Embark on an extraordinary 20-day journey through the heart of East Africa, where the vast landscapes of Tanzania unfold in a tapestry of wildlife, culture, and natural wonders. This meticulously crafted itinerary invites you to traverse the iconic national parks, witness the awe-inspiring Great Wildebeest Migration, trek into the realm of chimpanzees, and explore the historic charm of Zanzibar.
Zanzibar Island
Tour Summary
Day 1: Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport and Drive to Tarangire National Park and Overnight
Day 2: Full-day Game Drive Tarangire
Day 3: Drive to Lake Manyara National Park for Flamingo and Tree climbing lions viewing- overnight at karatu
Day 4: Get to Ngorongoro crater tour and overnight at Neptune Hotel
Day 5: Transfer to Serengeti for a game drive
Day 6: Serengeti Wildebeest Migration Experience
Day 7: another day in Serengeti and overnight stay
Day 8: Fly to Gombe National Park
Day 9: Gomber National Park Chimpanzee Trekking
Day 10: Jane Goodall Research Centre Visit
Day 11: Fly to Ruaha National Park and Overnight
Day 12: Fully Day Game Drive – Ruaha National Park
Day 13: Full-Day Relaxing in Ruaha
Day 14: Fly From Ruaha to Nyerere National Park
Day 15: Full Day Nyerere National Park
Day 16: Sport Fishing and Visit River Rufiji and Night Game Drive
Day 17: Fly to Zanzibar
Day 18: Zanzibar- Stone Town and Fish Market Tour
Day 19: Zanzibar Beach Relaxation
Day Time to Bid Farewell and Fly out
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport and Drive to Tarangire
Your Tanzanian adventure begins as you land at Kilimanjaro International Airport. After clearing customs and immigration, you will be warmly welcomed by your guide. Transfer to Tarangire National Park, known for its large herds of elephants and stunning baobab trees. The journey offers glimpses of rural life and picturesque landscapes.
Upon arrival at Tarangire, check into your chosen accommodation, which could be a comfortable lodge or a cozy tented camp, allowing you to immerse yourself in the sounds of the wild. Spend the evening leisurely, enjoying a delicious dinner and the tranquil surroundings, preparing for an exciting safari.
Day 2: Full-Day Game Drive in Tarangire
Embark on a full-day game drive in Tarangire National Park. The park’s diverse ecosystems support a wide variety of wildlife, from elephants and lions to zebras and giraffes. Marvel at the expansive savannah dotted with acacia trees and witness the unique behavior of animals at various watering holes.
Your experienced guide will share insights into the park’s ecology and animal behavior, ensuring a memorable safari experience. Return to your accommodation in the evening for a well-deserved rest and another delightful dinner.
Day 3: Drive to Lake Manyara National Park for Flamingo and Tree Climbing Lions Viewing – Overnight at Karatu
After breakfast, depart for Lake Manyara National Park, famous for its flamingo-covered shores and the rare spectacle of tree-climbing lions. Enjoy a game drive through the park, taking in the scenic beauty of the lake and its surroundings.
Later in the day, proceed to Karatu for an overnight stay. Karatu offers a peaceful setting, and your chosen accommodation will provide a comfortable retreat. Reflect on the day’s adventures over dinner and rest for the upcoming exploration of the Ngorongoro Crater.
Day 4: Ngorongoro Crater Tour and Overnight at Neptune Hotel
Embark on an early morning drive to the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a natural wonder. Descend into the crater for a day filled with wildlife encounters, as the crater is home to a high concentration of diverse species, including the “Big Five.”
In the evening, head to Neptune Hotel for a relaxing overnight stay. This well-appointed accommodation offers comfort and stunning views, providing the perfect atmosphere for unwinding after an exhilarating day of wildlife exploration.
Day 5: Transfer to Serengeti for a Game Drive
Bid farewell to Ngorongoro as you head towards the iconic Serengeti National Park. En route, enjoy a game drive, capturing the essence of Tanzania’s wildlife and landscapes. Upon entering the Serengeti, the vast plains unfold before you, promising extraordinary wildlife sightings.
Check into your Serengeti accommodation, whether it’s a luxury tented camp or a lodge. As the sun sets over the Serengeti, savor a delightful dinner and prepare for the adventures that await in the coming days.
Day 6: Serengeti Wildebeest Migration Experience
Witness one of nature’s greatest spectacles—the Great Wildebeest Migration. Depending on the time of year, you may observe thousands of wildebeest and zebras crossing the plains, a mesmerizing display of nature’s rhythm.
Your guide will position the vehicle for optimal viewing, allowing you to witness the drama and intensity of the migration. After an exhilarating day, return to your accommodation for a peaceful evening in the heart of the Serengeti.
Day 7: Another Day in Serengeti and Overnight Stay
Explore more of the Serengeti with a full day of game drives. The park’s diverse ecosystems offer the chance to encounter a wide array of wildlife, from predators to grazers. Your guide’s knowledge enhances the experience as you traverse the Serengeti’s enchanting landscapes.
As the day concludes, return to your accommodation for a restful night, recounting the day’s sightings and experiences. The Serengeti’s magic will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on your safari journey.
Day 8: Fly to Gombe National Park
Say goodbye to the Serengeti as you board a flight to Gombe National Park. This small but remarkable park is renowned for its chimpanzee population and the groundbreaking research conducted by Jane Goodall.
Upon arrival, settle into your accommodation, which may include a cozy lodge perched on the shores of Lake Tanganyika. Enjoy the serene surroundings and the anticipation of chimpanzee trekking in the days to come.
Day 9: Gombe National Park Chimpanzee Trekking
Embark on an unforgettable chimpanzee trek in the lush forests of Gombe National Park. Your experienced guide will lead you through the terrain, providing insights into the chimpanzees’ behavior and the park’s ecosystem.
Observe these fascinating primates in their natural habitat, an experience that offers a profound connection with nature. Return to your accommodation for a relaxing evening by the lake, sharing stories of the day’s encounters.
Day 10: Jane Goodall Research Centre Visit
Visit the Jane Goodall Research Centre within Gombe National Park to gain a deeper understanding of the ongoing research and conservation efforts. Learn about the groundbreaking work that has contributed to our understanding of chimpanzees and their role in the ecosystem.
The afternoon is free for leisure, allowing you to explore the surroundings or relax by the lake. Enjoy the tranquility of Gombe before bidding farewell to this unique corner of Tanzania.
Day 11: Fly to Ruaha National Park and Overnight
Fly to Ruaha National Park, the largest national park in Tanzania, covering vast landscapes and supporting a diverse range of wildlife. Upon arrival, settle into your chosen accommodation, whether it’s a tented camp or a lodge nestled in the heart of the park.
Take in the breathtaking views and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Ruaha. The evening provides an opportunity to relax and prepare for the upcoming full day of game drives.
Day 12: Full Day Game Drive – Ruaha National Park
Embark on a full day of game drives in Ruaha National Park, known for its large elephant population and varied landscapes. The park’s remoteness offers a sense of wilderness, and encounters with rare and elusive species are common.
Your guide will navigate through the park, maximizing your chances of witnessing the diverse wildlife that calls Ruaha home. As the day concludes, return to your accommodation for a peaceful night in the heart of this untamed wilderness.
Day 13: Full-Day Relaxing in Ruaha
Take a day to relax and absorb the tranquility of Ruaha National Park. Enjoy the amenities of your accommodation, whether it’s a refreshing dip in a pool overlooking the wilderness or a spa treatment to rejuvenate body and mind.
Consider a guided nature walk or simply savor the serenity of your surroundings. This day allows you to recharge before the next leg of your Tanzanian adventure.
Day 14: Fly From Ruaha to Nyerere National Park
Board a flight to Nyerere National Park, formerly known as Selous Game Reserve. As one of the largest protected areas in Africa, Nyerere National Park is characterized by its diverse ecosystems, including savannahs, rivers, and woodlands.
Upon arrival, check into your chosen accommodation, which may include a riverside lodge or a tented camp. Spend the evening absorbing the sounds of the African night and preparing for the adventures awaiting you in Nyerere National Park.
Day 15: Full Day Nyerere National Park
Embark on a full day of game drives in Nyerere National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a haven for diverse wildlife. Explore the park’s landscapes, including the Rufiji River, home to crocodiles and hippos, and witness the interactions between predators and prey.
In the evening, enjoy a sunset cruise along the Rufiji River, offering a unique perspective of the park’s beauty. Return to your accommodation for a restful night in this unspoiled wilderness.
Day 16: Sport Fishing and Visit River Rufiji and Night Game Drive
Engage in a morning of sport fishing on the Rufiji River, a thrilling experience surrounded by the park’s natural beauty. The river is teeming with catfish, tigerfish, and other species, providing an exciting angling adventure.
In the afternoon, embark on a guided visit to the Rufiji River, offering opportunities to observe hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birdlife. As night falls, experience the thrill of a night game drive, uncovering the nocturnal wonders of Nyerere National Park.
Day 17: Fly to Zanzibar
Bid farewell to the mainland as you board a flight to the enchanting island of Zanzibar. Upon arrival, transfer to your chosen accommodation in Stone Town, the historical heart of Zanzibar.
Take an evening stroll through the narrow winding streets, filled with the aromas of spices and the echoes of history. Visit the Fish Market for a taste of fresh seafood and immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of this cultural crossroads.
Day 18: Zanzibar – Stone Town and Fish Market Tour
Embark on a guided tour of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the historical architecture, vibrant markets, and cultural landmarks, including the House of Wonders and the Old Fort.
Visit the Fish Market, a bustling hub of activity where locals gather to buy and sell a variety of fresh seafood. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of Zanzibari cuisine. The afternoon is free for leisure, allowing you to explore Stone Town at your own pace.
Day 19: Zanzibar Beach Relaxation
Transfer to the pristine beaches of Zanzibar for a day of relaxation and rejuvenation. Whether you choose to lounge on the sandy shores, engage in water sports, or explore the coral reefs through snorkeling, Zanzibar offers an array of seaside activities.
Savor a beachfront dinner as the sun sets over the Indian Ocean, reflecting on the incredible journey through Tanzania. This is a perfect opportunity to unwind before your departure.
Day 20: Time to Bid Farewell and Fly Out
Your Tanzanian adventure concludes as you bid farewell to Zanzibar. Depending on your departure time, you may have the morning for additional leisure or last-minute exploration.
Transfer to the airport for your international flight, carrying with you the memories of diverse landscapes, incredible wildlife encounters, and the warm hospitality of Tanzania. As you soar into the skies, reflect on the beauty and richness of this East African gem, knowing that the spirit of Tanzania will stay with you long after your journey’s end.