4 Days Tanzania Classic Safari
Tour Highlight
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Tour Itinerary
Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), where you will meet an Swahili Trippers representative, and transfer to the hotel under the rate. The hotel will provide all the essentials for a comfortable stay: cozy rooms, hot water, polite staff, a swimming pool, and Internet access. In the evening there will be a briefing with our managers, who will also make sure you are ready to begin the Safari.
In the morning you will make your way to the Lake Manyara National Park. This small park stretches along the 600 m high Rift Valley Escarpment and is dominated by the shallow and alkaline Lake Manyara. It is here where thousands of flamingos seem to colour the shallow waters pink. Many water birds gather at the lake and more than 400 bird species are found in the park. From the open-roofed safari vehicle you will appreciate the diverse vegetation that provides a habitat for many animals including monkeys in the forest, giraffes and antelopes on the grasslands and elephants amongst acacia trees. If you are very lucky you might also see the Manyara lions lounging in the trees. In the late afternoon, you will leave the park and head to Mto wa Mbu, where you will spend the night on a campsite.
After breakfast, you will travel via the cooler highlands towards the Serengeti and at midday you will reach the plains of the Serengeti National Park – a highlight of your 4-day Tanzania camping safari. This park is one of the largest in Tanzania and has a diversity of habitats and landscapes such as short grass plains, savannah, thick bush, swamps and lakes. Bizarre rock formations called kopjes dot the grassy landscape where predators are often seen. Depending on the season you will witness the migration of thousands of animals for which this park is famous for. During the short rainy season in November and December the herds move from the hills in the north to the plains in the south. During the longer rainy season from April to June they return up north. This circle of life is completely dependent on the yearly rainfalls and the locations of the herds may vary from year to year but your guide will know where to find the animals and where to see them best. You will spend the night on a campsite in the central Serengeti.
Dawn is a good time to watch wildlife and so you will be up at sunrise to join an early morning game drive. Here in the Seronera region you will often see wildebeests and zebras in close proximity of lions and other predators such as leopards and cheetahs. You will return to the campsite for breakfast, before you continue towards the Ngorongoro Crater. Once you have reached the crater rim in the afternoon you will have fantastic views of this 600 m deep collapsed volcano. You will spend the night on a campsite on the crater’s edge from where you can enjoy amazing views over the crater as the sun sets.
After an early breakfast you will drive down into the crater on a steep and narrow road. The slopes are forested but soon the landscape changes to savannah with the occasional acacia tree here and there. The wildlife in the crater is absolutely breath-taking and if you are lucky you might spot the “Big Five” – lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino and leopard. The crater is also home to warthogs, wildebeests, zebras, hippos, hyenas and many more. After a morning full of game viewing and a picnic lunch you will leave the crater in the afternoon to travel back to Arusha, where you will arrive in the early evening.
Included/Exclude
- Airport pickup and drop off
- Transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle
- Professional, English-speaking guide
- Overnight accommodation according to the itinerary
- Meals while on safari
- Mineral water
- All government taxes
- All mentioned activities
- All national park fees
- Flying Doctors insurance (AMREF) during the safari for emergency evacuations
- International or Local Flights
- Optional activities
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
- Visa fees
- Tips
- Personal spending money for souvenirs etc.
- Travel insurance
Tanzania is home to some of the most renowned national parks and reserves in Africa. The Serengeti National Park is famous for the Great Migration and abundant wildlife. Ngorongoro Crater is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers an incredible concentration of wildlife in a stunning volcanic caldera. Tarangire National Park is known for its large elephant herds and baobab trees, while Lake Manyara National Park is famous for its tree-climbing lions and diverse birdlife. The Selous Game Reserve and Ruaha National Park in the south offer more remote and less crowded safari experiences.
Tanzania offers a variety of safari experiences to suit different interests and budgets. Classic game drives are the most common and allow you to see wildlife from the comfort of a 4x4 vehicle. Walking safaris provide a more intimate experience, allowing you to explore the bush on foot with a knowledgeable guide. Hot air balloon safaris in the Serengeti offer a unique perspective of the landscape and wildlife from above. Night safaris, available in certain parks, give you the chance to spot nocturnal animals. Additionally, cultural safaris can be arranged to visit local tribes and learn about their way of life.
The best time to go on a safari in Tanzania largely depends on what you want to see. Generally, the dry season from late June to October is ideal for wildlife viewing. During this period, animals congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot. Additionally, the Great Migration in the Serengeti, where millions of wildebeest and zebras move in search of greener pastures, peaks around June and July for river crossings and from late January to February for the calving season.
Packing for a safari requires careful consideration to ensure comfort and practicality. Essential items include light, breathable clothing in neutral colors to blend in with the environment and avoid attracting insects. A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are crucial for protection from the sun. Sturdy, comfortable walking shoes or boots are recommended for walking safaris. Binoculars and a good camera are essential for wildlife viewing and photography. Additionally, bring insect repellent, a first aid kit, any necessary medications, and a reusable water bottle. Layered clothing is advisable as temperatures can vary greatly from morning to evening.
Yes, certain vaccinations and medications are recommended before traveling to Tanzania. It's advisable to consult with a travel health specialist or your doctor well in advance of your trip. Common vaccinations include those for hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and yellow fever (particularly if coming from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic area). Malaria is prevalent in many parts of Tanzania, so taking antimalarial medication is highly recommended. Additionally, ensure you are up to date with routine vaccinations such as MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), DPT (diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus), and polio.
Tanzania is generally considered safe for tourists, and the safari industry is well-regulated with experienced guides and operators. However, as with any travel, it's important to exercise common sense and take precautions. Always follow the instructions of your guide, particularly when it comes to wildlife viewing and safety. Be aware of your surroundings and secure your belongings. In terms of health, it's important to take preventive measures against malaria and stay hydrated. It's also advisable to check travel advisories and register with your embassy before traveling.
A typical day on safari in Tanzania often starts early, around sunrise, to take advantage of the cooler temperatures and increased animal activity. After a light breakfast, you'll embark on a morning game drive, returning to camp for brunch or lunch. The midday hours are usually spent relaxing at the lodge or camp, as wildlife activity slows down in the heat. In the late afternoon, you'll head out for another game drive, returning by sunset. Dinner is typically enjoyed at the camp, followed by time to unwind and share stories of the day. Some lodges also offer evening activities such as stargazing or cultural performances.
