11 DAYS
11 Day fly-in & drive safari Northern Tanzania
- Fly-in & drive round trip
- Spot the Big Five in Tanzania
- The Great Serengeti Migration
- Ngorongoro, the ultimate wildlife experience
Any question?
Fly-in & drive round trip
Flying in over the Serengeti provides an aerial sneak-peek of the adventure that awaits below.
Combining the best of both worlds, a Fly-in and Drive allows you to experience the vast plains of the Serengeti from the heights above as well as exploring all the wondrous terrain and animals on offer throughout the parks of the northern Circuit from the open rooftop of a 4×4 safari vehicle. Be flown in across the open plains of the Serengeti, winding your way back by vehicle, adventure doesn’t get much more all encompassing than this.
Package: 227
Day 1
Flight: Arusha - Serengeti Ikoma &
Safari game drive Ikorongo Game Reserve (WMA)
Let the safari adventure begin
Get ready for your adventure! During a 1-hour flight departing from Arusha Airport you will fly overhead the Ngorongoro Crater Highlands and the vast expanse of the Serengeti before making your descent into Africa Safari Serengeti Ikoma. The views from above are undeniably magnificent. The beautiful accommodation Africa Safari Serengeti Ikoma is close to the airstrip, which allows you to drop your bags before going out on a game drive in the Ikorongo Game Reserve area, situated just outside the Serengeti National Park. Ikorongo is rich in flora and fauna species as the reserve has several rivers crisscrossing, and where there is water there is wildlife; elephants, rhino’s, giraffes, buffalos, greater and lesser Kudus, hyenas, baboons, zebras, lions, wild dogs, Grants and Thomson gazelles, topis, warthogs and duikers to name a few. Easy-going game drives can be made here in low emission 4×4 safari vehicles with open sides to give you the best view on wildlife and the astonishing natural surroundings. Late afternoon you return to Africa Safari Serengeti Ikoma.
Accommodation:
Africa Safari Serengeti Ikoma
Safari Comfort Accommodation
Full board meal plan
Day 2
Safari game drive
Grumeti Game Reserve (WMA)
Get your Grumeti game on!
Today provides a unique opportunity to explore the Grumeti Game Reserve area, situated just outside the Serengeti National Park. From May to July the wildebeest migration passes through the Grumeti Game Reserve on their way to northern Serengeti, so a perfect time to see the migration in action. During other times of the year this area has amazing wildlife on show, as it is situated on the Serengeti National Park border and has the Grumeti river running alongside. Here you will have a good chance to spot the black rhino as this area is home to 11 of these majestic but endangered creatures. Late afternoon you return to Africa Safari Serengeti Ikoma.
Accommodation:
Africa Safari Serengeti Ikoma
Safari Comfort Accommodation
Full board meal plan
Day 3
Safari game drive Serengeti
Northern area & Mara river
Stunning Serengeti and the miracle of the great migration
Today is a good day for an early rise, because you will head north from Ikoma before crossing into the Serengeti National Park. It’s going to be an action packed day, with the sighting of the great migration as the ultimate reward. Today you head to the Mara river, approximately 3 hours drive from the camp. The Mara river is well known for the Wildebeest crossing. With a bit of luck you will be witness to this spectacle! Around 2 million animals gather in search of fresh grazing pastures, and the sights and sounds are sure to leave a lasting impression. Moving slightly south-east you come to the Bologonja Springs, where it is easy to spot elephants that are always present thanks to the water sources available. You will spend the night at Africa Safari Serengeti Bologonja in a comfortable canvas lodging with your own en suite bathroom and king size bed
Accommodation:
Africa Safari Serengeti Bologonja
Safari Comfort Accommodation
Full board meal plan
Day 4
Safari game drive Serengeti
Central area & Seronera
Seronera & the best of the big cats
After a good breakfast at Africa Safari Serengeti Bologonja, you will depart on your adventure back towards Africa Safari Serengeti Ikoma. This game drive leads you through the Seronera area, the heart of Serengeti National Park. Be amazed by the vast plains and the enormous amount of wildlife that can be seen here, and start counting the Big Five. Serengeti Seronera is well known as being home to a large number of big cats – lions, leopards and cheetahs. This does not deter the elephant, giraffe, hippo, crocodile, buffalo and impala who are also popular inhabitants of Seronera. Around midday you will stop for a break to enjoy a packed lunch and stretch your legs before ‘jumping back in your jeep’ ready for another few hours of spotting the animals in the afternoon. At the end of the day you will return to Africa Safari Serengeti Ikoma for dinner and a good night’s rest.
