5 Days and 4 Nights Safari

The name Tanzania conjures up images of wildebeest stampeding across vast savannah, rain forests teeming with monkeys and birdlife, and great plains brimming with legions of game. All of these natural wonders and more are on offer in this exceptionally diverse African nation. Visitors typically visit Tanzania to partake in at least one of the four well-known Tanzanian tourist experiences: a relaxing seaside vacation on the picturesque island paradise of Zanzibar, an underwater tour of some of the world’s most renowned dive sites around the gorgeous Spice Islands, a safari adventure in some of Africa’s most impressive game reserves, or a hiking excursion around Mount Kilimanjaro National Park. Whichever of these incredible holidays you choose, you will undoubtedly be welcomed by some fabulously friendly and peaceful inhabitants who, despite being divided into 120 different ethnic groups and cultures, live in harmony with one another and provide some of the most wonderfully exotic local cuisines you could imagine. With all of this diversity on offer, the most difficult part of your Tanzanian holiday experience is likely to be deciding where to go!

Banking and Currency

Currency
In Tanzania, the unit of currency is the Tanzanian Shilling, which is divided into 100 Cents. Notes are issued in denominations of 500, 1000, 2000, 5000, and 10000 Shillings. Coins are issued in denominations of 50, 100, and 200 Shillings.

Banking
Banks are open from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm Monday to Friday. Many banks are equipped with 24-hour ATMs.

Credit cards and traveler's checks are not widely accepted in Tanzania. Where they are accepted can high service fees and poor exchange rates be expected. Major foreign currencies - particularly US $ - are accepted in Tanzania and are convertible at banks and Bureau de Changes in the main towns and tourist areas. If bringing cash in US $, please make sure bank notes are in good condition, with no cuts or damage, and are not older than 2006. Most banks offer higher exchange rates for US $ 100 / US $ 50 bank notes compared to US $ 20 / US $ 10 or US $ 5 bank notes.

Travel, Transport, and Getting Around

If you are visiting several parks and reserves in Tanzania, you can either drive or fly between them. Roads in most of the wilderness areas are in poor condition and unmarked, and self-driving is not recommended. Operators will supply you with a driver who doubles as an informal guide; alternatively, you can arrange to fly to your destination and utilize a car and driver supplied by the lodgings. Elsewhere in Tanzania, towns and cities are linked by a steady stream of buses and dala-dalas (minibusses), and in the cities, there is public transport in the way of buses, dala-dalas, taxis, and, in some places, bicycles or tuk-tuks.

Precision Air runs regular services, mostly via Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro, or Zanzibar, to all main towns and other destinations in East Africa and beyond. All national parks and some of the top-end luxury lodges have airstrips and
 
Coastal Air operates between these and the main airports on the mainland and the islands of Zanzibar, Pemba, and Mafia. ZanAir has frequent connections between Zanzibar, Pemba, and the mainland.

Driving is on the left-hand side of the road

Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice

Most camps, lodges, or hotels cater specifically to tourists and serve Western-style food, ranging in standard, but generally excellent. Game lodges tend to offer a daily set menu with a limited selection, so it is advisable to have your tour operator specify in advance if you are a vegetarian or have other specific dietary requirements. First-time visitors to Africa might take note that most game lodges in and around the national parks have isolated locations, and driving within the parks is neither permitted nor advisable after dark, so there is no realistic alternative to eating at your lodge.

Tap water in Tanzania is generally not safe to drink, and most travelers try to stick to mineral water. Filtered and bottled water can be difficult to find if you are traveling outside of the main town so it is advisable to stock up. Most camps, lodges, and hotels have bottled water readily available.

Please note that, as of 2016, Tanzania has banned the use of plastic bags in a bid to tackle pollution and protect the environment. Travelers to Tanzania will no longer be allowed to bring plastic carrier bags into the country. This ban targets all plastic bags that are imported, exported, manufactured, sold, stored, supplied and used.

Climate and Weather

Just south of the equator, Tanzania is huge and its sheer size means that the climate varies considerably within it. However, generally the main rainy season, or the 'long rains', lasts during about March, April, and May. Afternoon tropical downpours are the norm – which are heavier and more predictable beside the coast and on the islands. The humidity is high and daily temperatures reach the low-mid 30°s.

The long dry season lasts throughout June, July, August, September, and October when rainfall is unusual, even on the islands. Temperatures vary hugely with altitude and location, but it's usually a fine, clear sky and sunny weather – it's a great time to visit Tanzania. During November and December, there's another rainy season: the 'short rains'. These are much lighter than the main rains and less reliable.

