Depart from Arusha town at 08:30 hrs and drive to Tarangire National Park where the day will be spent on a game drive. A packed lunch will be provided in the park. After lunch final game drive before continuing to Lake Burunge for dinner and overnight at Burunge Tented Lodge.

Arusha to Tarangire National Park

Start your day with an early guided bush walk around Burunge, following the camp's guidelines. It's a peaceful way to begin the morning, getting up close with nature.

After breakfast, we'll head out to the vibrant Mto Wa Mbu village. From there, our journey takes us to Lake Manyara National Park, where you'll spend the day spotting wildlife and enjoying the beautiful scenery. We've got lunch covered with a packed meal for you. Following an afternoon game drive, we'll move on to Karatu, where you'll spend the night at Marera Valley Lodge, enjoying dinner and a good rest.

Burunge to Karatu via Lake Manyara National Park

Kick off your day with an early breakfast before we set off from the lodge at 7:00 AM, heading towards the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater. Dive into a morning filled with game viewing inside the crater itself. Around mid-morning, we'll take a break by the hippo pool for some tea or coffee.

At 11:30 AM, we'll start our ascent from the crater, continuing our wildlife spotting adventure through the Ngorongoro area towards Nabi Hill. Don't worry about lunch; we've packed it for you to enjoy on the way.

Next, we'll enter the Serengeti National Park at Nabi and keep our eyes peeled for more game viewing. The day ends at the Serengeti Kati Kati Tented Bush Camp, where you'll be surrounded by the wild serenity of the Serengeti.

Karatu, Ngorongoro Crater, & Serengeti National Park

After grabbing an early breakfast at the camp, we'll set off for a day of game viewing in the vast Serengeti, making our way towards Nabi Hill. You won't have to worry about lunch; we've got it packed for you to enjoy along the way.

Once lunch is done, we'll keep our eyes peeled for more wildlife as we travel through the Ngorongoro area, heading towards Karatu. Your day will wrap up with a relaxing dinner and a comfortable overnight stay at Marera Valley Lodge.

Serengeti National Park to Karatu via Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Today after breakfast you'll head back to Arusha from Karatu and your overnight stay at Marera Valley Lodge.

Karatu to Arusha

4x4 Safari Cruiser

Park Fees

This transfer is one way from JRO (Kilimanjaro International Airport) to Arusha (or vice versa from Arusha to JRO) and is for a maximum of 6 travellers. If staying at an accommodation (Mount Meru Game Lodge, Melia, or an equivalent around Arusha) this will be your transportation to the accommodation from JRO (or vice versa from your accommodation to JRO). If you need multiple transfers, please add more units (I.e. a transfer from JRO and a transfer back to JRO at the end of your trip).

(JRO to Arusha) Airport Transfer in a 4x4 Safari Cruiser

If you'd like to spend an extra night (either at the start or end of your safari) at Mount Meru Game lodge prior to your safari departure, then select this as an option. Please note this is on a bed and breakfast basis, meaning that breakfast will be included in your stay.

Bed & Breakfast - Accommodation Extension at Mount Meru Game Lodge

If you'd like to spend an extra night (either at the start or end of your safari) at Mount Meru Game lodge prior to your safari departure, then select this as an option. Please note this is on a half-board basis, meaning that breakfast and lunch will be included in your stay.

Half Board - Accommodation Extension at Mount Meru Game Lodge

If you'd like to spend an extra night (either at the start or end of your safari) at Mount Meru Game lodge prior to your safari departure, then select this as an option. Please note this is on a full-board basis, meaning that breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be included in your stay.

Full Board - Accommodation Extension at Mount Meru Game Lodge

This transfer is one way from JRO (Kilimanjaro International Airport) to Arusha (or vice versa from Arusha to JRO) and is for a maximum of 4 travellers. If staying at an accommodation (Mount Meru Game Lodge, Melia, or an equivalent around Arusha) this will be your transportation to the accommodation from JRO (or vice versa from your accommodation to JRO). If you need multiple transfers, please add more units (I.e. a transfer from JRO and a transfer back to JRO at the end of your trip).

(JRO - Arusha) Transfer in an Alphard Mini Van

If you'd like to spend an extra night (either at the start or end of your safari) at Gran Melia in Arusha in a Deluxe City View room prior to your safari departure, then select this as an option. Please note this is on a bed and breakfast basis meaning that breakfast will be included in your stay. This is subject to availability.

