Tanzania Family Safari

Create unforgettable family memories in Tanzania on a journey through iconic destinations

Tanzania is the perfect family destination and the start of this itinerary places you in Arusha, a hub of Tanzanian culture and bustling energy. Experience the magical Ngorongoro Crater, a haven for animals and nature lovers alike before journeying to the world famous Serengeti National Park. Conclude your adventure at Lake Natron, where the pink hues of the water and thousands of flamingoes leave you in awe.

Day By Day Summary

At A Glance

Accommodation

Lodges & Tented Camps

Availability

All Year

Package Level

Semi-Luxury

Traveller Type

Private Safari

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Guide Price - From $4,536pp

Including all accommodation, meals and transfers as per below

Detailed Safari Itinerary

The pool area with sun loungers at Arusha Planet Lodge

Day 1

Arrival & Relaxation In Arusha, Tanzania

Distance Approximately: 60 km; driving time approx. 1.5 hours

Meals Included: Lunch & Dinner Only

Welcome to Tanzania! Upon your arrival, your dedicated safari guide will meet you at the airport to kickstart your safari adventure.

Settle into the comforts of your lodge where you can unwind and recharge for the exciting adventures ahead. Whether you choose to relax in the lush gardens, sip on freshly brewed coffee or enjoy a quiet evening meal, the serene atmosphere will set the tone for your adventure. Rest will at night knowing the wild beauty of the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater awaits.

Day 2

Full Day Ngorongoro Crater Safari

Distance Approximately: 190km; driving time approx. 3-5 hours

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Your second day begins with an early morning departure from Arusha, as the excitement builds for your journey to the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater. The drive takes you through the scenic landscapes of northern Tanzania, where rolling hills and picturesque villages offer a glimpse into rural life.

Arriving at the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, you’ll descend into the crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site often referred to as the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” This ancient volcanic caldera is a wildlife paradise, home to an astonishing concentration of animals. Lions roam the grassy plains, black rhinos graze in the distance, and herds of zebras and wildebeests mingle near shimmering lakes. With your expert guide leading the way, you’ll have a chance to witness predator-prey interactions and marvel at the incredible biodiversity within this natural amphitheater.

In the evening, you’ll exit the crater and head to your lodge for your overnight stay. After a day filled with adventure, relax and savour a hearty dinner while reflecting on the incredible sights of Ngorongoro. Tonight, sleep soundly knowing you’ve explored one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations.

Day 3

Transfer to Serengeti & Half Day Serengeti National Park Safari

Distance Approximately: 120km; driving time approx. 2-3 hours

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After an early breakfast you’ll embark on a 2 hour drive to the world renowned Serengeti National Park, famous for its yearly migration when hundreds of thousands of wildebeests and zebras trek to find fresh grass and water.

Upon entering the Serengeti, your adventure continues with a game drive through its vast plains, home to a remarkable array of wildlife, including lions, cheetahs, leopards. giraffes, zebras, and the iconic wildebeests as well as diverse landscapes, from expansive grassy plains to rugged rocky terrains. The Seronera Valley, where you'll end your day, is renowned as the heart of the park. Here, you can expect stunning views of the Serengeti plains.

Days 4 - 5

Full Day Serengeti National Park Safari

Distance Approximately: game drives, no transfers.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

The entire next two days is dedicated to game viewing in the Serengeti National Park, Tanzania’s largest park. The Seronera Valley is a year-round wildlife haven, offering great opportunities to encounter a wide variety of animals, including the renowned Big Five (lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinoceros), cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, hippos, and a rich array of bird species. The other areas that you visit will vary based on the time of the year and where the migrating herds are. In the evenings savor the mesmerising sights of the African sunsets painting vibrant colors across the vast Serengeti sky, creating a truly enchanting and unforgettable memories.

Optional Hot Air Balloon Safari: Choose to take a once-in-a-lifetime hot air balloon safari over the Serengeti plains at sunrise (additional cost). This offers a bird's eye view of the breathtaking Serengeti plains and a unique perspective of the wildlife below.

Hyena and vultures eating elephant carcus in the Serengeti

Day 6

Half Day Serengeti Safari & Transfer to Lake Natron

Distance Approximately: 190km; driving time approx. 3-5 hours

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

The day begins with an early breakfast in the heart of the Serengeti, before heading to Lake Natron. As you leave the Serengeti behind, you’ll pass through the stunning, changing scenery of northern Tanzania. Rolling plains give way to rugged hills and volcanic formations, each shift in the terrain telling a story of the region’s dynamic geological history.

