Itinerary

1. Day 1: Arrival and Lake Manyara National Park

   • Morning:

     • Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (or Arusha airport) where you’ll be greeted by your guide and transferred to your luxury vehicle.
     • Begin your journey to Lake Manyara National Park. The drive takes approximately 2-3 hours through scenic landscapes of the Great Rift Valley.

   • Afternoon:

     • Upon arrival at Lake Manyara National Park, enjoy a deluxe lunch at your lodge or tented camp overlooking the park or lake.
     • After lunch, embark on your first afternoon game drive through Lake Manyara. The park is known for its tree-climbing lions and diverse wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, baboons, and a variety of bird species, especially flamingos.
     • Visit the lake shores, where you’ll observe flocks of migratory flamingos, pelicans, and other waterfowl, depending on the season.

   • Evening:

     • After the game drive, return to your lodge or camp for a refreshing sundowner while enjoying the beautiful views of the lake or surrounding landscapes.
     • Dinner will be served at your luxury lodge, offering gourmet meals with local and international options, served in a beautiful setting.
     • Spend the evening relaxing in your luxurious accommodations, enjoying the serene atmosphere of Lake Manyara.

   Highlights:

   • Scenic drive from the airport to Lake Manyara National Park.
   • Afternoon game drive in Lake Manyara to see tree-climbing lions, elephants, flamingos, and more.
   • Gourmet lunch and sundowners at your luxury lodge or camp.
   • Relaxing evening at your accommodation with panoramic views of the park.

2. Day 2: Lake Manyara to Central Serengeti

   • Early Morning:

     • Start your day with a luxurious breakfast at your lodge, enjoying the beautiful views of Lake Manyara or the surrounding landscapes.
     • After breakfast, embark on an early morning game drive in Lake Manyara to capture the animals during their most active hours, including the opportunity to spot lions, elephants, giraffes, and various bird species.
     • Visit the salt lick area where elephants and other animals often gather, offering a great photo opportunity.

   • Late Morning:

     • Return to your lodge for a brunch or snack and some rest before continuing your journey to the Serengeti.
     • Depart for Central Serengeti, with a scenic drive that lasts approximately 4-5 hours. Along the way, enjoy the spectacular views of the Serengeti plains as you approach one of Africa’s most iconic safari destinations.

   • Afternoon:

     • Arrive in Central Serengeti, check in to your luxury lodge or tented camp set in the heart of the Serengeti, offering stunning views and comfortable, exclusive accommodations.
     • Enjoy a gourmet lunch at the lodge, followed by some time to relax and take in the views or enjoy the lodge’s facilities.

   • Late Afternoon:

     • In the late afternoon, embark on a game drive in Central Serengeti, one of the best places to see the "Big Five" (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino). The vast, open plains of Serengeti are ideal for spotting wildlife, including large herds of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles, as well as predators like lions and cheetahs.
     • Enjoy sundowners in the bush with drinks and snacks as you watch the golden African sunset.

   • Evening:

     • Return to your luxury lodge for dinner, with an array of delectable dishes featuring local flavors and international cuisine.
     • Relax and unwind with an evening under the stars, reflecting on the day's wildlife sightings.

   Highlights:

   • Early morning game drive in Lake Manyara for prime wildlife viewing.
   • Scenic drive to Central Serengeti, taking in the breathtaking landscapes of the Serengeti plains.
   • Luxury lodge stay with a gourmet lunch and stunning views.
   • Afternoon game drive in Central Serengeti to spot the Big Five and other wildlife.
   • Sundowners in the Serengeti and a luxurious dinner experience.

3. Day 3: Exploring Central Serengeti and the Serengeti Plains

   • Early Morning:

     • Enjoy an early breakfast at your lodge to start the day with a boost of energy before heading out for a morning game drive.
     • This early excursion offers prime opportunities to see predators on the hunt, such as lions, cheetahs, and leopards, as well as the abundant herbivores like wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles.
     • The Serengeti's vast plains offer perfect conditions for spotting wildlife, especially in the early morning when the animals are most active.

   • Late Morning:

     • After your game drive, return to your lodge for a brunch or refreshments and some time to relax.
     • For those interested, there may be an opportunity for a hot air balloon safari (optional, at extra cost). This offers a unique aerial view of the Serengeti plains, providing a once-in-a-lifetime experience of watching the wildlife from above at sunrise.

   • Afternoon:

     • After lunch at your lodge, head out for another afternoon game drive in the Serengeti. This is an excellent time to spot wildlife in the more remote areas of the park.
     • Visit key areas like the Seronera Valley, which is teeming with wildlife year-round. Here you can encounter large herds of buffalo, elephants, and giraffes, along with lions lounging in the grass or stalking their prey.
     • Your guide will ensure you make the most of the experience, offering expert insight into animal behavior, the ecosystem, and the Serengeti’s fascinating biodiversity.

