Explore Tanzania's Epic wildlife in Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater on this safari trip.
7 DAYS
From $$$
Tailored
Family vacation
Overview
Serengeti's Great Migration: Witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of the Great Migration, as millions of wildebeest and other animals traverse the Serengeti plains in search of fresh grazing grounds, creating a breathtaking natural phenomenon.
Big Five Encounters: Encounter Africa's iconic Big Five – lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinoceros – in their natural habitats, with the Serengeti offering vast landscapes for exhilarating game drives and wildlife sightings.
Ngorongoro Crater's Natural Wonder: Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and marvel at this volcanic caldera's unique ecosystem, home to a dense concentration of wildlife, including the rare black rhinoceros.
Cultural Interaction with Maasai Tribes: Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Tanzania by engaging with the Maasai tribes, experiencing their traditional dances, and learning about their nomadic lifestyle, adding a unique cultural dimension to your safari.
Price includes/excludes
- Local English-speaking guides/driver
- Tourist Visa (apply online at visas.immigration.go.ug)
- Accommodation & Meals as indicated in the itinerary
- Park fees
- Local air and land transfers in 4x4 safari truck
- Service tips
- Activities & excursions as shown in the itinerary
- Extra meals, snacks, gratuities, souvenirs
- AMREF evacuation cover and government taxes
- Travel insurance
Detailed Itinerary
This 7-day journey promises an unforgettable blend of natural wonders, cultural immersion, and thrilling safari experiences in two of Tanzania's most renowned national parks, Serengeti and Ngorongoro. Witness the breathtaking Great Migration in the Serengeti, where millions of wildebeest and zebras traverse the plains. Encounter the renowned Big Five in both parks, capturing the essence of Africa's diverse wildlife. Explore the natural wonder of Ngorongoro Crater, a lush amphitheater teeming with lions, cheetahs, and hippos. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the Maasai tribes, gaining a deeper understanding of their traditions. Elevate your experience with a dawn hot air balloon safari, offering a bird's-eye view of the majestic landscapes and wildlife below.
Day 1: Arrive at Arusha or Kilimanjaro Airport
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro airport, you will be met and assisted by an airport representative and a professional driver guide. Once you clear your visa formalities, you will either connect to your scheduled Serengeti flight (only for very early morning international arrival) or be escorted to your waiting safari vehicle. From there, you will drive to Arusha to check in at your hotel.
Arusha Coffee Lodge is located within a working coffee plantation under the shadow of Mount Meru, which is the second-highest mountain in Tanzania and the fourth-highest in Africa. The lodge's setting is exceptional and invites guests to stroll between the coffee bushes and the spacious chalets with private verandas. If you prefer not to walk, a golf buggy is available to transport you to the chalets.
Each multi-level chalet features a large, plush double bed surrounded by mosquito nets, a welcoming fireplace, and a separate seating area. Guests can indulge in a glass of sherry or percolate their own coffee from the farm in the seating area. The modern bathroom has a superb shower, a great bath, and a hairdryer.
Overnight – Arusha Coffee Lodge/ KIA Lodge (Bed & Breakfast)
Day 2: Transfer from Arusha to Serengeti
• Accommodation: Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti or Serengeti Wilderness Camp.
• Meal plan: Full board
Day 3-4: Explore Serengeti National Park
The air is filled with anticipation as the sun rises over the Serengeti on your first wilderness adventure. The day begins with an exhilarating game drive, traversing the vast plains adorned with acacia trees. The Serengeti offers a captivating spectacle as herds of wildebeests and zebras move in unison, following ancient migratory routes. Alongside, towers of giraffes gracefully nibble on tall trees while elephants roam freely in the distance. The landscape seems painted with the vibrant hues of nature's canvas. Lions, lounging lazily under the shade, occasionally stir, their golden coats glistening in the sunlight. The day concludes with a mesmerizing sunset, painting the horizon in hues of orange and gold, as the animals prepare for the night ahead.
The dawn breaks the second day with a promise of new adventures in the Serengeti. The morning begins with the echoing calls of distant birds and the gentle rustling of wildlife awakening. Today's safari holds the prospect of witnessing elusive predators in action. Cheetahs, known for their incredible speed, might be spotted sprinting across the plains, hunting with unparalleled precision. Leopards, masters of stealth, may be perched majestically on tree branches, surveying their domain. The game drive offers close encounters with buffalo herds, their imposing presence a testament to their status as one of the Big Five. As the day draws to a close, the Serengeti once again reveals its magic, leaving unforgettable memories of the untamed beauty and captivating wildlife encounters.
