4 Night – A little bit of what’s good for ya!

We think this has a little of the best of everything; some fantastic game viewing in both Ngorongoro Crater and the iconic Serengeti National Park as well as a chance to experience some of the unique cultures of Tanzania.

Location

Lake Manyara National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area and the Serengeti National Park.

Day 1   Mysigio Camp – Ngorongoro

Leave Arusha after breakfast and head south before crossing the Rift Valley to Lake Manyara National Park- a fascinating place – very different to most of the other parks in the area in that it is a narrow strip of land sandwiched between the Great Rift escarpment and Lake Manyara itself. The springs at the base of the escarpment produce unique, lush groundwater forests, whilst the lake shore offers open grazing. Whilst the park is famous for its tree climbing lions it is also home to large resident populations of elephant and giraffe. The freshwater stream feeding into the soda waters of the lake are a tremendous feeding ground for hundreds of birds from pelicans to flamingos as well as the favourite wallow of the hippo pods.

Mid-afternoon leave Manyara and head up through the fertile foothills of Ngorongoro before entering the conservation area. Mysigio Camp is nestled amongst the acacia forests on the southern side of the highlands. An idyllic spot away from the hustle and bustle of the Ngorongoro Crater rim, a place where the Maasai still live very traditional lives. Ole Dorop, the local Maasai chief, is our guide as we explore his hilly realm. Perhaps stop in at a ‘boma’ or village for a chat or hike to some of the amazing viewpoints that look over the Serengeti Plains.

Day 2   Mysigio Camp – Ngorongoro

A full day in Ngorongoro Crater exploring this unique caldera, the permanent home to many animals and a great spot for getting that close-up wildlife shot. Back at camp there will be a chance to visit the local Maasai village. Perhaps take part in one of the many ceremonies or join in some traditional dancing.

Day 3   Pembezoni Camp – Serengeti National Park

Descend from the Ngorongoro Highlands and drive out across the vast Serengeti plains, game driving as you go. Visit Olduvai Gorge the famous archaeological site en route before driving out on the endless rolling plains. Pembezoni Camp is in the heart of this vast wilderness, home to the wildebeest migration.

Day 4   Pembezoni Camp – Serengeti National Park

Another full day to roam the plains in search of the herds. The wildebeest migration sweeps through the plains in a huge arc to give birth to their offspring in the early part of the year. These rolling grasslands are also home to pack of predators waiting to pick off the young or lame. Your day will take you in search of the concentrations of game and offer the opportunity to witness this vast spectacle up close.

Day 5   Return to Arusha

A last breakfast looking out over the vast plains before heading back towards Arusha, game viewing as you go and picnicking en route before arriving back in Arusha mid-afternoon.


Other Classic Tanzanian safari itineraries:

A week’s dream, 7 nights / 8 days

Taking in the highlights of Northern Tanzania’s safari attractions – but with our own particular style – we feel that this week off the beaten track with a mixture of game viewing, culture, and walking will give anyone and everyone a massive boost!

Far from the crowds: a walk on the wild side, 10 nights / 11 days

We love this itinerary – it has some fantastic game viewing in some of the greatest spots on earth, a chance to experience some of the unique Maasai culture and finally the jewel in the crown – walking in the Serengeti – our favourite thing to do.

Have your cake and eat it too, 12 nights / 13 Days

If you have the time, this itinerary has the best of everything! Incredible wildlife, time with different cultures; both the Maasai in their vibrant red robes and herds of cattle and the Hadzabe one of the few remaining click speaking hunter gatherer tribes in Africa. Then on to the vast wilderness zones of the Serengeti for some incredible time on foot in the world’s most iconic park.

Arusha National Park and beyond, from mountains to savanna: 6 nights / 7 days

Taking in Arusha National Park – a real ‘trade secret’ – this wonderful little park featuring Mount Meru, has some great wildlife and even better walking. Then on to the stunning Ngorongoro Crater, a chance for some cultural interaction and the wild open plains of the Serengeti National Park.