If it has rained during the short rains, then it normally dries up for a few months, January and February, which is Tanzania's 'short dry season', before starting to rain again in earnest in March.

Clothing and Dress Recommendations

It never gets really cold in Tanzania so lightweight clothing, preferably cotton or linen, is recommended. While on a game-viewing safari, avoid brightly colored clothing, and stick to whites, beiges, khakis, and browns. There may be long days sitting in safari vehicles, so it is advisable to wear light comfortable clothing such as short-sleeved shirts and cotton/linen trousers or shorts. Denim will become too hot and extremely uncomfortable. Walking shoes and socks will be required.

The evenings will be chilly, so long-sleeved shirts and trousers should be worn. A sweater may be needed. These will also prevent you from being bitten by insects. A hat should be worn at all times outside. The sun may sometimes not feel hot, but it can still easily burn, especially if it is cloudy and overcast.

If visiting Zanzibar or any coastal town don't forget to take a swimsuit, as it is invariably warm. Ladies are recommended to wear cotton skirts, blouses, and dresses. Sandals are a must for this environment! On the beaches and within the confines of hotels, normal swimwear is acceptable but nudity is not.

As over a third of the population in Tanzania is Muslim, it is therefore not etiquette for ladies to walk around in public displaying their legs and shoulders. Remember to dress modestly as short shorts, miniskirts, vests, and tank tops will be frowned upon.

Internet Availability

Tanzania has good Internet Service Providers with email and internet services offered by many hotels and lodges (free / paid). In most towns, there are plenty of private business centers and cyber cafes offering email and internet access, although the speeds might be somewhat slower than what you are used to.

Electricity and Plug Standards

Electrical sockets in Tanzania are one of three: Type G (BS-1363) Type C (CEE 7/16 Europlug) and Type D (BS-546) electrical socket types: If your appliance's plug doesn't match the shape of these sockets, you will need a travel plug adapter to plug in. Travel plug adapters simply change the shape of your appliance's plug to match whatever type of socket you need to plug into. If it's crucial to be able to plug in no matter what, bring an adapter for all types.

Electrical sockets in Tanzania usually supply electricity at 230 volts AC / 50 Hz frequency. If you're plugging in an appliance that was built for 230-volt electrical input, or an appliance that is compatible with multiple voltages, then an adapter is all you need. If your appliance isn’t compatible with 230 volts, a voltage converter will be necessary.

Package Includes:
  • Transportation in a 4x4 Vehicle with a pop-up roof for easy game viewing & photography.
  • Services of an English-speaking driver-guide, game viewing drives, and park entrance fees as indicated in the itinerary.
  • All Government taxes and levies.
  • All meet and greet services.
  • 24-hour stand-by contact number.
  • Meals as indicated in the itinerary.
  • Two-way long-range high-frequency radio communication in each vehicle.
  • 2 Bottles of water per person per day (during game drive)
  • On safari accessories in each vehicle: First-aid kits, wildlife books, cool box, and fire extinguisher.
  • VAT & Concession fee.
  • Flight - Serengeti / Arusha - Luggage Allowance - 15kgs
Package Excludes:
  • All items of a personal nature e.g. telephone call bills, fax/email bills, etc.
  • Gratuities and Tips to Hotels/Lodges/Camps staff and Driver/Guide(s).
  • Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
  • Any local or international flight/s and departure taxes and other taxes.
  • Laundry services.
  • Flights – National or International – (Local flights - Subject to your program)
  • Concession fees (In case of any new fees introduced by parks without our knowledge.
  • Any other item(s) not included in our itinerary.
  • Visa fees (currently US$ 50.00 per passport holder). Visas are available on arrival at all Entry point/s
    • Covers you within East Africa for 14 days. In a medical emergency, you will be airlifted to Nairobi where you will be taken to a good hospital. Hospital bills are paid by the patient
    • We highly recommend you have your insurance.
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Day 1: Lemala Mpingo Ridge Lodge, Tarangire National Park

Tarangire National Park
Tarangire National Park, situated within Tanzania’s spectacular Manyara Region, is an awe-inspiring national park comprising granite ridges, river valleys, mixed vegetative landscapes, and free-roaming wildlife. During the annual dry season, the Tarangire River is a magnet for thirsty wildlife. Large herds of elephants and migratory wildebeest, zebra, buffalo, impala, gazelle, hartebeest, and eland gather and not surprisingly the predators follow. With lions being among the most commonly spotted animals, it is a rare day that a visitor does not spot this majestic animal prowling or grazing. Tarangire is also the one place in Tanzania where dry-country antelope such as oryx and gerenuk are seen regularly. This expansive area is also known for its spectacular baobab trees, its breathtaking views of the Masaai Steppe, and the wondrous mountains to the south.

