Herbivore African Expeditions

5.0/5 – 35 Reviews

$4,421 to $4,489 pp (USD)

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*This tour does not accept children under 5.
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Arrival (See Getting There for more details)

Arrival (See Getting There for more details)

  • You'll be collected from the airport.
  • Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.

Day 1

Arrival in Arusha

Arrival in Arusha

Your journey begins upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), where you will be warmly greeted by a representative from Herbivore African Expeditions. After a smooth transfer to your lodge in Arusha, the remainder of the day is yours to unwind, recover from your travels, and prepare for the thrilling safari adventure ahead. Spend your time relaxing in the peaceful surroundings or soaking up the serene African atmosphere as you look forward to the days to come.

Nestled in a tranquil setting on the outskirts of Arusha, Arusha Planet Lodge offers a modern and comfortable retreat surrounded by lush, beautiful gardens. The lodge features spacious, tastefully decorated rooms, an inviting outdoor swimming pool, and exceptionally friendly service. It provides the perfect balance of comfort, convenience, and relaxation, making it an ideal peaceful haven to recharge before setting off on your Tanzanian expedition.

Main Destination:
Arusha (City)
Accommodation:
Arusha Planet Lodge
  • Mid-range lodge located in Arusha (City)
Meals & Drinks:
  • Dinner (Breakfast & lunch not included)
  • Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Day 2

Arusha to Tarangire National Park

Arusha to Tarangire National Park

After an early breakfast, meet your guide and set off for Tarangire National Park. Renowned for its sweeping savannah landscapes dotted with ancient baobab trees and the life-sustaining Tarangire River, the park is world-famous for harboring massive herds of elephants. Throughout your drive, expect to see hundreds of elephants, alongside lions, leopards resting in trees, giraffes, buffaloes, and a prolific array of colorful bird species.

Perched on a scenic hillside overlooking the park and the sprawling Sangaiwe plains, this lodge offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness. The well-appointed tented rooms combine an authentic, immersive safari feel with fine modern comforts and ensuite facilities. It serves as a tranquil haven where you can unwind on your private veranda, soak in the picturesque landscape, and enjoy the magical sights and sounds of the African bush at sunset.

Main Destination:
Tarangire National Park
Best Time To Visit July to November (Animals come to the Tarangire River)
High Season June to October (The park is full of visitors)
Best Weather June to October (Little rainfall)

Wildlife in Tarangire NP

ElephantAbundant
GiraffeCommon
LionCommon
BuffaloAbundant
ZebraAbundant
WildebeestAbundant
Show more
HippoCommon
HyenaOccasional
Wild DogVery Rare
Activities:
Game drives (Pop-up roof 4x4 vehicle)
Accommodation:
Sangaiwe Tented Lodge
  • Mid-range tented camp located just outside Tarangire NP
Meals & Drinks:
  • All meals included
  • All drinks (Except for spirits/liquor)

Day 3

Tarangire to Lake Natron

Tarangire to Lake Natron

Today, leave the traditional safari circuit behind as you journey northeast toward the remote and dramatic landscape surrounding Lake Natron. The route itself is a thrilling adventure, winding through traditional Maasai heartlands and offering striking views of the Great Rift Valley escarpment alongside the soaring peak of Ol Doinyo Lengai, revered as the sacred "Mountain of God." The surrounding terrain grows increasingly arid and volcanic, creating a stark, beautiful contrast to the lush national parks.

Nestled at the foot of the Great Rift Valley wall, this rustic, eco-friendly lodge is thoughtfully constructed from natural local materials to blend seamlessly into the environment. The charming chalets feature private verandas with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and sun-drenched plains. Offering exceptional warmth and tranquility, it provides an authentic off-the-beaten-path safari experience.

Main Destination:
Lake Natron
Activities:
Game drives (Pop-up roof 4x4 vehicle)
Accommodation:
Maasai Giraffe Eco Lodge
  • Budget lodge located at Lake Natron
Meals & Drinks:
  • All meals included
  • All drinks (Except for spirits/liquor)

Day 4

Activities Around Lake Natron

Activities Around Lake Natron

Spend a dedicated day exploring the extraordinary wonders of Lake Natron. This caustic alkaline lake serves as the primary breeding ground for millions of lesser flamingos. Take a guided shore walk to observe vast, vibrant flocks of these pink birds feeding across the shimmering shallows. A key highlight is a trek through a rugged gorge to a hidden waterfall oasis, where you can take a refreshing swim in cool, crystal-clear natural pools—a stark, welcoming contrast to the hot volcanic terrain. You may also visit a local Maasai village to gain authentic insight into their vibrant culture, enduring traditions, and unique way of life in this challenging environment.

