7 days Tanzania Fly-in Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Luxury Safari + Optional Balloon Safari

This airborne 7-day luxury fly-in safari gives you the aerial view of the vast and wildlife-rich wilderness of Africa as it combines the thrill of aerial transfers with immersive wildlife experiences in Tanzania’s most iconic parks. This meticulously crafted itinerary takes you from the elephant-rich landscapes of Tarangire National Park to the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, culminating in the vast plains of the Serengeti, home to the Great Wildebeest Migration. Designed for discerning travellers seeking comfort and exclusivity, you’ll stay in premium partner lodges offering unparalleled views, gourmet dining, and personalised service. A scenic fly-in transfer maximises your time in the wilderness, while an optional hot air balloon safari over the Serengeti adds a magical aerial perspective at dawn. Witness the Big Five, vast herds, and dramatic predator-prey interactions in one of Africa’s premier safari destinations—all while enjoying the seamless luxury of light aircraft journeys and expertly guided game drives.

Best Time to Fly Into Tanzania for Safari

The optimal time for a safari in northern Tanzania, including Tarangire, Ngorongoro, and the Serengeti, is during the dry season from June to October. This period offers excellent wildlife viewing as animals congregate around water sources, vegetation is thinner for better visibility, and roads/airstrips are in prime condition for fly-ins. June to September aligns perfectly with the Great Wildebeest Migration in the Serengeti, including potential dramatic river crossings. For those interested in the calving season (with abundant predator action), January to February in the southern Serengeti is ideal, though with some short rains. Shoulder seasons like December-March provide lush green landscapes and fewer crowds, while avoiding the heavy rains of March-May ensures reliable balloon flights and game drives.

Why Choose Fly-In Safaris

Fly-in safaris elevate the traditional Tanzanian experience by using light aircraft to transfer between parks, saving hours (or even days) of bumpy road travel. This allows more time for game viewing and relaxation in luxury lodges rather than transit. You’ll enjoy stunning aerial views of vast plains, craters, and migrating herds en route—often spotting wildlife from above before landing directly near your camp. Ideal for limited-time itineraries or those seeking comfort, fly-ins access remote areas efficiently, reduce fatigue, and add an adventurous element with scenic flights over iconic landscapes like the Great Rift Valley. While slightly more expensive, the convenience, exclusivity, and maximised wilderness immersion make it a superior choice for luxury travellers.

Adding a Balloon Safari in the Serengeti

A hot air balloon safari is the pinnacle of Serengeti experiences, offering a serene, bird’s-eye view of the endless plains at sunrise. Floating silently above the savanna, you’ll witness sweeping vistas, massive herds (potentially the migration), and wildlife undisturbed below—providing perspectives impossible from ground level. The hour-long flight ends with a traditional champagne bush breakfast in the wilderness, blending romance and adventure. Available year-round in central Serengeti (with seasonal sites following the migration), it’s especially magical in the dry season (June-October) for clear skies. Though optional and weather-dependent, this once-in-a-lifetime addition transforms your safari into an unforgettable aerial spectacle, highly recommended for its unique thrill and photographic opportunities.

Day 1

Arrive in Arusha

Upon arrival in Arusha, you will be warmly welcomed by a Tranquil Kilimanjaro representative and transferred to your accommodation. Take some time to relax and prepare for the exciting adventures ahead.

Accommodation

Luxury: Grand Melia Lodge / Mount Meru Hotel / Arusha Coffee Lodge

Day 2

Arusha to Tarangire National Park

Embark on a scenic drive to Tarangire National Park, known for its large elephant herds. Enjoy a game drive in search of zebras, wildebeest, buffalo, elephants, and giraffes. Capture the diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes before heading to your luxury partner lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.

Accommodation

Luxury: Kitela Lodge / Lake Manyara Kilima Moja / The Retreat at Ngorongoro

Day 3

Ngorongoro Crater & Conservation Area

Experience the wonder of the Ngorongoro Crater, a vast volcanic caldera teeming with wildlife. Encounter the “Big Five” – lions, elephants, buffalos, rhinos, and leopards, as well as various other animals and over 500 bird species. Enjoy a picnic lunch and continue your game viewing adventure in the crater. Return to your lodge for an overnight stay.

Accommodation

Luxury: Kitela Lodge / Lake Manyara Kilima Moja / The Retreat at Ngorongoro

Day 4

Fly to Serengeti

After breakfast, fly from the Manyara airstrip to the iconic Serengeti National Park. Witness the great migration of wildebeest, zebras, and antelope, and explore the diverse landscapes of the park. Enjoy an evening meal and overnight stay at a carefully selected luxury partner lodge.

Accommodation

Luxury: Kubu Kubu Tented Camp / Melia Serengeti Lodge / Four Season Serengeti

Day 5

Central Serengeti

Spend the entire day on game drives in the Serengeti. Encounter a variety of wildlife, including impalas, buffalos, crocodiles, hippos, and the resident predators – leopards, cheetahs, and lions. Marvel at the circle of life in action and capture incredible moments in this remarkable ecosystem. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.

Accommodation

Luxury: Kubu Kubu Tented Camp / Melia Serengeti Lodge / Four Season Serengeti

Day 6

Serengeti National Park

Continue your exploration of the Serengeti, immersing yourself in the park’s abundant wildlife and captivating landscapes. Witness the great herds and their migratory patterns, dictated by rainfall. Encounter breathtaking scenes and have the opportunity to spot predators in action. Return to your luxury partner lodge for dinner and overnight.

Optional Balloon Safari over the Serengeti

On this day, you have the option to enhance your Serengeti experience with a thrilling hot air balloon safari. Drift above the vast plains of the Serengeti as the sun rises, offering breathtaking views of the landscape and wildlife below. Capture stunning photographs and create memories that will last a lifetime. After the balloon safari, join the rest of the group for breakfast and continue your exploration of the Serengeti.

Note: The balloon safari is subject to availability and weather conditions. Additional charges may apply.

Please note that the accommodation mentioned is subject to availability and may vary based on the selected package.

Accommodation

Luxury: Kubu Kubu Tented Camp / Melia Serengeti Lodge / Four Season Serengeti

Day 7

Fly to Arusha

Enjoy breakfast before heading to the Serengeti airstrip for your flight back to Arusha. This marks the end of your unforgettable safari adventure. Depart with incredible memories of Tanzania’s wildlife, landscapes, and cultural experiences.

Please note that the accommodation mentioned is subject to availability and may vary based on the selected package.

The cost for the whole 7 Days Tanzania Fly-in luxury safari with a Serengeti Balloon safari option includes and excludes the following items