The drive offers plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting along the way, with herds of zebras and gazelles often crossing your path and Masai giraffes gracefully towering over the acacia trees. Passing through remote Maasai villages, you’ll catch glimpses of the vibrant, traditional way of life that has remained unchanged for generations.

As you approach Lake Natron, the landscape becomes more dramatic. The imposing Ol Doinyo Lengai, an active volcano sacred to the Maasai people, rises in the distance, its dark slopes contrasting against the stark desert plains. By the time you reach your lodge, you’ll be captivated by the surreal beauty of the area. After settling into your accommodation, you’ll have the afternoon to explore or relax before dinner and your overnight stay.

Safari vehicle in Lake natron with local maasai people

Day 7

Lake Natron Walking Safari & Waterfall Hike

Distance Approximately: no transfers

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Activities at Lake Natron include a guided walk to the edge of Lake Natron, where the shallow, mineral-rich waters shimmer in shades of pink and red, attracting vast flocks of flamingos. These elegant birds, feeding and nesting in the alkaline lake, create a mesmerising spectacle against the backdrop of the volcanic landscape. For more adventure, journey through rocky paths and wade through streams on a hike at the nearby Ngare Sero waterfall. At the end of the hike you will be rewarded with the sight of a cascading waterfall with its crystal clear waters plunging into a serene pool - a perfect spot to cool off and soak in the natural beauty of this remote oasis.

As evening falls, the setting sun bathes the area in a warm glow, enhancing the ethereal beauty of this remote wilderness. Enjoy a hearty dinner at your lodge, followed by a peaceful night under a canopy of stars, as the calls of the wild echo in the stillness. Lake Natron’s rugged charm promises to be a highlight of your journey, a place of stark beauty and profound tranquility.

Safari car driving off on safari

Day 8

Return to Arusha & Departure

Distance Approximately: 230km; driving time approx. 4-5 hours

Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch Only

Your final day begins with a breakfast at your lodge, where you can take a last look at the breathtaking views of Lake Natron and the towering Ol Doinyo Lengai volcano. As the morning light highlights the stark beauty of this remote landscape, you’ll set off on the journey back to Arusha, reflecting on the incredible experiences of your adventure. Depending on the route, you may enjoy views of wildlife or perhaps spot distant herds of livestock being guided by Maasai herders.

Arriving in Arusha by late afternoon, you’ll return to the comfort of your hotel or be transferred directly to Kilimanjaro International or Arusha Airport if you’re catching an evening flight. For those spending an extra night, Arusha offers the chance to relax and savour your final moments in Tanzania, perhaps with a visit to a local coffee shop or a stroll through the peaceful gardens of your accommodation.

This day marks the end of a journey filled with unforgettable wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural insights. As you leave, you’ll carry with you memories of Tanzania’s diverse beauty and warm hospitality, promising to linger long after your safari ends.

Accommodation

  • The communal swimming pool at Arusha Planet Lodge on a sunny day

    Day 1 - Arusha Planet Lodge

    Expect comfort, convenience and good service at Arusha Planet Lodge, where guests feel pampered and safe. Each spacious room offers a tranquil retreat, complete with modern amenities to meet your needs.

  • The front entrance and the thatched roof  of Ngorongoro Farm House

    Day 2 - Ngorongoro Farm House

    Ngorongoro Farm House is the perfect stop-over between safaris as it’s located just 4km from the entrance to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Set on a 500-acre coffee farm, each room has been beautifully decorated using rustic local materials

  • Days 3 - 5: Kon Tiki Serengeti Camp

    Kon Tiki Tented Camp offers a truly authentic safari experience. Guests are welcomed to cozy tents where they can unwind. The soothing melodies of wildlife outside accompany a restful night's sleep, providing a unique connection to the surroundings.

  • View of mountain at Maasai Giraffe Eco Lodge

    Days 6 & 7 - Maasai Giraffe Eco Lodge

    Located near Lake Natron, Maasai Giraffe Eco Lodge offers an authentic and serene retreat for travellers seeking a unique connection with nature. This lodge blends comfort with sustainability, providing cozy accommodations and stunning views.

Wildlife Encounters

What’s Included

What’s Not Included

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