• Accommodation: Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti or Serengeti Wilderness Camp
• Meal plan: Full board
Day 5 - Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater
Leaving the sweeping plains of the Serengeti behind, the route ventures through the stunning highlands of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
En route, one encounters the awe-inspiring Olduvai Gorge, a site of significant archaeological importance, offering insights into early human evolution. The journey also passes through Maasai villages, providing a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of these iconic tribes. As the road winds higher, the scenery changes dramatically, offering panoramic views of the vast Rift Valley below.
Approaching the Ngorongoro Crater, the landscape transforms into a lush, green paradise surrounding the caldera's rim, with grazing wildlife visible in the distance. The drive from the Serengeti to Ngorongoro is not just a change in scenery but a passage through history, culture, and diverse ecosystems, climaxing into the breathtaking natural wonder of the crater itself.
• Accommodation: The Manor at Ngorongoro or Ngorongoro Coffee Lodge.
• Meal plan: Full board
Day 6: The Wilderness of Ngorongoro Crater
As the sun rises over the rim, casting a golden glow on the crater floor, the day begins with a descent into this natural wonder. The crater, often referred to as the "eighth wonder of the world," harbors a microcosm of East African wildlife within its confines.
Morning game drives unveil the rich biodiversity that thrives in the crater. Massive herds of wildebeest and zebras graze alongside gazelles, and the distinctive silhouette of the endangered black rhinoceros can be spotted traversing the grassy plains. Lions, leopards, and cheetahs are among the predators that roam the crater, showcasing their hunting prowess.
The midday interlude offers a picturesque setting for a picnic, allowing visitors to savor their meals surrounded by the breathtaking scenery. Overhead, flocks of colorful birds create a vibrant spectacle against the clear sky.
Afternoon game drives provide opportunities to witness the activities of the crater's inhabitants as they prepare for the night. Hippos submerge themselves in the cool waters of Lake Magadi, while elephants and buffaloes traverse the landscape. The day concludes with a gradual ascent back to the crater rim, allowing for a final glimpse of the expansive vista before the sun sets, casting hues of pink and orange over the crater.
• Accommodation: The Manor at Ngorongoro or Ngorongoro Coffee Lodge.
• Meal plan: Full board
Day 7: Ngorongoro to Arusha - End of trip
Departing from the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, the road winds through picturesque landscapes, providing travelers with a final opportunity to soak in the beauty of Tanzania's diverse terrain. En route, the lush greenery of the highlands gradually gives way to savannah vistas, creating a seamless transition from the captivating Ngorongoro Crater.
As the journey progresses, quaint Maasai villages dot the landscape, offering glimpses of local life against the backdrop of rolling hills. The leisurely pace allows for spontaneous stops, enabling travelers to capture photographs of the stunning panoramas and perhaps engage with the local communities, further enriching the cultural experience.
Approaching Arusha, the gateway to many Tanzanian adventures, the landscape transforms once again, with Mount Meru providing a majestic backdrop. The leisurely drive comes to a close in Arusha, where the bustling markets and vibrant atmosphere offer a taste of urban life after the serenity of the safari. This concluding leg of the journey not only marks the end of a remarkable 7-day Tanzania safari but also allows for reflection on the incredible wildlife encounters, cultural immersion, and breathtaking landscapes that have defined the Tanzanian adventure.
Diana
Moreen
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Utilize our expertise in local logistics and proven track record creating unforgettable wildlife experiences in Tanzania. We will work closely with you to craft a customized itinerary that gives you a peak satisfaction. It can be tiring to plan a vacation that involves different time zones and cultures, but with Nkuringo Safaris, it doesn't have to be.
What our last guests said.
