8 Day Tanzania Wildlife Safari Adventure

8 Day Tanzania Wildlife Safari Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable 8 Day Tanzania Wildlife Safari Adventure, designed around one of the most extraordinary wildlife spectacles on Earth—the Great Wildebeest Migration. Over eight days, you will travel from the baobab-dotted landscapes of Tarangire to the endless plains of the Serengeti, before descending into the wildlife-rich Ngorongoro Crater and visiting the bird-filled Lake Manyara National Park. This tour is perfect for those looking to witness the iconic river crossings, big cats on the hunt, vast herds of elephants, and a full spectrum of East African wildlife.

With comfortable lodge accommodations and experienced local guides, this safari offers a well-paced itinerary that balances adventure with relaxation. Whether you’re a first-time traveler to Africa or a seasoned safari-goer, this 8-day itinerary promises incredible wildlife encounters, scenic beauty, and cultural insights.

Route: Arusha – Tarangire – Central Serengeti – Northern Serengeti – Ngorongoro Crater – Lake Manyara – Arusha

Arrival and Departure Information

You should plan to arrive in Tanzania via Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK). A representative from Trek Africa Expeditions will be at the airport to welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Arusha if you’ve booked an optional pre-safari overnight stay.

Your safari officially begins the following morning. For your departure, we recommend booking an evening or late-night flight on Day 8, as the final game drive ends around midday. Airport drop-off is included.

Day-by-Day Itinerary for the 8 Day Tanzania Wildlife Safari Adventure

Day 1: Arusha to Tarangire National Park

Your safari begins with a scenic drive from Arusha to Tarangire National Park, a haven for large elephant herds and ancient baobab trees. This park is often overlooked by visitors, making it less crowded and ideal for a peaceful game viewing experience. After checking in at your lodge, you’ll enjoy an afternoon game drive. Expect to see elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and possibly lions or leopards. The Tarangire River is the park’s lifeline during the dry season, drawing animals in large numbers.

Overnight at Fanaka Lodge
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 2: Karatu to Central Serengeti

After breakfast, you’ll begin your journey to the Central Serengeti, passing through the picturesque Ngorongoro Highlands. The drive is long but incredibly scenic, with opportunities to spot wildlife even before entering the park. Upon arrival in the Serengeti, you’ll enjoy your first game drive in the Seronera Valley, an area known for its abundant wildlife and year-round game viewing. Lions, leopards, and cheetahs are commonly seen here, alongside large herds of herbivores.

Overnight at Serengeti Heritage Tented Lodge
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 3: Full Day in Central Serengeti

Spend the entire day exploring the central Serengeti, one of Africa’s most celebrated wildlife areas. The open savannahs, granite kopjes, and seasonal rivers offer varied habitats for a wide range of species. Your guide will help track down the animals that make this ecosystem so famous, from prides of lions to elusive leopards and scavenging hyenas. You can choose to do a full-day game drive with a packed lunch or return to camp for lunch and head out again in the afternoon.

Overnight at Serengeti Heritage Tented Lodge
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 4: Central Serengeti to Northern Serengeti (Mara River Region)

Today you will head north toward the Mara River region of the Serengeti, an area that plays a key role in the annual wildebeest migration. The journey itself is a game drive, with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife along the way. The landscape becomes hillier and greener as you approach the north. Depending on the time of year, this is where you may witness one of the most dramatic wildlife events on the planet—thousands of wildebeest and zebras braving crocodile-infested waters as they cross the Mara River.

Overnight at Serengeti Heritage Tented Lodge
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 5: Full Day in Northern Serengeti – Migration Experience

This day is dedicated entirely to witnessing the Great Wildebeest Migration. You’ll explore the plains and riverbanks of the northern Serengeti in search of active crossing points. With some patience and a little luck, you may see the drama unfold before your eyes: wildebeest and zebras charging into the river as crocodiles lie in wait. Even outside the migration period, this region offers excellent game viewing, including lions, elephants, hippos, and elusive leopards.