Return to this serene retreat at the base of the Rift Valley escarpment. Relax in your rustic chalet, enjoy warm hospitality, and take in panoramic views as dusk falls over the striking African landscape.

Main Destination:
Lake Natron
Activities:
Game drives (Pop-up roof 4x4 vehicle)
Accommodation:
Maasai Giraffe Eco Lodge
  • Budget lodge located at Lake Natron
Meals & Drinks:
  • All meals included
  • All drinks (Except for spirits/liquor)

Day 5

Lake Natron to Northern Serengeti/Mara River

Lake Natron to Northern Serengeti/Mara River

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive into the Northern Serengeti's Klein's Gate region, a remote area characterized by rolling hills, acacia woodlands, and the mighty Mara River. This iconic river sets the stage for the dramatic Great Migration river crossings from July to October, where vast herds brave crocodile-infested waters.

Strategically located near prime Mara River crossing sites, Kontiki Kogatende Camp is an authentic safari retreat offering an intimate wilderness experience. The thoughtfully equipped canvas tents blend classic charm with modern comforts, featuring comfortable beds and ensuite bathrooms. Unwind after an action-packed day by gathering around the traditional campfire beneath starry skies, soaking in the serene bush atmosphere and listening to the evening sounds of the wild. It provides an ideal, cozy base to experience the Serengeti's legendary wildlife moments up close.

Main Destination:
Northern Serengeti National Park
Best Time To Visit January to February and June to October (Different areas are best at different times)
High Season July to March (The Seronera area is crowded)
Best Weather June to October (Little to no rainfall)

Wildlife in Serengeti NP

ElephantCommon
LionCommon
CheetahCommon
BuffaloAbundant
ZebraAbundant
WildebeestAbundant
Show more
GiraffeCommon
HippoCommon
HyenaCommon
LeopardOccasional
Black RhinoVery Rare
Wild DogVery Rare
Activities:
Game drives (Pop-up roof 4x4 vehicle)
Accommodation:
Kontiki Kogatende Camp
  • Mid-range tented camp located inside Northern Serengeti NP
Meals & Drinks:
  • All meals included
  • All drinks (Except for spirits/liquor)

Day 6

Full Wildlife Viewing in Mara River

Full Wildlife Viewing in Mara River

Dedicate a full day to exploring the Northern Serengeti and the iconic Mara River. Your expert guide will patrol the scenic riverbanks, tracking concentrations of wildebeest and zebras as they gather nervously along the steep shores, waiting for the pivotal moment to plunge across. Witnessing a migration crossing—where thousands of animals brave the rushing, crocodile-infested waters—is a raw and unforgettable wildlife spectacle. Beyond the crossings, the region is rich in resident game, harboring large herds of topi, eland, and elephants, alongside active predators including lions, leopards, and cheetahs.

Return to this strategically positioned tented camp near key river crossing sites. Unwind in your comfortable canvas tent, share thrilling stories around the campfire, and enjoy a delicious dinner under the stars as the nighttime calls of the Serengeti wild create an unforgettable ambiance.

Main Destination:
Northern Serengeti National Park
Activities:
Game drives (Pop-up roof 4x4 vehicle)
Accommodation:
Kontiki Kogatende Camp
  • Mid-range tented camp located inside Northern Serengeti NP
Meals & Drinks:
  • All meals included
  • All drinks (Except for spirits/liquor)

Day 7

Northern Serengeti to Central Serengeti National Park

Northern Serengeti to Central Serengeti National Park

After a final morning game drive in the north, journey south into the heart of the Central Serengeti. This transfer serves as an extended game drive, showcasing the dynamic, changing landscapes of the ecosystem. Famous for exceptional year-round wildlife viewing thanks to its permanent rivers, the central region offers abundant sightings of hippos, crocodiles, and diverse resident game along the route to camp.

Set in the heart of the Seronera area, Tukaone Serengeti Camp offers a perfect blend of adventure and refined comfort in the wild. This intimate, eco-friendly tented camp features spacious, well-appointed canvas tents with ensuite facilities and private verandas overlooking the sweeping plains. Guests enjoy personalized hospitality, gourmet dining, and a cozy evening campfire under starry skies, providing a serene setting to unwind and fall asleep to the magical sounds of the Serengeti night.

