A classic tour of Tanzania typically includes visits to renowned national parks, cultural experiences, and natural wonders. Here’s a detailed itinerary for a classic Tanzania tour:

Day 1: Arrival in Arusha

  • Arrival: Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport.
  • Transfer: Transfer to your hotel in Arusha for check-in and rest.
  • Optional Activities: Depending on arrival time, visit local markets or explore Arusha town.
  • Accommodation: Overnight stay in Arusha.

Day 5: Serengeti National Park

  • Full-day Game Drive: Full-day game drive in Serengeti to witness the Great Migration (seasonal), including wildebeests, zebras, and predators like lions and cheetahs.
  • Optional Hot Air Balloon Safari: Early morning hot air balloon safari over the Serengeti followed by a bush breakfast.
  • Accommodation: Overnight in Serengeti.

Day 6: Serengeti – Ngorongoro Conservation Area

  • Drive to Ngorongoro: Depart for Ngorongoro Conservation Area (about 3-4 hours’ drive).
  • Visit Olduvai Gorge: Stop at Olduvai Gorge for a brief visit to the archaeological site (optional, depending on time).
  • Accommodation: Overnight stay at a lodge on the crater rim.

Day 7: Ngorongoro Crater – Karatu

  • Crater Tour: Early morning descent into the Ngorongoro Crater for a game drive. The crater is renowned for its high concentration of wildlife.
  • Cultural Visit: Visit a local Maasai village to learn about their traditions and way of life.
  • Accommodation: Overnight stay at a lodge in Karatu.

Day 2: Arusha – Tarangire National Park

  • Drive to Tarangire: Depart for Tarangire National Park (about 2-3 hours’ drive).
  • Morning Game Drive: Arrive at your lodge, check-in, and enjoy lunch. Afternoon game drive in Tarangire, known for its large elephant herds and baobab trees.
  • Accommodation: Overnight stay at a lodge inside or near Tarangire NP.

Day 3: Tarangire – Lake Manyara National Park

  • Drive to Lake Manyara: Morning game drive in Tarangire. After breakfast, drive to Lake Manyara National Park (about 2 hours’ drive).
  • Game Viewing: Afternoon game drive in Lake Manyara, famous for its tree-climbing lions and diverse birdlife.
  • Accommodation: Overnight stay at a lodge or camp near Lake Manyara.

Day 4: Lake Manyara – Serengeti National Park

  • Drive to Serengeti: Depart for Serengeti National Park (about 4-5 hours’ drive).
  • En-route Game Drive: Game drive en route to Serengeti, exploring the plains and wildlife along the way.
  • Accommodation: Overnight stay at a lodge or tented camp inside Serengeti NP.

Day 8: Karatu – Arusha – Departure

  • Drive to Arusha: Return to Arusha (about 2-3 hours’ drive).
  • Shopping: Visit local markets or shops for last-minute souvenirs.
  • Departure: Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport for departure.

Additional Tips:

  • Best Time to Visit: Consider visiting during the dry seasons (June-October and December-March) for optimal wildlife viewing, especially during the Great Migration in Serengeti.
  • Accommodations: Tanzania offers a range of accommodations from luxury lodges to tented camps, providing options for every traveler’s preference.
  • Activities: Customize your tour with optional activities such as bush walks, night drives, or additional cultural visits based on your interests.
  • Permits: Secure permits for activities like hot air balloon safaris or cultural visits in advance through your tour operator.

This itinerary provides a comprehensive exploration of Tanzania’s diverse landscapes, rich wildlife, and cultural heritage, ensuring a memorable and immersive experience in one of Africa’s most iconic safari destinations. Adjustments can be made based on your interests and preferences to tailor the tour to your liking.