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8-Day Small Group Journey in 2027, Tarangire, Ngorongoro Serengeti

5/5 7 reviews 8 days · 7 nights Tanzania Arusha, Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater +2

About this tour

This 8-Day Small Group Journey is a curated exploration of Tanzania’s most iconic landscapes, designed to deliver an exceptional safari experience beyond the ordinary. We elevate every detail, most uniquely by transforming your midday meal into a cherished memory. Instead of standard boxed lunches, you’ll enjoy freshly prepared hot meals served in a secluded, scenic spot within the parks, surrounded only by the sounds of the wilderness.

Your adventure spans the legendary Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater, and the vast Serengeti. You’ll search for the Big Five, witness the awe-inspiring Great Migration at the Mara River, and enjoy intimate wildlife encounters. The journey culminates with a visit to the exclusive Serval Wildlife Conservancy, offering close interactions with giraffes and other species. From luxurious comforts to expert guidance, this tour is crafted for those seeking a profound and seamless connection with Africa’s untamed beauty.

Customization
This tour can be customised
Duration
8 days
Minimum age
3 years
Countries
Tanzania
Comfort level
Luxury
Maximum group size
Any group size
Physical level
Moderate

What to expect

  • Elephant herds and baobabs in Tarangire
  • A game drive on the Ngorongoro Crater floor
  • Game drives across the Serengeti plains
  • A professional guide and a safari vehicle for your group

Getting there

  • This tour starts in Arusha and ends in Serval Wildlife.
  • Your flight should arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).

Best for

Trip itinerary

Airport pickup · ≈ 1 h 20 min · 54 km Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) → Arusha by 4×4 Land Cruiser

Day 1 · Start

Arusha

Arrival day in Tanzania.

4×4 Land Cruiser 2 meals

Arrival day in Tanzania. Your designed guide or office representative will pick you up from the airport (Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)) and transfer to Gran Melia Hotel in Arusha for dinner and overnight.

Main activities
Relaxation
Transport
4×4 Land Cruiser
Meals
Dinner, Breakfast
Drinks
Drinking water, Juice, Coffee

Accommodation

Gran Melia Arusha

Hotel

≈ 3 h 25 min · 137 km Arusha → Tarangire by 4×4 Land Cruiser

Day 2

Tarangire

After breakfast, you will start a 2hrs journey towards Tarangire National Park, a park…

4×4 Land Cruiser 3 meals

After breakfast, you will start a 2hrs journey towards Tarangire National Park, a park celebrated for its high concentration of elephants. Your guide will lead you to search for perfect game viewing spots within this 3,000 square park appreciated for its medieval baobab trees believed to be over 1000 years old.

Your game drive will concentrate around Tarangire River, a main source of water in the park that lures many animals around such as giraffes, hippos, buffaloes, zebras, wildebeests, lions etc. After lunch, continue scanning for various animals + birds in Tarangire (more than 500 species have been spotted). Continue to your lodge in the evening, relax as you wait for the night game drive.

Main activities
Game Drive
Transport
4×4 Land Cruiser
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drinks
Coffee, Soda, Beer, Drinking water, Juice

Accommodation

Manyara's Secret

≈ 3 h 20 min · 135 km Tarangire → Ngorongoro Crater by 4×4 Land Cruiser

Day 3

Ngorongoro Crater

Today after breakfast we will go for the breathtaking Ngorongoro crater game drives.

4×4 Land Cruiser 3 meals

Today after breakfast we will go for the breathtaking Ngorongoro crater game drives. Reaching at Ngorongoro Conservation Area, you will follow the most striking trails down to Ngorongoro Crater, one of the 7 natural wonders of Africa and often dubbed as the 8th wonder of the World. “Breathtaking”, perhaps, is the only expression that perfectly describes the self-contained ecosystem of Ngorongoro Crater.

The crater is understood to be a result of a collapsed Mountain more than a million years ago. Enjoy the picnic lunch down in the crater and continue searching for different wildlife such as; wildebeests, buffalos, zebras, elands, grant’s & thomson’s gazelles, old bulls’ elephants, lions as well as scavengers like spotted hyenas, jackals.

There are not many destinations in Africa where the big 5 can be spotted in a single day. Although this does not occur on most occasions, Ngorongoro crater is fortunately among the few destinations to host the big 5.

Main activities
Game Drive
Transport
4×4 Land Cruiser
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drinks
Coffee, Drinking water, Juice, Soda

Accommodation

Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge

Lodge

Day 4

Central Serengeti

Serengeti National Park is such a huge park that you can spend days, well even a week and…

4×4 Land Cruiser 3 meals

Serengeti National Park is such a huge park that you can spend days, well even a week and not come close to seeing it all. In the next 2 days, we will enjoy exploration of Serengeti National Park believed to have the highest density of wildlife in Africa.

