Booking request - Hint of wilderness - glamping
8-Day Private Safari
LAKE NATRON, SERENGETI, NGORONGORO & TARANGIRE
NEW TERRITORIES
Looking for a Tanzania safari that combines the classics with something unique? This 8-day private safari itinerary takes you from the dramatic scenery of Lake Natron to the wildlife-rich plains of the Serengeti, the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, and the baobab-filled landscapes of Tarangire National Park.
You’ll enjoy stunning contrasts, from the flamingo-filled alkaline lake and remote Maasai villages around Natron, to world-famous parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro that offer exceptional wildlife sightings – including a chance to see the Big Five.
This route is perfect for travelers who want to experience both Tanzania’s iconic parks and its lesser-known treasures. Like all our safaris, this one is private and fully customizable to your pace, comfort level, and travel style.
AT A GLANCE – SAFARI HIGHLIGHTS
- Private 8-day safari with your own safari guide and vehicle
Flamingo paradise and volcanic landscapes at Lake Natron
Endless savannah and predator action in the Serengeti
Big Five sightings in the Ngorongoro Crater
Iconic baobabs and large elephant herds in Tarangire
Remote cultural encounters with the Maasai around Natron
Optional walking to the waterfall at Lake Natron
Possible to include the Great Migration of the wildebeest
Private guide, tailor-made itinerary, and accommodation of your choice
DURATION
8 days + arrival & departure
DESTINATIONS
Lake Natron, Serengeti, Ngorongoro & Tarangire
TRAVEL STYLE
Private and fully customizable
NEW TERRITORIES SAFARI – PRICING
Price per person incl. 2 nights in Arusha & airport transfers.
| 2 PAX | 4 PAX | 6 PAX | |
| 8 days - budget (camping) | 3175 USD | 2360 USD | 2130 USD |
| 8 days - standard | 3860 USD | 3140 USD | 2920 USD |
| 8 days - comfort | 4250 USD | 3520 USD | 3310 USD |
| 8 days - luxury | 5600 USD | 4860 USD | 4530 USD |
| 8 days - premium | On request | ||
Please note that there is no comfort option at Lake Natron. We therefore suggest a standard option here. If you’d prefer a luxury option, please let us know.
Prices for adults, based on the cheapest combination of single, double and triple tents/rooms. in the accommodations mentioned below. Prices for high season; low season discounts and/or Holiday supplements might apply. Discounted prices apply for children under 16.
SAFARI ITINERARY
Click on your desired comfort level under each day to see the accommodation we’re suggesting. Not entirely what you’re looking for? We have lots of other options, so we can definitely include something that matches your wishes. Just let us know!
This is a general itinerary that can be followed during most of the year. However in certain months we’d suggest visiting different parts of the Serengeti in order to see more of the great migration. We include these suggestions in our personalized offers once you’ve informed us of your travel dates. They might have an impact on the prices mentioned below.
Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania & transfer to Arusha
Welcome to Tanzania! Your driver will meet you at Kilimanjaro International Airport and take you to your accommodation in Arusha. Depending on your arrival time, you can relax at the lodge or explore a bit of the city.
Optional activity: Visit a local market or cultural site if your schedule allows.
Day 2: Arusha to Lake Natron – Remote landscapes & cultural encounters
After breakfast, head northeast toward the otherworldly landscapes of Lake Natron. The drive itself is part of the adventure, taking you through remote Maasai land and past dramatic escarpments. Settle into your lodge in the southern part of the lake and enjoy views of Ol Doinyo Lengai, the sacred Maasai volcano. In the afternoon, stretch your legs with an adventurous walk to a Engaresero waterfall and take a dip.
Related reading: why Lake Natron is worth a visit.
Day 3: Full day on the east side of Lake Natron
After breakfast, set off on foot (or by car, if you prefer) with your safari guide and a local Maasai guide to explore one of the quietest, most remote corners of Lake Natron. This off-the-beaten-path walk offers a good chance to spot zebras, wildebeest, and possibly giraffes, and you’ll get close to the lake’s edge for amazing views of flamingos. Your safari vehicle follows nearby and picks you up afterward to head to a nearby natural pool. The area has no roads, so it truly feels like an adventure! At the pool, you can relax, bathe in the warm water, enjoy the views, and watch Maasai herders pass by. There’s also the option for a walk back to the lake’s shore before returning to your lodge for dinner.