Day Itinerary

  • Upon Arrival at JRO. You will Meet our representatives and Drive to Tarangire for Lunch followed by Afternoon game drives at Tarangire National Park.
  • Later evening head back to the lodge for dinner and Overnight.

Overnight: Lemala Mpingo Ridge Lodge

Lemala Mpingo Ridge sits on top of an escarpment with sweeping views across the perennial Tarangire River and valley below and matches the same outstanding standards of comfort and service as the other properties in Lemala’s collection.

Being the sixth largest national park in Tanzania, Tarangire remains slightly off the main safari circuit but is a terrifically scenic park featuring classic African savannah, green hills, woodlands, and rivers and is especially famous for its large herds of elephants, superb birdlife, and giant baobab trees. Guests at Lemala Mpingo Ridge will enjoy a real sense of wilderness and excellent game viewing, and it’s both a relaxing standalone destination and a great place to start a safari that also combines Lemala properties in the Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti.

Standard Suite

Sweeping views of the park from each standard suite and the main areas make this property not only unique but truly special. Each of the 15 spacious standard suites has been carefully positioned to maximize not only the amazing views but also to take advantage of the cooling winds during the hot season. Maximum occupancy 3.

Alternate: Oliver's Camp

Discover Africa, just as it should be. Oliver’s Camp – in the remote southern reaches of Tarangire National Park – has only ten beautifully appointed safari tents in a spectacular location close to the game-dense Silale Swamps and overlooking a flood plain of the Minyonyo Pools.

Oliver’s draws its inspiration from the trailblazing camps that pioneered the early days of safari. Offering guests direct access to the dense concentration of wildlife that is found in this remote region year-round, as well as the chance to enjoy walking safaris and fly camping. Oliver’s is intimate and personal, staffed by a world-class team that has worked together for many years to perfect a safari experience that guests consistently rank among their best.

Tarangire National Park

Tarangire National Park, situated within Tanzania’s spectacular Manyara Region, is an awe-inspiring national park comprising granite ridges, river valleys, mixed vegetative landscapes, and free-roaming wildlife. During the annual dry season, the Tarangire River is a magnet for thirsty wildlife. Large herds of elephants and migratory wildebeest, zebra, buffalo, impala, gazelle, hartebeest, and eland gather and not surprisingly the predators follow. With lions being among the most commonly spotted animals, it is a rare day that a visitor does not spot this majestic animal prowling or grazing. Tarangire is also the one place in Tanzania where dry-country antelope such as Oryx and gerenuk are seen regularly. This expansive area is also known for its spectacular baobab trees, its breathtaking views of the Masaai Steppe, and the wondrous mountains to the south.

Basis: Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

Included:

  • LEMALA MPINGO - Full board accommodation, house wines and spirits, local beers, soft drinks, juices and water, laundry, TDL, Concession fee & Wi-Fi
  • OLIVERS CAMP - Full board accommodation, all drinks (except champagne, cellar wines, premium brand spirits), TANAPA concession fees (subject to change), limited laundry service

Day 2: Beyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge, Ngorongoro Crater

Ngorongoro Crater

Located in Northern Tanzania, the Ngorongoro Crater is best known for its natural beauty and abundance of diverse wildlife; which makes it one of Africa’s most popular safari destinations. Surrounded by Tanzania’s highlands, this UNESCO-listed crater is said to be the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera. Visitors can look forward to spotting the world-renowned Big Five and a host of other wildlife species including large herds of zebra and wildebeest. It is famed as one of Tanzania’s best tourist attractions offering visitors an array of wonderful activities including excellent bird watching, trekking, wildlife viewing, mountain biking, and visiting a local Maasai village. Don’t miss the opportunity to jump on an excursion to the magnificent Olduvai Gorge.

Day Itinerary

  • Today you will drive to Ngorongoro with Picnic Boxes for a full-day crater tour.
  • Later evening return to the lodge for dinner and Overnight.

Overnight: Beyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge

Perched on the edge of the Ngorongoro Crater, &Beyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge comprises three separate camps totaling just 30 suites. Each stilted, handcrafted mud and thatch suite is adorned with antiques, chandeliers, and elegant African treasures, and floor-to-ceiling windows overlook the magnificent Crater below. Ensuite bathrooms feature spacious showers and chandelier-lit bathtubs. A personal butler discretely caters to each guest’s every need, bringing tea into bed, stoking fireplaces, and drawing luxurious bubble baths. Frequently described as Maasai meets

Versailles, each camp has its own guest sitting and dining areas, as well as viewing decks. The domed dining room, with its fireplace, and crystal, silver, and massive wooden platters, turns every meal into a special occasion.