The awe-inspiring central Serengeti, famously known as the Big Cats headquarters, is an outstanding wildlife zone that you can spend weeks without getting tired of it. Stop around the Seronera Valley for a delicious lunch in the African wilderness as you scan the surroundings for game viewing opportunities.

Main activities
Game Drive
Transport
4×4 Land Cruiser
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drinks
Drinking water, Coffee, Beer, Soda, Juice

Accommodation

Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge

Lodge

≈ 6 h · 240 km Central Serengeti → North Serengeti by 4×4 Land Cruiser

Day 5

North Serengeti

After breakfast embark on the game en route to North Serengeti crossing the middle of the…

4×4 Land Cruiser 3 meals

After breakfast embark on the game en route to North Serengeti crossing the middle of the Serengeti National Park. This area boasts a sizable number of big cats and as you drive to the Northern Serengeti, it won’t be uncommon to spot them along the way.

You will arrive at your camp in the afternoon on time for lunch and continue to the afternoon game drive along the Mara River. A search for wildebeests crossing, the crocodiles infested Mara River will start today and go full swing tomorrow. If you’re not lucky to spot this natural wonder of the world today, all good, there is more than meets the eye in Northern Serengeti since it has a good number of cheetahs, hyenas, lions, leopards, giraffes, topi elands, hippo and a lot more.

Main activities
Game Drive
Transport
4×4 Land Cruiser
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drinks
Drinking water, Coffee, Juice, All drinks included, Beer

Accommodation

Mara Mara Tented Lodge

Lodge

No transfer · another full day in North Serengeti

Day 6

North Serengeti

Today, we will explore the great migration around Mara River.

4×4 Land Cruiser 3 meals

Today, we will explore the great migration around Mara River. We will start a day with a short drive to the Mara River. A journey offers a truly unique landscape of acacia woodlands, open savanna, and a lot of wildlife on the way. With stops for game viewing and some great shots along the way, there are chances to witness the herds of wildebeests and their close cousins’ zebras even before arriving at the Mara River banks for a much sought after event of the river crossing.

As you reach the Mara River, the herds are likely to be congregating on the river banks finding the courage to reach the opposite bank of the river. To reach there, they need to battle the mammoth Nile crocodiles that have been waiting for this much-anticipated event the whole year. This is crocodiles’ festival season, so to speak.

Everyone to their own capacity makes sure that they get lion’s share as thousands of wildebeests end in crocodiles’ mouths. If the nature of the game permits, you will be able to witness this mouthwatering event as the herds cross the river to the far Northern Serengeti and reach neighboring Maasai Mara Nature Reserve in Kenya for much-needed greener pasture.

Main activities
Game Drive
Transport
4×4 Land Cruiser
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drinks
Drinking water, Coffee, Beer, Soda, Juice

Accommodation

Mara Mara Tented Lodge

Lodge

≈ 9 h 25 min · 378 km North Serengeti → Serval Wildlife by 4×4 Land Cruiser

Day 7

Serval Wildlife

Today marks your magical days in the wilderness.

4×4 Land Cruiser 3 meals

Today marks your magical days in the wilderness. Enjoy your breakfast and collect your luggage ready for a transfer to Seronera Airstrip. On the way to airstrip, you will have another chance to enjoy wildlife viewing.

You will land at JRO at around 1PM to be followed by 30 minutes drive to Serval Wildlife as you look to arrive there on time for lunch. After lunch, explore this carefully curated ecosystem with over 3000 hand planted endemic flora that directly benefit the exquisite animals that reside within Serval Wildlife, whilst you enjoy the mesmerizing views of Mount Meru and Mount Kilimanjaro.

Among many, Giraffes will be around for you to interact with, feed them and taking photos. Here in Serval Wildlife you will explore Serval ecosystem, home to a wide range of creatures, including the majestic African lions, peaceful colobuses, graceful Masai giraffes, nocturnal bat-eared foxes, exquisite elands, oafish ostriches, and mischievous blue and vervet monkeys allowing for extraordinary up-close encounters with a range of wild animals.

Main activities
Relaxation
Transport
Domestic Fllight
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drinks
Coffee, Drinking water, Juice, Soda

Accommodation

Serval Wildlife

No transfer · another full day in Serval Wildlife

Day 8 · End

Serval Wildlife

Today marks your magical days in Tanzania.

4×4 Land Cruiser 2 meals

Today marks your magical days in Tanzania. After breakfast and some relaxation at Serval, you will depart Serval at around 10-11am [check out time] and continue to Moshi town for lunch then you will explore life on this side of the planet through town tour. Optional cooking class, local farms visit and local markets visit are available on request and based on your departure flight time. Continue to Kilimanjaro International Airport later as you look to arrive on time for your depature flight.