ALTERNATIVE PROGRAM
If you’d prefer to go even more off the beaten path at Lake Natron, we have another option for you! Check out the itinerary below for inspiration and let us know if you’re interested. We’ll send you a personalized itinerary that mixes both itineraries.
Or why not add an ethical, immersive stay with the Maasai? We can organize it for you and either include it in the itinerary as it is, or add an extra day near the lake or in West Kilimanjaro (on the way from Moshi to Lake Natron).
Day 4: Lake Natron to Central Serengeti with sunrise visit to the lake
Rise early to visit the lake at sunrise, when flamingos paint the shoreline pink. After breakfast, drive west into Serengeti National Park over the breathtaking road that will lead you there. Enjoy your first game drive en route to your camp or lodge.
Optional: Drive to the northern Serengeti to spend 1 or 2 nights there before heading to the center during river-crossing season.
Day 5 & 6: Serengeti National Park
Two full days to explore the wildlife-rich Serengeti, home to lions, leopards, elephants, and the famous Great Migration (depending on time of year). Your guide will tailor the day to your interests — from predator tracking to scenic picnic spots.
Optional: Balloon safari at sunrise (book in advance)
Day 7: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Conservation Area
After a relaxed breakfast and a morning game drive, leave the Serengeti behind and travel toward Ngorongoro. Spend the night at a lodge on the crater rim or nearby, with stunning views. Get ready to explore Ngorongoro tomorrow!
Optional: Visit to Olduvai Gorge.
Day 8: Ngorongoro Crater safari & transfer to Karatu
Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater early in the morning for a half-day safari in one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations. You may spot black rhinos, hippos, lions, and more. After your picnic lunch inside the crater, head to nearby Karatu for the night.
Day 9: Tarangire National Park safari
Discover Tarangire National Park, famous for its baobab trees and large herds of elephants. Enjoy a full day of game viewing with picnic lunch in the park. Keep an eye out for lions, giraffes, and hundreds of bird species. Return to and overnight in Arusha.
Day 10: Departure
Depending on your flight time, enjoy a leisurely breakfast and transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport. If you’d like to extend your adventure with a beach holiday or day trip, we’d be happy to help!
Prefer a shorter itinerary? Have a look at our 4 or 5-day Serengeti, Ngorongoro & Tarangire safari or our 6-day Lake Natron, Serengeti & Ngorongoro safari.
WHAT OUR CLIENTS SAY ABOUT THIS SAFARI
Have a look at some comments from real travelers for whom we’ve organized a safari based on the itinerary above, fully customized to their wishes.
An unforgettable journey that was made possible by Mawenzi Adventures. We went on a full 8-day safari in the parks of northern Tanzania, accompanied by an unforgettable French speaking guide, and local guides who passed on their knowledge about animals and local people. We also spent a few days on the east coast of Zanzibar.
If you dream of a local, French speaking, rigorous and ethical agency, look no further!
Liesbeth listened to our questions and was keen to organisz a tailor-made trip according to our wishes and means.
Agathe & Néomie
★★★★★ 5/5
8-day personalized safari, part of a 16-day trip, May 2024
Our eight days on safari with Abel were so memorable. Thanks to Abel’s experience we saw the big five and much more. We also got to understand the Maasai tribe, the geology, plants and so much other wildlife.
Highlights of our trip for us included:
– Lake Natron, where our local guide Moses from the Maasai giraffe camp, shared his culture and led us on many adventures.
– Serengeti where we saw so much with Abel. Hearing the lions as we slept at Osinon lodge was stunning;
– Ngorongoro national park is breathtaking. It is brimming with wildlife. Discovering a buffalo snoozing outside our room at Rhino Lodge was delightful.
One of our best family holidays ever.
