Tanzania Wildlife Safari 12 days / Safari Tours, Nature & Wildlife Tours, Eco Tours
About This Experience
The timeless plains stretch as far as the eye can see. Herds of animals roam as they did before humankind. The mighty Masai endure as they have for centuries. Time seems to stand still in the wilds of Tanzania, yet every day on this safari tour is thrilling and new. Experience the best of this bewitching country, from wildlife-rich Tarangire to glimmering Lake Manyara, from the legendary Serengeti to the “Garden of Eden” at Ngorongoro Crater.
Your Tour Includes
Round-trip airfare & transfers
9 nights in handpicked hotels
Breakfast daily, 8 lunches, 10 three-course dinners with beer or wine on Days 3 & 10
Multilingual Tour Director
Private deluxe motor coach
10 game drives
Why You'll Love It
Animal encounters in the Serengeti’s endless plains
The richness & resourcefulness of the Masai
Shanga—the beauty & the beads
The flamingo-filled vista at Lake Manyara
Ngorongoro Crater’s concentration of creatures
The Big Five—the challenge & the reward
Overnight Flight1 night
Arusha1 night - hotel info
Tarangire National Park2 nights - hotel info
Day3
Drink coffee, buy crafts, be kind and recycle at Shanga River House
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tarangire National Park
The adventure begins today as you travel to Tarangire National Park, one of the best-kept secrets in Tanzania. On your way, you’ll be inspired by the work at Shanga River House. The project provides local people with disabilities the opportunity to work and develop new skills, including jewlery-making. While there, you’ll also get to explore the oldest coffee estates in Tanzania. After an included lunch, it’s off to Tarangire National Park, a wildlife wonderland and the perfect introduction to your African experience. With landscapes that vary between dry scrub to lush swamp, this park offers great game viewing year round, which you’ll discover on your afternoon game drive. Leopards and lions may be on the hunt, searching plains game such as kudu, eland and gerenuk, the famed longnecked antelope. Recount the day’s exploits at tonight’s dinner.
Day4
Spy on the herds in Tarangire National Park
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tarangire National Park
As you rumble across the baobab-dotted plains on your game drive this morning, the wildlife comes in waves: zebra, giraffe, wildebeest, buffalo and one of the largest herds of elephants in Africa. The park also has 500 recorded bird species, including the majestic bataleur eagle and the quirky white-bellied go-away bird (so named because its distinctive call sounds like “go away!”). Before your included lunch, you’ll embark on an invigorating walk through the savannah to a Masai village, and your Masai guide will explain the tribe’s conservation efforts, which are built on a deep connection to the land and wildlife in this region. Another game drive awaits in the early evening. As the savannah comes alive again, keep an eye out for predators on the prowl. In the evening, enjoy an included dinner, and then perhaps go out to listen to the nightly chorus of the bush.
Manyara Region1 night - hotel info
Day5
Think pink—see the sea of flamingoes at Lake Manyara
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lake Manyara National Park
Immerse yourself in the Masai way of life on a tour of an authentic boma in the heart of a local village where your local guide will illuminate the history and heritage behind this enduring tribe. Afterward, travel through the Manyara region’s acacia woodland and grassy plains in the steep and scenic Rift Valley. On your game drive through the region, you’ll spy the park’s stunning variety of wildlife, such as giraffe, zebra, hippos and perhaps even elusive tree-climbing lions. You’ll also glimpse beautiful Lake Manyara and its incredible swathe of flamingoes, described by Hemmingway as the “loveliest in Africa.” At your included lunch and dinner, you’ll have time to rest and relax.
Serengeti National Park3 nights - hotel info
Day6
Be on the lookout for the Big Five at Serengeti National Park
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Serengeti National Park
The Serengeti’s legendary golden landscapes have drawn adventurers for centuries. A mix of sweeping grassland, treelined streams and open woodlands, the Serengeti is world-famous for its diverse wildlife. After you’ve arrived and had lunch, you’ll set off for a game drive. The dramatic dance of predator and prey continues on the plains as it has for millennia, and you’ll have a front row seat to this natural spectacle. You’ll pass the striking Moru Kopjes (Rocky Cliffs), keeping watch for plains game and all of the Big Five: lion, leopard, elephant, Cape buffalo and rhino. Dinner is included at the lodge.
Day7
Keep your eyes peeled for leopards drinking at the waters of the Valley
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Serengeti National Park
On a full-day game drive, explore one of the Serengeti’s richest ecosystems: the Seronera Valley. The network of rivers running through the valley ensures a year-round supply of water, making it a wildlife-viewing hot spot. The valley is a particularly good place for sighting the ever-elusive leopard because of the lack of trees. Add to your outdoor experience with a picnic lunch in the wilderness. Later, return to the lodge, where you’ll be treated to an included dinner with your fellow travelers.