Overnight at Serengeti Heritage Tented Lodge
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 6: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Conservation Area

After breakfast and a morning game drive, you’ll start your journey toward the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Along the way, you have the option to visit a Maasai village or stop at the Olduvai Gorge, a significant archaeological site. As you climb in elevation, the landscape shifts from flat plains to highland forests and rolling hills. Your lodge for the night sits on the crater rim, offering spectacular views and a cool, refreshing climate.

Overnight at Ngorongoro Wild Lodge
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 7: Game Drives in Ngorongoro Crater

Today, descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, one of the most unique safari destinations in Africa. Often called “Africa’s Garden of Eden,” this collapsed volcano hosts a remarkable concentration of wildlife, including all members of the Big Five—lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino, and leopard. You’ll also encounter hippos, zebras, wildebeest, hyenas, and flamingos on the crater floor. Enjoy a scenic picnic lunch before driving back to Mto wa Mbu for your overnight stay.

Overnight at Fanaka Lodge
Meals included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 8: Transfer to Lake Manyara National Park for a Game Drive and Return to Arusha

After an early breakfast, head to Lake Manyara National Park for your final game drive. This compact but diverse park is famous for its lush groundwater forest, flamingo-dotted soda lake, and tree-climbing lions. The park is also home to elephants, giraffes, hippos, baboons, and over 400 bird species—making it a paradise for nature lovers. After a picnic lunch in the park, you’ll return to Arusha in the late afternoon, concluding your unforgettable safari with Trek Africa Expeditions.

Meals included: Breakfast and Lunch

Inclusions and Exclusions for the 8 Day Tanzania Wildlife Safari Adventure

Inclusions

• All ground transportation and airport transfers
• Professional English-speaking safari guide
• Private use of a 4×4 pop-up roof safari vehicle
• Park entrance and conservation fees
• All game drives and activities listed in the itinerary
• Accommodation in mid-range lodges and tented camps
• All meals as specified in the itinerary
• Bottled drinking water during game drives

Exclusions

• International flights to and from Tanzania
• Visa fees (approximately $50–100 depending on nationality)
• Travel insurance and medical evacuation cover (required)
• Tips for guides and lodge staff
• Optional activities such as hot air balloon safaris or cultural tours
• Drinks, laundry, and other personal expenses

Best Time to Visit

The best time to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration river crossings is from July to October, when the herds are concentrated in the northern Serengeti. Central Serengeti offers excellent wildlife viewing throughout the year, particularly from June to March. April and May are the rainy season and considered low season—these months offer fewer tourists and lush landscapes, but road conditions can be challenging.

What to Pack for Your Tanzania Safari

• Neutral-colored clothing (avoid blue and black to deter tsetse flies)
• Lightweight long-sleeved shirts and trousers
• A warm jacket or fleece for early mornings and evenings
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
• Insect repellent with DEET
• Binoculars and a good camera
• Power bank and universal travel adapter

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the wildebeest migration guaranteed during my safari?

While the migration follows a general annual pattern, the exact timing can vary due to rainfall and grazing conditions. We schedule this safari during the months with the highest likelihood of witnessing river crossings, and our guides will do their best to get you to the action.

Do I need a visa to enter Tanzania?

Yes, most visitors require a visa. You can apply online in advance or obtain one upon arrival at the airport. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months.

Is this safari suitable for children?

Yes, the itinerary can be adapted for families. We work with lodges that are child-friendly and can modify game drive durations based on your family’s preferences.

Can I add extra days or customize this trip?

Absolutely. This itinerary can be extended to include Zanzibar beach time, Mount Kilimanjaro treks, or additional days in the Serengeti. Let us know what you’d like to add.

What are the accommodations like?

We use comfortable, mid-range safari lodges and tented camps with private bathrooms, hot showers, and full board meals. Upgrades to luxury camps are available upon request.

Pricing

Pricing depends on the number of travelers, travel dates, and accommodation preferences. Contact us for a personalized quote. We offer group discounts, family packages, and seasonal deals.

Ready to plan your Great Migration Safari? Reach out today to reserve your spot or ask us any questions. Our team is here to help you craft a seamless and unforgettable Tanzania adventure.