8 Days Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Tarangire Safari

Welcome to the ultimate expression of African luxury safari, meticulously crafted by Rwakabunga Safaris. This exclusive 8-day itinerary through Tanzania’s Northern Circuit is designed for discerning tourists who seek an unparalleled blend of adventure, opulence, and intimate wildlife encounters. Prepare to be immersed in the breathtaking landscapes of Tarangire’s elephant haven, the geological marvel of the Ngorongoro Crater, and the endless plains of the world-famous Serengeti. Travelling in utmost comfort with private vehicles and staying in hand-picked, world-class accommodations, our guests will enjoy bespoke services, gourmet dining, and privileged access to some of the planet’s most magnificent natural spectacles, ensuring a journey that transcends the ordinary and creates memories to last a lifetime.

Day 1: Arrival in Arusha – Transfer to Tarangire National Park

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK), a private transfer will greet our tourists and whisk them to their luxury lodge near Tarangire National Park. The afternoon is reserved for a leisurely start, offering time to settle into the opulent surroundings of the lodge before enjoying an exquisite gourmet lunch prepared with fresh, local ingredients. Late afternoon will feature an exclusive, privately guided walking safari around the lodge’s private concession, allowing tourists to connect with the smaller intricacies of the bush, followed by a sophisticated sundowner cocktail experience overlooking the Maasai Steppe as the sun dips below the horizon. The evening culminates in a fine dining experience, often served in a unique bush location under a blanket of stars.

Accommodation: Chem Chem Lodge, Tarangire Treetops by Elewana, Sanctuary Swala Camp

Meals: (Lunch, Dinner)

Day 2: Tarangire National Park – Elephant Herds and Baobab Trees

Day two begins with an early, private morning game drive in Tarangire National Park, famous for its colossal baobab trees and massive elephant herds, offering prime photographic opportunities. Our private vehicle ensures flexibility and proximity for the best possible sightings away from the general public. Following a delicious picnic breakfast served in a secluded spot within the park, the drive continues, focusing on areas frequented by big cats and dry-country antelope like the fringe-eared oryx. The afternoon is reserved for a luxurious siesta or an indulgent spa treatment back at the lodge. A thrilling private night game drive in the surrounding conservation area will be the highlight of the evening, providing a rare chance to spot nocturnal species such as aardvark, serval, and bush baby before a sumptuous, multi-course dinner.

Accommodation: Chem Chem Lodge, Tarangire Treetops by Elewana, Sanctuary Swala Camp

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 3: Tarangire to Ngorongoro Conservation Area

After a relaxed breakfast, our tourists will depart for the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, enjoying a scenic drive up the Rift Valley escarpment. The journey includes a stop for a private cultural visit to a local Maasai village, offering an authentic, respectful interaction where tourists can learn about the traditional customs and lifestyle of this iconic tribe, away from the main tourist routes. Upon reaching the Ngorongoro Crater rim, check-in will be to one of the most exclusive lodges, offering unparalleled panoramic views. The afternoon will be at leisure, perhaps enjoying the infinity pool or a private reading session on the terrace, soaking in the dramatic scenery, followed by a sophisticated pre-dinner cocktail hour before a gourmet dinner.

Accommodation: Ngorongoro Crater Lodge, Melia Ngorongoro Lodge, Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 4: Ngorongoro Crater Floor Game Drive

A very early start allows for descent into the magnificent Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a natural wonder housing one of the highest concentrations of wildlife in Africa. Our private descent ensures we are among the first vehicles on the crater floor, maximizing the chance to witness the “Big Five,” including the endangered Black Rhino, during the golden morning light. The comprehensive game drive will last for approximately six hours, utilizing exclusive viewing points for optimal sightings and photography. A luxurious picnic lunch will be served at a picturesque spot inside the crater, followed by an afternoon ascent and return to the lodge for a period of relaxation and a delightful evening enjoying the lodge’s luxurious amenities and fine dining.

Accommodation: Ngorongoro Crater Lodge, Melia Ngorongoro Lodge, Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 5: Ngorongoro to Central Serengeti National Park

Following a leisurely breakfast, tourists will be transferred to a nearby airstrip for a scheduled scenic light aircraft flight directly into the heart of the Serengeti National Park, providing breathtaking aerial views of the plains. Upon arrival at the Seronera Airstrip, a new private safari vehicle and expert guide will meet the group and immediately begin an en-route game drive as they head toward the luxury tented camp or lodge in the central region, famous for its resident big cat populations. After check-in and lunch, the afternoon features an exclusive, dedicated game drive in search of lions, leopards, and cheetahs, ensuring an intimate and focused wildlife tracking experience before returning for dinner and relaxation by a crackling campfire.

Accommodation: Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti, One Nature Nyaruswiga, Singita Sasakwa Lodge

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 6: Full Day in Serengeti National Park (Hot Air Balloon Option)

The day offers the choice between a full-day private game drive exploring the diverse landscapes of the central Serengeti or an optional, utterly spectacular hot air balloon safari at dawn (additional cost). The full-day drive provides maximum time for wildlife viewing, carrying a gourmet picnic lunch to be enjoyed in the bush amidst the sounds of the savanna. Alternatively, the balloon safari offers a champagne breakfast upon landing, followed by a shorter game drive. Whichever option is chosen, the day is dedicated to deep immersion into the world’s most famous wilderness, capturing the vastness and the dynamic nature of the ecosystem before retiring for a celebratory, candle-lit dinner at the luxury accommodation.

Accommodation: Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti, One Nature Nyaruswiga, Singita Sasakwa Lodge

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 7: Serengeti Exclusive Wildlife Tracking and Sundowners

Today is dedicated to a more specialized safari experience, focusing on professional wildlife tracking with the guidance of our expert driver-guide. The morning private game drive will venture into more remote areas of the Serengeti, often dictated by recent animal movements, with the goal of locating specific, elusive species. The afternoon offers a period of rest, perhaps a private yoga session or a spa treatment. Late afternoon features a final, poignant game drive culminating in an exclusive sundowner experience at a viewpoint with canapés and premium drinks, offering a quiet moment to reflect on the magnificent journey as the sun sets over the endless plains. A final, exquisite farewell dinner at the lodge will top off the luxury safari experience.

Accommodation: Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti, One Nature Nyaruswiga, Singita Sasakwa Lodge

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 8: Departure from Serengeti National Park

After a final, relaxed breakfast at the lodge, tourists will enjoy a final short, en-route game drive to the Seronera Airstrip. A scheduled light aircraft flight will then transfer the guests back to Arusha Airport (ARK) or Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). Upon arrival, a private transfer will be waiting to take the tourists to an agreed-upon location or directly to their international departure flight, marking the end of the unforgettable luxury safari experience with Rwakabunga Safaris.

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch)

End of the 8 Days Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Tarangire Safari.