Accommodation Extension at Gran Melia Arusha (Deluxe City View)

If you'd like to spend an extra night (either at the start or end of your safari) at Gran Melia in Arusha in a Mountain View room prior to your safari departure, then select this as an option. Please note this is on a bed and breakfast basis meaning that breakfast will be included in your stay. This is subject to availability.

Accommodation Extension at Gran Melia Arusha (Mountain View)

5 Day Tanzanian Safari

Discover the diverse wildlife of Tanzania, including elephants, lions, and flamingos, across Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater, and Serengeti.

Arusha

Savannah Tours

Maasai Boma

A Maasai Boma visit is where you can learn and interact with the local tribe.

Descending into the Ngorongoro Crater

Witnessing The Big Five

Rediscover the Wild: 5 Reasons Why You Should go on another Tanzanian Safari!

Fascinating Animals Found on an African Safari

Endangered Animals you might see on Safari

What to Expect on an African Safari

The Places You'll Stay on an African Safari in Tanzania

Ngorongoro Crater is a massive volcanic caldera, formed over two million years ago when a colossal volcano erupted and collapsed upon itself. What remains today is a natural amphitheater of unparalleled beauty, spanning approximately 260 square kilometers and boasting an astonishing diversity of wildlife. Renowned as one of Africa's most spectacular natural wonders, the Ngorongoro Crater is a haven for both animal and plant life. As you descend into the crater's bowl-shaped expanse, you will be greeted by a mesmerizing panorama of grasslands, forests, and shimmering soda lakes. Within the confines of the crater, you will encounter a thriving ecosystem that supports an impressive population of mammals, including the iconic "Big Five". 

While the Ngorongoro Crater is considered a safe destination for tourists, visitors should take standard travel health precautions. Vaccinations for yellow fever, hepatitis A, and typhoid are recommended. Malaria prophylaxis is also advised due to the presence of mosquitoes, especially during the wet season.

Safety & Vaccinations

The Ngorongoro Crater is accessible by road from Arusha, with the journey taking approximately 3-4 hours. It's also possible to fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport or Lake Manyara Airport and arrange a transfer from there.

Getting There

Travel within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and down into the crater is typically done in 4x4 vehicles. These vehicles are suited for the rugged terrain and offer the best opportunities for wildlife viewing. Guided tours are recommended to navigate the area effectively and to learn more about the ecosystem.

Getting Around

Visitors to Tanzania, including those coming to see the Ngorongoro Crater, must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) in advance, with some exemptions based on nationality. Always check the latest visa requirements and ensure you have the necessary documentation for entry, including any required health certificates.

Visas

Ngorongoro Crater

This was amazing to see. We visited last fall and saw so many animals with our tour guide. The drive down into the crater and back out was awesome, so was the view from the top. We definitely saw the circle of life when we came and it did not disappoint, so cool!

One of the seven great wonders of the world. Steep drive in and out. I’m glad I had a driver. Lots of wildlife everywhere! Cape buffalo, elephants, rhino, springbok, zebras, flamingo, wart hogs and great views of the crater!

Wonderful day spent in the crater. So vast and luscious in December. Lots of zebra and wildebeest, as well as flamingo and we also saw a hippo and rhinos and elephants. Nice picnic spot but lots of lurks birds who will try to take your lunch!

This is such a special and beautiful place. Cannot imagine how much wildlife there are in this area. The landscape was stunning as well.

Ngorongoro National Park is truly a remarkable place for a safari adventure. During my day trip there, I was greeted with fantastic weather and an incredible ambiance that set the stage for an unforgettable experience. The park boasts an abundance of wildlife, and it's almost as if it's a haven, a slice of magic and heaven, for these animals.

What makes Ngorongoro so special is the concentration of resources in one place. This unique ecosystem supports a diverse range of species, from majestic lions and graceful zebras to curious giraffes and elusive cheetahs. The sight of these animals in their natural habitat is a mesmerizing spectacle, and it's evident that they thrive in this environment.

Exploring Ngorongoro National Park is like stepping into a different world, one where you can witness the beauty of nature and the circle of life up close. Whether you're an avid wildlife enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates the wonder of the natural world, a visit to Ngorongoro is an experience that will stay with you forever. It's a testament to the importance of preserving such extraordinary places for future generations to enjoy.

There is security on guard at this property.

Guard

The rooms all have individual lock boxes to store personal items.

In-Room Lockable Box

Battery charging facilities are provided at this property. 