Accommodation:
Africa Safari Serengeti Ikoma
Safari Comfort Accommodation
Full board meal plan
Day 5
Flight: Serengeti Ikoma - Lake Natron
Welcome to Lake Natron game drive
Fly-by game viewing and new surroundings
Today brings with it new exploring grounds – Board a mid morning flight over Serengeti to Lake Natron. Enjoy the spectacular views over the vast plains of Serengeti National Park, while hopefully seeing herds of elephants or giraffe roaming below. The Lake Natron area is situated at the lowest point of the Rift Valley, which makes it a dry and hot area, quite a unique geographical site and one of Mother Nature’s specialties! Due to the high amount of alkaline in the lake, there are only a few predators who are able to survive in the area making it a safe breeding ground for the Flamingo’s. After arriving in Natron you’ll go on a drive to explore the volcanic surroundings. End your day by gazing at the stars before retiring to your comfortable bed in Africa Safari Lake Natron.
Accommodation:
Africa Safari Lake Natron
Safari Comfort Accommodation
Full board meal plan
Day 6
A full day of excursions in Lake Natron
Hominid footprints, Waterfall and Village Walk
Waking up at the foot of the Ol Doinyo Lengai is a magical feeling. The day will start with a Flamingo lake walk including bird watching around the lake. The Rift Valley’s Lake Natron is the chosen mating ground of the Lesser flamingo. Long-legged waterfowl may flourish in this region, but to any other species Lake Natron lacks appeal due to its steeply alkaline waters. You will enjoy a nice lunch and then it is time for the next activity: a visit to the Engare Sero Footprint Site. This area has been reported to host one of the best- preserved sets of fossilized hominid footprints in the world. However, until now there has been no detailed characterization and age determination of the footprint-bearing strata (the Footprint Tuff). To complete your day of exploring lake Natron venture out on a moderate two-hour hike along the western edge of Lake Natron leading to a series of narrow gorges and waterfalls, where you can swim in slot canyons and walk behind the falling water. Quite a refreshing activity after a hot day at Lake Natron.
Accommodation:
Africa Safari Lake Natron
Safari Comfort Accommodation
Full board meal plan
Day 7
Flamingo lake walk Lake Natron &
Safari tour to Lake Manyara
Lake Hopping – Natron to Manyara 4×4 style
This morning, put your walking shoes on as a Maasai tribesman guides you on a walk around the shores of Lake Natron on the lookout for the Lesser flamingo. Lake Natron is the most important and regular breeding site for Lesser flamingos in East Africa and during the breeding season Lake Natron hosts up to 2.5 million flamingos. The majority of egg laying and hatching takes place during the months of September to April although the peak occurs between October & (early) December. Besides the waterfowl, there is limited other bird species due to the lake’s steeply alkaline waters. Around midday you will depart Natron for Lake Manyara. The drive can take up to 4 hours and it’s the perfect way to see different shades of Tanzania’s ever-changing landscapes. The arid and dry scenery will slowly be exchanged for the lusher and greener surroundings of the Rift Valley. At the end of the afternoon you will arrive at Africa Safari Lake Manyara for dinner and a good night’s sleep.
Day 8
Safari game drive Tarangire National Park
Countryside transit and Tarangire discovery
Today you will be met at the airport by our driver-guide where you will begin your transit to Tarangire National Park, a peaceful 3 hour drive allowing you to take in some of the beauty of the varying Tanzanian landscapes. The name of the park originates from the Tarangire river, which crosses through the park and is the main source of f reshwater for its resident wildlife. This quiet park is famous for its elephant migration, the mystical Baobab tree, birding and authentic safari atmosphere. You will enjoy a packed lunch at midday and at the end of the afternoon’s game drive you will make your way to Africa Safari Lake Manyara. On arrival you will have time to refresh before finishing the day with dinner under the stars and a good night’s sleep in on of our comfy canvas accommodations or lakeside bungalow.
