10 Days Best of Tanzania Safari

The 10-day Best of Tanzania safari adventure lives up to its name, and takes you to the wonders of this extraordinary East African country, showcasing the best of Tanzania when it comes to safari attractions. Beginning from the vibrant city of Arusha, set beneath the slopes of Mount Meru, to the iconic national parks and conservation areas, get ready for an unforgettable adventure that combines thrilling game drives, cultural interactions, and natural beauty as you’ve never seen before. Prepare to be wowed by the plethora of wildlife, from the mighty elephants of Tarangire National Park to the elusive big cats of the Serengeti. Marvel at the tree-climbing lions of Lake Manyara and experience life in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, the Maasai way. Experience the off-the-beaten-path wonders of Lake Natron and Lake Eyasi, where you’ll interact with the Hadzabe Bushmen and learn about their unique way of life, how they hunt baboons, how they consume raw game meat and gather honey and insects from the bush. If that is not enough, their click language would arguably be the best part of meeting them. Let the beauty of Tanzania unfold before your eyes as you join this adventure of a lifetime, creating cherished memories and forging a deep connection with Mother Nature and cultural treasures of this remarkable safari destination.

Tanzania isn’t just the best safari in Africa — for many, it’s the single greatest travel experience possible on this planet. Once you’ve sat silently on the Serengeti plains with a million animals stretching to the horizon, everything else feels a little… ordinary.

Karibu sana (you’re very welcome) — go now, while it’s still this wild, this 10 day safari in Tanzania is calling, will you answer?

Best 10 Day-to-Day Itinerary Summary

Day 1: Arusha – Arusha National Park
Day 2: Arusha – Tarangire National Park
Day 3: Tarangire National Park – Lake Manyara National Park
Day 4: Lake Manyara National Park – Lake Natron
Day 5: Lake Natron
Day 6: Lake Natron – Northern Serengeti
Day 7: Serengeti National Park
Day 8: Serengeti National Park – Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Day 9: Ngorongoro Crater – Lake Eyasi
Day 10: Lake Eyasi – Arusha

Why Tanzania Is the Best Safari Destination on Earth

Nowhere else packs the Great Migration, all Big Five, explosive predator action, and jaw-dropping scenery into one country. Tanzania isn’t just a safari—it’s the safari.

Highest wildlife density in Africa: Serengeti + Ngorongoro = more big cats per square kilometer than anywhere else.
The Great Migration: The only place on the planet where 1.7–2 million wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle make a 1,000-km circular journey every year — often called the “greatest wildlife show on Earth.”
All the Big Five are truly findable (especially black rhinos in Ngorongoro).
Dramatic landscapes: Endless golden plains, volcanic craters, baobab forests, soda lakes glowing pink with flamingos.
Authentic cultures: Maasai, Hadzabe (click-speaking hunter-gatherers), Datoga — you can visit real villages, not tourist shows.
Variety in 10–12 days: You can see everything from tree-climbing lions to 600-bird species to chimpanzees in one trip.

The Absolute Best Places to Visit (Northern Circuit + Extras)

From the endless plains of the Serengeti to the wildlife-filled bowl of Ngorongoro and ancient tribes around Lake Eyasi, these are the destinations that turn first-time visitors into lifelong Africa addicts.

Destination	Why It’s the Best	Best Months	Signature Experience
Serengeti National Park	The gold standard of safaris. Unlimited cats, Migration river crossings	Jun–Oct (crossings), Dec–Mar (calving)	Hot-air balloon at dawn over migrating herds
Ngorongoro Crater	World’s largest intact caldera; 25,000 animals in a bowl	All year (best Jun–Feb)	Picnic lunch surrounded by lions & hyenas
Tarangire National Park	Elephant paradise (3,000–6,000), giant baobabs	Jun–Nov (dry season)	Walking safari among elephant herds
Lake Manyara	Tree-climbing lions, millions of flamingos	Jun–Oct	Cycling safari (rarely offered elsewhere)
Lake Eyasi (Hadzabe & Datoga)	One of the last hunter-gatherer tribes on Earth	All year	Hunting with arrows at sunrise
Arusha NP / Kilimanjaro views	Black-and-white colobus monkeys, Mt. Kili backdrop	All year	Canoe safari with giraffes on the shore