Battery Charging Facilities

There is a lounge and bar at this property. 

Lounge & Bar

Flushing Toilets

Hot Water Showers

This property is powered by solar electricity. 

Solar Power Electricity

Laundry Service

The camp is accessible by road from various locations in Tanzania, including Arusha. It is approximately a 3 to 4-hour drive from Arusha, and the camp can arrange transfers.

The nearest airstrip to Lemala Ngorongoro Tented Camp is Manyara Airstrip, which is approximately a 75-minute drive away. Guests can arrange flights to Manyara Airstrip from major airports in Tanzania, such as Kilimanjaro International Airport and Arusha Airport, or even from other safari destinations in the region. The camp can provide transfers from Manyara Airstrip to the lodge.

Lemala Ngorongoro Tented Camp

This is a nice camp. The food and service were great. The location is perfect if you want to get to the crater before it gets busy. The rooms are very comfortable but fairly dark at night. You also need to go to the main tent to charge any devices, and the camp does not have much community space.

The most comfortable camping experience I could have hoped for! Incredibly immersed in the crater highlands. Excellent attentive staff.

Really great location, superb food, amazingly friendly and welcoming staff. I was traveling alone and I felt safe and taken care of at every moment. Emanuele and all the staff always welcomed me with big smiles, drinks, the food was amazing and I got to meet wonderful people. The bucket shower is not a big deal once you learn how it goes. Even though you don't have plugs in the room they offer room specific ones in the shared area, I found being 'off the grid' for some hours a day pretty great. I loved everything about this camp and would recommend it!

While the location and staff are great, this was our least favourite camp of all we stayed in during our safari trip in Tanzania. There seems to be a lack of consistency among Lemala camps because we stayed in their other locations as well and none were like this one. Our tent hadn’t been cleaned properly and was rather dark inside. The food was not particularly good either. Also something not particularly related to this camp, but all Lemala camps is that there’s no possibility to charge a phone/camera in the tent. Much cheaper camps did have this option.

We cannot recommend Lemala Ngorongoro Crater Camp enough! The views were absolutely incredible — tucked away in a flat top acacia forest. The staff were incredibly welcoming and friendly — especially Alios who is our favorite human on the planet! The food was spectacular. The camp is located on the rim of the crater so you get an hour+ head start of the other lodges/hotels in the area. Our game driver Frank was super fun and knowledgeable. A perfect ending to a lovely trip to Tanzania. We will definitely be back and recommend to any travelers (from 2 young women).

Exclusive access to Ngorongoro Crater for prime wildlife encounters

Cozy tents with queen-size beds, warm duvets, and gas heaters

Inviting mess tent, campfire stories, and hearty dining experiences

Lemala Ngorongoro

Lemala Ngorongoro Tented Camp features 10 spacious tents strategically positioned to provide privacy while minimizing the impact on the pristine forest environment. Each tent accommodates two queen-size beds and offers little luxuries such as warm winter-weight duvets, hot water bottles, and gas heaters to ensure a cozy night's sleep, as the Ngorongoro Crater rim can get chilly at night. The roomy en-suite bathrooms include a dressing area, flush toilet, and a large safari-style shower. One of the tents has two bedrooms, designed especially for friends and family traveling together. The camp operates on 24-hour solar electricity with a backup generator, providing convenience and comfort. The tents at Lemala Ngorongoro offer a peaceful retreat amidst the natural beauty of the area.

Swimming Pool

24-Hour Electricity 

Wifi

This property has a gift shop on the premises.

Gift Shop

This property provides complimentary tea and coffee

Tea & Coffee

For a fee, you can have your clothing cleaned by this property's laundry service.

Laundry Service (Extra Cost)

By flight, the closest airstrip is Lake Manyara Airstrip which is 25km away. Air companies fly on schedule and charter basis to and from Arusha.

By road it is a 145km, this is approximately a 3 hour drive from Arusha City.

Ngorongoro Farm House

Beautiful place to stay when visiting the Ngorongoro crater. With the beautiful gardens where they plant most of the food that is served it's a nice change from the more standard lodges. The staff was very friendly (shout-out to Contantin and Benjamin). Driving distance to the Ngorongoro view point is about 20 minutes and another 20 minutes from there into the crater.