   • Evening:

     • After an exciting game drive, return to your luxury lodge or camp for a relaxing evening.
     • Enjoy a sundowner with drinks and snacks while overlooking the Serengeti plains, watching the sun set over this extraordinary landscape.
     • Delight in a gourmet dinner, accompanied by local wine or cocktails, served in a beautiful open-air dining area or private setting.

   • Night:

     • If you’re interested in further exploring, you can take part in an optional night game drive (if permitted by the park) to spot nocturnal wildlife, including hyenas, leopards, and other night hunters. Otherwise, enjoy the serenity of your luxury accommodation, listening to the sounds of the Serengeti under the stars.

   Highlights:

   • Early morning game drive for wildlife sightings and predator action.
   • Hot air balloon safari (optional) for a breathtaking aerial view of the Serengeti.
   • Afternoon game drive through Seronera Valley for more wildlife experiences.
   • Relaxing sundowners and gourmet dinner at your luxury lodge or camp.
   • Optional night game drive to observe nocturnal wildlife (subject to availability).

4. Day 4: Serengeti to Northern Serengeti

   • Early Morning:

     • Enjoy a delicious breakfast at your lodge before beginning your journey to the Northern Serengeti. This region is renowned for its stunning landscapes, fewer crowds, and incredible opportunities to witness the Great Migration (seasonal).
     • Embark on a morning game drive as you travel north, exploring new areas of the Serengeti. The early hours are perfect for encountering wildlife such as elephants, lions, and wildebeest.

   • Midday:

     • After a scenic drive, arrive at your luxury lodge or tented camp in Northern Serengeti, where you’ll be welcomed with a refreshing drink and have some time to relax and settle in.
     • Enjoy a gourmet lunch while taking in the serene surroundings of the northern Serengeti, where you can observe wildlife roaming the grasslands and riverine forests.

   • Afternoon:

     • After lunch, set out for an afternoon game drive in Northern Serengeti, where the remote terrain offers a sense of exclusivity and tranquility. Depending on the season, this region is one of the best places to experience the Great Migration up close.
       • If you're visiting during the migration season (typically between July and October), you may witness the dramatic Mara River crossings, where thousands of wildebeest and zebras brave the crocodile-infested waters in search of fresh grazing grounds.
       • Even outside of migration season, Northern Serengeti offers rich wildlife experiences, with opportunities to see large prides of lions, cheetahs hunting, and various plains game like gazelles and giraffes.

   • Evening:

     • Return to your luxurious lodge or camp to unwind and enjoy the tranquility of the northern Serengeti.
     • Watch the spectacular sunset over the vast plains while enjoying a sundowner with drinks and snacks.
     • Savor a gourmet dinner, prepared with local ingredients and international flair, at your lodge or in a private dining setting. The evening can be spent enjoying the peace of the bush, as you listen to the sounds of the Serengeti and reflect on your experiences.

   • Optional:

     • If you’re interested, take part in an optional night game drive to spot nocturnal wildlife such as leopards, hyenas, and other predators, or simply relax by the firepit and enjoy stargazing under the African sky.

   Highlights:

   • Scenic drive from Central Serengeti to Northern Serengeti, offering new landscapes and wildlife experiences.
   • Afternoon game drive in Northern Serengeti, with a chance to witness the Great Migration (seasonal).
   • Relaxing luxury lodge stay, with a gourmet lunch and sundowners.
   • Sunset over the Serengeti and an unforgettable evening dinner.
   • Optional night game drive (subject to availability) to spot nocturnal animals.

5. Day 5: Full Day Exploration of Northern Serengeti

   • Early Morning:

     • Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your lodge to start your day with energy.
     • Set out for an early morning game drive in the Northern Serengeti. This is the ideal time to spot wildlife as they are most active in the cooler early hours.
     • Depending on the season, you may be able to witness the Great Migration in action, with wildebeest and zebras crossing the Mara River, an iconic spectacle. During non-migration months, you can still expect to see large herds of elephants, lions, cheetahs, and other wildlife.

   • Midday:

     • Return to your luxury lodge for a brunch or refreshments and relax in the comfort of your accommodations.
     • During the heat of the day, enjoy some downtime at your lodge or camp. Relax by the pool, unwind with a spa treatment (if available), or simply enjoy the stunning surroundings. Your lodge may also offer activities such as a bush walk or cultural visit to a nearby Maasai village for an authentic experience.

   • Afternoon:

     • After lunch, embark on an afternoon game drive. Your expert guide will take you to more remote areas of Northern Serengeti, where wildlife sightings are less common, providing a more private and intimate safari experience.
     • This is a fantastic time to track predators like lions, leopards, and cheetahs, as well as observe the abundant herbivores such as giraffes, zebras, and gazelles. The Northern Serengeti’s varied landscapes—woodlands, savannah, and rivers—offer unique opportunities for spotting different species in diverse habitats.

