Explore northern Tanzania on a 7-day safari that brings together some of the region’s most rewarding wildlife experiences. From large elephant herds and baobab-lined landscapes in Tarangire, to the dense wildlife of the Ngorongoro Crater, and full days of Serengeti game drives across open plains known for predators and migrating herds, each stop offers a distinct view of Tanzania’s wildlife.

This northern Tanzania safari also includes time in Mto wa Mbu, where you’ll connect with local culture through food, art, and community visits. With expert safari guides, comfortable tented camps, and all key details arranged, it’s a well-rounded way to experience Tanzania’s top safari destinations.

You can also tailor this Tanzania safari to suit your travel style, with flexibility in duration, accommodations, and experiences along the way. If you’re interested in a bush to beach safari, you’ll also like our Multi-Day Tanzania Safari.

This Tanzania safari is designed with respect for wildlife and local communities. As you travel, your guides follow responsible practices that help protect these environments, while your visit supports conservation and local livelihoods.

Day 1 – Arrival in Tanzania (JRO) → Arusha

You’ll be met on arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transferred to Arusha. This first evening is easy-going, giving you time to settle in after your journey.

Accommodation: Palace Hotel, Arusha
Meals included: Dinner

Day 2 – Tarangire National Park

After breakfast, head to Tarangire National Park for your first full game drive. This park is known for its elephant herds, as well as giraffes, zebras, and a variety of birdlife. The Tarangire River often draws animals in, especially during the dry season.

Accommodation: Tarangire Simba lodge
Meals included: Dinner

Day 3 – Lake Manyara National Park

This morning, travel to Lake Manyara National Park. The landscape here shifts between forest, open plains, and the lake itself, attracting a wide range of wildlife.

Spend the day exploring the park, keeping an eye out for elephants, hippos, and tree-climbing lions, along with flocks of flamingos when conditions are right.

Accommodation: Fanaka Campsite
Meals included: Dinner

Day 4 – Ngorongoro Crater → Serengeti National Park

Start early and head to the Ngorongoro Crater. You’ll descend into the crater for a half-day game drive, where wildlife is often easy to spot thanks to the enclosed environment. This is one of the best places to see lions, rhinos, buffalo, and more in a single day.

After lunch, continue on to Serengeti National Park, with game viewing along the way as the landscape opens up into wide plains.

Accommodation: Serengeti Domel Wilderness Tented Camp
Meals included: Dinner

Day 5 – Full Day in Serengeti National Park

Today is dedicated to exploring the Serengeti. You’ll spend the day on game drives, moving through different areas depending on wildlife activity.

This is classic safari country—open space, big skies, and the chance to see predators in action. Lions, cheetahs, and hyenas are all part of the landscape here, along with large herds of grazers.

Accommodation: Serengeti Domel Wilderness Tented Camp
Meals included: Dinner

Day 6 – Serengeti → Lake Manyara Area (Mto wa Mbu)

After a morning game drive in the Serengeti, begin your journey back toward the Lake Manyara region. The drive offers more chances to spot wildlife along the way.

Arrive in the Mto wa Mbu area in the afternoon, where the pace slows down a bit. This is a good moment to relax and take in a different side of Tanzania beyond the parks.

Accommodation: Fanaka Campsite
Meals included: Breakfast, dinner

Day 7 – Mto wa Mbu Cultural Visit → Arusha / Departure

On your final day, take part in a cultural experience in Mto wa Mbu. This may include visiting local artisans, seeing Makonde wood carvings, Tinga Tinga paintings, and enjoying a traditional lunch.

Afterward, you’ll be transferred back to Arusha or to the airport, depending on your departure plans.

Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner