest, lakeshore wildlife, and afternoon search for tree-climbing lions. After a day of exploring, drive to Mto Wa Mbu where you will have a dinner & overnight stay.

Approximate driving time: 2.5 hours to Manyara
Accommodation: Kirurumu Manyara Lodge
Meals included: Breakfast, Picnic lunch, Dinner.

Arusha Town- Lake Manyara National Park - Mto Wa Mbu photo 1
Arusha Town- Lake Manyara National Park - Mto Wa Mbu photo 2

Day 3 Lake Manyara National Park - Serengeti National Park

Journey to the world-renowned Serengeti National Park, a vast expanse of savannah teeming with wildlife. Upon entering the park, witness the mesmerizing spectacle of the Great Migration if your visit coincides with this natural phenomenon. Enjoy exhilarating game drives through the Seronera region, renowned for its dense populations of predators such as lions, leopards, and cheetahs. As the golden hues of the African sunset paint the landscape, arrive at your accommodation where you'll be welcomed with warm hospitality and a sumptuous dinner.

Approximate driving time: 5-6 hours from Lake Manyara National Park to Serengeti National Park
Accommodation: Zuhumath Tented Camp
Meals included: Breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner.

Lake Manyara National Park - Serengeti National Park photo 1
Lake Manyara National Park - Serengeti National Park photo 2

Day 4 Serengeti National Park (Seronera ) Full Day

Today, after breakfast at your tented camp, you'll spend your day fully immersed in the vast plains of Serengeti National Park. As the sun rises, embark on a journey to witness the lively wildlife activities. The park's varied habitats host a wide range of animals, from majestic lions to graceful giraffes. With every turn, you'll encounter new wonders, guaranteeing a day packed with breathtaking experiences and picturesque landscapes. After a full day of exploration, you'll return to your Accommodation for dinner and to spend the night, reflecting on the day's adventures.

Accommodation: Zuhumath Tented Camp
Meals included: Breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner

Serengeti National Park (Seronera ) Full Day photo 1
Serengeti National Park (Seronera ) Full Day photo 2

Day 5 Serengeti National Park (Seronera ) Full Day

Spend a day immersed in the endless plains of Serengeti National Park. As the sun rises, set out to witness the stirring wildlife activities. The park’s diverse habitats are home to a rich tapestry of animals, from majestic lions to elegant giraffes. Every turn reveals new surprises, ensuring a day filled with awe-inspiring encounters and photogenic landscapes.

Accommodation: Zuhumath Tented Camp
Meals included: Breakfast, Picnic lunch, Dinner.

Serengeti National Park (Seronera ) Full Day photo 1
Serengeti National Park (Seronera ) Full Day photo 2

Day 6 Serengeti National Park - Ngorongoro Crater- Karatu

Begin the day with an amazing breakfast at your camp, then start a journey to Ngorongoro while having an en route game drive until you reach Ngorongoro, Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, often referred to as the "Eighth Wonder of the World," for a full day of game drives within this natural amphitheater. Marvel at the abundant wildlife congregating around the crater floor, including the densest population of lions in Africa, elusive black rhinos, and large herds of wildebeest and zebras. Enjoy picnic lunches amidst the stunning scenery, soaking in the sights and sounds of this unique ecosystem. In the late afternoon, bid farewell to the crater and embark on a scenic drive to your lodge at Karatu for dinner and overnight.

Approximate driving time: 3 hours to Ngorongoro
Accommodation : Karatu Villas Lodge
Meals included: Breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner.

Serengeti National Park - Ngorongoro Crater- Karatu photo 1
Serengeti National Park - Ngorongoro Crater- Karatu photo 2

Day 7 Karatu - Mto wa Mbu

Today you will have a breakfast at your lodge then drive to mto wa mbu for cultural tour. A cultural tour in Mto wa Mbu offers a rich insight into local Tanzanian life and traditions. Located near Lake Manyara National Park, the village is home to many ethnic groups living together. Visitors explore farms, banana plantations, and local markets while learning about daily activities. The experience often includes visiting local homes and enjoying traditional meals. You can also see handmade crafts like Makonde carvings and paintings. It’s a perfect cultural addition to a wildlife safari.

Approximate driving time: 1 hour to Mto wa Mbu
Accommodation : Kirurumu Manyara Lodge
Meals included: Breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner.

Karatu - Mto wa Mbu photo 1
Karatu - Mto wa Mbu photo 2

Day 8 Tarangire National Park - Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)

Today, after breakfast, you will have a short journey from Mto wa Mbu to Tarangire National Park. After arrival, you will enjoy a game drive in Tarangire National Park, renowned for its large elephant herds and iconic baobab trees. Upon arrival, dive into a thrilling game drive, exploring the park's diverse landscapes of savannah, acacia woodlands, and the life-giving Tarangire River. Keep your eyes peeled for elephants ambling amidst the baobabs, as well as lions, leopards, and a myriad of bird species, all thriving in this rich ecosystem. In the late afternoon you will drive back to arusha for the departure at Kilimanjaro International Airport.

 

Tarangire National Park - Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) photo 1
Tarangire National Park - Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) photo 2
- from US$ 3,290 per person
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Midrange Safari

Includes

Meals & accommodation

- Snacks & soft drinks

- Transfer fee

4x4 Land cruiser with pop up roof

Government taxes & VAT

All National Park conservation, park entry, camping, activity or concession fees as applicable 

Experienced English-speaking safari guide.

1 first aid kit per vehicle - In vehicle sanitizer, charging ports (Type G socket)

Excludes

International flights

Alcohol

Laundry & shopping expenses

Optional activities expenses

Extra excursion not listed in itinerary

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