7-Day Tanzania Safari Itinerary: Serengeti, Ngorongoro & More
This 7-day Tanzania safari itinerary offers a journey through nature’s finest gallery—each day filled with breathtaking wildlife, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural encounters. Perfect for travelers seeking both comfort and adventure, it takes you through some of Tanzania’s most iconic national parks for an unforgettable safari experience.
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
Your journey begins in Arusha, the gateway to Tanzania’s northern circuit. This bustling town offers a mix of local culture and preparation time. After arriving at Kilimanjaro International Airport, a transfer will take you to your lodge, where you can rest and get ready for the days ahead.
Day 2: Arusha to Tarangire National Park
After breakfast, your safari kicks off with a drive to Tarangire National Park. Known for its massive baobab trees and large elephant herds, Tarangire offers a quiet introduction to Tanzania’s wildlife. You will enjoy your first full-day game drive, spotting giraffes, buffalo, zebras, and a variety of birds. Overnight stay in a lodge or tented camp just outside the park.
Day 3: Tarangire to Serengeti National Park
Today, the adventure continues as you travel towards the Serengeti. On the way, you will pass through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, offering your first views of this volcanic landscape. Once inside the Serengeti, the savannah stretches endlessly and the wildlife sightings increase. Lions, leopards, and herds of wildebeest are common. Overnight in a tented camp in central Serengeti.
Day 4: Full-Day Serengeti Game Drive
A full day in Serengeti means plenty of time to explore different habitats and follow wildlife activity. Depending on the season, you may witness the great migration—thousands of wildebeest and zebras moving across the plains. With your guide, you will explore areas where predators hunt and herbivores graze freely. Spend another night in the heart of the Serengeti.
Day 5: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Conservation Area
After breakfast, begin your journey back east, game driving along the way. By afternoon, you will reach the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. You will stay at a lodge on the crater rim, offering views into one of the most wildlife-rich areas on the planet. As the sun sets over the highlands, the cool air and quiet surroundings create a peaceful end to the day.
Day 6: Ngorongoro Crater Tour
This is one of the highlights of the safari. Early in the morning, descend 600 meters into the Ngorongoro Crater for a game drive inside the caldera. The crater is home to an abundance of wildlife, including black rhinos, hippos, lions, and flamingos. The compact size of the crater allows for excellent wildlife viewing in a single day. After the tour, return to your lodge near Lake Manyara or Karatu.
Day 7: Return to Arusha and Departure
On your final day, enjoy a relaxed breakfast before driving back to Arusha. Depending on your flight schedule, you can stop at local markets or enjoy a short visit to a cultural museum. A transfer will take you to the airport, marking the end of a memorable safari.
This 7-day Tanzania safari balances time in the wild with comfortable accommodations and expert guidance. It is a well-rounded option for travelers seeking a deep and personal connection with nature and wildlife in one of Africa’s most celebrated destinations.
