9-Day Tanzania Classic Safari with Cultural Encounters (Midrange)
This immersive 9-day midrange safari combines Tanzania's legendary wildlife destinations with authentic cultural experiences, including visits to Maasai villages and a hunting expedition with the Hadzabe tribe. Journey through Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, and Lake Manyara National Parks while connecting with local communities for a deeper understanding of Tanzania's rich heritage.
Your adventure begins and ends at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), featuring private transfers, comfortable midrange accommodations, and expert guides who will bring both the wildlife and cultural experiences to life.
Day 1: Arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport – Transfer to Arusha
Welcome to Tanzania! Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you'll be met by your safari guide and transferred to your midrange lodge in Arusha. After settling in, enjoy a briefing about your upcoming safari and cultural experiences.
Accommodation: Comfortable midrange lodge in Arusha. Dinner included.
Day 2: Arusha to Tarangire National Park
After breakfast, depart for Tarangire National Park, famous for its massive elephant herds and ancient baobab trees. Enjoy a full-day game drive with a picnic lunch at a scenic viewpoint.
Explore the Tarangire River ecosystem, spotting lions, leopards, and migratory herds. Later, head to your midrange lodge or tented camp for dinner and overnight.
Day 3: Tarangire to Lake Manyara National Park
Morning game drive in Tarangire before heading to Lake Manyara National Park, known for its tree-climbing lions and flamingo-filled shores. Enjoy an afternoon game drive along the lake's edge.
Stay overnight at a midrange lodge with stunning views of the Great Rift Valley.
Day 4: Lake Manyara to Serengeti National Park
Early breakfast before driving toward the legendary Serengeti National Park. En route, visit an authentic Maasai village for a cultural immersion experience. Learn about their traditions, dances, and way of life.
Continue to Serengeti for an afternoon game drive, spotting cheetahs, hyenas, and the Great Migration (season-dependent). Sunset game viewing before check-in at your midrange camp.
Day 5-6: Full Days in the Serengeti
Two full days exploring the Serengeti's diverse ecosystems. Morning and afternoon game drives take you to prime wildlife areas like the Seronera Valley and Moru Kopjes.
Highlights include:
- Predator-prey interactions (lions, cheetahs, and hyenas)
- Great Migration river crossings (seasonal)
- Optional hot-air balloon safari (additional cost)
- Sunset sundowners in the bush
Day 7: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Sunrise game drive as you exit the Serengeti, with final chances to spot elusive leopards. Drive to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, stopping at Olduvai Gorge (optional museum visit).
Arrive at your lodge on the crater rim in time for sunset. Enjoy panoramic views and prepare for tomorrow's crater descent.
Day 8: Ngorongoro Crater – Hadzabe Cultural Experience
Descend 600m into the Ngorongoro Crater for a morning game drive. This UNESCO World Heritage Site teems with lions, rhinos, flamingos, and hippos.
After lunch, journey to Lake Eyasi for a rare cultural encounter with the Hadzabe tribe, one of Africa's last hunter-gatherer communities. Participate in their traditional hunting techniques and learn about their ancient way of life.
Return to your lodge for a farewell dinner.
Day 9: Ngorongoro to Arusha – Departure
After breakfast, drive back to Arusha with a stop at a local market (time permitting). Transfer to Kilimanjaro Airport for your onward flight, or extend your journey to Zanzibar.