The Best Safari Experiences Money Can Buy

Hot-air balloons at sunrise, full-day river-crossing stakeouts, hunting with the Hadzabe, sleeping under the stars—these are the bucket-list moments that make people say “I’ll never top this trip.”

Hot-air balloon over the Serengeti at sunrise → champagne breakfast in the bush
Mara River crossing day – spend 8–10 hours on the riverbank (July–Oct)
Night game drive in Tarangire or Serengeti (very few places allowed)
Walking safari with Maasai warriors
Hunting with the Hadzabe at dawn (one of the last true hunter-gatherer experiences left)
Fly-camping – sleep under the stars on a private camp

Best Time of Year – Month-by-Month Breakdown

Whether you want 8,000 wildebeest calves born daily, dramatic river crossings with crocodiles, or lush green solitude at half price, there’s a perfect month for every dream safari.

January–March: Wildebeest calving in Ndutu – thousands of predators, babies everywhere
June–July: Grumeti River crossings (Western Corridor) – fewer tourists than Mara River
August–October: Mara River drama (peak season, book 18 months ahead)
November & December: Short rains, green season, baby animals, incredible birding, half-price rates

Practical “Best” Tips from People Who Do This Every Year

Hard-won advice from guides, photographers, and repeat safari goers: the shortcuts, gear hacks, and small decisions that upgrade a great safari into a flawless one.

Fly IN and OUT of Kilimanjaro (JRO), not Dar es Salaam — saves 9–12 hours driving.
Use internal flights (Coastal, Auric, Regional Air) — Arusha → Serengeti saves a full day.
Book a private safari — worth every extra dollar. You control start times (5:30 a.m. = best animal activity).
Bring binoculars 10×42 (one pair per person).
Pack a GoPro or phone bean-bag for sharp photos from the vehicle.
Tip your guide $20–25/day and driver $15–20/day (split if same person).
Drink only bottled water; ice is usually fine in good camps.

The “Wow” Moments Travellers Talk About for Years

The scenes that silence even the chattiest travellers: leopards in trees, half a million wildebeest on the move, lions roaring outside your tent—these are the memories that live rent-free in your head forever.

A leopard dragging a fresh kill into a sausage tree at sunset
500,000 wildebeest thundering past your vehicle for 40 straight minutes
Falling asleep to lions roaring 200 m from your tent
A Maasai child teaching you how to make fire with sticks
Watching a cheetah family hunt at 190 km/h on the Gol Kopjes

Arrival: On arrival to Tanzania, you will be picked up by a Tranquil Kilimanjaro staff member and be transported to your point of accommodation, to prepare for the best safari adventure that is yet to come.

Day 1

Arusha - Arusha National Park

Welcome to Tanzania, where we never settle for mediocrity when it comes to safaris! We’ll pick you up from your accommodation in Arusha or Moshi and head to Arusha National Park. Get ready for an exciting day ahead!

Game Drive: Exploring the Wonders of Arusha National Park

Jump on a jeep for a thrilling half-day or full-day game drive through the park. Witness the breathtaking beauty of the Momella lakes and the Ngurdoto Crater, also known as “Little Ngorongoro.” Keep your eyes peeled for incredible wildlife sightings, including bushbuck, giraffes, hippos, and buffalo.

Canoe Safari: A Unique Adventure on the Momella Lakes

For an extraordinary experience, opt for a guided canoe safari on the Momella lakes (extra cost). Leave the car behind and immerse yourself in nature as you glide through the water, spotting wildlife like zebras, giraffes, and even hippos. It’s a fantastic opportunity to see the animals up close in their natural habitat.

