7 Days Lake Natron, Ngorongoro Crater & Serengeti Safari Tour
Safari National Parks : Ngorongoro Crater & Serengeti National Park
Embark on a thrilling seven-day safari through Tanzania’s most breathtaking landscapes. Begin at the remote and otherworldly Lake Natron, where thousands of flamingos and pelicans gather near the active Ol Doinyo Lengai volcano. Next, explore the wildlife-rich Ngorongoro Crater, home to rhinos, lions, and elephants in a stunning volcanic setting. Then, journey to the legendary Serengeti, where vast plains come alive with migrating herds of wildebeest and zebras, along with prowling predators. Timed for peak wildlife activity between July and October, this adventure can be customized to include the dramatic wildebeest river crossings. Get ready for unforgettable encounters and lifelong memories!
Interested in a customized 7-days safari that fits your schedule?
Day 1: Arrival
Welcome to the mesmerizing land of Tanzania, where adventure awaits at every turn! Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), a warm welcome awaits as our expert driver greets you and transports you to your hotel, setting the stage for the incredible journey ahead.
For those eager to immerse themselves in the magic of the safari from the moment they land, we recommend booking a flight that arrives no later than 12:00 PM. This timing allows you to comfortably reach your lodge, which may be up to 4 hours away, and ensures you can begin your exploration without haste. If your flight arrives later, don’t worry—we’ll arrange a comfortable hotel near the airport so you can rest before your adventure begins. Our team of travel experts is on hand to assist with every detail, helping to craft a personalized itinerary that will make your Tanzanian safari experience as seamless and unforgettable as the landscape itself.
Day 2 : Lake Natron
Today, you’ll venture to one of the most striking and remote corners of Tanzania: Lake Natron, a true hidden gem. Featured in countless wildlife magazines, this unique lake is famous for its mesmerizing red-hued waters, caused by special bacteria that give it a blood-red tint. The sight is so extraordinary, it’s best captured from above, making for stunning photos that will stay with you long after your journey ends.
But the beauty doesn’t stop with the water. Lake Natron is surrounded by breathtaking African landscapes, where you might encounter wild animals such as ostriches, giraffes, zebras, and antelopes. This tranquil and untouched spot offers a rare opportunity to connect with nature without the crowds, making it a perfect place to either kick off or wrap up your safari adventure.
With the hot midday sun, you’ll have the chance to cool off in nearby natural springs, fed by the pure waters of the Ngorongoro Reserve. These springs are not just refreshing but also known for their sulfur-rich properties, believed to have health benefits (though we’ll leave the science to the experts, it’s definitely a pleasant experience!).
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting nearby Maasai settlements. The Maasai people have lived in this region for centuries, and you’ll have the chance to witness their traditional way of life in this stunningly remote part of Africa. Get ready for a day full of awe-inspiring landscapes, wildlife encounters, and cultural immersion—a true adventure for the soul!
Day 3 : Lake Natron
From September to April, this remote lake becomes a crucial breeding ground for Lesser Flamingos. In fact, more than three-quarters of the world’s Lesser Flamingos are born right here! You’ll have the chance to witness these delicate creatures in their most tender moments: eggs nestled in the shallow mud and fluffy chicks taking their first steps along the shores. Through your binoculars, you may spot these tiny gray chicks, soon to transform into their signature pink plumage as they grow.
But the wonders of Lake Natron don’t end with the flamingos. The area is also home to playful pelicans and a variety of other bird species, all of which behave differently in the wild than they would in a zoo—active, curious, and full of life. Whether you’re watching the flamingos or the other native birds, the experience of observing them in their natural habitat is a highlight of this extraordinary location
Day 4 : Lake Natron
Get ready for an exciting adventure today! Your guide will lead you to the breathtaking Engaresero Falls, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the landscape. But here’s the twist: these stunning waterfalls aren’t accessible by car! You’ll embark on a pleasant, one-hour hike through beautiful terrain, guided by a local Masai tribe member, who will share fascinating insights along the way. Be sure to wear light shoes that you don’t mind getting wet, because you’re about to get up close and personal with the falls!
Once you arrive, the real fun begins. There’s nothing like taking a dip in the crystal-clear pools beneath the waterfalls—just don’t forget your bathing suit and towel! It’s the perfect way to cool off after the hike and enjoy nature’s refreshing splash.
As you explore the Natron area, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife—while it’s not as abundant as the Serengeti, you’ll still spot majestic giraffes, graceful zebras, curious ostriches, sly hyenas, playful impalas, and even wildebeests roaming the savannah. Be sure to have your camera ready—you never know when an impromptu wildlife moment will unfold!
To cap off the day, you’ll get to witness one of East Africa’s most awe-inspiring sights: the active Ol Doinyo Lengai volcano, affectionately known as the “Mountain of God” in the Maasai language. The landscape around the volcano offers some of the best photo ops in Africa, so make sure to snap a shot of the rugged beauty before you head back. What a day it’s been!
Day 5 : Ngorongoro Consevation Area
To maximize your chance of spotting early-morning wildlife, we recommend leaving the hotel as early as possible. Breakfast will be provided in lunchboxes for this purpose. At 6:30 AM, you’ll depart for the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, reaching the crater floor in about an hour.
Ngorongoro is one of Tanzania’s most renowned parks, home to an incredible density of wildlife across a variety of species. Here, you’ll have opportunities to see buffalo, elephants, lions, wildebeests, zebras, hippos, and rare feline species like caracals and servals. With a bit of luck, you may even spot a rhinoceros, one of the most endangered species in the region.
By midday, you’ll arrive at the lakeside for lunch, enjoying your packed meal before continuing your safari. In the evening, you’ll return to your hotel in Arusha for a well-deserved rest.