Absolutely amazing place! We really loved it. Very kind and helpful staff always receiving guests with a drink. The complex is huge as it is a coffee farm, it has swimming pool so people can relax after safari day, the main building includes main restaurant where we had breakfast and dinner, also it has a bar and a huge fire pit to relax during the night. Rooms are independent bungalows, our bungalow was one of the farthest but we really enjoyed to have a walk from main building to it, it was quite big with chimney.

Amazing stay at the farm house!Conveniently located by the Ngorongoro crater. Great service, a wonderful shower and all vegetables served came from their own lovely garden. Special thanks to Joshua for the great care.

BEAUTIFUL place with thoughtful architectural details. The room had basic coffee tea service as well as a water dispenser with cold and hot water. My only wish I that I could’ve stayed longer!

Staff are amazing. Coffee tour was impressive. Was very interesting to get to know the Iraqwu tribe that lives close to farmhouse. They give huge importance to education for the kids in their tribe.

Food in the restaurant - They use all the vegetables,  fruits and meat from their farm but food was just on satisfactory level. It could be more delicious. For example: Panna cotta with passion fruit did not have any sweet taste at all.

Room was good. Again staff was great.

Ideally located from the Ngorongoro Crater

Ngorongoro Farm House - Karatu

Chalet type bedrooms situated at ground level with a private terrace or balcony. Overlooking the gardens and/or coffee plantation. Ample and comfortable. Rooms with a double bed or two single beds. The rooms have a bathroom with a shower. The family room consists of two rooms with a door connecting the two rooms.

From the closest airstrip, Manyara Airstrip, it's approximately a two-hour drive to the lodge

 For those arriving by air, connections are primarily through Arusha Airport, with onward flights to Manyara Airstrip serving as the gateway to the camp

 In general, reaching Entamanu Ngorongoro combines both air and road travel, offering travelers a comprehensive glimpse of Tanzania's vast wilderness.

Entamanu Ngorongoro Camp

Nomad's Entamanu camp is a comfortable and accommodating place to take in the beauty of the Ngorongoro Crater.  To start, we had a change of plans where we wanted to see more of the Oldupai Gorge than originally planned - the staff was accommodating to bring us straight there on our drive in.  Our game drive guide Sylva was extremely knowledgeable and had great stories to share.  If you are interested in a hike and seeing a Maasai village, you can organize a tour on the rim through Nomad. We understood that our stay was in some recently renovated, more permanent cabins and these were cozy and welcoming.

We had a wonderful stay. Jonathan, and the staff, were warm and friendly. Our tent room was lovely and it had all the necessary amenities needed. We loved the coffee delivery through the "cubby window" in the morning!
Be forewarned that roads to/from the lodge to the crater are very bumpy and take 60-90 minutes one way. This wasn't an issue for us but could be for those with back issues.
Thank you, Camp Entamanu, for your warm hospitality!

Great staff, wonderful location, special memories

Apart from slight heating issues with the gas fireplace and controlling the shower temp Entamanu is very cosy and luxurious. You get a wake up call with coffee and cookies delivered to your room. The service is very good and food delicious. Make sure to have some pre dinner drinks in the lounge area or have your coffee watching the sunrise over Ngorongoro Crater. It's beautiful. Bring sweaters or a jacket. It's cold in the morning and evenings.

Entamanu is by far my favourite of all the places I have stayed on the crater rim. The staff are completely wonderful.

The only place in the world where guests can witness the sun rising over the Ngorongoro Crater and setting over the Serengeti Plains, offering unparalleled scenic beauty.

A unique construction that ensures minimal disruption to the pristine landscape, embodying a perfect blend of luxury and environmental responsibility.

Beyond the breathtaking wildlife of the Ngorongoro Crater, the lodge offers genuine interactions with the local Maasai community, giving guests a rich cultural experience alongside their wildlife adventures.

Entamanu Ngorongoro

Experience the pinnacle of comfort and elegance at Entamanu Ngorongoro's luxurious tents. Every room, thoughtfully designed with an essence of the wild, offers panoramic vistas of the Ngorongoro Crater and the distant Serengeti Plains. The interiors seamlessly blend rustic charm with modern amenities, ensuring a serene retreat after a day of adventure. With warm, woolen rugs underfoot, remote-controlled heaters for those cooler nights, and an en-suite sanctuary equipped with all the conveniences, your stay promises to be as indulgent as it is immersive. Whether you're settling into a plush bed beneath a canopy of stars or waking up to the awe-inspiring sight of the sun painting the horizon, each moment in these tents is an intimate rendezvous with nature's grandeur.