Mecua
★★★★★ 5/5
8-day tailor-made safari, part of a 12-day trip, February 2024
OUR OFFER – PRICES AND SERVICES
Prices starting from 2130 USD per person (high season), depending on group size and comfort level.
Please note that there is no comfort option at Lake Natron. We therefore suggest a standard option here. If you’d prefer a luxury option, please let us know.
Prices for adults, based on the cheapest combination of single, double and triple tents/rooms. in the accommodations mentioned above. Prices for high season; low season discounts and/or Holiday supplements might apply. Discounted prices apply for children under 16.
The following services are included in our package:
- Entrance fees to the parks (Tarangire 12h, Serengeti 72h, Ngorongoro 24h and Lake Natron)
- Transport in a 4×4 safari vehicle from your hotel in Arusha to the parks and back (other pick-up points possible, please contact us for the right price)
- Game drives in the parks
- Professional, English-speaking guide. Local Maasai guide attributed by the local activity office during your activities at Lake Natron.
- Accommodation as mentioned above, subject to availability.
- In case of a camping safari: private chef and camping gear
- Meals on full-board basis, please check your personalized offer for details.
- Drinking water, tea and coffee
- Airport transfers as described.
This package however doesn’t include:
- Tips for the crew. We recommend a tip of 25 USD per day for each guide and 15 USD per day for your cook, to be divided between each member of your group. In case of a camping safari, we recommend a tip of 15 USD per day.
- Travel insurance
- Visa
- Domestic and international flights.
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
- Personal spending money for souvenirs, laundry, etc.
- … and all other services that are not mentioned as included.
Didn’t find exactly what you’re looking for? Don’t worry, there’s lots of other options! Please get in touch for different accommodation options in any price range, different room types and group sizes or groups including children, as well as if you wish to add extra options to your safari.
WHEN TO GO ON THIS 8-DAY TANZANIA SAFARI
This itinerary is a great choice year-round, but the best time depends on your priorities:
- June to October (Dry Season):
These months offer the best wildlife viewing, with animals gathering around water sources and vegetation at its lowest. Roads are also easier to access. Expect warm, dry days and cool nights — perfect for game drives and Lake Natron hikes. - December to March (Calving Season in Ndutu):
This is an amazing time for the southern Serengeti, especially if you want to witness wildebeest calving and see newborn animals. So during this time of the year, you’d go from Lake Natron to the central Serengeti first and then to Ndutu before continuing to Ngorongoro crater. It’s also a beautiful time to visit Lake Natron, even though very hot, as flamingos often begin gathering for breeding. - April & May (Long Rains):
These months are lush, quiet, and cheaper, but road conditions can be tricky, especially around Lake Natron. However, landscapes are green and dramatic, and flamingos start to flock to the soda lakes. - November (Short Rains):
Rains are usually short and scattered, and wildlife is still easy to find. This can be a great transitional time with fewer crowds.
We’ll help you time your safari perfectly based on your travel dates and what you’d most love to see, or we’ll make suggestions on how you can optimize the itinerary if your travel dates are fixed.
WILDLIFE TO EXPECT IN LAKE NATRON, SERENGETI, NGORONGORO & TARANGIRE
This route gives you a diverse wildlife experience, from iconic species to unique habitats:
Lake Natron
Not a classic safari park, but full of surprises:
Large groups of lesser flamingos (sometimes in the thousands!)
Zebra, giraffe, wildebeest, ostrich, gazelles
Many unique bird species, especially near the lake and natural pools
Serengeti National Park
The crown jewel of Tanzania’s safari circuit:
- Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino — rhino sightings rare)
- Massive herds of wildebeest and zebras (migration routes vary)
- Cheetah, hyena, jackal, and an array of antelope species
- Best area depends on time of year: central, north, or Ndutu region
Ngorongoro crater
A UNESCO World Heritage Site with a high concentration of wildlife:
- Good chance of spotting black rhino
- Lions, elephants, buffalos, hippos, and more
- Dense and diverse — great for first-time visitors
Tarangire National Park
Tarangire is famous for:
Huge herds of elephants, especially in the dry season
The majestic baobab-studded landscapes
Excellent chance of seeing lions, zebras, giraffes, and wildebeest
Great birdwatching, with over 500 bird species
ACCOMMODATION & LODGING OPTIONS
All our safaris are private and fully tailor-made, so you can choose the level of comfort that fits your travel style and budget. This 8-day Lake Natron, Serengeti, Ngorongoro & Tarangire safari is available in five different accommodation comfort levels, each with multiple options. You can even mix and match comfort levels depending on the park or your preferences.
