Karibu Tanzania
Karibu Tanzania—welcome to East Africa, where your journey begins amid the lush coffee estates and rolling foothills surrounding Arusha.
After arriving at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll be welcomed and transferred to your hotel to relax after your international journey. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy the gardens, unwind at the spa, or simply settle into the slower pace that defines safari travel.
This evening, gather for a welcome dinner as you prepare for the remarkable adventure ahead, spanning Tanzania’s legendary wildlife reserves, the spice-scented shores of Zanzibar, and the mist-covered mountains of Rwanda.
Overnight: Elewana Arusha Coffee Lodge
Meals: Dinner
Into Tarangire National Park
Leave Arusha behind and travel southwest toward Tarangire National Park, a landscape of ancient baobab trees, rolling savannah, and seasonal river systems that support an extraordinary concentration of wildlife.
Upon arrival, begin exploring with your first game drive as elephants, giraffes, zebras, and countless other species roam freely across one of northern Tanzania’s most rewarding safari destinations.
As afternoon light settles over the bush, continue to your lodge where elevated views and the sounds of the African wilderness provide the perfect introduction to life on safari.
Overnight: Tarangire Elephant Springs
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
A Full Day on Safari in Tarangire
Wake to the sounds of the bush and set out for a full day discovering the remarkable diversity of Tarangire National Park.
The park’s permanent river attracts wildlife throughout much of the year, creating exceptional opportunities for wildlife viewing while experienced guides interpret the behaviors, ecology, and interconnected ecosystems that make this landscape so special.
Return to camp between adventures to relax before another memorable evening beneath Africa’s star-filled skies.
Overnight: Tarangire Elephant Springs
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Highlands, Wildlife & Maasai Traditions
Continue your journey toward the fertile highlands surrounding the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, where dramatic scenery and vibrant local culture complement Tanzania’s spectacular wildlife experiences.
Along the way, enjoy additional wildlife viewing before visiting a Maasai community to gain insight into traditions that have shaped life on these plains for generations. This meaningful cultural experience offers a deeper appreciation for the enduring relationship between people, livestock, and the surrounding wilderness.
Arrive at your lodge overlooking the highlands, where cooler temperatures and sweeping views provide a beautiful contrast to the savannah below.
Overnight: Ngorongoro Farm House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Oldupai Gorge & Into the Serengeti
Travel through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area toward the endless plains of the Serengeti, pausing at Oldupai Gorge—one of the world’s most important archaeological sites and often referred to as the “Cradle of Humankind.”
Continue across vast grasslands where the landscape gradually opens into one of Africa’s most iconic ecosystems. Wildlife sightings often begin long before reaching camp, offering an exciting introduction to the Serengeti.
Arrive at your lodge in time to settle in before your first evening surrounded by the sights and sounds of Tanzania’s legendary wilderness.
Overnight: Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Discover the Serengeti
Spend the day exploring the remarkable landscapes of Serengeti National Park, where each game drive reveals a different perspective on one of the world’s greatest wildlife ecosystems.
From expansive golden plains to acacia-dotted woodlands and seasonal waterways, every habitat supports an incredible diversity of animals and birdlife. Your guide will tailor the day’s safari around recent wildlife activity, maximizing opportunities for unforgettable encounters.
As the sun sets across the plains, return to camp for another evening immersed in the timeless rhythm of the Serengeti.
Overnight: Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Sunrise Balloon Safari & The Serengeti
Rise before dawn for one of Africa’s most unforgettable experiences—a hot air balloon safari over the Serengeti.
As the morning light spreads across the plains, quietly drift above rivers, woodlands, and open savannah while wildlife moves below. After landing, celebrate with a traditional bush breakfast before continuing your exploration by vehicle.
The remainder of the day is devoted to additional game viewing, providing one final opportunity to experience the extraordinary beauty of the Serengeti before tomorrow’s journey to the coast.
Overnight: Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Zanzibar & Historic Stone Town
Leave the savannah behind as you fly to the Indian Ocean island of Zanzibar, where centuries of African, Arab, Indian, and European influences have created one of East Africa’s most fascinating cultural destinations.
Explore the winding alleyways of UNESCO-listed Stone Town, discovering ornate architecture, bustling markets, carved wooden doors, and historic landmarks that tell the story of Zanzibar’s maritime heritage.
Spend the evening overlooking the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean as the pace of your journey shifts from safari adventure to coastal relaxation.
Overnight: LUX* Marijani, Zanzibar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
The Indian Ocean
Experience Zanzibar from the water aboard a traditional wooden dhow, sailing along crystal-clear waters that have connected East Africa with the wider world for centuries.
Cruise past secluded beaches and coral reefs while enjoying opportunities to swim, snorkel, or simply relax as gentle ocean breezes carry you along the coastline. The slower rhythm of island life offers a refreshing contrast to the excitement of safari.
Return to Stone Town for a relaxing evening at leisure.
Overnight: LUX* Marijani, Zanzibar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Welcome to Rwanda
This morning, depart Zanzibar and fly to Kigali, the vibrant capital of Rwanda.
Known for its cleanliness, innovation, and remarkable story of renewal, Kigali provides an inspiring introduction to one of Africa’s most progressive nations. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy an opportunity to experience the city’s welcoming atmosphere before continuing your journey.
This evening, prepare for one of the world’s most extraordinary wildlife encounters awaiting you in the volcanic highlands.
Overnight: Kigali Marriott Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Into Volcanoes National Park
Journey north through Rwanda’s picturesque countryside, where terraced hillsides and rural villages gradually give way to the dramatic volcanic peaks bordering Volcanoes National Park.
Upon arrival, settle into your lodge nestled among eucalyptus forests with magnificent views of the surrounding volcanoes. The peaceful mountain setting provides the perfect environment to relax before tomorrow’s unforgettable gorilla trek.
Spend the remainder of the day at leisure while your guides prepare you for this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Overnight: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Gorilla Trekking Experience
Today is the defining moment of your journey as you venture into Volcanoes National Park in search of endangered mountain gorillas.
Accompanied by expert trackers, hike through dense bamboo forests and mist-covered slopes before spending a precious hour observing a habituated gorilla family in their natural habitat. The experience is deeply moving, offering an unforgettable glimpse into the lives of one of the world’s rarest primates.
Return to your lodge to reflect on an extraordinary adventure spanning three remarkable African destinations.
Overnight: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Farewell to Africa
Enjoy a leisurely morning before returning to Kigali for your onward journey home.
As your adventure comes to a close, depart with memories of Tanzania’s legendary wildlife, Zanzibar’s rich coastal heritage, and Rwanda’s unforgettable mountain gorillas—a collection of experiences that showcase the remarkable diversity of East Africa.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
