7 Day Lodge Safari in Ngorongoro Crater 2025

7 Day Lodge Safari in Ngorongoro Crater

Tour Highlights

• Explore the Ngorongoro Crater – a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Luxury lodge accommodations in prime wildlife locations
• Witness the Big Five in Serengeti and Ngorongoro
• Visit Tarangire National Park, known for its giant baobabs and elephant herds
• Scenic views of Lake Manyara and tree-climbing lions
• Professional English-speaking driver-guide with 4x4 safari vehicle
• Daily game drives in renowned national parks

Destinations Covered

• Tarangire National Park
• Lake Manyara National Park
• Serengeti National Park
• Ngorongoro Crater

Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Arusha

You’ll be greeted at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) by our safari representative. After a warm welcome and safari briefing, you'll transfer to your lodge in Arusha for dinner and overnight rest. Use this day to recover from your journey and prepare for your safari adventure ahead.

Day 2: Arusha to Tarangire National Park

After breakfast, depart Arusha and drive to Tarangire National Park, which is famous for its high density of elephants and ancient baobab trees. Enjoy a full-day game drive with a picnic lunch in the bush. Keep an eye out for lions, leopards, zebras, giraffes, and many bird species. In the evening, head to your lodge located near the park for dinner and overnight.

Day 3: Tarangire to Lake Manyara National Park

Today, your journey continues to Lake Manyara National Park. The park is well known for its tree-climbing lions and the shallow soda lake that attracts thousands of flamingos. Enjoy a leisurely game drive followed by lunch at the lodge. In the afternoon, you can relax at the lodge or visit a nearby Maasai cultural boma (optional).

Day 4: Lake Manyara to Serengeti National Park

After breakfast, you will depart for Serengeti National Park through the beautiful highlands of Karatu and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. You'll descend onto the vast Serengeti plains, home to the Great Migration. Along the way, enjoy game viewing and picnic lunch. Arrive at your lodge in central Serengeti in the evening and settle in for dinner and overnight.

Day 5: Full Day Game Drive in Serengeti

Spend the full day exploring the endless plains of Serengeti, where lions, cheetahs, hyenas, leopards, elephants, and hundreds of other species roam. Depending on the season, you may witness the Great Wildebeest Migration. Morning and afternoon game drives are included, with picnic lunch or lodge lunch depending on game movements. Return to the lodge for dinner under the stars.

Day 6: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater

After an early breakfast and optional short game drive, depart Serengeti heading toward Ngorongoro Crater. Arrive at your lodge located on the crater rim in time for lunch. In the afternoon, enjoy leisure time with sweeping views of the crater floor. Dinner and overnight will be at the lodge on the rim, offering spectacular sunset views over the caldera.

Day 7: Ngorongoro Crater Game Drive – Return to Arusha

Today is the highlight of your safari – a descent into the Ngorongoro Crater for a half-day game drive. This massive volcanic caldera is home to Africa’s densest concentration of wildlife, including the endangered black rhino. You’ll explore the floor of the crater and spot animals in their natural habitat before ascending back to the rim. After lunch, drive back to Arusha, arriving in the late afternoon. Transfer to the airport for your onward journey or overnight stay.

Why Choose This Safari

• Stay in top-tier lodges with comfort and style
• Enjoy a private safari experience with personalized service
• Access to professional guides with extensive knowledge of Tanzanian wildlife
• Convenient and well-paced itinerary covering the best parks
• Opportunities to witness the Big Five and Great Migration

Inclusions

• All park fees and conservation charges
• Full board accommodation (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
• Private 4x4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
• Professional English-speaking guide
• Drinking water during safari
• Airport transfers in Arusha

Exclusions

• International flights
• Visa fees
• Travel insurance
• Personal expenses (laundry, tips, souvenirs)
• Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best time to take this 7-day lodge safari?

This safari can be enjoyed year-round. For the best game viewing, the dry season from June to October is ideal. For migration viewing, January to March or June to July are top choices.

Are lodges used in this safari luxurious?

Yes, the lodges are mid-range to luxury accommodations that offer modern amenities, en-suite bathrooms, fine dining, and scenic views.

Can dietary requirements be accommodated?

Yes, dietary needs such as vegetarian, gluten-free, halal, etc., can be arranged in advance. Please inform us during booking.

Is this a private or group safari?

This is a private lodge safari, meaning it will be just you and your group in the vehicle with a dedicated guide.

Do I need a visa for Tanzania?

Yes, most visitors need a visa to enter Tanzania. Visas can be obtained online or on arrival at the airport.

Is it safe to travel to Tanzania for a safari?

Yes, Tanzania is considered a safe and stable country for tourism. Safari areas are well-managed and guided by professionals.