Day8
Explore the “endless plain” of the Serengeti
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Serengeti National Park
The name of the Serengeti region comes from the Masai word Serenget, meaning “endless plain.” Continue your exploration of this vast landscape on another game drive. The plains practically ripple with life: giraffe, antelope, jackals, colobus monkey, ostrich and, of course, the big cats. You could also have a chance encounter with the exceedingly rare black rhino, one of the Serengeti’s most formidable creatures. After your included lunch, you’ll set out again to see the Moru Kopjes—stunning granite formations rising out of the plains—as well as some ancient Masai cave art. Dinner is included at the lodge this evening.
Ngorongoro2 nights - hotel info
Day9
Investigate the celebrated Olduvai Gorge—the Cradle of Mankind
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Olduvai Gorge Museum
On your way to the Ngorongoro Crater from the Serengeti, enjoy a stop at the famed Olduvai Gorge. The fossil Homo Habilis (the handy man) was discovered here, and you’ll visit this “Cradle of Mankind” to see some of the finds firsthand. Dating to more than 1.75 million years old, this fossil ranks as one of the most important in the history of archeology and provided unprecedented insight into human evolution. After a picnic lunch, set off to discover the Ngorongoro Crater region, home to the celebrated “Eighth Wonder of the World.” Dinner is included this evening.
Day10
Descend into the wildlife wonderland of Ngorongoro Crater
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Ngorongoro Crater National Park
It’s among the most spellbinding sights in all of Africa: the incomparable Ngorongoro Crater. An intact caldera covering over 100 square miles, the Crater is regularly referred to as “Africa’s Garden of Eden.” As you descend 1,000 feet into the crater, you’ll quickly see why. Over 25,000 species are spread across the open grasslands—including the densest population of lions. You’ll explore this landscape for half of the day, enjoying a picnic lunch before returning to the lodge for your farewell dinner.
Day11
From the savannah to the sky—you’re homeward bound
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Your safari draws to a close as you drive from Ngorongoro to Kia. If you’re not joining our tour extension, you’ll have time to relax in a dayroom before your included dinner. Afterward, a Go Ahead representative will help you transfer to the Kilimanjaro Airport for your flight home. If continuing on to Zanzibar for the extension, you’ll fly to Stone Town in the afternoon.
Overnight Flight1 night
Extend Your Stay
Add Zanzibar’s Stone Town & East Coast $1,099*
This “Isle of Spices” was once a trading center and has long been a crossroads of cultures; today it is known as a quintessential tropical getaway. From the cobbled-street charm of Stone Town to the exquisite white-sand beaches, the allure of this Indian Ocean isle is legendary.
Stone Town1 night - hotel info
Day1
Cross the Zanzibar Channel to the legendary Isle of Spices
Breakfast, Dinner
After driving from Ngorongoro Crater to Kilimanjaro Airport, fly over the glimmering Zanzibar Channel to the isle of Zanzibar. This is the “Isle of Spices,” a destination that has captivated bygone explorers and modern-day travelers alike. Savor an included dinner at your hotel in Stone Town, the World Heritage-listed center of Zanzibar.
Zanzibar2 nights - hotel info
Day2
WANDER AMONG STONE TOWN’S COLONIAL CHURCHES, MANSIONS AND MARKETS
Breakfast, Dinner
House of Wonders, Palace Museum, Dr. Livingstone house, Arab Fort
This morning, wander the narrow alleys of Stone Town, exploring the intriguing corners of a place that has remained largely unchanged for 200 years. Visit an old Anglican church, colonial mansions and an old slave market. Even more intriguing sights await: the House of Wonders, Palace Museum (People’s Palace), Dr Livingstone’s House and the Arab Fort. After a quick stop at a nearby spice plantation, you’ll make your way to the East Coast beaches, where you’ll spend the next two nights. This area evokes visions of paradise: beaches of powdery sand, placid turquoise waters and coconut palms swaying. This picture-perfect setting is ideal for soaking in the sun or simply unwinding. Enjoy an included dinner this evening.
Passport and Visa Requirements
In order to enter Tanzania, U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport with an expiration date extending at least six months beyond the date of your return home. A visa is also required for U.S. and Canadian passport holders to enter Tanzania. Although it’s possible to obtain a visa at the airport upon arrival, we recommend that you obtain your visa in advance using our provider VisaCentral (www.visacentral.com/goaheadtours). If you’re not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact the Tanzanian consulate for your specific entry requirements.