Budget: Ideal for adventurous travelers who value experience over luxury. You’ll stay in public campsites (sleeping in dome tents, using shared bathrooms), or in basic local guesthouses with limited amenities but private rooms.
Standard: A favorite with many travelers. These are simple but welcoming lodges or tented camps offering real beds, private bathrooms, hearty meals, and a friendly atmosphere. A great balance between comfort and price.
Comfort: Comfortable mid-range lodges or permanent tented camps, often in scenic settings and with better service and facilities. This is a perfect choice if you’re looking for value without giving up comfort.
Luxury: Stylish and well-appointed lodges or luxury tented camps in prime locations. Expect personalized service, elegant décor, and thoughtful extras. A top pick for honeymooners or anyone wanting to elevate their safari.
Premium: Exclusive lodges and tented camps that deliver the ultimate Tanzania safari experience. Think gourmet cuisine, absolute privacy, stunning views, and the highest level of service.
Not sure which level is right for you? We’ll be happy to help you choose — just get in touch!
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Start your trip off right with practical tips about what to do in the national parks, what to pack for your safari, and other essentials to help you prepare with confidence.
SERENGETI BEYOND THE GREAT MIGRATION
The Serengeti is so much more than just the wildebeest. Learn what else makes this park one of Africa’s most spectacular safari destinations.
BUDGET VS LUXURY SAFARI IN TANZANIA
Is it worth paying more for a luxury safari? Or does a budget safari match your travel style better? Learn all about it here.
TANZANIA SAFARI PACKING LIST
No space to waste? Our safari packing list focuses on essentials only — what to bring, what to leave, and how to stay comfy on the road.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Yes! This itinerary combines famous national parks with more off-the-beaten-path experiences like Lake Natron, offering a well-rounded first safari. All you need is enough time and an interest in both amazing wildlife and local culture. And don’t worry, even in the more off-the-beaten-path locations, you’ll be accompanied by your safari guide as well as a local guide who grew up in the area, so you’ll be totally safe.
In principle, yes – absolutely. All our safaris are private and tailor-made, so we can adjust the order of the itinerary based on your travel dates, wildlife migration patterns, and personal preferences. That said, this safari follows a logical route through northern Tanzania, and changing the order could result in unnecessary backtracking and long driving days.
We also start this itinerary with Lake Natron on purpose – unlike many other tour operators – and take a little-known route to get there. This scenic road offers stunning views of Ol Doinyo Lengai for much of the journey. If the route were reversed, you’d miss out on that incredible sight.
You can’t exactly swim in Lake Natron because it’s shallow, but there are areas where you can bathe in it. Just make sure the water doesn’t get into your eyes or open wounds, it’s alkaline so this hurts. You can also safely take a dip in the natural pool on the east side of the lake and near the waterfall. Your guide will take you to a safe spot.
You can choose between our budget, standard, comfort, luxury and premium accommodation levels. We’ve handpicked lodges and camps based on location, value, and quality. Only at Lake Natron, the choice is a bit more limited because it’s so off-the-beaten-path. We do however have a few budget and standard options as well as a luxury option. Or would you like to pick accommodations based on their structure? Our Tanzania safari accommodation guide will help you with that.
It’s very likely! Lions, elephants, and buffaloes are common in Serengeti, Tarangire and Ngorongoro Crater. Ngorongoro Crater is one of the best places to spot rhinos in Tanzania, and while leopards are more elusive, they’re often seen in the Serengeti.
Not at all. The trip includes some optional short to medium-long walks (like to the waterfall at Lake Natron), but we can always adapt to your physical comfort level.
