8-Day Lodge Safari in Tanzania: Lake Manyara, Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater 2025

8 Day Tanzania Lodge Safari with Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro

Tour Highlights

• Scenic game drives in Lake Manyara National Park, known for tree-climbing lions
• Witness the endless plains and rich wildlife of Serengeti National Park
• Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater – a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Stay in hand-picked lodges and tented camps with stunning views
• Enjoy private transportation and personalized attention from expert guides
• Opportunities to see the Big Five and seasonal wildebeest migration

Destinations

• Arusha (Arrival and Departure)
• Lake Manyara National Park
• Serengeti National Park
• Ngorongoro Conservation Area & Crater

Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Arusha

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to your lodge in Arusha. Depending on your arrival time, you may enjoy a short town tour or relax at your accommodation.

• Accommodation: Arusha Serena Hotel / Mount Meru Hotel
• Meals: Dinner included

Day 2: Arusha to Lake Manyara National Park

After breakfast, depart for Lake Manyara National Park. This compact park offers diverse ecosystems and is famous for flamingos, elephants, hippos, and tree-climbing lions. Enjoy an afternoon game drive and a scenic picnic lunch inside the park.

• Accommodation: Lake Manyara Serena Lodge / Escarpment Luxury Lodge
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Lake Manyara to Central Serengeti

Drive through the Great Rift Valley and the Ngorongoro Highlands en route to the central Serengeti. Enjoy game viewing along the way. Arrive for lunch at the lodge and go for a late afternoon game drive in the vast savannah plains.

• Accommodation: Serengeti Serena Lodge / Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Full Day in Serengeti National Park

Spend a full day exploring the heart of Serengeti. Depending on the season, you may witness the Great Migration or predator activity around the Seronera River. Morning and afternoon game drives ensure you experience the Serengeti’s magic at different hours.

• Optional: Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Safari (extra cost)
• Accommodation: Serengeti Serena Lodge / Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Conservation Area

After a final morning game drive in Serengeti, head toward Ngorongoro. On the way, stop at a Maasai village or Olduvai Gorge (optional) to learn about the region’s rich cultural and paleoanthropological history. Overnight on the crater rim with sweeping views.

• Accommodation: Ngorongoro Serena Lodge / Rhino Lodge
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Ngorongoro Crater Tour

Today is the highlight of the trip. Descend 600 meters into the Ngorongoro Crater for a game drive in this unique caldera. The crater floor is teeming with wildlife including lions, rhinos, buffaloes, and elephants. Enjoy a picnic lunch beside a hippo pool.

• Accommodation: Ngorongoro Serena Lodge / Country Lodge Karatu
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Leisure in Karatu or Cultural Visit

Enjoy a relaxing day in Karatu. You may choose to rest at the lodge or take part in optional activities like visiting a local coffee plantation, hiking in the Ngorongoro forest, or exploring the nearby markets.

• Accommodation: Country Lodge Karatu / Acacia Farm Lodge
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Return to Arusha – Departure

After breakfast, drive back to Arusha. Depending on your departure schedule, you may enjoy a hot lunch in town or be taken directly to the airport for your international flight.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Why Choose This Safari

• Perfect blend of wildlife, comfort, and culture
• All game drives in private 4x4 safari vehicles
• Accommodation in top-rated lodges and tented camps
• Professional English-speaking safari guide
• Customizable to suit special interests or budgets
• Safe, reliable, and flexible service from a reputable operator

Inclusions

• All park entry fees and government taxes
• 7 nights’ accommodation in lodges/camps as per itinerary
• Meals as specified (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)
• Professional English-speaking guide/driver
• 4x4 custom safari vehicle with pop-up roof and window seat
• Unlimited game drives
• Airport transfers in Arusha
• Bottled drinking water during game drives

Exclusions

• International flights
• Visa fees
• Tips and personal expenses
• Travel insurance
• Optional activities (e.g., hot air balloon, cultural visits)
• Drinks at lodges/camps

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best time to go on this safari?

The best time is June to October for dry season wildlife viewing. However, the green season (December to March) also offers excellent sightings with fewer tourists.

Is the safari suitable for children?

Yes, this safari is family-friendly. Most lodges offer family rooms, and guides are experienced in working with children.

Can I customize the itinerary?

Absolutely! This tour can be customized to suit your travel dates, accommodation preferences, and special interests.

How much luggage can I carry?

A soft bag of 15-20 kg is recommended for ease of packing in the safari vehicle. Hard-shell suitcases are discouraged.

Is Wi-Fi available during the safari?

Most lodges offer limited Wi-Fi in common areas. However, connection may be spotty in remote locations.

What should I pack for the safari?

Neutral-colored clothes, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, camera, and a light jacket for chilly mornings.