Nogorngoro Crater is a natural amphitheater of unparalleled beauty

Dry season, offering the best visibility of wildlife as they gather around water sources.

High Season

Wet season, some roads may be difficult to navigate, but the landscape is beautifully green.

Low Season

Less rainfall means animals are easier to spot, and the risk of malaria is lower.

Best time to go

The lion has been one of the best-known wild animals since earliest times. Lions are most active at night and live in a variety of habitats.

The lion is a well-muscled cat with a long body, large head, and short legs. Size and appearance vary considerably between the sexes. The male’s outstanding characteristic is his mane, which varies between different individuals and populations. 

Lions are unique among cats in that they live in a pride. The pride typically spend the day scattered that may unite to hunt or share a meal. Lions prey on a large variety of animals ranging in size from wildebeest to Cape Buffalo.

Lion

Elephant

Black Rhino

Leopard

Wildebeest

Giraffe

Zebra

Buffalo

Hippo

Cheetah

Gazelle

Hyena

The Ngorongoro Crater is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering one of the highest concentrations of wildlife in Africa, including rare and endangered species within its unique ecosystem.

Souvenir Shopping in Tanzania

Road vs Flight - The Journey from Arusha City to Serengeti Central

Arusha is a vibrant city in northern Tanzania, renowned as the safari capital due to its proximity to some of the world's most famous national parks and reserves, including the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, and Tarangire National Park. Nestled at the foot of Mount Meru, Arusha's moderate climate and rich cultural heritage make it a fascinating destination in its own right. The city serves as a crucial hub for international and local tourists embarking on wildlife safaris and mountaineering adventures. Its bustling markets, colonial-era buildings, and local Maasai crafts offer a glimpse into the diverse cultures of Tanzania.

Arusha is generally safe for tourists, with usual precautions advised. Vaccinations for Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A, and Typhoid are recommended, alongside malaria prophylaxis.

The city is a major tourist hub, easily reachable by road from Nairobi or via flights to Kilimanjaro International Airport, followed by a short drive

Local taxis, buses, and tour company vehicles are the main modes of transport within Arusha and to nearby attractions.

Visitors to Tanzania can obtain a visa on arrival or an eVisa online before travel. Those climbing Kilimanjaro or visiting national parks should ensure their visa covers the duration of their stay.

There are hair dryers in the rooms of this property

Hair Dryer

From Arusha's domestic airport, the property is a 10 minute drive.

This property is located within Arusha city.

Located in expansive tropical gardens with Mount Meru in the background

An excellent starting point for a safari to the national parks of Tanzania

Only 10 minutes to Arusha’s domestic airport

Katambuga House

Katambuga House offers a total of eight well-appointed rooms, each designed to provide a high standard of accommodation and service. These rooms are both airy and well-lit, creating a welcoming and comfortable ambiance. As guests step out onto the covered verandas, they are greeted with serene garden views and stunning vistas that extend into the distance, making it an ideal spot to unwind before or after embarking on a thrilling safari adventure. The rooms feature spacious en-suite bathrooms with complimentary toiletries, ensuring a relaxing and refreshing experience. Additionally, the rooms are equipped with modern amenities, including electric combination safes, hair dryers, ceiling fans, mosquito nets for a peaceful night's sleep, a convenient writing desk, and a cozy sitting corner. These thoughtfully designed rooms provide a tranquil haven for travelers seeking comfort and rejuvenation in the heart of Tanzania's natural beauty.

The closest airport to this lodge is Arusha Airport (ARK) - which is only 15 minutes away.

By road, the lodge is roughly 90 minutes from Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA), 2 hours from Tarangire National Park, and 4 hours from Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

Legendary Lodge

Very Beautiful. The location is very nice and the staff is always helpful and friendly.
It’s also a nice place for children much space to play with a ball or something like that.
I rate it a 10-10.

Wonderful!

From the moment your greeter collects you at the airport, to the moment you leave, you're in good hands.

Accommodations are well-appointed, spacious and comfortable.

The food is delicious.

The waitstaff is attentive.

The grounds are beautiful.

Amazing and accommodating staff. Stayed before and after hiking Kilimanjaro and it was absolutely worth it! Everyone was so friendly and welcoming. The grounds are beautiful, food is great, rooms are huge! Would absolutely stay here again.

The place is great with nice reception😊

Fantastic and friendly service. Five star quality. I’ve of the most peaceful and quiet hotels we’ve ever had the pleasure of staying. The food is top rate.