Walking Safari: Explore the Enchanting Forests of Arusha National Park

Stretch your legs and get on a guided walking safari through the park. Discover the wonders of the forest, home to black and white colobus monkeys, zebras, buffalo, and various antelope species. Along the way, keep an eye out for the diverse birdlife, including the magnificent crowned eagle, lanner falcon, and Levaillant’s cuckoo.

After an awe-inspiring day, we’ll return to Arusha in the late afternoon. Take home memories that will last a lifetime and photographs to cherish.

Accommodation: Olerai Lodge (Mid-range lodge located outside Arusha NP)

Day 2

Arusha - Tarangire National Park

Today, we’ll depart from Arusha after a delicious breakfast and head to Tarangire National Park. Get ready for an unforgettable wildlife experience!

As we drive through the picturesque landscape, you’ll pass vibrant Maasai villages and the vast open plains that epitomise the African scenery. Once inside Tarangire National Park, a breathtaking panorama of the golden savannah surrounding the Tarangire River awaits you. The river serves as a lifeline for the animals during the dry season, attracting a myriad of wildlife.

Keep your camera ready as you explore the park. Marvel at the herds of elephants, graceful giraffes, and magnificent Cape buffaloes that roam the park’s landscapes. With luck, you might even spot endangered species like the greater kudu or the fringe-eared oryx.

At the end of the day, retire to your accommodation and relish the memories of the wildlife encounters.

Main Destination: Tarangire National Park

Accommodation: Sangaiwe Tented Lodge (Mid-range tented camp located just outside Tarangire NP)

Meals & Drinks: All meals included, drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Day 3

Tarangire National Park - Lake Manyara National Park

After a delightful breakfast, we’ll continue with an adventure to Lake Manyara National Park. Brace yourself for an extraordinary safari experience and fantastic photographic opportunities!

Lake Manyara National Park is a photographer’s paradise, showcasing an abundance of iconic African wildlife. Look out for the famous tree-climbing lions, a rare sight that will leave you in awe. The park is also home to a wide variety of bird species, including vibrant flamingos, majestic birds of prey, and the striking lilac-breasted roller.

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Lake Manyara as you explore its diverse ecosystems. From dense forests to expansive grasslands, the park offers a captivating blend of landscapes and wildlife.

Accommodation: Africa Safari Lake Manyara (Comfort tented camp located just outside Lake Manyara NP)

Meals & Drinks: All meals included, drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Day 4

Lake Manyara National Park - Lake Natron

Today, we’ll carry on an extraordinary journey to discover modern-day Tanzanian village life. Get ready for an immersive experience!

Hop on a bike and explore the local farming village of Mto Wa Mbu. This unique village is home to over 120 different tribes from across Africa, making it a cultural melting pot. Marvel at the local farms, schools, and homes, and visit the bustling market and milling machines. If you prefer a more leisurely pace, you can swap the biking tour for a tuk-tuk ride.

After your morning exploration, indulge in a delicious local lunch served under the shade of banana leaves. Sample a wide array of Tanzanian cuisine, including the opportunity to taste banana beer, a local brew made from bananas.

In the afternoon, we’ll continue our journey to Lake Natron, passing through the cultural heartland of the Maasai. En route, you’ll have the chance to visit Engaruka, an archaeological site showcasing a Stone Age settlement. Arrive in the late afternoon and enjoy a mesmerising sunset.

Main Destination: Lake Natron

Accommodation: Africa Safari Lake Natron (Mid-range tented camp located in or near Lake Natron)

Meals & Drinks: All meals included, drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Day 5

Lake Natron

Prepare for an extraordinary day of exploration as we delve into the hidden treasures of Lake Natron. This hidden gem is one of Tanzania’s least-visited destinations, offering a unique and off-the-beaten-track experience.