Transport
4×4 Land Cruiser
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Drinks
Coffee, Drinking water, Soda

Tour price

2026

TravellersPrice per person sharing
  • 2 people $7,560 USD
  • 4 people $6,940 USD
  • 6 people $6,730 USD

Please note:

  • Prices are per person sharing (ask the tour organiser for more price information).
  • Accommodation listed on this tour is subject to availability and may change depending on the time of booking.
  • The price of this tour may also depend on government-imposed charges. Please be in touch with the organiser of this tour when enquiring.

Departure dates

Join one of these small-group departures, or ask for your own dates.

  • Jan 3 Sun 3 Jan – Sun 10 Jan 2027 Available From $7,560
    per person
  • Jan 9 Sat 9 Jan – Sat 16 Jan 2027 Available From $7,560
    per person
  • Jan 15 Fri 15 Jan – Fri 22 Jan 2027 Available From $7,560
    per person
  • Jan 21 Thu 21 Jan – Thu 28 Jan 2027 Available From $7,560
    per person
  • Jan 27 Wed 27 Jan – Wed 3 Feb 2027 Available From $7,560
    per person
  • Feb 3 Wed 3 Feb – Wed 10 Feb 2027 Available From $7,560
    per person
  • Feb 9 Tue 9 Feb – Tue 16 Feb 2027 Available From $7,560
    per person
  • Feb 15 Mon 15 Feb – Mon 22 Feb 2027 Available From $7,560
    per person
  • Feb 21 Sun 21 Feb – Sun 28 Feb 2027 Available From $7,560
    per person
  • Feb 27 Sat 27 Feb – Sat 6 Mar 2027 Available From $7,560
    per person
  • Mar 3 Wed 3 Mar – Wed 10 Mar 2027 Available From $7,560
    per person
  • Mar 9 Tue 9 Mar – Tue 16 Mar 2027 Available From $7,560
    per person

What is included

Price includes

  • Park Fees
  • Domestic Flights
  • All Accommodations
  • All meals
  • All transport
  • All activities
  • Drinking water
  • A professional guide
  • All taxes
  • Roundtrip airport transfer

Price excludes

  • International Flight
  • Pre-arrival accommodation
  • Additional Accommodation after Safari
  • Personal Item expense
  • Alcoholic Drinks
  • Souvenirs
  • Tips
  • Additional excursions

Payment terms

Deposits & Payments

To secure your journey with Ultimate Serengeti, a 15% deposit is required at the time of booking. This allows us to confirm your reservations and begin preparing every detail of your safari experience. Payment instructions will be shared via email.

The remaining balance is due no later than six (6) weeks before your tour begins. For bookings made within six weeks of departure, full payment is required at the time of booking. All payments to Ultimate Serengeti must be made free of bank fees or credit card processing charges.

Booking Agreement

Your booking is confirmed once Ultimate Serengeti has received the required deposit and issued written confirmation of your reservation.

The guest making the booking must be 18 years of age or older and agrees to provide accurate and complete information as requested to finalize arrangements. When booking on behalf of additional guests, the person confirming the reservation confirms that:

  1. They are authorized to book on behalf of all guests listed and have shared all relevant tour details and terms with them; and
  2. All information provided for each guest is correct, and the necessary permissions have been obtained to share this information with Ultimate Serengeti.

Cancellation policy

If you need to cancel your tour, please notify Ultimate Serengeti in writing as soon as possible. As significant preparations and commitments are made in advance, cancellation fees will apply per guest to cover unrecoverable costs, as outlined below:

Days Prior to Departure Cancellation Fee 61 days or more Loss of deposit 60–45 days 25% of total safari cost 44–29 days 60% of total safari cost 28–7 days 90% of total safari cost Less than 7 days 100% of total safari cost

Cancellation fees are calculated based on the date written notice is received by Ultimate Serengeti.

Travel insurance

Ultimate Serengeti does not provide travel insurance. Clients are therefore required to obtain comprehensive travel insurance in their country of residence. At a minimum, coverage must include medical expenses, emergency medical evacuation, and repatriation.

It is strongly recommended that clients also secure insurance covering trip cancellation and any additional costs that may arise from loss, damage, injury, delay, or other unforeseen inconveniences. When purchasing travel insurance, clients must inform their insurer of the nature of the travel and activities involved to ensure appropriate coverage for participation in the tour.

Additional information

  • This tour will be confirmed when we receive a first deposit
  • Not recommended for travellers with back problems
  • Children must be accompanied by their parents
  • Limited mobility: This tour may have limited accessibility for individuals with mobility issues
  • A vegetarian option is available; please let us know at the time of booking if you require it.

Reviews

From travellers of Ultimate Serengeti, the company that runs this tour.

