Safari Overview

The 9 Day Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Serengeti & Ngorongoro Safari is one of the most diverse wildlife journeys in Tanzania, combining four of the country’s most iconic ecosystems into a single immersive experience.

This itinerary is ideal for travelers seeking variety in landscapes and wildlife encounters, ranging from the elephant-filled plains of Tarangire National Park, the tree-climbing lions of Lake Manyara, the predator-rich savannahs of Serengeti National Park, and the wildlife-dense Ngorongoro Crater.

With nine days of exploration, this safari provides a balanced pace, excellent photography opportunities, and strong chances of encountering the Big Five.

Route

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

Safari Highlights

• Tree-climbing lions in Lake Manyara
• Seasonal flamingos and birdlife
• Large elephant herds in Tarangire
• Serengeti predator action
• Ngorongoro Crater Big Five wildlife
• Scenic Rift Valley landscapes
• Diverse ecosystems in one itinerary
• Excellent wildlife photography opportunities

Why Choose This Safari?

Maximum Ecosystem Diversity

This safari is designed for travelers who want to experience multiple habitats in one journey:

• Savannah plains (Serengeti)
• Crater ecosystem (Ngorongoro)
• Lake and forest ecosystem (Lake Manyara)
• Baobab woodlands (Tarangire)

Strong Wildlife Viewing Opportunities

Across nine days, guests enjoy:

• High predator encounter rates
• Elephant herds in multiple regions
• Big Five sightings potential
• Seasonal migration sightings (depending on timing)

Balanced Safari Pace

Unlike shorter itineraries, this safari allows:

• More time in each park
• Relaxed game drives
• Better photography conditions

Detailed Safari Itinerary

Day 1: Arusha to Tarangire National Park

Depart Arusha and drive to Tarangire National Park.

Afternoon game drive among baobab landscapes.

Overnight near Tarangire.

Day 2: Full Day Tarangire Safari

Full-day exploration of Tarangire.

Wildlife highlights include:

• Elephants
• Lions
• Zebras
• Giraffes
• Buffalo

Overnight in Tarangire region.

Day 3: Tarangire to Lake Manyara National Park

Drive to Lake Manyara National Park.

Afternoon game drive in forest and lakeside habitats.

Overnight near Karatu.

Day 4: Lake Manyara Exploration

Full-day exploration of Lake Manyara ecosystems.

Highlights:

• Tree-climbing lions
• Flamingos (seasonal)
• Hippos and baboons

Overnight near Karatu.

Day 5: Lake Manyara to Serengeti National Park

Drive through Ngorongoro Highlands to Serengeti.

Afternoon game drive upon arrival.

Overnight in Serengeti.

Day 6: Full Day Serengeti Safari

Explore Serengeti plains.

Possible sightings:

• Lions
• Cheetahs
• Leopards
• Wildebeest
• Hyenas

Overnight in Serengeti.

Day 7: Extended Serengeti Game Drive

Another full day in Serengeti focusing on predator activity and wildlife photography.

Overnight in Serengeti.

Day 8: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Morning game drive before departure.

Drive to Ngorongoro Highlands.

Overnight near crater rim.

Day 9: Ngorongoro Crater Safari and Return to Arusha

Descend into Ngorongoro Crater for a full-day safari.

Wildlife includes:

• Black rhino
• Lions
• Buffalo
• Elephants
• Hippos

Return to Arusha in the afternoon.

Wildlife You May Encounter

Big Five

• Lion
• Leopard
• Elephant
• Buffalo
• Black Rhino

Predators

• Cheetah
• Hyena
• Jackal
• Serval cat (rare)

Plains & Forest Wildlife

• Zebra
• Wildebeest
• Giraffe
• Gazelle
• Impala
• Hippos

Birdlife

• Flamingos
• Hornbills
• Eagles
• Secretary birds
• Kingfishers

Best Time to Visit

June to October

• Best wildlife visibility
• Dry season game viewing
• Excellent predator sightings

January to March

• Calving season in Serengeti
• High predator activity
• Green landscapes

November to December

• Fewer crowds
• Beautiful scenery
• Good birdwatching

Safari Inclusions

• Park entry fees
• Professional safari guide
• Private 4×4 safari vehicle
• Accommodation for 8 nights
• All meals during safari
• Bottled drinking water
• Government taxes and levies
• Arusha transfers

Safari Exclusions

• International flights
• Tanzania visa fees
• Travel insurance
• Optional balloon safari
• Alcoholic beverages
• Personal expenses
• Tips and gratuities

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this safari different from shorter itineraries?

This 9-day safari allows more time in each park, giving a richer and less rushed wildlife experience.

Can I see the Big Five on this safari?

Yes. Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti offer strong chances of seeing all Big Five animals.

Is Lake Manyara worth including?

Yes. It adds unique ecosystems like forests and lakes not found in other parks.

How much time is spent in Serengeti?

Several days are dedicated to Serengeti for extended wildlife viewing.

Is this safari suitable for photographers?

Yes. The itinerary offers diverse landscapes and excellent wildlife photography conditions.

When is the best time for this safari?

June to October is best for wildlife viewing, but the safari is excellent year-round.

Can this safari be customized?

Yes. It can be upgraded to luxury lodges or combined with Zanzibar.