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EXCELLENT
255 reviewsPosted on Tripadvisor
Gabriel B3 unforgettable Weeks in Uganda We spent three weeks travelling around Uganda. It was a wonderful trip with so many incredible moments. A big shout-out to our fantastic driver and guide, Emanuell. We laughed, discussed, learned and enjoyed ourselves so much. Thank you so much, Emanuell, it was a real pleasure. We highly recommend Nkuringo. The people there take great care of their guests. We felt we were in the best of hands at all times and can highly recommend the company.Posted on Tripadvisor
Mary Carol WExceeded our expectations! We just returned from a customized fly-in safari and primate-trekking trip with Nkuringo Safaris. This trip was an A++ experience!! Our travel manager, Catherine, did a fantastic job of planning every detail. Our guide, Patrick Yiga, was superb. His knowledge, driving abilities (not easy roads!), and communication skills were all excellent. He paid attention to every detail. We already miss him a lot! Our experiences, accommodations, and food were all exceptional. Nkuringo Safaris showed us why Uganda is truly the Pearl of Africa.Posted on Tripadvisor
lisvelasco2001Amazing Custom Ugandan Trip How do I rate our 12 day trip through Uganda? AMAZING. My travel consultant who I use to put together our Africa trips worked in conjunction with Nkuringo to put together an amazing trip for us. There were 8 of us - my husband (active 72 year old) and I (62 years old), 4 travel friends (56-72) and our 2 nephews (30 years old). It was an active adventure with a primate focus. We took two internal flights to minimize our time on the bumpy roads. In putting the trip together, I had the opportunity to review all the accommodations and suggested activities. We did two hikes, two mountain bike rides, Chimp/Gorilla/Golden Monkey Tracking and some boating.It’s hard to say what the best/favorite thing was. Each was special in it’s own way. The unexpected PRIVATE boat ride on the Kazinga Channel was amazing in itself? Having a great guide for the Chimp tracking? Hike through the Bwindi Forest on the Ivy Trail?Accommodations were incredible - all staffed by very special people. None of us will ever forget Innocent (our butler) at the Primate Lodge. I will never forget Issac’s (Nkuringo Lodge) attention to our nephews who wanted to visit a local bar - who willingly took them and then hike to the Top of the World with them. It was really nice to have our laundry done and boots cleaned at some of the lodges.But the best part of the entire trip (besides traveling with friends and family) was our guides: Jack and Oscar. The two of them worked hand in hand for a seamless trip seeing to our every want and teaching us all about the country. My husband and I travel extensively and these two men rank up there as two of the best guides ever. I will never forget Oscar mountain biking with me as I slowly went downhill, gripping the brakes while my husband and nephews ripped ahead with the bike guide. For that I will be forever grateful. Or the day that the nephews wanted to go into town/Kisoro and see a bar and walk around. Jack and Oscar took them while Jack walked around with them. My husband and I never had to worry about their safety.The Land Cruisers were in top notch condition and spotless at the beginning of the trip. They were cleaned again when Jack and Oscar had a break from us. When available they even provided WIFI in the vehicles as well as water.Kudos to Lydia, the owner of the company, for running a top notch organization.Posted on Tripadvisor
Simone CGreat Uganda experience with a perfect guide! We had an amazing vacation full of everything you can dream about: Gorillas, Chimpanzees, Leopard, Rhinos,…and some hiking. We had the best guide you can have, driving perfectly through every terrain, always flexible, perfectly organised and always a smile on his face: Bob Magezi! We felt safe and in great hands all the time! Uganda is a very diversified country that exceeded our expectations, with awesome people, green nature and lots of animals.Posted on Tripadvisor
MLAn unforgettable Uganda Experience with Bob and Nkuringo Two weeks of an amazing Uganda experience are behind us. From Entebbe over Ziwa Rhino to Murchison Falls, Kibale (Chimps), Ruwenzori, QE National Park, Bwindi and Lake Mutanda.The trip was extremely well organized and full of great experiences.We thank our great Guide Bob for a tremendous job and guidance through beautiful Uganda.Thank you Bob and Nkuringo, Iris&MarvinPosted on Tripadvisor
Laura PAmazing tour Everything about this 5 day experience was top notch. Remmy was an incredible guide - great energy, good vibes, helpful, knowledgeable, & always kept us feeling safe. Lodges were beautiful with great service & of course the animals/wild life did not disappoint. Added some optional hikes/walks to keep us active. Incredible trip - definitely recommend Remmy & Nkuringo!!Posted on Tripadvisor
Devon GIncredible trip to Uganda The trip was unbelievable. The itinerary was thoughtfully packed with amazing activities and beautiful scenic drives that made travel time enjoyable. The gorilla and chimpanzee trekking experiences were truly once-in-a-lifetime moments that we will never forget. Our guide Remmy was the best tour guide we could have asked for during our trip to Uganda. He was always prompt, incredibly knowledgeable, and genuinely kind. He truly made the entire experience special. We felt comfortable with him right away, and by the end of the trip, it honestly felt like we were traveling with family. We can’t recommend Remmy highly enough!Posted on Tripadvisor
