Day 1: Arrival in Arusha – The Gateway to Tanzania’s Safari
Your adventure begins when you land at Kilimanjaro International Airport. After being welcomed by your guide, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Arusha, the safari capital of Tanzania. Take some time to relax and prepare for the exciting days ahead. Arusha is surrounded by stunning views of Mount Meru, and you may want to take a short excursion to Arusha National Park for a glimpse of wildlife, including giraffes, buffalo, and monkeys.
Accommodation: Luxury lodge or hotel in Arusha
Day 2: Arusha to Tarangire National Park
After breakfast, you’ll head to Tarangire National Park, known for its large elephant herds and iconic baobab trees. The park is particularly stunning during the dry season (July to October), as wildlife gathers around the Tarangire River. On your first game drive, you’ll have a chance to spot elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, and a wide variety of bird species.
Highlights:
- Large elephant herds
- Baobab trees and diverse wildlife
- Excellent birdwatching opportunities
Accommodation: Lodge or tented camp in Tarangire
Day 3: Tarangire to Ngorongoro Crater
On Day 3, you’ll drive to the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s most famous wildlife destinations. Known as the “Garden of Eden,” this collapsed volcanic crater is home to a variety of wildlife, including the Big Five. You’ll enjoy a full-day game drive inside the crater, spotting lions, rhinos, elephants, and flamingos in the park’s stunning landscapes.
Highlights:
- Big Five wildlife sightings (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, buffalo)
- Ngorongoro Crater’s lush grasslands and diverse ecosystems
- Scenic views of the crater floor
Accommodation: Lodge or tented camp near Ngorongoro Crater
Day 4: Ngorongoro Crater to Serengeti National Park
On Day 4, travel to the Serengeti National Park, one of Africa’s most famous safari destinations. The Serengeti is the heart of the Great Wildebeest Migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles journey across the plains in search of fresh grazing. Depending on the time of year, you may witness dramatic river crossings, where wildebeest brave the Mara River, often under the watchful eyes of predators like crocodiles and lions.
Highlights:
- The Great Migration in the Serengeti
- Wildebeest river crossings (July to October)
- Predators in action (lions, cheetahs, leopards)
Accommodation: Luxury lodge or mobile camp in Serengeti
Day 5 to Day 7: Serengeti National Park – The Great Migration
Spend the next three days exploring the Serengeti with morning and afternoon game drives. During these days, you’ll have the chance to witness the full spectacle of the Great Migration, including dramatic river crossings, predator-prey interactions, and the sheer scale of the wildlife herds. You’ll also encounter other wildlife, including giraffes, elephants, and various antelope species.
If you’re interested in a unique experience, consider a hot air balloon safari over the Serengeti, offering stunning aerial views of the migration and the vast savannah.
Highlights:
- Witnessing wildebeest river crossings and migration
- Predator interactions with the herds
- Hot air balloon ride (optional)
Accommodation: Luxury lodge or mobile tented camp in Serengeti
Day 8: Serengeti to Zanzibar – Beach Paradise
After an exciting safari, it’s time to unwind. On Day 8, you’ll catch a flight to Zanzibar, an idyllic island paradise in the Indian Ocean. Famous for its white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and rich culture, Zanzibar is the perfect place to relax after an exhilarating safari. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your beach resort, where you can enjoy a relaxing day by the ocean.
Highlights:
- Flight to Zanzibar
- Relaxing on pristine beaches
- Warm tropical climate
Accommodation: Luxury beach resort in Zanzibar
Day 9: Zanzibar Beach Relaxation
Your final day will be spent at leisure, enjoying the tropical beauty of Zanzibar. Spend your day lounging on the beach, swimming in crystal-clear waters, or indulging in water activities like snorkeling or scuba diving. For those interested in culture, consider a visit to Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases Zanzibar’s rich history and Swahili architecture. You can also take a spice tour to discover the island’s fragrant heritage. 9 Days Tanzania Migration Safari & Zanzibar Beach