Tanzania Family Safari
OVERVIEW
This 9-day safari is a family-friendly journey through Tanzania’s most iconic national parks, offering a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. From the elephant herds of Tarangire to the tree-climbing lions of Lake Manyara, the vast plains of Serengeti, and the wildlife-rich Ngorongoro Crater, each day promises thrilling wildlife encounters and cultural experiences. This safari also offers optional activities like hot air balloon rides, nature walks, and visits to Maasai villages, ensuring the whole family has an unforgettable Tanzanian adventure.
DETAILED ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha or Moshi
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Arusha or Moshi for dinner and overnight. This day is for settling in and preparing for your safari adventure.Day 2: Arusha/Moshi Exploration
Spend the morning on a nature walk or coffee tour near your lodge, followed by lunch. The afternoon offers free time to relax or explore the local town for shopping. Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight.Day 3: Tarangire National Park
Travel to Tarangire National Park, known for its large elephant populations and baobab trees. Enjoy a day of game drives with a picnic lunch. Later, transfer to Karatu for dinner and overnight.Day 4: Ngorongoro Crater
After breakfast, descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a half-day game drive. Marvel at the crater’s abundant wildlife, including the Big Five, before enjoying a picnic lunch. Return to Karatu for dinner and overnight.Day 5: Lake Manyara National Park
Head to Lake Manyara National Park for a half-day game drive. Known for its tree-climbing lions and diverse birdlife, this park offers stunning lake views and wildlife encounters. Return to Karatu for dinner and overnight.Day 6: Karatu to Serengeti National Park
Drive to the Serengeti, with a stop at a Maasai village and Olduvai Gorge to learn about the region’s culture and history. After a picnic lunch, continue your game drive in the Serengeti. Enjoy dinner and overnight at a lodge or tented camp.Day 7: Serengeti National Park
Spend a full day exploring the Serengeti’s wildlife-rich plains. Experience thrilling game drives in search of lions, leopards, elephants, and more. Relax in the afternoon before dinner and overnight at the lodge.Day 8: Serengeti – Optional Balloon Ride
Start the day with an optional hot air balloon ride over the Serengeti or an early morning game drive. After breakfast, enjoy some leisure time or additional game drives in the afternoon. Dinner and overnight at the lodge or tented camp.Day 9: Serengeti to Arusha/Kilimanjaro
After breakfast, transfer to the Serengeti airstrip for a scenic flight back to Arusha or Kilimanjaro Airport, concluding your Tanzanian safari adventure.Best Time To Visit
Dry Season (June to October)
- Best For: General wildlife viewing in popular parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.
- Highlights: Animals are easier to spot as they gather around water sources, and the vegetation is less dense.
- Weather: Dry, warm days with cooler evenings and mornings.
- Migration Viewing: The famous Wildebeest Migration typically crosses the Mara River in Northern Serengeti between July and September, offering thrilling river crossings.
Short Rain Season (November to December)
- Best For: Fewer crowds and lush landscapes.
- Highlights: The “short rains” green up the plains quickly, and it’s an excellent time for birdwatching. Wildlife viewing is still good, and the rains are often brief.
Calving Season (January to March)
- Best For: Witnessing the birth of thousands of wildebeest calves in Southern Serengeti (Ndutu region).
- Highlights: A great opportunity to see predators in action due to the abundance of vulnerable young animals.
- Weather: Generally warm with occasional showers.
Long Rain Season (March to May)
- Best For: Budget-friendly travel and fewer tourists.
- Highlights: Parks are lush and beautiful, but heavy rains can make some roads impassable. Wildlife is more dispersed, but it’s a good time for birding and experiencing a quieter safari.
- Consideration: Some lodges may close, and rains can disrupt travel plans.
In summary, June to October is ideal for the best wildlife viewing and migration action, while January to March offers a special calving season experience. For fewer crowds and lush scenery, November to December is great.
INCLUSIONS & EXCLUSIONS
Price includes
- Airport pick-up and drop-off
- 4×4 safari vehicle with a guaranteed window seat
- Service of an English-speaking driver/guide
- All meals and accommodation during the safari
- Park fees
- 1.5 liters of bottled mineral water per person per day
Price Excludes
- International and domestic flight tickets
- Visa fees and travel insurance
- Tipping and gratuities
- Souvenirs
- Personal items like telephones, laundry, mosquito repellent, etc.
- Excursions not mentioned in the itinerary
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