7 Day Wildlife Safari with Boat Cruise in Lake Manyara 2025

Enjoy a 7-day Tanzania wildlife safari with a relaxing boat cruise in Lake Manyara. Includes Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro with expert guides and full board accommodations.


7 day wildlife safari with boat cruise in lake manyara

(General Overview - Generous African Tours & Safaris)

This 7-day wildlife safari in Tanzania combines thrilling game drives with a serene boat cruise on Lake Manyara. Explore iconic national parks such as Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Lake Manyara. With a focus on spotting the Big Five and a boat safari that reveals hippos, elephants, and birdlife up close, this itinerary offers a perfect blend of land and water safari experiences. Travel in a 4x4 safari vehicle with a professional English-speaking guide and stay in mid-range to luxury lodges or tented camps, all on a full-board basis.


7 Day Wildlife Safari with Boat Cruise in Lake Manyara

Tour Highlights

  • Guided boat cruise on Lake Manyara with scenic views and wildlife sightings
  • Game drives in Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater
  • Opportunities to spot the Big Five and tree-climbing lions
  • Birdwatching with chances to see flamingos, pelicans, and hornbills
  • Visit a Maasai village to learn about local culture
  • Luxury lodges or comfortable tented camps with full-board meals
  • Private 4x4 safari vehicle and expert guide throughout the trip

Destinations

  • Arusha
  • Tarangire National Park
  • Lake Manyara National Park
  • Serengeti National Park
  • Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Arusha

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you'll be greeted by your safari representative and transferred to your hotel in Arusha for an overnight stay. Take time to relax and prepare for your adventure. Dinner and overnight at a selected lodge or hotel.

Day 2: Arusha to Tarangire National Park

After breakfast, depart for Tarangire National Park, known for its massive elephant population and towering baobab trees. Enjoy a full-day game drive with a picnic lunch. Tarangire is home to lions, leopards, cheetahs, and large herds of buffalo and zebras. In the evening, drive to your lodge near the park.

Day 3: Lake Manyara National Park & Boat Safari

After breakfast, drive to Lake Manyara National Park. Start with a morning game drive to search for the famous tree-climbing lions, giraffes, and troops of baboons. In the afternoon, head to the lake for a relaxing boat cruise. Expect to see hippos wallowing in water, elephants drinking at the shore, and countless birds including flamingos and pelicans. The sunset over the Rift Valley escarpment makes for great photos. Dinner and overnight at a lodge near the lake.

Day 4: Lake Manyara to Serengeti National Park

After breakfast, drive towards the Serengeti with a scenic stop at the Ngorongoro Crater viewpoint. Enter Serengeti via the Naabi Hill Gate and enjoy en-route game drives as you head to the central Serengeti. This park is famous for the Great Migration and high predator concentration. Overnight in a mid-range or luxury camp in the Serengeti.

Day 5: Full Day Safari in Serengeti

Spend the full day exploring the endless plains of the Serengeti. Morning and afternoon game drives increase your chances of spotting lions, cheetahs, hyenas, leopards, and huge herds of wildebeest and zebras. Optional hot air balloon safari can be arranged at an extra cost. Return to your camp in the evening for dinner and overnight.

Day 6: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater Rim

Enjoy a morning game drive in the Serengeti before proceeding to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Arrive at your lodge on the crater rim in time to relax and enjoy stunning views. Optional visit to a Maasai village for cultural interaction can be arranged. Dinner and overnight at a lodge overlooking the crater.

Day 7: Ngorongoro Crater Tour – Return to Arusha

After an early breakfast, descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a half-day game drive. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a haven for wildlife, including rhinos, lions, elephants, and a dense population of other game. After a picnic lunch, begin the drive back to Arusha or transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure flight.

Why Choose This Safari

  • Includes unique boat cruise – rare on most Northern Circuit safaris
  • Expert guides with extensive wildlife knowledge
  • Customizable itinerary for private groups and families
  • Stays in comfortable accommodations with excellent amenities
  • All national park fees, meals, and transportation included
  • Perfect mix of safari, birdwatching, and relaxation

Inclusions

  • All airport transfers
  • Accommodation on full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
  • Private 4x4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
  • Professional English-speaking guide
  • Park entrance fees and crater service fees
  • Boat safari on Lake Manyara
  • Drinking water during game drives

Exclusions

  • International flights
  • Visa fees
  • Personal travel insurance
  • Alcoholic and soft drinks
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Optional activities like hot air balloon safaris

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to do this safari?

The safari can be done year-round, but the best months are June to October for dry weather and easier wildlife spotting. November to March is great for birding and lush landscapes.

Is the boat cruise safe?

Yes, all boat cruises on Lake Manyara are operated by certified guides with safety protocols in place. Life jackets are provided.

What type of accommodation is included?

The package includes a mix of mid-range and luxury lodges or tented camps with private bathrooms and full board meals.

Can I customize this itinerary?

Yes, the tour can be customized to add extra days, upgrade accommodations, or include cultural tours and balloon safaris.

Do I need a visa to enter Tanzania?

Most travelers require a visa. It can be obtained online or on arrival at the airport. Check with your local embassy for updated information.


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