Joanna WA Memorable Safari Marked by Care, Presence, and Expertise This was an exceptional safari experience from start to finish, beautifully designed and flawlessly delivered. As a solo traveler, I felt supported, well looked after, and genuinely welcomed throughout the entire journey.Diana was a joy to work with from the very beginning. She was warm, friendly, and highly responsive, while at the same time extremely attentive to my individual needs. Her advice on the different elements of the safari was thoughtful and well-balanced, helping shape an itinerary that felt both exciting and perfectly suited to me. I truly appreciated her guidance, flexibility, and care at every stage of the planning process.Patrick is an outstanding guide and professional. His competence, calm presence, and deep knowledge made the journey feel effortless and safe at all times. He has a rare ability to read situations and respond intuitively, creating a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere while remaining discreet and respectful. His attentiveness, sense of humor, and genuine care made long days on the road and in the parks deeply enjoyable and memorable, adding a very special quality to this trip.I was fortunate to do my gorilla trek on my birthday, which made this already extraordinary experience even more meaningful. I was lucky to trek solo and spend precious time with a gorilla family — an unforgettable and deeply moving encounter. The guide Emos, together with the rangers and trackers, were kind, supportive, and incredibly professional, and most importantly made me feel safe and comfortable throughout the entire half-day experience.The game drives and the Kazinga Channel boat safari were exceptional. I was lucky to see the Big Four, with unforgettable sightings of elephants, lions, and a leopard I had especially hoped to observe. I was deeply impressed by Patrick’s knowledge of wildlife, nature, and local culture, and by his thoughtful responses to all my questions, which enriched every experience.At one point I felt uncomfortable with the initially booked boat experience, and both Patrick and Diana addressed this immediately by moving me to a larger, more comfortable boat. I truly appreciated this level of flexibility, responsiveness, and seamless logistics management.The chimpanzee trek in Kibale and the local community activities were equally rewarding. I was guided by Leo, whose warmth, hospitality, and excellent knowledge of local nature and culture helped me connect more deeply with the environment and the people, adding meaningful depth to the journey.The accommodations were impeccable. Nkuringo, Elephant Plains, and Turaco Treetops lodges were all very different in style, yet equally excellent in design, hospitality, quality of service, and delicious food. I was especially touched when Nkuringo Lodge organized a small birthday celebration with a cake — a thoughtful gesture that made me feel truly welcome.Overall, this safari exceeded my expectations in every way. My sincere thanks to Diana, Patrick, and the entire team for creating such a beautifully curated, professional, and memorable experience. I would wholeheartedly recommend this journey to anyone seeking something truly special.Posted on Tripadvisor
Clare NDream trip to Uganda! I cannot recommend Nkuringo Safari’s highly enough. From start to finish, my trip to Uganda exceeded every expectation - especially as I was a solo woman travelling on my first safari. Massively made by Moreen, who organised everything, and Remmy, my guide! From the beginning, Moreen was my first point of contact, and she was so great. Started with an enquiry about the 12 day safari & she helped turn it into an 18 day dream trip! She handled endless emails, questions, and changes — from where I wanted to stay, to adding extra nights and fine-tuning every detail. She made everything so easy & gave me complete confidence from the start and made the planning process stress-free. Each destination and lodge were so special. The settings were stunning, the accommodation perfect, and the hospitality at each place was so welcoming. Falling asleep to the sounds of nature, a lot of the time grumbling hippos and waking up to stunning sunrises & beautiful scenery doesn’t get old.Remmy - my guide, what a guy! Not just an outstanding safari guide — he is someone truly special. He has such a vast knowledge of wildlife, the land, and the Ugandan culture, I learnt so much from him. He knew spots where we could get great sightings of wildlife. He really looked after me, he was kind, caring and attentive. He made me feel completely safe & comfortable. By the end of the trip, Remmy felt more like a friend than a guide. And always making sure I had a cold beer in my hand after an activity. An absolute LEGEND!If you’re considering a safari in Uganda Nkuringo are the company to book with — and if you’re lucky enough to have Remmy as your guide, you’re in for a treat!Thank you Remmy, and thank you Moreen and Nkuringo Safaris for an unforgettable trip of a lifetime! Already thinking about my next adventure to Uganda.Posted on Tripadvisor
Alexandra GMountaingorillas and luxury It was a wonderful and amazing experience to see the mountaingorillas and everything went well, especially because my guide Remmy gave me good advices and answered to all my questions. I would highly recommend his guidance.Apart from that the stay in the Lodge near the Nationalpark was very luxurious.Load more
