Arrive in Arusha, Tanzania
You will be picked up from Kilimanjaro International Airport and transferred to your accommodations in Arusha Town. During the short drive (approximately one hour) your driver/guide will brief you on your African Safari. Today you will spend your time at your leisure and relax for your upcoming exciting adventure.
- Main Destination:
- Arusha (City)
- Accommodation:
- Tulia Boutique Hotel & Spa
- Meals & Drinks:
Arusha – Tarangire National Park
After breakfast, your driver will pick you up at the hotel and you will make your way to Tarangire National Park. The drive will be approximately 2 hours. Big baobab trees, bush savannah, and seasonal marshes add to the wonders of this nature reserve. Tarangire National Park is considered to be one of the best parks to view elephants up close. The Park is also home to buffaloes, zebras, and wildebeests that are closely followed by a range of predators such as lions and leopards, but cheetahs are rarely spotted in this area. From the open rooftop of your safari vehicle, you will be able to absorb the landscape and get a perfect view of the wildlife. You will enjoy a picnic lunch overlooking the Tarangire river and afternoon a game drive before heading to mto wa mbu at migombani camp for dinner and overnight.
- Main Destination:
- Tarangire National Park
- Accommodation:
- Migombani Campsite
- Meals & Drinks:
Mto wa Mbu to Ngorongoro Crater
The drive from Karatu to the gate of Ngorongoro Conservation Area takes about 30 minutes. When you first see Ngorongoro Crater, it looks like a forgotten world. Concealed by the steep volcanic walls is a pristine wilderness including sweeping savannah, pockets of acacia woodland, and glistening lakes and swamps. The Crater was created when a large volcano exploded and collapsed in on itself two to three million years ago. The Crater provides you with the best chance of seeing the endangered black rhino, which can sometimes be spotted in the open grasslands.
After your game drive inside Ngorongoro Crater, you will drive to Empakaai Camp (approximately 2.5 hrs). The views of the Crater and lake are stunning. This is true bush camping: no washrooms, no running water, no electricity. But - staring up at the stars accompanied by the sounds of the bush and the crackling of the fire is something you will never forget. Your crew will set up the tents and start preparing dinner.
- Main Destination:
- Ngorongoro Crater
- Accommodation:
- Migombani Campsite
- Meals & Drinks:
Empakaai Crater to Acacia
Dawn rises and the view of Oldoinyo Lengai is quite magical. Oldoinyo Lengai is an active volcano and means 'Mountain of God in Maa (the language of the Maasai). This morning, you will hike down onto the Crater Floor. The path snakes back and forth along the steep sides and the descent takes around 40 minutes. The Crater floor is incredibly beautiful and peaceful. The only sounds are the melodic tinkling of Maasai cow bells, bird symphonies, and the wind in the trees.
After the hike into the Crater, you will continue towards Lake Natron. You will pack up camp, and hike with the donkeys and guides following a route that takes you through picturesque Maasai villages and rolling hills. You will walk approximately 17km today. The approach to the Acacia camp is through a wonderful forest of yellow-bark acacia trees. Once again, Acacia camp is bush camping. The donkeys have their own enclosure or 'boma' which helps to keep them safe in camp throughout the night.
- Main Destination:
- Empakaai Crater (Ngorongoro Highlands)
- Accommodation:
- Mid-range camping
- Meals & Drinks:
Acacia to Lake Natron
You will have an early start today. The distance to Lake Natron (vehicle pick-up point) is 8km, but once you descend the mountain, the temperatures rise significantly, so it's best to walk during the morning. This part of the hike takes you through some of the most incredible scenery. There is very little evidence of human habitation, and you feel truly alone with nature. It is a rare experience to stand on top of the mountain with a 360-degree view, and hear very little except the wind and the occasional birdsong.
The climb down the mountain is steep and can take up to 90 minutes. The terrain is mostly rock face and scree, so be prepared for some aching calf muscles the following day! It is worth stopping regularly during the descent to absorb the surrounding landscapes and feel the power emanating from Ol Doinyo Lengai. Often described as having a lunar beauty, Lake Natron offers something a little bit different. The vehicle will meet you on the road and drive you to camp.
- Main Destination:
- Lake Natron
- Accommodation:
- Lake Natron Tented Camp
- Meals & Drinks:
Lake Natron to Arusha City
An early start is advised here. Being on the shore of Lake Natron as the sun rises is something you will never forget. Lake Natron is often described as having a lunar beauty. The lake gets its reddish color from salt-loving organisms and algae. Amazingly, 2.5 million flamingos make Lake Natron their home and it is one of their only breeding grounds.
You will have a chance to experience these incredible birds and then return to camp for breakfast.
After breakfast, you will return to Arusha. Drive time approximately 4hrs.
- Main Destination:
- Arusha (City)
- Accommodation:
- No accommodation (End of tour)
- Meals & Drinks: