Tanzania, with its diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, offers a plethora of options for an unforgettable safari experience. Whether you're looking to explore the vast savannahs, climb Africa's highest peak, or relax on pristine beaches, Tanzania has something for every type of traveler. Here, we present a detailed guide to different 7-day African safari tours in Tanzania, showcasing the best combinations of adventure, wildlife, and relaxation.
1. 7-Day Classic Safari Tour: Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Tarangire
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
Start your journey in Arusha, the gateway to Tanzania's northern safari circuit. Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel in Arusha. Spend the rest of the day relaxing and recovering from your journey. If time permits, you might explore the local markets or visit the Cultural Heritage Centre, which showcases Tanzanian art and crafts.
Day 2: Arusha to Tarangire National Park
After an early breakfast, depart for Tarangire National Park, a journey that takes approximately two hours. Once in the park, you'll embark on a game drive through its diverse landscape. Tarangire is renowned for its large elephant herds and ancient baobab trees. The park is also home to lions, leopards, and a plethora of bird species. Enjoy a picnic lunch at a scenic spot within the park before continuing your game drive in the afternoon.
Day 3: Tarangire to Lake Manyara National Park
In the morning, head towards Lake Manyara National Park, a short drive from Tarangire. This park, set against the dramatic backdrop of the Great Rift Valley escarpment, is famous for its tree-climbing lions and the vast flocks of flamingos that inhabit the soda lake. Spend the day exploring the park's diverse habitats, from groundwater forests to savannahs and marshes. Spot elephants, hippos, and an array of birdlife while enjoying the stunning scenery.
Day 4: Lake Manyara to Serengeti National Park
Leave Lake Manyara behind and travel to the world-renowned Serengeti National Park. En route, pass through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, where you might catch a glimpse of the spectacular Ngorongoro Crater. Once in the Serengeti, settle into your accommodation and prepare for an afternoon game drive. The Serengeti's vast plains are home to the iconic Big Five, as well as cheetahs, hyenas, and a myriad of other wildlife species.
Day 5: Full Day in Serengeti National Park
Dedicate a full day to exploring the Serengeti. Begin with an early morning game drive to catch the predators at their most active, followed by a hearty breakfast in the bush. Continue your game drives throughout the day, marveling at the park's incredible biodiversity. Depending on the time of year, you might witness the Great Migration, a natural spectacle involving millions of wildebeest, zebras, and other herbivores moving across the plains.
Day 6: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater
After breakfast, journey to the Ngorongoro Crater, often referred to as the "Eighth Wonder of the World." Descend into the crater for a day of unparalleled wildlife viewing. The crater floor is teeming with animals, including the endangered black rhino, as well as lions, elephants, and hippos. Enjoy a picnic lunch by a hippo pool, taking in the breathtaking scenery before heading to your lodge on the crater rim for the night.
Day 7: Ngorongoro to Arusha and Departure
On your final day, travel back to Arusha. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time to explore the town further or visit a local coffee plantation. Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure, concluding your classic safari adventure with cherished memories of Tanzania's natural wonders.
2. 7-Day Kilimanjaro Climb and Safari Combo
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
Arrive in Arusha and prepare for your Kilimanjaro climb. After being picked up from the airport, you'll check into your hotel and attend a pre-climb briefing with your guide. This session will cover essential details about the climb, including safety measures, the route, and what to expect. Use the rest of the day to relax and get a good night's sleep before your adventure begins.
Day 2-4: Kilimanjaro Climb
Embark on a 3-day trek up Mount Kilimanjaro via the Marangu Route, also known as the "Coca-Cola Route." Start at the Marangu Gate, trekking through lush rainforest on the first day, reaching the Mandara Hut for your overnight stay. On the second day, hike through heath and moorland to the Horombo Hut, enjoying panoramic views along the way. The third day brings you to the alpine desert at Kibo Hut, where you'll rest before your midnight summit attempt.
Day 5: Descend Kilimanjaro and Transfer to Tarangire National Park
After reaching the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro and savoring the sunrise from the rooftop of Africa, begin your descent. Return to Horombo Hut for a rest and then continue down to Marangu Gate. Once back in Arusha, freshen up and transfer to Tarangire National Park. Enjoy a late afternoon game drive, spotting elephants, giraffes, and other wildlife against the backdrop of a setting sun.
Day 6: Tarangire to Ngorongoro Crater
Begin your day with a morning game drive in Tarangire, taking in the park's unique landscape and abundant wildlife. Afterward, travel to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, arriving in time for a late lunch. Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for an afternoon of exceptional game viewing. The crater's floor is a veritable Eden, hosting an incredible density of animals in a relatively small area.
Day 7: Ngorongoro Crater to Arusha and Departure
Spend the morning exploring more of the Ngorongoro Crater. Visit Lake Magadi, a large but shallow alkaline lake in the southwestern corner, often inhabited by flamingos and other water birds. After a packed lunch, make your way back to Arusha, where you can do some last-minute shopping or relax before your flight. Transfer to the airport for your departure, marking the end of your Kilimanjaro climb and safari combo.
3. 7-Day Safari and Zanzibar Beach Escape
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
Begin your adventure in Arusha, the bustling gateway to your Tanzanian safari. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel where you can relax and prepare for the exciting days ahead. Spend the evening exploring Arusha's vibrant markets or enjoying a delicious meal at a local restaurant.
