Explore The Majestic Big Five On An 8 Day Safari With Kilimanjaro Views, Waterfalls, And Hot Springs

Following a satisfying morning meal, your expedition will progress towards the iconic Serengeti National Park. Passing through the charming farmlands of Karatu and the verdant highlands of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, you will descend into the vast plains of the Serengeti—an arena where nature's grand spectacle plays out on a magnificent scale. Upon arrival at the park, the boundless panoramas of the Serengeti will unfold before you endlessly. Your destination will be the Seronera region, celebrated for its abundant wildlife population. Here, the Seronera River meanders through the core of the park, acting as a crucial water source that lures a diverse range of animals. Following a leisurely lunch, you will set off on an exciting afternoon safari, offering frequent opportunities to witness the unspoiled beauty and wild essence of the Serengeti. As the sun sets, you will return to Nyani Camp for a delectable dinner and a tranquil night's rest, preparing for another day of exploration.

Following a leisurely morning and an early lunch, the next leg of your journey unfolds as you leave the Serengeti behind and head towards the magnificent Ngorongoro Crater. Accompanied by our knowledgeable driver-guide, you will journey through diverse landscapes, learning about Tanzania's extraordinary wildlife and natural beauty. As you approach the crater's edge, the scenery transforms into a stunning vista - from verdant highlands to one of Africa's most iconic sights. Upon reaching your destination, take a moment to relax and admire the sweeping views of the caldera below. The day concludes with a delightful dinner and a cozy overnight stay at Samba Camp, where you can unwind and prepare for the exciting descent into the crater awaiting you tomorrow.

Following an early morning meal, you will descend more than 600 meters (1,970 feet) into the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, immersing yourself in a lively ecosystem teeming with diverse wildlife. The crater's ample water sources and verdant greenery create a sanctuary for a wide array of animals, including wildebeests, zebras, buffalos, elands, warthogs, hippos, and the magnificent African elephants. This region is renowned for its dense population of predators like lions, hyenas, jackals, cheetahs, and elusive leopards, so be sure to keep a sharp lookout for these captivating creatures. While venturing through the area, you will have the opportunity to explore Lake Magadi, a shallow alkaline lake nestled in the crater's southwest corner. This scenic spot serves as a habitat for flamingos, hippos, and various aquatic birds, offering a serene and enchanting wildlife encounter.

Following an early breakfast and check-out, your day will kick off with an exciting safari expedition in the captivating Lake Manyara National Park. You'll be provided with a delicious packed lunch to enjoy as you venture through the park. Despite its small size of just 205 square miles, Lake Manyara is renowned for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. The park boasts various habitats, including lush forests, expansive grasslands, and woodlands filled with lively baboons and inquisitive blue monkeys. At noon, you'll have a chance to relax at a charming picnic spot, surrounded by the tranquility of nature while relishing your meal. In the afternoon, your journey will continue, offering glimpses of tree-climbing lions, hippos lounging in the lake, and flamingos creating a pink hue along the shoreline. As the day winds down, you'll exit the park and head back to Moshi Kilimanjaro, reaching your hotel by around 7 PM.

Embark on your journey by driving early in the morning from Moshi to Marangu Gate, the entry point for one of Kilimanjaro's accessible trails. Following registration and a brief orientation, immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere where sunlight filters through the canopy of ancient trees, accompanied by the melodious chirping of birds and occasional sightings of colobus monkeys swinging gracefully. The path gently winds upwards, meandering past colorful flora, rocks adorned with moss, and streams originating from the mountain's icy glaciers. Your guide will provide insights into the unique ecosystems and cultural importance of the mountain as you trek for about 3–4 hours, eventually arriving at the Mandara Hut area (2,700 meters). Here, take a break to savor a packed lunch while relishing the panoramic views of the lush forest surroundings and, on clear days, catching glimpses of the majestic Kibo summit. If time and energy permit, a brief stroll to the Maundi Crater promises even more breathtaking vistas. Conclude the day by returning to your hotel in Moshi.

At 8:00 AM, we will pick you up from your accommodation in Moshi to kick off your day with a pleasant drive through the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro. This journey promises stunning views of the countryside and local villages along the route. Upon reaching our destination, a friendly local guide from the village will greet you. Prepare for a guided trek through verdant farmlands and tropical rainforest, culminating in the breathtaking Materuni Waterfalls, standing tall at approximately 80 meters. Immerse yourself in the crisp mountain air, surrounded by the melodies of birds and insects. Following the hike, we will return to the village for an engaging coffee-making session with a welcoming Chagga family. Gain insight into the entire coffee-making process—from bean-picking, roasting, and grinding to brewing the perfect cup. You will even have the opportunity to join in the traditional Chagga coffee song and dance during the roasting ceremony! After absorbing this cultural experience and bidding farewell to your hosts, we will embark on the journey back to your hotel in Moshi.

Meet your driver-guide at your Moshi hotel to kick off your adventure. Travel in style in a private, air-conditioned vehicle through picturesque savannah landscapes and charming local villages on your way to Chemka Hot Springs. As you arrive, let the serene sounds of nature and the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the spring welcome you. Despite the name, the water is pleasantly warm, making it ideal for a refreshing swim. Savor a delightful picnic lunch pre-arranged for you, or opt for a freshly grilled local meal on-site, such as grilled chicken, fries, and sodas. Vegetarian options are also available upon request. After lunch, take the opportunity to relax, swim, indulge in a good book, or explore the area further. For the more adventurous souls, the rope swing into the water is a must-try, enjoyed by both kids and adults alike. Bid farewell to this enchanting oasis as you embark on a scenic drive to Arusha.