Day 9
Maasai boma tour Lake Manyara
Easy days keeping it cultural
Time to take it easy – African style! One of the favourite Swahili expressions is pole pole (slow slow) and that’s exactly how today will go! You may wish to sleep in following several busy days filled with activities and travel or perhaps enjoy a second easy coffee while watching the animals graze nearby the restaurant. After breakfast you will visit the traditional home of the Maasai, the Maasai Boma – which consists of a variety of small huts made of mud, sticks and cow dung. The boma is surrounded by a circular “fence” of thorny bushes to protect the tribe and their cattle from predators. On your visit you can practise a traditional dance, engage in a conversation about daily life, traditions and customs and admire the beautiful bead works of the Maasai women. The remainder of the day can be spent in relaxation mode; take a refreshing swim in the pool, read a book and before you know it, it is time for a meal with fresh vegetables from our own garden.
Day 10
Safari game drive Ngorongoro crater
Nothing but nature – Ngorongoro Crater Magic!
Be sure to wake up early today, so there is no delay on your descent into the famous Ngorongoro Crater. As soon as you arrive in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area you will be amazed by the beauty around you. Even more so when you arrive at the edge of the crater and take in the amazing view over one of the natural wonders of this world. The crater of this inactive volcano is approximately 3 million years old, 20 square km in size and the largest unbroken volcanic caldera in the world. Due to its natural borders, the wildlife in the crater is amazing. The crater is home to the Big Five and offers a good chance to spot the rare black rhino. Throw hyena, zebra, buffalo and elephants into the mix, and you have the perfect canvas for a pretty awesome safari experience. At the end of the afternoon you head back to the lodge, Africa Safari Lake Manyara, for a well deserved nights’ sleep.
Day 11
Transfer: Africa Safari Lake Manyara - Arusha area
Don’t do it! Departure day…
All good things end! Enjoy your last meal at Africa Safari Lake Manyara prior to checking out, ready for your journey to Arsuha. After meeting your driver-guide at the reception, you will head off on an easy two-hour drive back to where it all started; heart and camera filled with memories of your African safari adventure.
Africa Safari Serengeti Ikoma
In the Serengeti ecosystem for travellers seeking an exclusive safari experience
Africa Safari Serengeti Ikoma is a comfortable safari accommodation situated within the Serengeti Ecosystem and just 300 metres from the National Park border. Located between Serengeti Seronera, Grumeti and Ikorongo Game Reserves the location is perfect for exploring the Serengeti and all that is on offer in one of the country’s largest national parks. As the lodge is just outside the National Park there are no mandatory Government park or concession fees applicable on overnights, simply the cost of the accommodation itself. The annual migration is at your doorstep for several months of the year and the rarest of the Big Five – the Black rhino can often be sighted grazing nearby. Being in such close proximity to the Grumeti river, Africa Safari Serengeti Ikoma has a backyard full of animals. With spacious, comfortable lodgings and welcoming service, Africa Safari Serengeti Ikoma guarantees the finest combination of comfort and nature.
Africa Safari Serengeti Bologonja
The best location to spot the annual “Wildebeest Migration”
Africa Safari Serengeti Bologonja is a comfortable, mobile safari accommodation, located near the northern border of Serengeti National Park. The lodging grounds are situated inside the National Park close to where the Kenyan Maasai Mara Game Reserve begins. This area is beautiful throughout the year with its hilly landscapes and meandering rivers and it’s greatest spectacle is the annual passing of the wildebeest migration. The accommodation is named after the Bologonja Springs; a natural stream of water that seeps from the nearby Kuka hills forming the start of the Bologonja river that feeds the famous Mara river not much further north. We offer 10 comfortable canvas lodgings each with an en suite bathroom and king size bed.
Africa Safari Lake Natron
Located between the most important safari parks in northern Tanzania
Africa Safari Lake Natron is a luxury safari lodge, accessible to the northern Circuit National parks and conservation areas. It’s idyllic location close to the shores of the sometimes striking red waters of the mineral rich ‘soda’ lake set the very tone for the accommodation base. The grounds are spacious and home to a variety of accommodation options, from Bell tents to the ultimate in Glamping Luxury. The property boasts a charming wood and culture inspired bar/ restaurant, reception and information desk, campfire and has a swimming pool that is embedded in its surrounding landscapes and comes complete with stunning views of neighbouring Mount Ol Doinyo Lengai, a still-active volcano. There are few places in the country that provide such a unique and aesthetically appealing setting, a true nature escape and beautiful resting place for the road-trip loving adventurous souls of the world.