Suite(s)

Three separate and intimate camps totaling just 30 suites are reminiscent of a bygone era. Steeped in romance, each stilted, handcrafted mud and thatch suite is adorned with graceful antiques, grand chandeliers, and elegant African treasures. The bedroom, sitting room, and ensuite bathroom boast floor-to-ceiling glass windows overlooking the magnificent Crater below. Beaded chandeliers hang above large gilt mirrors, while antiques, billowing raw silk curtains and leather-backed chairs blend harmoniously with African art elements. Ensuite bathrooms with a dramatic centerpiece of red roses feature spacious showers and chandelier-lit bathtubs. Personal butlers discretely cater to each guest’s every need, bringing tea into bed, stoking fireplaces, and drawing luxurious bubble baths.

Alternate: The Highlands

The Highlands redefines the Ngorongoro experience. Set on the edge of the mountain forest hugging the Olmoti Crater to the north of Ngorongoro Crater, The Highlands strikes a perfect balance between a true wilderness experience and a stylish, contemporary escape. Experience the highlands of the wild Ngorongoro Conservation Area surrounding the camp, home to buffalo, smaller predators, and majestic moorland scenery. Follow ancient Maasai trails to the rim of the Olmoti Crater and visit local communities to catch a glimpse into the traditional Maasai way of life that has defined this corner of East Africa for centuries. The famous Ngorongoro Crater is easily accessible from camp, while the setting ensures maximum privacy, a rich adventure, and a range of activities not possible elsewhere in Ngorongoro.

Ngorongoro Crater

Located in Northern Tanzania, the Ngorongoro Crater is best known for its natural beauty and abundance of diverse wildlife; which makes it one of Africa’s most popular safari destinations. Surrounded by Tanzania’s highlands, this UNESCO-listed crater is said to be the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera. Visitors can look forward to spotting the world-renowned Big Five and a host of other wildlife species including large herds of zebra and wildebeest. It is famed as one of Tanzania’s best tourist attractions offering visitors an array of wonderful activities including excellent bird watching, trekking, wildlife viewing, mountain biking, and visiting a local Maasai village. Don’t miss the opportunity to jump on an excursion to the magnificent Olduvai Gorge.

Basis: Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

Included:

  • NGORONGORO CRATER LODGE -Full Board Accommodation, 3 Meals Daily, Soft Drinks, house wines, Local beer, Tea & coffees, Refreshments on Lodge Activities, Laundry, and Emergency Evacuation Insurance & Concession Fee
  • THE HIGHLANDS AT NGORONGORO - Full board accommodation, all drinks (except champagne, cellar wines, premium brand spirits), NCAA camping fees, laundry service, Olmoti Crater Hike, Masai Cultural Visit, Empakaai Crater Hike

Day 3: Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti, Ikoma

Ikoma

Ikoma is situated in Tanzania, east of the Serengeti National Park, at the base of the majestic Mt. Meru, Ikoma is surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Lake Manyara and the Ngorongoro Crater are both within easy driving distance, making Ikoma the perfect base for exploring the region. In addition to its natural wonders, Ikoma is also home to several great activities, including hiking, biking, and bird-watching. With so much to see and do, it's no wonder Ikoma is one of Tanzania's most popular tourist destinations. Other Highlights in the surrounding area include Lake Ndutu and the Olduvai Gorge. Ikoma is also home to several Masai villages, where visitors can learn about the traditional culture and way of life. With its unique location and range of activities on offer, Ikoma is an ideal destination for those looking to explore the natural beauty and culture of Tanzania.

Day Itinerary

  • Drive to Serengeti for Lunch followed by Afternoon game drives of Serengeti National Park.
  • Dinner and Overnight at the Lodge.

Overnight: Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti

Deep within one of Africa’s finest game reserves, the Four Seasons Safari Lodge at Serengeti welcomes guests to a sanctuary of comfort. Guests can get up close with lions, leopards, and elephants, yet always feel safe and pampered. Secluded and spacious, the 77 guest rooms, suites, and villas keep guests in touch with the Serengeti. Contemporary African décor features four-poster beds with mosquito netting, as well as local textiles and artwork, all enhanced by modern comforts such as air conditioning and high-speed internet access. Guests can step outside onto their elevated, open-air sundeck with direct views of the plains and enjoy spotting any lions or elephants that might be passing by.

