Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). Transfer to Arusha (about 1 hour). Relax at Kahawa House, a comfortable lodge with gardens and coffee-themed vibes—perfect for jet lag recovery. Optional short walk or coffee plantation visit.
Arrival transfer
After breakfast, travel to Tarangire National Park (2-3 hours drive). Known for huge elephant herds, baobabs, and diverse wildlife along the Tarangire River. Enjoy an afternoon game drive to spot lions, giraffes, and birds. Return to camp for sundowners and fall asleep to the sounds of the African bush.
Game drive in Tarangire National Park
After breakfast, head to Lake Manyara National Park (about 2-3 hours drive, scenic route). Afternoon game drive in this compact park famous for tree-climbing lions, flamingos on the soda lake, elephants, baboons, and diverse birdlife (over 400 species). The lush groundwater forest and Rift Valley escarpment views are highlights.
Game drive in Lake Manyara National Park
Early breakfast, then head to the southern Serengeti/Ndutu region (4–5 hours drive, with game viewing en route through Ngorongoro Conservation Area). January is prime calving season here—witness thousands of wildebeest and zebra giving birth amid vast short-grass plains, drawing predators for dramatic action. Afternoon game drive upon arrival.
Game drive in Central Serengeti National Park
After breakfast, travel north through the national park to the Mara region of the Serengeti (5–7 hours drive, with stops for wildlife). This northern area near the Mara River offers big cats, elephants, hippos, crocs, and potential for migration activity. Arrive in time for evening relaxation.
Game drive to northern Serengeti
Full day dedicated to game drives in the Mara ecosystem. Explore riverbanks for hippos and crocodiles, search for leopards and lions, and enjoy the open plains. Optional early-morning hot-air balloon safari (extra cost).
Morning and afternoon game drives in northern Serengeti
Enjoy a morning game drive in the Serengeti and then drive to Ngorongoro Conservation Area (4–6 hours). Spend the night at a lodge near the Ngorongoro Crater.
This morning, travel to the Ngorongoro Crater and descend into this natural wonder. Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater —this UNESCO site is a natural caldera packed with over 25,000 animals, including black rhinos, elephants, lions, and flamingos on the soda lake. In the early afternoon, travel back to Arusha or Kilimanjaro International Airport for your flight to Zanzibar in the late afternoon. Upon landing at Zanzibar International you will be transferred to your hotel.
Game drive in Ngorongoro Crater
Flight to Zanzibar
Full day at leisure. Swim in the warm turquoise waters, stroll the powdery sands, or relax by the pool. Jambiani is great for kitesurfing if you're adventurous—optional lessons available locally.
Another relaxed beach day. Consider a half-day spice tour (Zanzibar is the "Spice Isle"), snorkeling at nearby Mnemba Atoll for coral reefs and fish, or a cultural village walk. Sunset cocktails at the hotel are a perfect end to the day.
Free day for beach time or an optional trip to historic Stone Town (~1-hour drive north)—explore the UNESCO-listed alleys, spice markets, Freddie Mercury's birthplace, and vibrant Swahili culture.
Enjoy one last dip in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean before breakfast. Check out, and you will be transferred back to Zazibar International Airport for your return flight home.
Transfer to the airport