Africa Safari Lake Manyara
Top location, between Tarangire, Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro
Africa Safari Lake Manyara is located between the foothills of Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Manyara however far more distinguished is its position that could easily be mistaken for being right in the middle of the National Park. The accommodation site is a safari in and of itself with various room types scattered throughout the diverse grounds. The Luxury accommodations can be reached by walking through subtle bushland to reach one’s very own private ‘safari cabin’ complete with hammock, raised wooden deck, living room and beautifully rustic interior. The premium bungalows share the same view as the restaurant/bar & dining area and you couldn’t find yourself in closer proximity to wildlife. While you sip on a cool refreshing beverage at the end of your safari day, looking out over the expanse of Lake Manyara dappled with an array of pink from the flamingoes in the distance you almost feel as though you are sharing a meal with the herds of zebra and wildebeest that neighbour the border of the grounds. The grounds also offer a swimming pool with sun terrace, lounge bar, restaurant, fitness & massage centre, free WiFi, 24- hour reception and an excursion desk for all your questions, excursions or last-minute Safari trips.
SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK
The best-known wildlife sanctuary in the world
Endless plains and stunning savannah
With vast open plains and an abundance of wildlife as far as the eye can see, the Serengeti is a safari maker’s dreamland. As the park is so expansive, it is ideally recommended to spend several days exploring. Serengeti National Park spans across 14,763 square kilometres and is easily the largest and arguably most popular of the Northern Circuit National Parks. The Serengeti is host to the annual Wildebeest migration, when some six million hooves pound the open plains, as more than 200,000 zebra and 300,000 Thomson’s gazelle join the wildebeest’s trek for fresh grazing. Buffalo, elephant, giraffe, lion, hippo and hyena are also frequently sighted throughout the Serengeti.
GRUMETI GAME RESERVE (WMA)
Serengeti ecosystem
Path of the wildebeests
From May to July the wildebeest migration passes through the Grumeti Game Reserve on their way to northern Serengeti so a perfect time to see the migration in action. During other times of the year this area has amazing wildlife on show, as it is situated on the Serengeti National Park border and has the Grumeti river running alongside. Here you will have a good chance to spot the Black rhino as this area is home to 11!! of these majestic but endangered creatures.
IKORONGO GAME RESERVE (WMA)
Serengeti ecosystem
Rivers run wild
Ikorongo Game Reserve is located along the left side of the northern part of Serengeti National Park. The small reserve was established in 1994 by the Tanzanian government to maintain a safe pass for the great migration. Ikorongo Game Reserve is part of the Serengeti ecosystem, one of the oldest in the world; it protects the largest and most varied concentration of wildlife on the planet. Ikorongo is rich in flora and fauna species as the reserve has several rivers crisscrossing, and where there is water there is wildlife; elephants, rhino’s, giraffes, buffalos, greater and lesser Kudus, hyenas, baboons, zebras, lions, wild dogs, Grants and Thomson gazelles, topis, warthogs and duikers to name a few. Easy-going game drives can be made here in low emission 4×4 safari vehicles with open sides to give you the best view on wildlife and the astonishing natural surroundings.
SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK
Northern area & Mara river
Northern Serengeti is where the great migration crosses the Mara river
Witness the most amazing wildlife spectacle in Africa at the Mara River. The Mara river is most famous for the legendary wildebeest crossing, a dramatic event, which is featured in countless wildlife documentaries. One of Tanzania’s best kept secrets is the fact that nearly half of the Mara river is situated in the northern Serengeti versus the Masai Mara’s segment in Kenya. While there are hordes of vehicles just a few miles upriver in the Masai Mara, the Serengeti side is virtually devoid of tourists. Not only the Mara river is a special part of this part of Serengeti, Bologonja is a lush and idyllic spot hidden away in the remote reaches of the north. Many varieties of colorful birds can be found here including kingfishers, hoopoes and rollers. Bologonja’s flourishing resources support some unusual antelope species including Mountain reedbuck and Steenbok. The nearby Larelemangi salt lick is a haven for wildlife and large herds of buffalo and elephant are regular visitors.
SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK
Central area / Seronera
Big cat capital
Serengeti’s Seronera area is located in the south-central region of the park and is well known for the large number of big cats; the lion, leopard and cheetah are often spotted here. However, the elephant, giraffe, hippo, crocodile, buffalo and impala are also well known inhabitants. The area is very popular as it is one of the most likely spots to watch a kill. The landscape is dotted with ‘’kopjes’’, rocky granite or Gneiss outcrops, over 550 million years old and in high favour by some of the cats as look-out points while hunting.
LAKE NATRON NATIONAL PARK
The main breeding site for 2.5 million lesser flamingos
Fabulous flamingos
Shimmering amid the sun-scorched Kenyan border northeast of Ngorongoro Conservation Area, this 58 km-long but just 50cm-deep alkaline lake should be on every adventurer’s itinerary. The drives from Mto wa Mbu or the northern Serengeti are remote, with a desolate, other-worldly beauty and an incomparable feeling of space and antiquity. The roads pass through untravelled Maasai land, with small bomas and big mountains often in view in a wild, cauterised landscape. From June to November at the lake itself, around two million flamingos gather – it’s one of East Africa’s most stirring wildlife spectacles. And close to the southern end of the lake, the views of Ol Doinyo Lengai volcano are splendid.
NGORONGORO CRATER
The world’s largest, inactive, intact and unfilled caldera
Is commonly referred to as the 8th wonder of the world
Nothing can prepare you for the breathtaking beauty that is the Ngorongoro Crater. As you stand at the viewpoint looking out over the crater, clouds hovering around the tip of the rim with the cool mountainous breeze in the air, there is no mistaking the divinity of mother nature. The Ngorongoro Crater is a world heritage site, the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera and is commonly referred to as the 8th wonder of the world. Due to its natural borders, there is an abundance of wildlife throughout the conservation area which is home to the Big Five including the African Black Rhino as well as hyena, zebra and elephants to name a few. The Ngorongoro Crater is an absolute must on any northern circuit itinerary.
TARANGIRE NATIONAL PARK
Home of the elephants
The highest concentration of wildlife outside Serengeti
Tarangire National Park is a fun and easy park to explore. Wildlife is abundant and exposed due to the park’s more compact and open terrain making it easier to see wildlife both up close and from a distance. The park is only a short 2 hour drive from Arusha and in close proximity to Lake Manyara. It is is 2850 square kilometres making it the sixth largest park in Tanzania and offering the highest concentration of wildlife outside the Serengeti. Tarangire is known for its large herds of elephants, which can be viewed at close range. Other animals likely to be seen throughout Tarangire are; wildebeest, zebra, buffalo, gazelle, rhino, warthog, impala, python, lion, leopard and over 50 species of birds.
ZANZIBAR
The jewel of the Indian Ocean
Enjoy the ultimate Beach & Safari Holiday
There is no better way to end your safari than by spending a few days/week relaxing on the pristine beaches of the exotic Zanzibar Island. Zanzibar is an island of culture, history and art. Stroll through the cobbled alleyways of the historic Stone town and as you pass by one of the many palace ruins and persian baths it is impossible not to be captivated by the strong arabian influence and romanticism of the Island. The coastal regions are the perfect places to relax and rejuvenate. Spend some lazy days along stretches of white sandy beaches, dive into the clear blue waters of the Indian ocean or explore the underwater world surrounding the island by taking a dive or snorkelling tour. Allow time to stand still as you sip a cool beverage, enjoy the finest of fresh seafood and watch one of the many spectacular sunsets on display
Holiday experiences you can rely on with Paradise & Wilderness
Creating culture rich and authentic holiday’s allowing people to discover the wonders and diversity of Africa and her people.
Promoting responsible travel, TATO accredited with membership number FM/2016/000312.
TOUR FEATURES
- Fly-in & drive round trip
- Can start any day
- Accommodation level: Comfort
- Tour activity level: Light / moderate
- Game drives in 4×4 vehicle with pop-up roof
- Optional extension Zanzibar available
INCLUDED
- All transfers
- All nights in Africa Safari Accommodation
- Full board meal plan
- Safari game drives
- All park fees included
- Other activities as described in the itinerary
EXCLUDED
- International flights
- Tourist Visa: 50 USD
- Tourist tax: 1,50 USD p.p.p.d.
- Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance)
- Tips (not mandatory but greatly appreciated
