10 days - Central Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Natron, North Serengeti & Zanzibar
This itinerary includes Lake Natron(1N), where you’ll enjoy scenic hikes, waterfalls, and flocks of flamingos; North Serengeti(2N), where you see the Great Migration (July–Oct); Central Serengeti(2N), a haven for big cats and varied wildlife; and Ngorongoro Crater(1N), renowned for its breathtaking views and high wildlife density, before returning back to Arusha.
This itinerary includes Arusha to Zanzibar(3N), a post-safari beach haven with spice tours, marine life, and cultural excursions, before dropping-off at Zanzibar Airport.
Short Itinerary
Day 1 (December 07, 2025) - Arusha to Lake Natron (Bird Watching/ Flamingo Walk)
Day 2 (December 08, 2025) - Optional short hike to Ngare sero waterfalls and proceed to North Serengeti with enroute game drives
Day 3 (December 09, 2025) - North Serengeti - full day game drives
Day 4 (December 10, 2025) - Morning game drives in North Serengeti and transfer to Central Serengeti
Day 5 (December 11, 2025) - Central Serengeti full day game drives
Day 6 (December 12, 2025) - Morning game drives in Central Serengeti and transfer to Ngorongoro/Karatu
Day 7 (December 13, 2025) - Ngorongoro Crater Tour (5 hours) and transfer to Arusha. Arusha to Zanzibar (Flight : Flightlink - Departs from Arusha at 18:30 hrs and arrives in Zanzibar at 19:45 hrs approx.) - Stay at beach hotel
Day 8 (December 14, 2025) - Zanzibar - Stay at beach hotel
Day 9 (December 15, 2025) - Zanzibar - Stay at beach hotel
Day 10 (December 16, 2025) - Zanzibar to Zanzibar airport Drop off
Notes
- If Flightlink flights are not available for your travel dates, we will suggest alternative flight options with change in price.
Choose Date
Safari tour prices vary depending on the starting date, your group size, and the choice of stay.
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Maps
Weather Information
In December, NCA (Ngorongoro Conservation Area) in Tanzania typically experiences a warm and humid climate. Historically, average daytime temperatures range from about 20°C to 27°C (68°F to 81°F). Nights can be cooler, with temperatures dropping to around 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F).
This month marks the beginning of the rainy season, with December generally receiving increased rainfall compared to previous months. Average rainfall can vary, but it often ranges from 60 mm to 100 mm (2.4 to 3.9 inches), with occasional heavy downpours. The scenery during this time is lush and vibrant, attracting various wildlife and enhancing the overall experience of the conservation area.
In December, Karatu, Tanzania typically experiences warm and wet weather. The average high temperature is around 26-28°C (79-82°F), while the average low temperature is about 15-18°C (59-64°F). December falls within the short rainy season in this region, so you can expect increased humidity and frequent rainfall, often in the form of afternoon showers. On average, December can see around 100-150 mm of rainfall throughout the month. Overall, it’s a lush and green time of year due to the precipitation.
In December, Zanzibar City experiences warm and humid weather. The average daytime temperatures range from about 28°C to 32°C (82°F to 90°F). Nights are typically cooler, with temperatures averaging around 22°C (72°F).
December is part of the short rainy season, so occasional rain showers are common, although they are usually brief. The humidity can be quite high, often exceeding 80%. Despite the rain, many travelers still enjoy the beaches and outdoor activities during this time. Overall, December in Zanzibar is characterized by warm weather with a mix of sunshine and showers.
In December, the typical weather for North Serengeti, Tanzania, is characterized by warm temperatures and the beginning of the rainy season. Historical averages indicate daytime temperatures usually range from 26°C to 31°C (79°F to 88°F), while nighttime temperatures can drop to around 15°C to 19°C (59°F to 66°F).
Rainfall averages for December are moderate, with the region receiving about 100 to 150 mm (4 to 6 inches) of rain over the month. Humidity levels increase as the month progresses, leading to occasional afternoon thunderstorms, which are common in this period. Wildlife activity can be quite vibrant during this time, as animals are often more visible near water sources.
In December, Lake Natron, Tanzania typically experiences warm to hot weather. Average daytime temperatures usually range from 30°C to 35°C (86°F to 95°F). Nighttime temperatures can drop to around 20°C (68°F).