Day 2: Arusha to Serengeti National Park
After breakfast, take a scenic flight to Serengeti National Park. Upon arrival, embark on an afternoon game drive to begin your exploration of this world-famous wildlife haven. The Serengeti, with its endless plains, is home to an incredible array of animals. Spot lions lounging in the grass, herds of wildebeest and zebras grazing, and perhaps even a cheetah sprinting across the savannah.
Day 3: Full Day in Serengeti National Park
Spend the entire day immersed in the Serengeti's wildlife. Start with a sunrise game drive to see predators like lions and leopards at their most active. After breakfast, continue exploring the park's diverse ecosystems, from riverine forests to open grasslands. Pause for a picnic lunch in a scenic spot before resuming your search for the Big Five and other iconic animals.
Day 4: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater
Depart the Serengeti and travel to the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Descend into the crater for a day of remarkable wildlife viewing. The crater is one of the best places in Africa to spot the endangered black rhino. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst this natural wonder, surrounded by the unparalleled beauty and diversity of the crater's environment.
Day 5: Ngorongoro to Zanzibar
After breakfast, fly from the Ngorongoro area to Zanzibar, a tropical paradise off the coast of Tanzania. Upon arrival, transfer to your beach resort and begin your relaxation. Zanzibar's white sandy beaches and clear turquoise waters provide a perfect contrast to the rugged wilderness of the mainland. Spend the afternoon lounging by the pool or taking a leisurely stroll along the beach.
Day 6: Relax in Zanzibar
Enjoy a full day of leisure in Zanzibar. Explore the historic Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its winding alleys, bustling markets, and historic buildings. Alternatively, indulge in water activities such as snorkeling, diving, or a dhow cruise. Relax on the pristine beaches or take part in a spice tour to learn about Zanzibar's rich history as the Spice Island.
Day 7: Zanzibar to Arusha and Departure
On your final day, soak up the last moments of your beach escape. Depending on your flight schedule, you might have time for a morning swim or a visit to a local village. In the afternoon, transfer to the airport for your flight back to Arusha, where you will connect to your international departure. Reflect on the diverse experiences of your safari and beach escape as you say goodbye to Tanzania.
4. 7-Day Cultural and Wildlife Safari
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
Arrive in Arusha and begin your cultural exploration of Tanzania. After settling into your hotel, meet with your guide for a briefing about the upcoming safari. Spend the rest of the day visiting local markets and museums, getting a taste of Arusha's vibrant culture and history.
Day 2: Arusha to Lake Manyara National Park
Travel to Lake Manyara National Park, located at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment. This park is a haven for birdwatchers with over 400 species recorded. Explore the park's diverse habitats, including the groundwater forest, acacia woodland, and the alkaline lake itself. Keep an eye out for the park's famous tree-climbing lions and enjoy a picnic lunch amidst stunning scenery.
Day 3: Lake Manyara to Serengeti National Park
Depart for Serengeti National Park, passing through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. En route, stop at a traditional Maasai village to learn about their customs and way of life. Upon reaching the Serengeti, embark on an afternoon game drive to start your wildlife adventure. The Serengeti's vast plains are home to a multitude of animals, providing endless opportunities for incredible sightings.
Day 4: Full Day in Serengeti National Park
Dedicate a full day to exploring the Serengeti. Begin with an early morning game drive to witness the park's predators in action. After breakfast, continue your exploration, visiting different areas of the park to see its varied landscapes and wildlife. Enjoy a bush lunch and learn about the park's ecosystem from your knowledgeable guide. Conclude the day with a sunset game drive, capturing the golden hues of the savannah.
Day 5: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater
Travel to the Ngorongoro Crater, where you will spend the day exploring this unique ecosystem. Descend into the crater for a day of exceptional wildlife viewing. The crater floor is a sanctuary for a variety of animals, including lions, elephants, and hippos. Enjoy a picnic lunch by a hippo pool and continue your game drive in the afternoon, marveling at the crater's breathtaking scenery.
Day 6: Ngorongoro to Tarangire National Park
Depart Ngorongoro and head to Tarangire National Park. This park is known for its large herds of elephants and iconic baobab trees. Spend the day exploring Tarangire's diverse habitats, from riverine forests to open grasslands. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park and continue your game drive in the afternoon, spotting a variety of wildlife including zebras, giraffes, and buffalo.
Day 7: Tarangire to Arusha and Departure
On your final day, enjoy a morning game drive in Tarangire before traveling back to Arusha. Depending on your flight schedule, you might have time to visit local markets or craft shops to pick up souvenirs. Transfer to the airport for your departure, reflecting on the rich cultural and wildlife experiences of your safari.
Tips for Planning Your 7-Day African Safari Tour
- Best Time to Visit: The dry season (June to October) is ideal for wildlife viewing, while the wet season (November to May) offers lush landscapes and fewer tourists.
- Packing Essentials: Include lightweight clothing, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, and a good camera.
- Health Precautions: Consult with your doctor regarding vaccinations and malaria prophylaxis before traveling.
Conclusion
Tanzania's diverse offerings ensure that every 7-day African safari tour is unique and memorable. Whether you're climbing Kilimanjaro, exploring the Serengeti, experiencing local culture, or relaxing on the beaches of Zanzibar, these itineraries provide a perfect blend of adventure, wildlife, and relaxation. Embark on an extraordinary journey and create lasting memories in the heart of Africa.