SAVANNAH ROOM WATER HOLE VIEW

Gaze out from your private balcony to spectacular views of the Lodge's central watering hole, frequently visited by a herd of elephants, baboons, impalas, and many other local wildlife. Direct views of the watering hole allow you to enjoy up-close animal sightings from the comfort of your room.

BEDS: One king or two twin beds

OCCUPANCY: 2 adults, or 2 adults and 1 child

EXTRA BED: No supplement was applied for an extra bed for one child aged 2 - 10 years.

LOCATION: Ground floor

VIEW: An animal watering hole and Serengeti plains

SIZE: 55 m2 (592 sq.)

BATHROOMS: One full bathroom with a separate shower and deep soaking tub

SERVICES & AMENITIES

BED & BATH: Down pillows, Hypoallergenic pillows available on request, Comfortable bathrobes
Twice-daily housekeeping service, Make-up mirror and separate vanity space, Iron and ironing board upon request, Blackout drapes, Air conditioning, Hair dryer

ROOM AMENITIES: Wired or wireless Internet access for up to two devices per room, Refrigerated private bar, Multi-line telephone(s) with voicemail, Outdoor space, Flat-screen televisions, Sofa, dining table, and two chairs (dining table in villas only), Tea/coffee maker, Flashlights In-room safe suitable for a laptop computer

Alternate: Dunia

Dunia, in Tanzania’s central Serengeti, is well-placed for wildlife spotting. During the annual Great Migration, guests can watch giant herds of wildebeest moving through the area right from camp. Farther afield, you may spot lions using the granite boulders of Moru Kopjes to scan the plains for prey.

Serengeti National Park

The Serengeti, together with Kenya’s Masai Mara Game Park, constitute Africa's most famous wildlife park, spread over the enthralling landscapes of northern Tanzania. This is a precious ecosystem, supporting the annual wildebeest migration through the Serengeti and the Masai Mara. The largest mass movement of land mammals on the planet involves more than a million animals following the rains, including more than 1.5 million white-bearded wildebeest and 250,000 zebras. Prides of lions, as well as groups of elephants, giraffes, gazelles, and eland, roam among the photogenic vast grass plains between weird-and-wonderful-looking acacia trees. Aside from traditional vehicle safaris, hot-air ballooning over the Serengeti plains and horse-riding safaris are on offer.

Basis: Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

Included:

  • FOUR SEASONS SERENGETI -Full Board Breakfast, lunch, Dinner plus beverages, local wines/well spirits and local beers, complimentary internet up to 2 devices per room and concession fee, TDL & VAT
  • DUNIA CAMP -Full board accommodation, all drinks (except champagne, cellar wines, premium brand spirits), TANAPA camping fees laundry service.

Day 4: Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti, Ikoma

Day Itinerary

  • Full-day game drives of Serengeti National Park.
  • Dinner and Overnight at the Lodge.

Serengeti National Park

The Serengeti, together with Kenya’s Masai Mara Game Park, constitute Africa's most famous wildlife park, spread over the enthralling landscapes of northern Tanzania. This is a precious ecosystem, supporting the annual wildebeest migration through the Serengeti and the Masai Mara. The largest mass movement of land mammals on the planet involves more than a million animals following the rains, including more than 1.5 million white-bearded wildebeest and 250,000 zebras. Prides of lions, as well as groups of elephants, giraffes, gazelles, and eland, roam among the photogenic vast grass plains between weird-and-wonderful-looking acacia trees. Aside from traditional vehicle safaris, hot-air ballooning over the Serengeti plains and horse-riding safaris are on offer.

Basis: Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch

Included:

  • FOUR SEASONS SERENGETI -Full Board Breakfast, lunch, Dinner plus beverages, local wines/well spirits and local beers, complimentary internet up to 2 devices per room and concession fee, TDL & VAT
  • DUNIA CAMP - Full board accommodation, all drinks (except champagne, cellar wines, premium brand spirits), TANAPA camping fees laundry service.

Day 5: End of Itinerary

Day Itinerary

  • After Breakfast, transfer to Airstrip for your flight to Arusha.
  • Upon arrival, you will be transferred to Arusha Coffee Lodge for Lunch followed by Drop off at ARK/JRO Airport.

Basis: Bed and Breakfast

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More Regular Safaris:
2 Days - Tarangire and Ngorongoro Crater 3 Days - Tarangire, Ngorongoro and Lake Manyara 4 Days - Lake Manyara, Serengeti and Ngorongoro 5 Days - Northern Circuit Family Safari 5 Days - Tanzania Wildlife Safari 5 Days - Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Manyara 6 Days - Tanzania Wildlife Safari 7 Days - Tanzania Family Safari Program 5 Days and 4 Nights Safari 6 Days and 5 Nights Safari