5.0/5

Excellent

Based on 7 reviews

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Photos from travellers 14

  • SCharlie

    Spending a week on safari with Ultimate Serengeti was a dream, but having Hebron as our guide made it absolutely unforgettable. From the first day, his warmth, humor, and passion for wildlife made everyone in the vehicle feel at ease and excited for what was ahead. Hebron has an infectious energy—he kept us laughing, engaged, and constantly amazed. He had an uncanny ability to spot animals from incredible distances. On one drive, he pointed out a leopard that we never would have seen on our own—hidden in a tree, perfectly camouflaged. His explanations about animal behavior, bird species, and the ecosystem of each park were fascinating and easy to understand. He genuinely wanted us to experience nature, not just see it. What I personally appreciated was how he treated each guest with so much care. Whether it was adjusting the windows for the perfect photo or checking in to make sure everyone was comfortable, Hebron went above and beyond. You could tell he truly loved what he was doing. And we can’t forget Berna, what an incredible planner and host. The lodges, the food, the pacing of the trip, everything was thoughtfully organized. Ultimate Serengeti is a five-star operation, and Hebron brought its soul to life. We’re already planning our next return trip in 2026!

  • Lea

    Seamless Safari with a Personal Touch Ultimate Serengeti gave us more than just a vacation—they gave us a journey we’ll never forget. Our group spent seven days traveling through the most breathtaking landscapes in Tanzania, and every moment was perfectly arranged thanks to Bernadetha’s planning. She was there from the beginning, helping us decide which parks to visit, where to stay, and how to make the most of our time. It was clear she genuinely cared about our experience. She even checked in during the trip to make sure everything was going well—which it absolutely was. We had a fantastic guide who made each game drive fun and informative. But what really stood out was how effortlessly everything came together. The vehicle was spotless and comfortable, the accommodations were stunning, and every day felt like it was made just for us. What I appreciated most was the balance—luxury without being over-the-top, adventure without feeling unsafe or uncomfortable. It was the sweet spot of travel, and Ultimate Serengeti knows exactly how to deliver it. If you’re considering a safari, book with Ultimate Serengeti and let Bernadetha take care of the rest. You’ll be in expert hands, and you’ll leave with a full heart and a thousand beautiful photos.

  • Tonnie

    Our 7-day luxury safari with Ultimate Serengeti was nothing short of spectacular. From the moment we began communicating with the team, we knew we were in excellent hands. They guided us through every step of the planning process with patience, professionalism, and genuine enthusiasm for what she does. they helped us customize the perfect itinerary through Tarangire, Ngorongoro, Serengeti, and Lake Manyara, and theier recommendations were always spot on. Every lodge was stunning and comfortable, with great food and warm hospitality. The entire trip was seamless, from airport transfers to lodge check-ins to our daily game drives. Our guide, Hebron was knowledgeable, attentive, and easy to connect with. He brought a great energy to our days, and we were so impressed by the care taken to ensure we saw a wide variety of wildlife, including the Big Five! But what made it extra special was how organized everything felt behind the scenes. There was never a single issue. I would highly recommend Ultimate Serengeti to anyone looking for a premium safari experience with a company that truly cares. Bernadetha is the heart of it all, her planning, communication, and hospitality made this one of the best trips of our lives. Thank you for giving us memories we’ll never forget!

  • Cheng Li

    We had the privilege of riding with Moses during our 7-day Tanzania Luxury Adventure with Ultimate Serengeti, and I can confidently say it was one of the best travel experiences I’ve ever had. From the moment we met him, Moses exuded calm confidence and deep knowledge about the wildlife and landscapes of Tanzania. He had this incredible way of making every game drive exciting and educational without ever making us feel rushed. His tracking skills were unmatched, he seemed to know exactly where the animals would be before we even got close. We witnessed elephants up close, saw a pride of lions lounging in the sun, and even got to see a leopard resting in a tree. Every day felt like a new chapter in a wild, beautiful story.

  • Larsen

    Our two-week trip to Tanzania and Sansibar organised by Ultimate Serengeti turned into a truly fantastic family experience. Every big and small detail was perfectly planned, and we felt completely comfortable throughout the journey. The highlight was a luxury safari in a luxury tented camp in the Serengeti, with wonderful staff and a truly authentic experience immersed in nature.

  • Andre Milton

    If you’re looking for an unforgettable safari, Ultimate Serengeti is the company to choose. As a solo female traveler, I felt completely safe and had the trip of a lifetime. From Bernadette expertly organizing my itinerary, to Inno picking me up at the airport and taking me to my accommodation, every detail was handled with care. David showed me around Arusha for the day, and Moses—my guide and driver throughout the safari—was truly exceptional. He showed me the most incredible wildlife and taught me so much about the animals and Tanzania itself. I loved this company and this country so much that I already plan to return, and I wouldn’t travel with anyone else but Ultimate Serengeti. If I could give more than five stars, I absolutely would.

  • Perry Hansom

    It was a very good trip...

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Per person sharing

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