   • Evening:

     • After your exciting afternoon game drive, return to your lodge for a sundowner while you take in the spectacular views of the Serengeti’s plains.
     • Dinner will be served at your lodge, with the option for a bush dinner in a private setting under the stars for a more intimate and unique experience.
     • As the evening winds down, enjoy the serenity of the Serengeti at night. You may also hear the sounds of wildlife such as lions roaring in the distance, adding to the magic of the African bush.

   • Optional:

     • For those interested in an added thrill, you can opt for an optional night game drive (subject to park regulations) to observe nocturnal creatures like hyenas, owls, and leopards.

   Highlights:

   • Morning and afternoon game drives in Northern Serengeti, with the possibility of witnessing the Great Migration or tracking predators.
   • Relaxing at your luxury lodge, with options for a bush walk or cultural experience.
   • Private sundowners and gourmet dinner in a scenic or private setting.
   • Optional night game drive for spotting nocturnal wildlife.

6. Day 6: Northern Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater

   • Early Morning:

     • Enjoy an early breakfast at your lodge as you prepare for the journey to Ngorongoro Crater.
     • Depart for Ngorongoro Crater, a drive that takes approximately 4-5 hours, passing through scenic landscapes, including vast savannahs and rolling hills. The journey offers plenty of opportunities for wildlife sightings along the way.

   • Midday:

     • Upon arrival, check in at your luxury lodge or camp situated on the crater rim, where you'll be treated to spectacular views of the crater below.
     • Enjoy a gourmet lunch at the lodge while taking in the breathtaking views of the Ngorongoro Crater, one of the most beautiful and unique landscapes on Earth.

   • Afternoon:

     • After lunch, embark on your first game drive in the Ngorongoro Crater, often referred to as the "Garden of Eden" due to its rich biodiversity and stunning scenery.
     • Explore the crater floor, where you have the chance to spot the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino) in one day, along with other wildlife such as wildebeest, zebras, and hyenas.
     • The Ngorongoro Crater is a remarkable ecosystem, with grasslands, forests, and soda lakes that support a high concentration of wildlife. The afternoon drive will allow you to witness this incredible variety of animals in their natural habitat.

   • Evening:

     • Return to your lodge or camp on the crater rim to relax after an exhilarating day of game viewing.
     • Enjoy a sundowner while you watch the sun set over the crater’s edge, casting a golden glow over the plains below.
     • Savor a gourmet dinner in the comfort of your lodge, with fine wines and dishes inspired by local Tanzanian flavors.

   • Optional:

     • If available, take part in a cultural experience with the local Maasai community, learning about their traditions, lifestyle, and history in this beautiful region.
     • Alternatively, you may opt for a relaxing evening at your lodge, where you can enjoy the tranquil environment and reflect on your safari experiences.

   Highlights:

   • Scenic drive to Ngorongoro Crater, passing through stunning landscapes.
   • Gourmet lunch with breathtaking views of the crater.
   • Afternoon game drive on the crater floor, with the chance to spot the Big Five and a wide variety of wildlife.
   • Sundowners and a luxurious dinner while enjoying the views of Ngorongoro.
   • Optional cultural experience with the Maasai people or a peaceful evening at your lodge.

7. Day 7: Ngorongoro Crater to Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha

   • Early Morning:

     • Start the final day of your safari with an early breakfast at your lodge or camp, taking in the peaceful views of the Ngorongoro Crater at dawn.
     • Depending on your flight time or schedule, you may opt for an optional early morning game drive in the Ngorongoro Crater. The early hours provide a fantastic chance to spot wildlife at its most active, and you may encounter predators such as lions or leopards, as well as elephants, buffalo, and wildebeest.
       • If you’re not taking the game drive, you can enjoy the stunning morning views and relax before departing.

   • Late Morning:

     • After your game drive or breakfast, you'll begin your journey to Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha, depending on your flight schedule.
     • The drive from Ngorongoro Crater to Arusha takes around 3.5-4 hours, while the drive to Kilimanjaro International Airport takes approximately 4-5 hours. During the journey, you can enjoy the beautiful landscapes of the Great Rift Valley and surrounding highlands.

   • Midday:

     • Stop for a light lunch at a local restaurant or lodge on the way (depending on your route and timing), allowing you to reflect on the incredible safari experience.
     • If you're traveling to Arusha, you may have a little more time to explore the town or do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs before heading to the airport.

   • Afternoon/Evening:

     • Depending on your flight departure time, you will be dropped off at Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha Airport for your flight home or onward destination.
     • Bid farewell to your guide and safari team, carrying with you unforgettable memories of your luxury safari through some of the most spectacular wildlife regions in Africa.

   Highlights:

   • Optional morning game drive in Ngorongoro Crater for final wildlife sightings.
   • Scenic drive from Ngorongoro Crater to Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha.
   • Light lunch on the way, with time to reflect on your safari adventures.
   • Safe and comfortable transfer to the airport for your onward journey, concluding your 7-day luxury safari experience.