8 Day Wildlife Safari Including Lake Natron and Ngorongoro 2025

8 Day Wildlife Safari Including Lake Natron and Ngorongoro

Tour Highlights

• Track big cats and the Big Five in Serengeti National Park
• Witness flamingo colonies at remote Lake Natron
• Explore the dramatic Ngorongoro Crater and its abundant wildlife
• See ancient footprints at Engaresero and enjoy Maasai cultural experiences
• Discover Tarangire’s famed baobabs and large elephant herds
• Visit a Maasai village and swim in a natural waterfall near Lake Natron

Destinations Covered

• Tarangire National Park
• Lake Natron and Engaresero village
• Serengeti National Park (Central & Northern sectors)
• Ngorongoro Crater

Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Arusha – Welcome Briefing

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha Airport, you’ll be welcomed by our professional safari guide. After a short transfer to your accommodation in Arusha, settle in and enjoy a pre-safari briefing. Depending on your arrival time, you may explore local markets or simply relax at the lodge.

Day 2: Arusha to Tarangire National Park

After breakfast, depart for Tarangire National Park, known for its iconic baobab trees and massive elephant population. Enjoy a full-day game drive, stopping for a picnic lunch inside the park. You may spot lions, giraffes, wildebeest, zebra, and over 500 bird species. Arrive at your lodge in time for sunset views.

Day 3: Tarangire to Lake Natron – Remote Wilderness & Cultural Tour

Depart Tarangire early for the scenic drive to Lake Natron, passing through rugged terrain and volcanic landscapes near the Rift Valley escarpment. Arrive in Engaresero village by early afternoon. After lunch, visit the Maasai community and take a guided walk to the Ngare Sero waterfall. End the day watching thousands of flamingos against the backdrop of Ol Doinyo Lengai (Mountain of God).

Day 4: Lake Natron Exploration – Flamingos, Footprints & Hike

Begin at sunrise with a guided walk to the shores of Lake Natron to witness flamingos feeding in the shallow alkaline waters. Later, visit the hominid footprints site—believed to be over 120,000 years old. Optional hikes to surrounding hills or another dip in the waterfall pool can be arranged. Overnight near the lake.

Day 5: Lake Natron to Northern Serengeti – Enter Big Cat Territory

After an early breakfast, set out for Northern Serengeti via Klein’s Gate. The drive takes you through wildlife corridors and Maasai lands. Reach the Serengeti plains by afternoon and enjoy a game drive en route to your lodge. Expect to encounter large predators like lions and cheetahs, plus herds of antelope and wildebeest.

Day 6: Full Day Game Drive in Serengeti National Park

Spend a full day in the heart of the Serengeti, tracking wildlife across the endless savannah. Depending on the season, you may witness the Great Migration or predator-prey interactions. Your guide will tailor the day’s route based on wildlife movements. Picnic lunch in the bush allows more time in the field.

Day 7: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater – Wildlife in a Caldera

Early morning game drive as you exit Serengeti through Naabi Hill Gate. Continue toward Ngorongoro Conservation Area with picnic lunch en route. Arrive at a lodge near the crater rim. Time permitting, you may enjoy cultural visits to a Maasai village or panoramic views from the rim.

Day 8: Ngorongoro Crater Tour – Return to Arusha

Descend 600 meters into Ngorongoro Crater for a thrilling game drive inside the world’s largest intact caldera. This UNESCO-listed area is home to elephants, rhinos, buffaloes, hippos, and large prides of lions. Enjoy lunch at a picnic site near the hippo pool. Later, return to Arusha or drop-off at the airport.

Why Choose This Safari?

• Combines famous parks with remote and rarely visited destinations
• Opportunity to see both wildlife and geological landmarks
• Includes cultural immersion with Maasai communities
• Led by expert naturalist guides for best wildlife encounters
• Flexible for custom extensions to Zanzibar or Mount Kilimanjaro

Inclusions

• Accommodation in lodges and tented camps (full board)
• All park entry fees and crater service fees
• Professional English-speaking safari guide
• 4x4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof and unlimited mileage
• Drinking water during game drives
• Transfers to and from airports

Exclusions

• International and domestic flights
• Visa and travel insurance
• Tips for guide and camp staff
• Personal expenses (e.g. drinks, laundry, souvenirs)
• Optional activities not in itinerary (e.g. balloon safari)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best time to take this safari?

June to October offers excellent wildlife viewing with dry weather and easier access to remote areas like Lake Natron. January to March is ideal for calving season in the southern Serengeti.

Is Lake Natron safe to visit?

Yes, it is safe when accompanied by experienced guides. The area is remote but incredibly scenic and culturally rich.

How difficult is the hike to the waterfall at Lake Natron?

The walk is moderate and requires proper footwear. It involves walking through a gorge and crossing shallow streams.

Can this safari be customized for families or photographers?

Absolutely. Itineraries can be tailored to family needs or extended to include more time in specific locations for photography.

Are there malaria risks?

Northern Tanzania is a malaria zone, so it’s recommended to take prophylaxis and use mosquito repellent.