7-Day Tanzania Big Cats Safari

Your premium Tanzanian adventure begins with a warm welcome upon landing at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). Your Safari Under the Sky naturalist guide will greet you and assist with the approximately one-hour transfer to the upscale Four Points by Sheraton in Arusha. This initial drive serves as your introduction to the region. Depending on your arrival time, you may choose to receive a brief tour overview either today or tomorrow morning. The remainder of the day is entirely at your leisure to relax at the hotel's premium amenities, recover from your journey, and soak in the anticipation for the incredible wildlife and cultural experiences that commence tomorrow.

After breakfast, you depart for Tarangire National Park, renowned for its impressive concentrations of wildlife, especially its large herds of elephants. The landscape is uniquely dotted with ancient, towering baobab trees. You will check into the distinctive Maramboi Tented Lodge and enjoy lunch before embarking on an afternoon game drive. The Tarangire River acts as a vital lifeline, attracting elephants, buffalo, giraffes, and numerous antelope species. Your guide will navigate the park's tracks in search of these animals and predators like lions and leopards. You'll return to the lodge as the sun sets over this beautiful park.

Today is dedicated to cultural discovery and scenic beauty. After breakfast, you will travel to the lively village of Mto wa Mbu, a remarkable melting pot of different Tanzanian tribes. A guided walking tour will take you through vibrant banana and rice plantations, where you can interact with local farmers. The experience includes a delicious lunch of authentic Tanzanian dishes. In the afternoon, you'll proceed to Lake Manyara National Park for a game drive, searching for its famous tree-climbing lions and the pink haze of flamingos on the alkaline lake, set against the dramatic rift valley escarpment.

After breakfast, you begin your scenic drive to the legendary Serengeti National Park. The route takes you through the verdant highlands of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, offering chances to spot wildlife along the way. Upon entering the Serengeti, you'll be greeted by the iconic endless plains. You will arrive at the luxurious Kubukubu Tented Lodge in time for lunch and some relaxation. In the afternoon, you'll head out for your first Serengeti game drive, exploring this world-famous ecosystem and searching for wildlife as the sun begins to set.

This full day is dedicated to immersing yourself in the wonders of the Serengeti. You may opt for a breathtaking hot-air balloon safari at dawn (extra cost), offering a unique aerial perspective. After breakfast, your guide will lead you on extensive game drives, exploring diverse habitats from open grasslands to the iconic granite kopjes in search of the Big Five, cheetahs, and hyenas. You’ll return to the lodge for lunch and head out again in the afternoon. The day concludes with a spectacular Serengeti sunset drive back to your luxurious tented accommodation.

You'll have an early start for the drive to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Descending 600 meters into the Ngorongoro Crater is a breathtaking experience. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a natural amphitheater hosting an astonishing concentration of animals, including the rare black rhino, and boasts Africa's highest density of predators. You will enjoy a full morning of game driving on the crater floor, followed by a picnic lunch. In the afternoon, you'll ascend the crater walls and drive to the comfortable Kitela Lodge in the highlands for a well-earned rest.

After a leisurely final breakfast, you will begin your journey back to Arusha. This scenic drive is your last opportunity to soak in the beautiful Tanzanian landscape. Upon arrival in Arusha, you will stop for lunch and have some time to relax and reflect on your incredible week-long journey. Afterwards, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward departure flight, marking the end of your comprehensive and luxurious 7-day Tanzanian safari.