4 Days Tarangire and Lake Manyara Safari

Rwakabunga Safaris invites discerning tourists to embark on an exclusive, short but intensely rewarding luxury safari covering two of Tanzania’s most captivating Northern Circuit jewels: Tarangire National Park and Lake Manyara National Park. This 4-day itinerary has been curated to offer an intimate, high-end wilderness experience, focusing on the breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife of each park, from the giant elephant herds amidst Tarangire’s ancient baobabs to Lake Manyara’s famous tree-climbing lions. Staying in elite, secluded accommodations, guests will enjoy personalised service, gourmet dining, and specialised activities that elevate the standard game drive into a truly luxurious immersion in the authentic African bush.

Day 1: Arusha to Tarangire National Park

Your luxury safari begins with a private road transfer from Arusha/Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO/ARK) directly to the majestic Tarangire National Park. Known as the ‘home of the giants,’ Tarangire is famous for its colossal baobab trees and having the largest concentration of elephants in the world. Upon arrival, you will check into your exquisite tented camp or lodge, often featuring private decks and plunge pools, where a refreshing welcome drink and gourmet lunch await. The entire afternoon is dedicated to an extensive, private game drive, expertly guided to focus on tracking the massive elephant families and spotting predators like lions and leopards, before concluding the day with sunset cocktails and a refined dinner at your luxury accommodation.

Accommodation Options: Tarangire Treetops, Chem Chem Safari Lodge, Lemala Mpingo Ridge Lodge

Meals: (Lunch, Dinner)

Day 2: Full Day Exclusive Tarangire Exploration

Following an early, sumptuous breakfast, this day is designed for an immersive, full-day exploration of Tarangire’s diverse habitats, including the winding Tarangire River, a crucial lifeline that draws in thousands of animals during the dry season. Your experienced guide will take you off the beaten track into remote corners of the park, seeking out the less common wildlife such as the fringe-eared oryx and the greater kudu, ensuring a unique and exclusive game viewing experience away from other tourist vehicles. A highlight of the day will be a specially arranged, private bush picnic lunch, set in a scenic area amidst the wilderness, providing a moment of serene relaxation before the afternoon’s focused drive, which may include an optional walking safari (in private concessions) for an intimate connection with the wild.

Accommodation Options: Sanctuary Swala Camp, Oliver’s Camp, Nimali Tarangire

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 3: Tarangire to Lake Manyara National Park

After a final, leisurely breakfast in Tarangire, you will enjoy a scenic private transfer to the breathtaking Lake Manyara National Park, traversing the Great Rift Valley and offering stunning views along the way. Upon arrival at your luxury lodge perched on the rift valley escarpment, you will be struck by the panoramic vistas of the lake and surrounding plains before checking in and enjoying a delicious lunch. The afternoon is dedicated to a private game drive within Lake Manyara, a park renowned for its incredible birdlife (including flamingos in season), a massive concentration of baboons, and its famous tree-climbing lions. You will also explore the dense groundwater forest, providing a dramatic change in scenery, followed by an elegant dinner at the lodge overlooking the park.

Accommodation Options: &Beyond Lake Manyara Tree Lodge, Escarpment Luxury Lodge, Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 4: Lake Manyara Activities – Departure

Your final day begins with a choice of two exclusive, morning activities: a guided forest walk to appreciate the smaller details of the ecosystem and birdlife up close, or an early morning game drive focused on finding the elusive tree-climbing lions before they retreat from the sun. Alternatively, you may choose a unique cultural interaction, visiting the vibrant local Mto wa Mbu village for a personalised tour and glimpse into local Tanzanian life. Following your chosen activity and a final, memorable breakfast, your private guide will comfortably transfer you back to Arusha or Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your onward flight. You depart with Rwakabunga Safaris having created indelible memories from the enchanting beauty of Tarangire and Lake Manyara.

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch)

End of the 4 Days Tarangire and Lake Manyara Safari.