Itinerary
Overview
Classic Safari Adventure
Experience the ultimate 17-day photographic safari through Tanzania’s most iconic wildlife destinations. This journey is meticulously designed for photography enthusiasts who wish to capture the breathtaking moments of the Great Migration, diverse landscapes, and the rich culture of East Africa. From the elephant-rich Tarangire National Park to the flamingo-lined shores of Lake Manyara, the majestic Ngorongoro Crater, and the endless plains of the Serengeti, this safari offers unparalleled opportunities to witness and photograph Africa’s most spectacular wildlife events.
Highlights & Activities
What's on offer during this trip?
- Great Migration: Capture the awe-inspiring movements of wildebeest and zebras across the Serengeti plains.
- Big Five Sightings: Opportunities to photograph lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffaloes in their natural habitats.
- Tarangire National Park: Known for its large elephant herds and ancient baobab trees.
- Lake Manyara National Park: Famous for its tree-climbing lions and vast flocks of flamingos.
- Ngorongoro Crater: Explore the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera, teeming with wildlife.
- Cultural Experiences: Interact with local Maasai communities and learn about their traditions.
- Private Mobile Camp: Enjoy an exclusive and intimate safari experience in the heart of the wilderness.
- Professional Guidance: Benefit from experienced guides who understand the needs of wildlife photographers.
Itinerary
Day to day
Day 1–2: Arrival and Briefing in Arusha
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be greeted and transferred to Kia Lodge, conveniently located near the airport. Spend the next two days resting and acclimating to the Tanzanian environment. Use this time to relax by the pool, organize your photography equipment, and attend a detailed safari briefing. The briefing will cover the itinerary, wildlife photography tips, and essential information to ensure a successful and enjoyable journey.
Days 3–5: Arusha to Tarangire National Park
Depart from Arusha and drive to Tarangire National Park, famous for its diverse landscapes and large elephant populations. Over the next three days:
Game Drives: Explore the park's savannahs, swamps, and woodlands, capturing images of elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, and various bird species.Photography Opportunities: Focus on the unique baobab trees, vibrant sunsets, and wildlife interactions.Cultural Visit: Optional visit to a nearby Maasai village to photograph and learn about their way of life.Evenings at Camp: Relax under the stars, review your photos, and prepare for the next day's adventures.Days 6–8: Tarangire to Lake Manyara National Park
Journey to Lake Manyara National Park, nestled at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment. During these three days:
Game Drives: Discover the park's diverse habitats, from groundwater forests to soda lakes.Wildlife Photography: Capture images of tree-climbing lions, large troops of baboons, hippos, and the vibrant birdlife, including thousands of flamingos along the lake's edge.Scenic Landscapes: Photograph the stunning vistas of the Rift Valley and the shimmering lake.Night Game Drive: Optional nocturnal safari to spot and photograph nocturnal species (additional cost).Days 9–11: Lake Manyara to Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Proceed to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, where you'll stay at the exclusive EWA Private Mobile Camp. Over these three days:
Ngorongoro Crater Exploration: Descend into the crater for full-day game drives, offering exceptional opportunities to photograph a high concentration of wildlife in a relatively small area.Big Five Sightings: Focus on capturing images of black rhinos, lions, elephants, buffaloes, and leopards.Cultural Interaction: Visit a Maasai village to photograph and learn about their traditions and daily life.Camp Experience: Enjoy the intimacy of a private camp, with personalized service and the flexibility to tailor your activities.Days 12–14: Ngorongoro to Serengeti National Park (Ndutu Region)
Travel to the Ndutu region of the Serengeti, known for its role in the Great Migration. During these days:
Game Drives: Explore the Ndutu plains and woodlands, focusing on the migratory herds of wildebeest and zebras.Calving Season: If traveling between December and March, photograph the calving season, when thousands of newborns attract predators.Predator Action: Capture dramatic moments with lions, cheetahs, and hyenas in pursuit.Landscape Photography: Utilize the soft light of early mornings and late afternoons to photograph the picturesque landscapes.Days 15–16: Serengeti Central Region
Move to the Central Serengeti, an area renowned for its abundant wildlife year-round. Over these two days:
Seronera Valley Exploration: Focus on photographing big cats, including leopards in acacia trees and cheetahs on the open plains.Balloon Safari: Optional hot air balloon ride at sunrise for aerial photography of the Serengeti (additional cost).Hippo Pool Visit: Capture images of hippos wallowing and interacting in the water.Sunset Photography: Take advantage of the golden hour to photograph wildlife and landscapes bathed in warm light.Day 17: Return to Kilimanjaro and Departure
After a final morning game drive and breakfast, transfer to the airstrip for your flight back to Kilimanjaro International Airport. Upon arrival:
Day Room Use: Relax and freshen up at Kia Lodge, where a day room has been reserved for you.Preparation for Departure: Organize your belongings and ensure all photographic equipment is safely packed.Farewell: Transfer to the airport for your international flight home, carrying unforgettable memories and a collection of stunning photographs.What's Included?
- All accommodations as specified
- Meals as specified (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
- Professional English-speaking driver-guide experienced in photographic safaris
- 4×4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof and window seat for each guest
- All park entry and conservation fees
- Bottled water during game drives
- Airport transfers
- Internal flights as specified in the itinerary
- Day room at Kia Lodge on Day 17
What's Excluded?
- International flights to and from Tanzania
- Tanzania visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Optional activities (e.g., night game drives, hot air balloon safari)
- Gratuities for guides and lodge staff
- Personal expenses (e.g., beverages not included, laundry, souvenirs)
- Additional services not mentioned in the itinerary