You’ll spend the day walking by the lake with a knowledgeable guide, discovering waterfalls and hiking to the hominid footprint. The landscape’s stunning beauty, adorned with vibrant hues ranging from pink to lime, green, and red due to mineral concentrations, will leave you in awe. Keep an eye out for the famous flamingos that flock here to breed.

As the day comes to a close, relax and enjoy a sundowner overlooking Lake Natron, the majestic Lengai, and Gelai mountains. Witness the captivating sunset behind the escarpment of the Great Rift Valley. Indulge in a delicious dinner and savour a refreshing drink while gazing at the awe-inspiring Ondonyo Lengai, the active volcano and holy mountain for the Maasai.

Main Destination: Ngorongoro Highlands

Accommodation: Africa Safari Lake Natron (Mid-range tented camp located in or near Lake Natron)

Meals & Drinks: All meals included, drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Day 6

Lake Natron - Northern Serengeti

Get ready for another thrilling day filled with adventure! After a scrumptious breakfast, bid farewell to the captivating landscape of Lake Natron and set off for the world-famous Serengeti, one of nature’s greatest wonders.

As we drive, enjoy the scenic route that leads us through winding roads and picturesque views. Say goodbye to Lake Natron as you leave the Rift Valley behind and continue through the village of Wasso, heading to Northern Serengeti. Although it’s not a short drive, the unique vistas and breathtaking scenery make the journey truly worthwhile.

Expert Tip: The best time to visit North Serengeti is from July to October. If you travel during another time of year, we will adjust the location of your overnight accommodation, ensuring you still have ample time for a game drive.

Main Destination: Northern Serengeti National Park

Accommodation: Lobo Wildlife Lodge (Mid-range lodge located inside Serengeti NP)

Meals & Drinks: All meals included, drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Day 7

Serengeti National Park

Today, get ready for an exhilarating day of game drives in the distinct and captivating region of Serengeti National Park. Prepare to witness the mesmerizing wildebeest migration and encounter the iconic Big Five.

As you explore the northern part of the Serengeti, your chances of witnessing a wildebeest river crossing increase. Keep your eyes peeled as these incredible creatures cross the river in search of greener pastures and essential nutrients. Your guide will be connected to a radio, allowing you to stay informed about the location of the crossings, maximising your chances of witnessing this awe-inspiring event.

In the afternoon, you have the option to extend your game drive until sunset or participate in one of the optional activities available at your lodge. Nature walks or a relaxing sundowner at the lodge, are popular choices.

Main Destination: Serengeti National Park

Accommodation: Lobo Wildlife Lodge (Mid-range lodge located inside Serengeti NP)

Meals & Drinks: All meals included, drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Day 8

Serengeti National Park - Ngorongoro Conservation Area

After a fulfilling breakfast, we’ll embark on a scenic drive towards the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. As we traverse through the Serengeti, be prepared for exceptional wildlife sightings that may have eluded you on previous days. Witness the incredible abundance of animals, including migrating wildebeests, zebras, giraffes, antelopes, and the majestic African elephants. If you’re lucky, you might even spot stealthy cheetahs, elusive leopards, cunning hyenas, and the king of the savannah, the lion.

Upon arrival in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, take the opportunity to visit an original Maasai boma. The Maasai people are the only tribe allowed to reside in this area, and their rich culture and traditions are truly captivating.

Enjoy a delightful dinner and spend the night either on the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater or in the nearby town of Karatu, depending on your chosen accommodation type.

Main Destination: Ngorongoro Crater

Accommodation: Rhino Lodge (Mid-range lodge located on the crater rim of Ngorongoro Crater)

Meals & Drinks: All meals included, drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Day 9

Ngorongoro Crater - Lake Eyasi

After a scrumptious breakfast, get ready for an extraordinary day as we venture into the magnificent Ngorongoro Crater. Considered one of the world’s natural wonders, this vast caldera offers unparalleled wildlife encounters.

