Itinerary
Overview
Classic Safari Adventure
This 7-day safari is a perfect blend of some of Tanzania’s most iconic national parks and luxurious stays at the renowned Sopa Lodges. Experience the diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife of Lake Manyara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire National Park. This itinerary allows you to explore the best of Tanzania’s wildlife, including the famous tree-climbing lions of Lake Manyara and the awe-inspiring Big Five in Ngorongoro Crater. With comfortable stays at Sopa Lodges, you can unwind after a day of exciting game drives in some of Africa’s most scenic landscapes.
This 7-Day Sopa Lodge Safari offers a classic Tanzanian wildlife experience with luxurious accommodations. From the lush landscapes of Lake Manyara to the predator-rich plains of the Serengeti, the wildlife-filled Ngorongoro Crater, and the elephant herds of Tarangire, this safari provides an unforgettable journey through some of Africa’s most iconic parks.
Highlights & Activities
What's on offer during this trip?
- Tree-Climbing Lions: Spot the elusive lions of Lake Manyara, known for climbing and resting on trees.
- Serengeti Game Drives: Explore the vast Serengeti plains, home to Africa’s largest herds and a myriad of predators.
- Ngorongoro Crater: Descend into the world’s largest volcanic caldera, a haven for wildlife including rhinos, lions, and elephants.
- Tarangire Elephant Herds: Witness one of the largest elephant populations in East Africa as they roam the baobab-studded landscape.
- Luxurious Stays: Stay at well-known Sopa Lodges, offering comfort, stunning views, and impeccable service.
- Visit the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Experience authentic Maasai culture with a village visit.
- Luxurious tented camps and lodges offering comfort and panoramic views
Itinerary
Day to day
Day 1: Arusha to Lake Manyara National Park
After breakfast in Arusha, drive to Lake Manyara National Park for a game drive. Known for its diverse ecosystems, from forests to lakeshores, Lake Manyara offers a chance to see elephants, giraffes, zebras, and its famous tree-climbing lions. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park before heading to your lodge in the Kilimamoja area for the night.
Day 2: Lake Manyara to Serengeti National Park
Depart for the legendary Serengeti National Park, driving through the lush farmland of Karatu and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Upon reaching the central Seronera region of the Serengeti, you'll be greeted by the sight of endless plains teeming with wildlife. Enjoy an afternoon game drive before settling in at Serengeti Sopa Lodge.
Day 3: Full Day in Serengeti National Park
Spend a full day exploring the Serengeti, famous for the annual Great Migration and its incredible density of predators. Look out for prides of lions, cheetahs, leopards, and hyenas as they hunt the abundant game. Dinner will be served back at the lodge.
Day 4: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater via Olduvai Gorge
After breakfast, enjoy a morning game drive in Serengeti before heading to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Along the way, visit the Olduvai Gorge, a significant archaeological site where some of the earliest human remains were discovered. Stop by a Maasai village for a cultural experience before arriving at your lodge on the crater rim.
Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater Tour
Early in the morning, descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” This UNESCO World Heritage site offers some of the best wildlife viewing in Africa, with opportunities to spot rhinos, elephants, lions, and more. After a picnic lunch on the crater floor, ascend and drive to Tarangire National Park for your overnight stay at Tarangire Sopa Lodge.
Day 6: Full Day in Tarangire National Park
Enjoy a full day of game drives in Tarangire National Park, famous for its vast elephant herds and towering baobab trees. The Tarangire River acts as a lifeline for the park’s wildlife, especially during the dry season when large herds of animals gather around the river. Return to the lodge for dinner and a relaxing evening.
Day 7: Tarangire to Arusha
After a leisurely breakfast, embark on a final morning game drive in Tarangire before heading back to Arusha for lunch and some shopping. Later, transfer to the airport for your flight home.
What's Included?
- Accommodation: 6 nights in luxury tented camps and lodges.
- Meals: Full-board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) throughout the safari.
- Transport: 4×4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof for game viewing, including airport transfers.
- Professional Guide: Services of an experienced, English-speaking safari guide.
- Park Fees: All national park entrance fees, including the Ngorongoro Crater.
- Game Drives: Daily game drives as per the itinerary.
Drinking Water: Bottled water during game drives. - Maasai Village Visit: A cultural visit to a Maasai village (if time permits on Day 7).
- Internal Flights: Domestic flight from Arusha to Serengeti (if applicable).
- Emergency Evacuation: AMREF Flying Doctors emergency evacuation insurance.
What's Excluded?
- International Flights: Flights to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport.
- Visas: Entry visas for Tanzania.
- Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel and medical insurance.
- Gratuities: Tips for guides, drivers, and lodge staff.
- Personal Expenses: Items of a personal nature such as souvenirs, additional beverages, and laundry services.
- Optional Activities: Any activities not mentioned in the itinerary (e.g., hot air balloon safari).
- Alcoholic Beverages: Alcoholic drinks at lodges and camps unless otherwise stated.
- Covid-19 Related Expenses: Any testing or quarantine costs related to Covid-19 regulations.
Insider Insight
We know because we've been there.
Discover the perfect blend of luxury and adventure on this bucket list African safari, featuring breathtaking highlights and serene sanctuaries.
Hamisi Mnaro
Africa Safari Specialist