Legendary Lodge's tranquil coffee plantation setting immerses guests in the beauty of Mount Meru's foothills while offering captivating coffee tours

Serving as a gateway to the Northern Safari Circuit, Legendary Lodge provides convenient access to Tanzania's renowned National Parks for wildlife exploration

Relish exceptional comfort in well-appointed cottages and indulge in a delectable culinary experience featuring a blend of international and local flavors

Legendary Lodge boasts a collection of elegant and spacious rooms designed to provide the utmost comfort and relaxation. The ten private cottages and two generously sized family cottages offer a serene escape, each adorned with oversized beds and romantic billowing mosquito nets. The rooms feature a harmonious blend of classic and contemporary decor, exuding a sense of African charm while providing all the modern amenities one would expect from Arusha's finest lodge. With attention to detail and a focus on guest well-being, Legendary Lodge's accommodations ensure a restful and enjoyable stay amidst the picturesque surroundings of this enchanting coffee plantation in Tanzania.

By flight, you can get a regular chartered flights to Arusha or Kilimanjaro international airport

By road, Kahawa House is 51 km away from Kilimanjaro international airport and will take just over an hour to get to

Kahawa House

We experienced a lot of mosquitoes here and surprisingly it was the only hotel we visited that didn't have mosquito nets around the beds. There is a pool here but other than that not a whole lot to do.

It is well designed and the best place to be.
I love this Hotel.

Really nice hotel close to Arusha Downtown. Welcoming staff and good room (keep in mind that the Kilimanjaro International Airport is far from everything, so it will take you like 1h 20 min to get there)

A lovely place to stay with excellent service and facilities. The food is wonderful too. Great stop off spot before or after a Safari or even a great place to stay for a business trip. Highly recommend this Arusha spot.

Great place to stay in arusha.

Big and totally refurbished rooms with great service.

The Only thing is that It is almost 1 hour to kilimanjaro airport so you might plan un advance when to leave

 Nestled amid lush landscapes with views of Mount Meru, the resort offers a stunning natural backdrop for guests

The resort's diverse menu showcases both Tanzanian and international cuisine, ensuring a memorable dining experience

Thoughtfully designed rooms and suites provide modern comforts and elegant decor for a relaxing stay

Kahawa House - Arusha

The house offers a collection of beautifully appointed rooms that seamlessly blend comfort and elegance. Each room is thoughtfully designed, featuring modern amenities and tasteful decor, creating a welcoming and relaxing atmosphere for guests. With attention to detail, the rooms offer a tranquil retreat after a day of adventure or business meetings in Arusha. Guests can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding natural beauty, ensuring a serene and rejuvenating stay. Whether you choose a standard room or a luxurious suite, Kahawa House provides a cozy and inviting home away from home for all types of travelers.

Shoulder Season

Perfect for safaris and climbing Mount Kilimanjaro or Meru.

Safaris in Lake Manyara, Tanzania

Why is a Safari so Expensive: a Myth

Can I do a day trip to the Serengeti from Arusha?

Lake Manyara National Park, nestled at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment in Tanzania, is a scenic gem that spans diverse ecosystems, from its alkaline soda lake to dense woodlands and steep mountainsides. This relatively small but biodiverse park is renowned for its unique tree-climbing lions, large troops of baboons, and a spectacular array of birdlife, including thousands of flamingos that colour the lake's edges pink. The park's groundwater forests provide a lush contrast to the arid plains found in much of East Africa, offering visitors a chance to see elephants, giraffes, hippos, and a variety of other wildlife in a compact area. Lake Manyara provides a tranquil wildlife viewing experience, making it a popular stop on the northern safari circuit.
The Great Rift Valley, notably the East African Rift, although relatively understated, is an immensely significant geological setting that produced an elaborate intertwinement of natural systems evident in Tanzania today - from craters and lakes, to plains and volcanoes. The Rift’s mark on humanity may have been made millions of years ago; it may have altered the local climate which may have in turn caused our ancestors to develop the skills necessary to walk upright, develop culture and ponder how such a rift came to be - an astonishing series of events rocking the cradle of humanity.

Lake Manyara National Park is generally considered safe for visitors, but it's important to adhere to park rules and guidelines. Vaccinations for Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A, and Typhoid, as well as malaria prophylaxis, are recommended for travellers to Tanzania.