Day 6 : Serengeti National Park
Today, you’re in for an unforgettable adventure as you visit the world-renowned Serengeti National Park—one of the most iconic wildlife destinations on the planet. Get ready to immerse yourself in a safari experience like no other, surrounded by vast, golden savannahs teeming with life. This immense park, one of the largest in Tanzania, is home to an incredible array of wildlife, and you’re bound to spot some of Africa’s most famous animals. Lions lounging under the shade, herds of majestic elephants, graceful giraffes, towering buffaloes, and playful zebras will be just the beginning of your safari.
But that’s not all! Serengeti offers you a golden opportunity to spot rare and elusive creatures like cheetahs darting across the plains, serval cats lurking in the grass, and perhaps even some of the park’s more secretive residents. As you drive through the landscape, you’ll discover that this UNESCO World Heritage Site is more than just a park—it’s a living, breathing ecosystem with an unparalleled density of animals and a vital role in the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles journey across the plains.
Serengeti is the inspiration behind Disney’s The Lion King, but let’s be clear: this is real, raw, and wild. The air is thick with the sounds of nature, and the beauty here is as untamed as it gets. Today’s journey will take you to Seronera, the central part of Serengeti, a breathtaking area famous for its rolling landscapes and rich wildlife. Get ready for a safari day that will leave you in awe, where every moment is a chance to witness Africa’s magnificent wilderness firsthand.
Day 7: Serengeti National Park
Your adventure in the Serengeti continues, and today, we dive into the heart of one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife regions—the central Serengeti, or Seronera. This vast, open expanse is a wildlife lover’s dream, packed with an incredible variety of animals and endless landscapes to explore. While it’s impossible to see it all in one day, today, you’ll uncover hidden gems as your guide takes you to new corners of this stunning wilderness.
Get ready for another exciting day as you venture deeper into Seronera, where some of the rarest and most elusive African animals call home. Keep your eyes peeled for rhinos grazing peacefully in the distance, leopards gracefully lounging in the trees, and perhaps even the shy serval cats or elusive caracals, which are known for their stealthy ways.
With each twist and turn in the landscape, the chance to spot something new is ever-present. Whether it’s a surprise sighting of a cheetah darting across the plains or a majestic herd of wildebeest grazing under the wide African sky, the Serengeti never stops delivering awe-inspiring moments. This is your chance to witness the rarest of the rare in the wild, and as your guide brings you to fresh spots within Seronera, you’ll feel the thrill of discovering a new world each time.
So, buckle up for another day of safari excitement, where every turn could bring a new adventure and a chance to spot Africa’s hidden treasures!
Day 8: Serengeti National Park
Who knows? You might even get a cheeky cheetah poking its head up from behind your safari car, curious to see who’s watching the wildlife unfold around them. The magic of the Serengeti is that you never know what’s coming next—one moment, you’re captivated by the peaceful scene of gazelles grazing, and the next, you might find yourself in the middle of a thrilling chase or a majestic herd of wildebeest galloping across the plains.
Today, you’ll also have the chance to visit the famous Kopjes, those striking volcanic rock formations that dot the landscape. These ancient remnants of volcanic eruptions are not only breathtakingly beautiful, but they also offer perfect resting spots for wildlife. Lions, hyenas, and other animals often take shelter in the shade, giving you an incredible opportunity for perfect photos.
And don’t miss the iconic Simba Rock, where the magic of Disney’s The Lion King comes to life. Yes, this is the very spot where Mufasa lifted baby Simba high into the air, overlooking the expansive savannah. Now, you can stand where that legendary scene was inspired, soaking in the beauty of the real-life Serengeti, just as Simba did.
This day promises a grand finale to your Serengeti adventure, filled with wildlife, iconic landmarks, and memories to last a lifetime. What will you discover next? The possibilities are endless in the heart of the Serengeti!
Day 9: Departure
Enjoy some leisure time at the hotel before your transfer to the airport.
Please note: Hotel check-out is at 11:00 AM. If you have an evening flight and require a late check-out, you can extend your stay until 6:00 PM for an additional fee.
Inclusive $ Exclusives
Safari Cost Includes
Transfers
- All transfers as outlined in the itinerary.
Accommodation & Meals
- Hotels and lodges as mentioned in the program.
- Meals as specified in the itinerary.
- Bottled water, soft drinks, coffee, and tea provided in the safari jeep.
Guiding & Game-Driving
- Certified, experienced, English-speaking safari guide.
- Comfortable Land Cruiser 4×4 vehicles with pop-up roofs, refrigerators, Wi-Fi, and power outlets.
- National park fees covering park entry and concession fees for the entire tour.
- Complimentary Wi-Fi, available in 60-75% of the areas visited due to limited cell coverage in remote regions.
- 24/7 phone support.
- First aid kit.
Safari Cost Excludes
Not Included in the Price:
- Air tickets
- Visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Gratuities for your safari guide (suggested $30-50 per day per vehicle).
Please Note:
- Our tours generally include shared accommodations in twin/double rooms, unless specified otherwise. Single supplement options are available upon request. Refer to your program for specific accommodation details.
- Accommodations in Moshi and Arusha typically include breakfast only, unless otherwise requested. Please check your program for meal plans for each night.
- Most safari lodges do not include tea, coffee, soft drinks, or alcohol in the package to help you avoid overpaying for unnecessary beverages. Drinks can be purchased at the hotel’s restaurant.
- Tented lodges are common in the savannah and often run on solar energy, which may result in bucket showers, limited Wi-Fi, and no hair dryers, as part of efforts to minimize environmental impact. We encourage you to research the accommodations in your itinerary to ensure they align with your travel preferences.