Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed by a knowledgeable driver guide from Ratel Adventures Tanzania. After a friendly greeting, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Arusha for check-in. The remainder of the day is free for relaxation or light exploration of the town. Enjoy the serene atmosphere as you prepare for the adventures ahead. Your stay at Ilboru Safari Lodge ensures comfort, delicious cuisine, and a restful night.
Accommodation: Ilboru Safari Lodge
Meal Plan: Dinner and Breakfast
Day 2: Tarangire National Park
After breakfast, embark on a scenic 2-3 hour drive to Tarangire National Park, famous for its massive elephant herds and iconic baobab trees. The Tarangire River serves as a vital water source, attracting diverse wildlife during the dry season. Watch in awe as elephants gather in large numbers, and keep an eye out for rare species such as the greater kudu and fringe-eared oryx. The park also hosts vibrant birdlife, including striking starlings. A delicious picnic lunch amidst the park’s stunning landscapes adds to the day’s charm.
Accommodation: Marera Valley Lodge
Meal Plan: Lunch, Dinner, and Breakfast
Day 3: Serengeti National Park
Rise early for an unforgettable journey to Serengeti National Park, passing the Ngorongoro Crater rim en route. Stop for a panoramic photo if weather permits, capturing the crater’s vast expanse. The Serengeti, East Africa’s largest park, is renowned for its endless plains, abundant wildlife, and the Great Migration. Witness wildebeests, zebras, and the Big Five roaming freely. Spot giraffes, gazelles, and predatory cats like lions and cheetahs. Your stay at Serengeti Heritage Tented Camp offers an authentic yet luxurious bush experience.
Accommodation: Serengeti Heritage Tented Camp
Meal Plan: Lunch, Dinner, and Breakfast
Day 4: Half-Day Serengeti to Karatu
Start your day with an early morning game drive, taking in the Serengeti’s golden dawn and witnessing predators on the hunt. After an eventful morning, enjoy lunch before heading to Karatu, a charming town near the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The evening is yours to relax at Marera Valley Lodge, reflecting on the incredible Serengeti experience while enjoying excellent hospitality.
Accommodation: Marera Valley Lodge
Meal Plan: Lunch, Dinner, and Breakfast
Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater to Arusha
After an early breakfast, travel to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area for a full-day exploration of the awe-inspiring crater. Descend 600 meters into the caldera, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for game drives amidst unparalleled biodiversity. Spot the Big Five, including rare black rhinos, alongside zebras, hippos, wildebeests, and flamingos gracing the Soda Lake. Enjoy a picnic lunch in this natural wonder before returning to Arusha or heading to the airport for your onward journey.
Meal Plan: Breakfast and Lunch