The park is accessible by road from Arusha, with the option of using private transport or joining an organized tour. It's also a common stop on northern circuit safari itineraries.

 Inside the park, travel is by 4x4 vehicles on game drives. Some lodges and campsites offer guided walks and other activities within and around the park.

Most visitors to Tanzania require a visa, which can be obtained on arrival for many nationalities or in advance through Tanzania's eVisa portal. Always check the latest visa requirements before your trip.

Lake Manyara National Park

This park was okay for seeing a few animals.  Definitely a lot of baboons and monkeys.  But that was the majority of what we saw.  We did see 1 group of giraffes, elephants and hippos.  But it was a lot of just forest.  What is nice is that it's not a huge park so you can end early.

We were a little disappointed of the National Park. Only a few roads. Scenic apart from the lake is not too impressive. Many dead tries because of the flooding, lots of bushes. We were in April and saw only a few animals. A few monkeys and elephants, giraffes in the distance. Maybe we just had a bad day for animal sightings. We were in Tarangire and Ngorongoro before and could have skipped Lake Manyara.

Half day safari! Animals hard to see up close. Saw elephants, giraffes, zebra, Cape buffalo, baboons.

according to our driver, due to water level the flamingos are no longer visiting, and it's very hard to sea lions on the tree, so only monkeys and baboons commonly saw in this area

Early January is a bad period to visit this park… we didn’t see any elephants, zebras, giraffes… just baboons. Flamingos don’t come anymore because the lake is quite polluted from agricultural activities around the lake. The trees around the lake are dead because of floods… sad view.

There are private decked verandas at this property. 

Private Decked Verandas

There is a safe provided in the rooms of this property. 

Safe

Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge

The lodge boasts 67 well-appointed rooms, including a luxurious Losimingori Suite, triple rooms, double rooms, and twin rooms with connecting options. The rondavel-style accommodation, with its circular, thatched design, offers modern amenities with a traditional touch. Each room features a veranda with breathtaking views, ensuring a comfortable and immersive stay in the heart of the wilderness.

Famed for tree-climbing lions and a pink-hued flamingo shoreline.

 Lake Manyara National Park offers a rich biodiversity, including large troops of baboons, tree-climbing lions, elephants, giraffes, and a variety of bird species, set against the stunning backdrop of the Rift Valley.

5 Day Tanzanian Safari

4 Nights

5 Days

0 Destinations

Arusha to Tarangire National Park

Depart from Arusha town at 08:30 hrs and drive to Tarangire National Park where the day will be spent on a game drive. A packed lunch will be provided in the park. After lunch final game drive before continuing to Lake Burunge for dinner and overnight at Burunge Tented Lodge.

What's included

4x4 Private safari vehicle

Professional guide for your safari

What's excluded

Driver / guide tips are NOT included and recommended at minimum $10.00 per person per day

Safari starts and ends in Arusha town – no airport transfers are included

What's not stated is not included

Trip extras

4x4 Safari Cruiser (Included)

Park Fees (Included)

(JRO to Arusha) Airport Transfer in a 4x4 Safari Cruiser (Optional)

Number of Units

0

Bed & Breakfast - Accommodation Extension at Mount Meru Game Lodge (Optional)

Number of Units

0

Half Board - Accommodation Extension at Mount Meru Game Lodge (Optional)

Number of Units

0

Full Board - Accommodation Extension at Mount Meru Game Lodge (Optional)

Number of Units

0

(JRO - Arusha) Transfer in an Alphard Mini Van (Optional)

Number of Units

0

Accommodation Extension at Gran Melia Arusha (Deluxe City View) (Optional)

Number of Units

0

Accommodation Extension at Gran Melia Arusha (Mountain View) (Optional)

Number of Units

0

Itinerary

2 Travellers

August 6, 2024 - August 10, 2024

August 6 - August 10

Aug 6

Day 1

Pick-up

Pick-up Location

Start

Pick-up Location

Pick-up Location

End

Drop-off Location

Aug 7

Day 2

Pick-up

Pick-up Location

Start

Pick-up Location

Pick-up Location

Pick-up Location

End

Drop-off Location

Aug 8

Day 3

Pick-up

Pick-up Location

Start

Pick-up Location

Pick-up Location

Pick-up Location

Pick-up Location

Pick-up Location

Pick-up Location

End

Drop-off Location

Aug 9

Day 4

Pick-up

Pick-up Location

Start

Pick-up Location

Pick-up Location