Home to over 120 mammal species, including the renowned Big Five, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a sought-after safari destination. Keep your camera at the ready as you explore the grass plains and witness the incredible diversity of wildlife. Spot the endangered black rhinoceros, hippos cooling off in the water, and a multitude of predators such as lions, leopards, cheetahs, jackals, and hyenas. The crater also teems with wildebeests, zebras, antelopes, and Cape buffaloes.

Main Destination: Lake Eyasi

Accommodation: Lake Eyasi Safari Lodge (Mid-range lodge located in or near Lake Eyasi)

Meals & Drinks: All meals included, drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Day 10

Lake Eyasi - Arusha

Rise and shine early in the morning as we take on an extraordinary experience with the Hadzabe Bushmen. These remarkable people, one of the last true Bushman tribes in Africa, offer a glimpse into Tanzania’s rich cultural heritage.

Join the local hunters as they demonstrate their traditional hunting techniques exclusively for you. Watch in awe as they employ unique motions and utilise natural elements to lure their prey within striking distance.

You’ll also have the opportunity to meet the Datoga people, farmers and cattle breeders who provide further insights into tribal life in Tanzania.

After a day filled with incredible experiences, we’ll make our way back to Arusha. Reflect on the memories created and the fascinating encounters you’ve had during your Tanzanian safari adventure.

Main Destination: Arusha (City)

Accommodation: No accommodation (End of tour)

Meals & Drinks: All meals included, drinking water (Other drinks not included)

End of tour. Additional accommodation can be arranged at an extra cost. Transfer back to the airport can also be arranged upon request.

Experience the wonders of Tanzania with our comprehensive ten-day safari package that embraces the essence of “kila kitu” (everything). From wildlife encounters and cultural immersions to captivating landscapes and unforgettable memories, this safari has it all. Book your adventure today and create memories that will last a lifetime!

Highlights of this 10-Day Tanzania Safari Adventure:

Arusha National Park: Explore the park’s landmarks, including the Momella lakes and the Ngurdoto Crater, on an exciting game drive. You can also opt for a canoe safari or a guided walking safari to discover the park’s diverse wildlife.
Tarangire National Park: Witness the incredible wildlife that roams the golden savannah surrounding the Tarangire River. Look out for elephants, lions, leopards, Cape buffalos, and the rare fringe-eared oryx.
Lake Manyara National Park: Enjoy excellent game viewing opportunities and spot the famous tree-climbing lions. Marvel at the park’s abundant birdlife, including large flamingo flocks and the colorful lilac-breasted roller.
Lake Natron: Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring landscape of Lake Natron. Discover the waterfalls, hike to the hominid footprint, and witness the unique colors of the lake due to mineral concentrations.
Northern Serengeti: Experience the world-famous Serengeti and witness the incredible wildebeest migration. Keep an eye out for river crossings and encounter the Big Five on thrilling game drives.
Ngorongoro Crater: Visit the magnificent Ngorongoro Crater, home to an abundance of wildlife, including the endangered black rhinoceros. Explore the grass plains and spot lions, leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas.
Lake Eyasi: Interact with the Hadzabe Bushmen, one of Africa’s last true Bushman tribes, and witness their traditional hunting techniques. Meet the Datoga people and gain insights into their farming and cattle breeding practices.
Captivating Landscapes: Experience the stunning landscapes of Tanzania, from the picturesque Momella lakes to the golden savannah of Tarangire, the beauty of Lake Natron, and the awe-inspiring views of the Great Rift Valley.
Cultural Immersion: Visit Maasai villages, engage with local communities, and learn about their rich traditions and way of life.
Unforgettable Memories: Capture breathtaking wildlife encounters, stunning sunsets, and the unique beauty of Tanzania’s national parks and conservation areas. Create memories that will last a lifetime.

Embark on this 10-day safari adventure and immerse yourself in the wonders of Tanzania, where you’ll encounter diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cultures.

The cost for the whole 10 Days Tanzania safari includes and excludes the following items