Baggage Allowance
Due to limited luggage space in transfer vehicles, you’ll need to pack in a duffel or soft-sided bag. Laundry services also are available at select hotels for a nominal fee. Some airlines may impose additional charges if you choose to check any baggage. Please contact your airline or refer to its website for detailed information regarding your airline’s checked baggage policies. Bear in mind that your luggage will probably weigh more on your return trip due to souvenir shopping. One carry-on bag is also permitted, provided that it does not exceed the airline regulations of 45 inches (length + width + height). There may be times when you’ll have to handle your own bag, and you’ll find that lightweight luggage provides a distinct advantage. Make sure you label your baggage and carry valuables, medication and documents in your carry-on luggage.
Clothing and Packing Tips
Safaris are informal, so casual dress in comfortable, lightweight cotton is appropriate. Since the temperature varies significantly from midday to evening, you’ll want to pack clothing that can be easily layered. You should also bring comfortable shoes, such as sneakers or lightweight hiking boots. Sandals or other shoes that expose your skin are discouraged. We advise that you wear a hat during the day and make sure you use strong sunblock. For your game drives, we recommend muted colors, as bright clothing can scare away the animals.
Health
Travelers visiting Tanzania may be required to provide a yellow fever vaccination certificate (unless in possession of a valid waiver certificate). For the most up-to-date requirements in the countries you’re visiting, please check the State Department website (travel.state.gov). Because of Tanzania’s proximity to the equator, you may sunburn very quickly. While on safari, you’re assured the services of emergency medical evacuation to Nairobi, which has been designed to bring first-rate medical care by superbly qualified personnel to outlying areas. See below for information on drinking water.
Important Health Tips:
In order for you to stay healthy on your tour, we recommend the following:
- Drink bottled water. Refrain from drinking tap water, including when brushing teeth.
- Avoid eating fresh fruits and vegetables unless they are cooked or washed in clean water and peeled.
- Bring a small first aid kit, including antacids, anti-diarrhea medication and any prescription medications.
Cuisine
Spicy foods are common in Tanzania, and many dishes are infused with coconut milk. Some prevalent foods on the country’s mainland include: ugali (maize porridge), chapati (bread), nyama choma (grilled meat), mshikaki (marinated beef) and ndizi-nyama (plantains with meat). You’ll also find that many dishes draw heavily from the staples of popular Indian cuisine.
Transportation
Round-trip flights arrive in and depart from Kilimanjaro Airport. The extension includes a flight from Kilimanjaro Airport to Zanzibar and a ferry across Zanzibar Strait to Dar es Salaam on return. On safari, you’ll be traveling in a specially equipped safari van. The vehicle is open at the top, allowing for a panoramic view during game drives. Window seats are also guaranteed. Please keep in mind that transfers between the different parks are long and roads are not always of the best quality. The vans are roomy and comfortable, but some bouncing is to be expected.
Electricity
Tanzania operates on 230 volts.
Time Zones
Tanzania is three hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), or eight hours ahead of U.S. Eastern Standard Time (EST). When it’s noon in New York, it’s 8 p.m. in Dar es Salaam.
Currency
The currency you’ll be using on your tour is the Tanzanian shilling. All African countries have stringent exchange regulations, and their currencies are not interchangeable. We recommend that you carry as little local cash as possible, and small amounts of the U.S. dollar for small purchases. (Please make sure that you only bring U.S. dollars printed in 2004 or later.) It’s important to keep a receipt whenever you convert foreign currency. No local currency can be taken in or out of the country. Major American credit cards are accepted in Tanzania. We suggest that you inform your bank and credit card company of your travel plans, so that they won’t confuse your international purchases for fraudulent charges.
Special Information: Shopping
Local handicrafts are generally inexpensive and make wonderful souvenirs of your trip. You’ll have the opportunity to shop at outdoor markets, small shops and tribal roadside stalls, as well as elegant boutiques at some of the lodges. Prices in Tanzania are almost always negotiable, providing an excellent way of meeting the Tanzanian people up close.
Items to Give or Trade
Tanzanians are fond of North American goods. Many travelers bring token items to offer as gifts or when bartering for souvenirs. Inexpensive items include: tee shirts, baseball caps, pens, cosmetics and toiletries. Offering Tanzanian children candy and gum is somewhat controversial because the availability of dental care for these children may be limited. Instead, offer children’s books in English or crayons.
Tipping
All porterage gratuities are included on safaris. However, it’s customary to tip the driver/guide at the end of the program. We recommend tipping in your tour country’s currency, the equivalency of $8USD/CAD to $10USD/CAD per person per day. Tips can only be paid in cash. Please keep current local currency exchange rates in mind when tipping.
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Trip of a lifetime!