Main Destination:
Central Serengeti National Park
Activities:
Game drives (Pop-up roof 4x4 vehicle)
Accommodation:
Tukaone Weavers Camp
  • Mid-range tented camp located inside Central Serengeti NP
Meals & Drinks:
  • All meals included
  • All drinks (Except for spirits/liquor)

Day 8

Full Wildlife Viewing Central Serengeti National Park

Full Wildlife Viewing Central Serengeti National Park

A full day is dedicated to exploring the diverse habitats of the Central Serengeti alongside your expert guide. Journey into the iconic Seronera River Valley, a world-famous hotspot for predator activity. Keep your eyes peeled for stealthy leopards draped over branches in the shady sausage trees, cheetahs scanning the open savanna for prey, and formidable lion prides lazing atop ancient granite kopjes. The riverbanks and grassy plains are equally rich with plains game, offering continuous sightings of massive buffalo herds, delicate impalas, inquisitive giraffes, warthogs, and vibrant birdlife throughout the day.

Return to this charming tented camp nestled in the central wilderness. Relax on your private veranda with views of the surrounding savanna, enjoy a freshly prepared dinner, and gather around the campfire to swap stories before falling asleep to the peaceful sounds of the bush.

Main Destination:
Central Serengeti National Park
Activities:
Game drives (Pop-up roof 4x4 vehicle)
Accommodation:
Tukaone Weavers Camp
  • Mid-range tented camp located inside Central Serengeti NP
Meals & Drinks:
  • All meals included
  • All drinks (Except for spirits/liquor)

Day 9

Serengeti to Ngorongoro Conservations Area

Serengeti to Ngorongoro Conservations Area

Enjoy one last morning game drive in the Serengeti before beginning your journey southeast into the highlands of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. As you ascend the winding roads of the crater rim, stop at a panoramic viewpoint for a breathtaking look into the caldera below—a magnificent preview of the next day's adventure.

Accommodation: Eileen's Trees Inn

Located in Karatu, just outside the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Eileen's Trees Inn is a charming, owner-managed lodge set amidst lush tropical gardens. The comfortable, country-style wooden chalets feature modern amenities and private verandas. Guests can relax by the outdoor swimming pool, enjoy freshly prepared meals in the open-air dining area, and unwind in a tranquil, friendly atmosphere. It serves as an inviting and peaceful base to recharge before your descent into the crater or journey back to Arusha.

Main Destination:
Ngorongoro Highlands
Activities:
Game drives (Pop-up roof 4x4 vehicle)
Accommodation:
Eileen's Trees Inn
  • Mid-range lodge located in Karatu (Town)
Meals & Drinks:
  • All meals included
  • All drinks (Except for spirits/liquor)

Day 10

Ngorongoro Crater to Arusha

Ngorongoro Crater to Arusha

Descend the 600-meter walls into the Ngorongoro Crater for a spectacular final morning game drive. This natural amphitheater hosts an astonishing density of wildlife, including rare black rhinos, large lion prides, elephants, hyenas, flamingos, and thousands of wildebeests and zebras. Enjoy a picnic lunch by the scenic hippo pool before ascending the crater rim to begin your drive back to Arusha, dropping off at your hotel or Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your onward journey.

Optional Add-On: Materuni Waterfalls & Chagga Coffee Tour

Extend your adventure with a cultural day trip to Materuni Village on the slopes of Mt. Kilimanjaro. Take a guided hike to the stunning 80-meter waterfall for a refreshing swim, followed by a hands-on Chagga coffee tour to learn the art of harvesting, roasting, and brewing fresh coffee, complete with a traditional local lunch before your final departure.

Main Destination:
Ngorongoro Crater
Best Time To Visit June to October (Wildlife viewing is best)
High Season Most of the year – July to March (Expect crowds)
Best Weather June to October (Rainfall is little to none)

Wildlife in Ngorongoro Crater

LionCommon
BuffaloAbundant
ZebraAbundant
WildebeestAbundant
HyenaAbundant
Show more
ElephantCommon
HippoCommon
White RhinoOccasional
LeopardOccasional
Activities:
Game drives (Pop-up roof 4x4 vehicle)
Accommodation:
No accommodation (End of tour)
Meals & Drinks:
  • All meals included
  • All drinks (Except for spirits/liquor)

End of tour (See Getting There for more details)

End of tour (See Getting There for more details)

  • Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost.
  • You'll be dropped off at the airport.

Interested in This Tour?

Request a Quote

  • We advise requesting quotes from 3 operators (Learn why)
  • Requests are sent directly to the tour operator
  • If preferred, you can contact the tour operator directly
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Your request will be sent directly to the operator

If preferred, you can contact the operator directly

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Disclaimer

  • This tour is offered by Herbivore African Expeditions, not SafariBookings.
  • This operator reserves the right to change rates advertised on SafariBookings.
  • If you request changes to this tour, the advertised rates will likely change.
  • The exact order, contents and rates of this tour are subject to availability.
  • If an accommodation is fully booked, the operator will suggest a comparable alternative.
  • This tour is subject to the terms & conditions of Herbivore African Expeditions.