Arrival
Arrival
Day 1
Arrival and Transfer to the Lodge
Arrival and Transfer to the Lodge
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, our representative will warmly welcome you.
You will be transferred to your cozy accommodation in Arusha, where you can rest and recharge, gearing up for the thrilling adventure that begins tomorrow.
Anticipation builds as you prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey through Tanzania's beauty.
- Main Destination:
- Arusha (City)
- Accommodation:
-
Gold Crest Hotel Arusha
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 2
Drive to Lake Mayara National Park
Drive to Lake Mayara National Park
After breakfast, you will drive to Lake Manyara National Park with packed lunch.
This, a relatively small but diverse park, situated 120km west of Arusha, is so named for the shallow Salt Lake that covers some seventy percent of the surface area, flooding and drying with the seasons and home to thousands of flamingos and in the extraordinary region of 500 other bird species.
On our exploration of the park, we will see monkeys, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, buffalo, elephants, and, with some luck, lions lounging in the trees.
The park is known for its diverse landscapes; not only open grassy plains but also primate-filled woodlands and baobab dotted cliffs.
After our extensive game drive, we depart to the lodge for delicious dinner and overnight.
- Main Destination:
- Lake Manyara National Park
- Accommodation:
- Africa Safari Karatu (Safari Comfort Bungalow)
Wildlife in Lake Manyara NP
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 3
Game Drive Ngorongoro Crater
Game Drive Ngorongoro Crater
The drive from Karatu to the gate of Ngorongoro Conservation Area takes 30 minutes. As you approach Ngorongoro Crater, a forgotten world unfolds before your eyes.
Hidden within the steep volcanic walls lies a pristine wilderness with vast savannahs, acacia woodlands, and shimmering lakes. Formed millions of years ago from a volcanic explosion, the Crater now offers a unique chance to encounter the endangered black rhino in its open grasslands.
After an exhilarating game drive inside Ngorongoro Crater, a scenic 2.5-hour drive leads you to Empakaai Camp. Behold the breathtaking views of the Crater and lake. This is true bush camping, with no modern amenities, but the experience of gazing at the star-lit sky, serenaded by the sounds of the bush and crackling fire, will leave an indelible mark.
Your dedicated crew will set up tents and prepare a memorable dinner for you to relish.
- Main Destination:
- Ngorongoro Crater
- Accommodation:
- Rhino Lodge
Wildlife in Ngorongoro Crater
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 4
Empakai Crater
Empakai Crater
Your morning begins with a captivating hike down onto the Crater Floor. The snaking path leads you along the steep sides, and in about 40 minutes, you find yourself amidst the astonishing beauty and tranquility of the Crater floor
Here, only the melodic tinkling of Maasai cowbells, the symphony of birds, and the gentle rustling of trees accompany you.
After exploring the Crater, the journey continues towards Lake Natron.
Packing up camp, you set off on a 17km hike, accompanied by donkeys and knowledgeable guides. The route takes you through picturesque Maasai villages and rolling hills, with a breathtaking approach to Acacia camp through a splendid forest of yellow-bark acacia trees.
Once again, Acacia camp offers true bush camping experience. Donkeys have their safe enclosure, or 'boma,' ensuring a peaceful and secure night in the wilderness.
- Main Destination:
- Empakaai Crater (Ngorongoro Highlands)
- Accommodation:
- Rhino Lodge
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 5
Transfer to Lake Natron
Transfer to Lake Natron
Prepare for an early start today, as the journey to Lake Natron's vehicle pick-up point spans 8km. To avoid rising temperatures, it's best to hike during the morning. This part of the hike presents some of the most incredible scenery, with little evidence of human habitation, leaving you in perfect harmony with nature. Standing atop the mountain, gazing at the 360-degree view, you're serenaded by the wind and occasional birdsong, a rare and tranquil experience.
The descent down the steep mountainside can take up to 90 minutes, mostly on rock faces and scree, so expect some tired calf muscles the next day. However, don't miss the chance to pause regularly during the descent, absorbing the surrounding landscapes and feeling the powerful aura of Ol Doinyo Lengai. Lake Natron's lunar beauty adds a unique touch to the journey.
Finally, the vehicle will meet you at the road and transfer you to the camp, where you can rest and relish the memories of this remarkable day.
- Main Destination:
- Lake Natron
- Accommodation:
- Africa Safari Karatu (Safari Comfort Bungalow)
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 6
Lake Natron / Transfer to Arusha Town
Lake Natron / Transfer to Arusha Town
An early start is highly recommended as witnessing the sunrise by the tranquil shores of Lake Natron is an unforgettable experience.
The lake's lunar-like beauty, adorned with reddish hues, is a result of salt-loving organisms and algae. A truly astounding sight awaits as you encounter around 2.5 million flamingos, who call Lake Natron their home and cherish it as one of their primary breeding grounds.
After this incredible encounter with the flamingos, you'll head back to camp for a delightful breakfast. Relishing the memories of the safari, we conclude the journey and return to Arusha, marking the end of this remarkable adventure.
- Main Destination:
- Lake Natron
- Accommodation:
- No accommodation (End of tour)
- Meals & Drinks:
