Itinerary
Overview
Classic Safari Adventure
This trip of 16-Day Mara River & Chimpanzee Safari will take one through some of the continents’ most impressive landscapes and wildlife places, including thrilling Mara croassings in refuge, and mana, during the wild of Ruaha National Park.
Out of all of these, the happy meeting of the surf with various other kinds of waves will give your closeness with different kinds of wildlife, great views of beautiful places, and warm accommodation well blended into nature. This is a journey filled with very well combined thrills and wildlife safaris, good primate experience, and magnificent landscapes. Majestic as they are from the bustling plains of Serengeti to the verdant forests of Mahale and finally the ruggedness of Ruaha, in this safari is everything of what it would take to explore one of the rich parts of the natural heritage of Tanzania.
Highlights & Activities
What's on offer during this trip?
- Mara River Crossings: Witness the dramatic wildebeest migrations across the crocodile-infested Mara River.
- Chimpanzee Trekking: Track and observe wild chimpanzees in the Mahale Mountains.
- Ruaha National Park Exploration: Discover Tanzania’s largest national park, teeming with wildlife and diverse ecosystems.
- Big Five Sightings: Opportunities to see lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and other iconic African wildlife.
- Scenic Flights: Enjoy aerial views of Tanzania’s landscapes during internal flights.
- Cultural Experiences: Interact with local communities and learn about their traditions.
- Exclusive Accommodations: Stay in well-appointed lodges and private mobile camps offering authentic safari experiences.
Itinerary
Day to day
Day 1: Arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to Tumbili Lodge in Arusha. Settle into your comfortable room and relax after your journey. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at the lodge, preparing for the exciting adventure ahead.
Days 2–4: Fly from Arusha to Serengeti National Park
On the morning of Day 2, after an early breakfast, you will be transferred to Arusha Airport for your flight to the Serengeti National Park. Upon landing, meet your safari guide and proceed to Savannah Mara Camp, located near the Mara River. Over the next three days:
Game Drives: Embark on morning and afternoon game drives focusing on the Mara River area, where you may witness the dramatic wildebeest migrations as they brave the river crossings.Wildlife Viewing: Spot a variety of wildlife including lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and potentially leopards and cheetahs.Scenic Landscapes: Enjoy the breathtaking vistas of the Serengeti's endless plains dotted with acacia trees.Evenings at Camp: Relax in the comfort of your camp, share stories around the campfire, and dine under the stars.Day 5: Fly from Serengeti to Arusha
After a final morning game drive and breakfast at the camp, you will be transferred to the airstrip for your flight back to Arusha. Upon arrival, you will return to Tumbili Lodge. The afternoon is at your leisure:
Optional Activities: Explore Arusha town, visit local markets, or simply unwind at the lodge.Dinner: Enjoy a restful evening with dinner at the lodge, preparing for the next leg of your journey.Days 6–8: Mahale Mountains National Park
On Day 6, depart from Arusha Airport on a scheduled flight to Mahale Mountains National Park, situated on the eastern shores of Lake Tanganyika. Upon arrival:
Transfer to Lodge: You will be taken by boat to Mahale Cottages, nestled between the lush forests and the clear waters of the lake.Chimpanzee Trekking: Over the next three days, engage in guided treks to observe wild chimpanzees in their natural habitat. Learn about their behaviors, social structures, and conservation efforts.Other Activities: Enjoy swimming, kayaking on Lake Tanganyika, fishing, or hiking to nearby waterfalls.Evenings: Relax on the beach, watch stunning sunsets, and savor fresh meals featuring local cuisine.Days 9–15: Fly from Mahale to Ruaha National Park
On Day 9, bid farewell to Mahale and fly to Ruaha National Park. Upon arrival:
Transfer to Camp: Meet your guide and proceed to the EWA Private Mobile Camp, offering an exclusive and intimate safari experience.Game Drives: Over the next seven days, explore Ruaha's diverse landscapes on daily game drives. Spot large prides of lions, elephants, kudus, wild dogs, and a rich variety of birdlife.Walking Safaris: Participate in guided walking safaris to experience the bush up close (subject to availability and park regulations).Flexible Itinerary: The mobile camp allows you to move to different areas within the park to maximize wildlife viewing opportunities.Bush Experiences: Enjoy bush breakfasts, sundowners with panoramic views, and dinners under the stars.Cultural Visits: Optional visits to nearby local communities to learn about their way of life.Day 16: Depart - Fly from Ruaha to Kilimanjaro
After a final morning game drive and breakfast, you will be transferred to the airstrip for your flight back to Kilimanjaro International Airport. Reflect on the incredible experiences as you fly over Tanzania's diverse landscapes. Upon arrival:
Connection: Connect to your international flight home or proceed with your onward travel arrangements.Farewell: Our team will assist with any final arrangements, bidding you a fond farewell and safe travels.What's Included?
- All internal flights between destinations as specified
- Airport and airstrip transfers
- Accommodation as specified in the itinerary
- Meals as specified (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
- Professional English-speaking driver-guide
- Game drives and activities as specified
- All park entry and conservation fees
- Chimpanzee trekking permits in Mahale
- Bottled water during game drives
- Laundry services at accommodations where available
What's Excluded?
- International flights to and from Tanzania
- Tanzania visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Optional activities not mentioned (e.g., additional cultural visits)
- Gratuities for guides and lodge staff
- Personal expenses (e.g., beverages not included, souvenirs)
