Tanzania: The Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater & Local Flavours

The Great Migration, the tallest mountain in Africa and the world's largest game reserve are only a few of the grand things that make Tanzania one of the most sought after destinations in Africa. Starting this 7 day adventure in the Geneva of Africa gives you the opportunity to explore all the sides of Tanzania. We welcome you to Arusha, and to Tanzania, and invite you to let the endless adventure of wildlife encounters deepen your connection with the earth. Join your CEO and fellow travellers for a welcome briefing. Afterwards, head out for a delicious welcome dinner.

Millions of years ago when the volcano erupted, the world's largest intact and unfilled volcanic caldera was formed, creating Ngorongoro Crater. It is believed that animals like zebras, lions and rhinos fell into the crater almost 500,000 years ago and were trapped. The steepness of the crater is why you won't find a single giraffe inside. Travel to this incredible natural phenomenon and spend the day getting to know the landscape from both above at the breathtaking crater rim, and below on a safari drive and picnic near Hippo Lake on the crater floor.

The day begins with breakfast at the hotel before continuing on from Arusha to Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Travel to the impressive Crater Rim View Point featuring the vast caldera below. Then, drive down into the crater for a unique safari experience and a picnic lunch amidst the sounds of the African bush near the tranquil Hippo Lake. From an incredible density of wildlife to the vast open sky, this is the glimpse of Tanzania you've been searching for. Dinner will be had the lodge accommodations near the crater.

Ngorongoro Crater and The Serengeti are two of the world's most renowned safari destinations. Driving from one iconic spot to the next means three and a half hours of nonstop beauty, wildlife and adventure. But don't go anywhere, because your time in the Serengeti is just starting. So grab your binoculars and your camera and get ready to experience some of the most jaw-dropping wildlife encounters. Depart the lodge this morning for the Central Serengeti. The scenic drive takes you through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area to the Naabi Hill Gate, your entrance to the vast Serengeti National Park. Today is about maximizing your wildlife viewing opportunities. You will enjoy a safari drive en-route to your beautiful accommodations where you will have lunch before another afternoon wildlife drive out in the alluring landscape.

Witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of the Serengeti, where millions of wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle flood the plains in their annual migration, trailed by the continent's most formidable predators. Prepare to be captivated as massive lions dissolve into the shimmering golden savannah, and towering giraffes emerge from the horizon, their grace humbling you as they stand right before your eyes.

Choose to rise early for an exciting day of wildlife viewing and embark on the optional, once-in-a-lifetime chance to take to the skies on a Serengeti Balloon Safari, which includes a one-hour flight and a champagne breakfast upon landing. For those who choose to remain on the ground, enjoy an early morning safari wildlife drive in the area, followed by a delicious bush lunch back at the lodge. The afternoon brings another exhilarating safari wildlife drive in the Serengeti before being whisked away for sundowner drinks as the sun sets over the Serengeti. Return to the lodge to freshen up before gathering for a relaxing group dinner.

• Serengeti Balloon Safari: Spirited aloft in a hot-air balloon, view the wildlife and terrain of the Serengeti that only the birds see. Enjoy a champagne breakfast and keep that shutter-finger good and limber—you’ll be using it plenty over the course of your hour in the air. Please note, additional fees will apply for passengers exceeding the 120 kg (265 lbs) weight limit.

Nestled in the highlands between Lake Manyara and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, the vibrant market town of Karatu offers an authentic glimpse into Tanzanian rural life and serves as a key gateway to the region's most iconic wildlife parks. Experience the lively energy and learn about the unique, local culture while simultaneously enjoying the stunning, rolling green landscapes.

Karatu is a place to pause, absorb the local rhythm, and prepare for—or reflect on—the thrilling safari adventures just a short drive away. After breakfast at the lodge, embark on an immersive wildlife safari drive between the Serengeti and Karatu. Pass through the vast planes and fertile landscapes of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area before arriving at your lodge near Karatu. Enjoy time at leisure this afternoon to relax and simply bask in your lovely surroundings.

A Day of Choices featuring a morning safari adventure or an Elephant Caves hike makes for an unforgettable day. Hoping to rise with the sun? Travel to Lake Manyara National Park for an early morning safari drive and bush brunch. If you’re looking for a change of scenery, choose a guided walk to the famous Elephant Cave, a watering hole used by elephants for their essential mineral intake. Sit down for lunch at a local, organic farm. No matter which experience you choose today, you are guaranteed to feel the vast grandness that is so unique to the East African landscape. Enjoy free time this afternoon at the lodge before a group dinner in the evening.

Rise with the sun and enjoy a hearty breakfast at the lodge before embarking on a journey to the heart of East African culture in Mto wa Mbu. This vibrant town is a mosaic of life, home to 18,000 residents from 120 different tribes, offering a truly unique cultural immersion. Start your day with breakfast at the lodge before heading to Mto wa Mbu. Here, choose between a scenic bike ride through a banana plantation or a fascinating two-hour cultural village walk. The walk is a G Adventures-supported experience, where you'll connect with the community, visit the local market and farmer's fields, see traditional hut construction, and meet local artisans. Afterwards, enjoy a traditional local lunch of meat and plantains before departing for Arusha where your adventure comes to an end at the airport.

Please do not book onward travel prior to 5pm.