This Tanzania safari was the adventure of a lifetime. Our guide was amazing, and was able to find some incredible sights for us. From the very start of our trip we began having encounters with the Big Five. Our first sighting was of elephants (including several babies) crossing the road just in front of us at Tarangire National Park, not even half an hour into the first safari day, and the luck and amazing sightings continued throughout the entire trip in all of the parks. We saw all of the Big Five, and so much more, including giraffes grazing by the side of the road, and even drinking (which is a rare sight indeed!), two cheetah resting in the heat of the day, several trees loaded to the gills with resting lions, leopards with cubs, wildebeest everywhere, lions hunting in Serengeti, flamingos in such numbers that the lake at Ngorongoro Crater appeared completely pink, hyena, gazelles, elan, waterbuck, dik-dik, and thousands of zebra. The hotels were all extraordinary, with friendly staff and good food. I could not have asked for a more incredible journey. Truely an amazing experience! I can't wait to go back to East Africa!
MAKE AN IMPACT
Get to know some of the conservation areas helping to preserve nature and wildlife in Tanzania.
Tarangire National Park
Manyara, Tanzania
Sometimes referred to as the “mini Serengeti,” Tarangire National Park shares many topographical features with its famous sibling (think endless golden, acacia tree-dotted landscapes), but it’s also an ecological destination in its own right. Extending 1,100 square miles, the national park is Tanzania’s fifth-largest park and home to an incredible density of wildlife—second only to that of Ngorongoro Crater. Earning its name from the Tarangire River that divides its lands, the park draws creatures from near and far that come in search of the Tarangire’s refreshing waters during Africa’s dry season. Gathered near its riverbeds and lush swamplands, and spread across its open plains, you’ll find hundreds of herds of elephants as well as resident buffalo, wildebeest and zebra populations. The park is also home to more than 550 bird species, with its swamps attracting the largest array of breeding birds anywhere in the world.
Serengeti National Park
Serengeti, Tanzania
Stretching on and on as far as the eye can see, the seemingly endless landscapes of the Serengeti have always inspired the people who’ve encountered them, from the Masai tribe who once grazed cattle here to numerous scientists, artists and authors, like Ernest Hemingway and Peter Mattheissen. Within its vast bounds, the 1.5 million hectare Serengeti region holds two UNESCO World Heritage sites and two biosphere reserves, each working to ensure that the area’s diversity of life is well-protected and preserved. Each year, its plains play host to one of nature’s most spectacular sights—the world’s largest unaltered animal migration, during which millions of wildebeest and hundreds of thousands of Burchell’s zebra, Thomson’s gazelle, eland and topi make their annual 1,000-kilometer long journey across Kenya and Tanzania. Throughout their great trek, the migrating animals are pursued by prides of lion, spotted hyena, striped hyena, golden jackal, sidestriped jackal and black-backed jackal, showcasing the continent’s unique predator-prey relationships on a scale unlike any other.
Shanga River House Project
Arusha, Tanzania
“Kindness is a language that blind people see and deaf people hear” is the tenet that drives Shanga to make a difference in the lives of Tanzania’s disabled community members. Outside the organization’s River House establishment in Arusha, you’ll see these words sprawled in colorful paint, while inside you’ll find local Tanzanians learning new handicraft skills while fashioning unique, high quality products from recycled materials. Every day, Shanga works to build a community that supports and empowers those who have been cast aside because of their disabilities. Within the safe haven that the organization has created, the disabled are able to realize their potential and improve their own lives by discovering how to make sustainable products designed to generate personal income.
Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Ngorongoro, Tanzania
As vast as it is diverse, the 20-kilometer wide Ngorongoro Crater is the world’s largest unbroken volcanic caldera. The crater belongs to the larger Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA), which also encompasses the Serengeti plains and the wildlife that makes up the Serengeti Mara ecosystem. Comprised of seemingly endless stretches of highland plains, savanna, savanna woodlands and forests, the NCA’s one-of-a-kind landscapes have been named both a UNESCO World Heritage site and International Biosphere Reserve. Since its establishment in 1959, the NCA has worked with the aim of protecting the natural, cultural and archeological resources unique to the Ngorongoro area. In addition to serving as a home to the indigenous Masai people for over 200 years, the region supports a wide array of creatures—25,000 large animals in total, which includes the world’s densest population of lions. Ngorongoro also hosts the annual migration of over two million wildebeest, 72,000 zebras and 350,000 Thompson and Grant gazelle into the region’s northern plains. Though its rich wildlife is what attracts most travelers, the NCA is also a world famous archeological hub. In fact, it was in Ngorongoro that early hominid footprints dating back 3.6 million years were uncovered, providing evidence into one of the most important benchmarks of human evolutionary development.
