8-Day Northern Tanzania Camping Safari Itinerary

Overview

This classic 8-day camping safari takes you deep into the heart of Northern Tanzania’s top national parks and conservation areas. From elephant-dotted woodlands of Tarangire to flamingo-filled shores of Lake Manyara, through the iconic plains of Serengeti and the Big Five haven of Ngorongoro Crater—this journey blends thrilling wildlife encounters with cultural immersion and stunning landscapes. Perfect for adventurers who want to experience Africa close to the ground, this trip uses scenic public campsites to stay connected to nature throughout.

Safari Highlights:

• Experience Big Five sightings and the famed Great Migration (seasonal)
• Game drives in four of Tanzania’s premier wildlife areas
• Visit the spectacular Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• See tree-climbing lions at Lake Manyara
• Optional visit to Maasai bomas and Olduvai Gorge
• Camp under the stars in the African wilderness

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Kilimanjaro Airport – Arusha

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport where your safari guide meets you. You will transfer to Arusha town, roughly 45 minutes away, to relax after your flight.

Accommodation: New Safari Hotel – Camping (Bed & Breakfast)

Day 2: Arusha – Tarangire National Park

After a quick shopping stop in Arusha, drive to Tarangire National Park for your first game drive. Famous for its large herds of elephants and majestic baobab trees, Tarangire is home to lions, oryx, giraffes, zebras, and migratory herds during the dry season.

Accommodation: Tarangire Campsite (Full Board)

Day 3: Tarangire – Lake Manyara National Park

Begin with an early morning game drive in Tarangire before heading to Lake Manyara. Nestled at the base of the Rift Valley escarpment, this lush park is known for its tree-climbing lions, flamingos, hippos, and forest primates. The lake itself is a scenic highlight.

Accommodation: Lake Manyara Campsite (Full Board)

Day 4: Lake Manyara – Ndutu (Southern Serengeti)

Drive through the breathtaking Ngorongoro Highlands, with optional stops for panoramic views and a visit to a local Maasai boma (optional). Continue to the Ndutu region, part of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and rich with plains game, cheetahs, lions, and seasonal migration herds.

Accommodation: Ndutu Campsite (Full Board)

Day 5: Ndutu – Seronera (Central Serengeti)

Start with a morning game drive in Ndutu before journeying into the central Serengeti. The Seronera area has a permanent water supply, supporting a high density of wildlife year-round. Expect big cats, large herds, and scenic savanna views.

Accommodation: Seronera Campsite (Full Board)

Day 6: Serengeti – Ngorongoro Crater Rim

Enjoy an early game drive in Seronera to catch sunrise activity—lions on the move, leopards in trees, and active hyenas. En route to Ngorongoro, visit the Serengeti Visitor Centre or Olduvai Gorge (optional). Arrive at the crater rim for dinner with a view.

Accommodation: Simba Campsite, Crater Rim (Full Board)

Day 7: Full Day in Ngorongoro Crater

Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a full-day safari. This intact caldera shelters one of the densest wildlife populations in Africa. Watch for black rhinos, lions, elephants, hyenas, and hippos. Picnic at the scenic hippo pool before returning to camp.

Accommodation: Simba Campsite (Full Board)

Day 8: Ngorongoro – Kilimanjaro Airport

After breakfast, drive back to Arusha or Kilimanjaro Airport for your flight home. If time allows, you can add an optional short game drive in Arusha National Park to end your safari with forested mountain landscapes and colobus monkeys.

End of Safari

✔️ Included in Your Safari Package:

• All transfers and transport in a 4×4 safari vehicle
• English-speaking driver/guide
• All park entry and conservation fees
• 7 nights camping accommodation (FB as indicated)
• Camping equipment (tent, mattress, chairs, table)
• Cook and three meals per day on safari
• Bottled drinking water
• Airport pickup and drop-off

❌ Not Included:

• International flights
• Sleeping bag (can be hired)
• Travel insurance
• Tips and gratuities
• Optional Maasai village or Olduvai Gorge visit
• Beverages and personal expenses