December also marks the beginning of the rainy season, with increased humidity and occasional rainfall, although Lake Natron tends to be relatively dry compared to other regions. The area may see some thunderstorms, particularly towards the end of the month. Overall, visitors can expect a mix of sun and clouds, with warm temperatures dominating the weather in December.
In December, the Central Serengeti, Tanzania typically experiences warm and wet weather. Historical averages indicate daytime temperatures generally range from about 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). Nights can be cooler, dropping to around 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F).
December marks the start of the short rainy season, with an increase in precipitation. It is not uncommon to see rain showers, especially in the second half of the month. Humidity levels can also be higher during this time, contributing to a lush landscape and vibrant wildlife activity. Overall, it’s a beautiful time to visit, with the scenery being particularly green and lively after the rains.
Pre & Post Tour Hotels
Arusha is the base for safari tours in North Tanzania. If you need accommodation in Arusha before/after your safari tour you can check some popular hotel prices on bed and breakfast basis below (Prices are per person).
Single room:
- Kutoka Lodge - USD 69
- Gold Crest Hotel - USD 106
- The African Tulip - USD 167
- Four Points by Sheraton, Arusha - Traditional queen room - USD 229
- Elewana Arusha Coffee Lodge - Plantation room - USD 417
Double sharing room:
- Kutoka Lodge - USD 44
- Gold Crest Hotel - USD 59
- The African Tulip - USD 129
- Four Points by Sheraton, Arusha - Traditional queen room - USD 132
- Elewana Arusha Coffee Lodge - Plantation room - USD 282
Triple sharing room:
- Kutoka Lodge - USD 41
- Gold Crest Hotel - USD 52
- The African Tulip - USD 108
- Elewana Arusha Coffee Lodge - Plantation room - USD 214
All of the above prices are on per person per night on bed and breakfast basis. More hotel options can be shared upon request
Transfers
This tour starts from Arusha. Kilimanjaro airport is the nearest international airport and Arusha airport is the nearest domestic airport. Please check our page on how to get to Arusha
Airport Pickup/Drop
Pickup or drop off at Arusha airport on the day of safari: No extra charge
Pickup or drop off at Kilimanjaro airport on the day of safari: USD 30 per vehicle
Airport to Hotel transfers
Transfer from Arusha airport to Arusha hotel or vice versa: USD 25 per vehicle
Transfer from Kilimanjaro airport to Arusha hotel or vice versa: USD 50 per vehicle
InterCity transfers
Transfer from Moshi to Arusha or vice versa: USD 100 per vehicle
Transfer from Nairobi to Arusha or vice versa: USD 275 per vehicle
This tour starts in Arusha and ends in Zanzibar. Zanzibar airport is the nearest international airport.
Airport to Hotel transfers
Transfer from Zanzibar airport to Zanzibar hotel or vice versa: No extra charge
InterCity transfers
Transfer from One place in Zanzibar to other place in Zanzibar : USD 90 per vehicle
Flights
We do not book International Flights.
We can book local flights based on availability. Below are indicative additional costs for local flights.
Intercity Flights
From Zanzibar to Arusha: From USD 100 per person (Morning flight)
From Dar es salaam to Arusha: From USD 90 per person (Morning flight)
From Arusha to Zanzibar: From USD 170 per person (Late Afternoon flight)
From Arusha to Dar es salaam: From USD 110 per person (Late Afternoon flight)
*
This tour starts & ends at Arusha with road transfers between all locations. North Serengeti is the farthest location you will be visiting and it is 11 hours from Arusha, each way. You can check about driving and flying to Serengeti here. To save drive time, you can directly fly into North Serengeti where your safari vehicle with guide will be waiting to directly start the safari and cover other parks over the next few days making your way to Arusha by road on the last day. We will reroute the itinerary such that you cover all the parks included in the original itinerary with the same choice of accommodations & same number of nights as included in the original itinerary. This is called a Fly-in Safari
We can also reroute the itinerary such that you start with driving from Arusha on day 1 and cover other parks before you reach North Serengeti. We end the safari tour at North Serengeti on the last day from where you can fly out to Ausha (or other cities). We will reroute the itinerary such that you cover all the parks included in the original itinerary with the same choice of accommodations & same number of nights as included in the original itinerary. This is called a Fly-out Safari.
Fly Into Serengeti
From Arusha to North Serengeti: From USD 320 per person
From Zanzibar to North Serengeti: From USD 380 per person
From Dar es Salaam to North Serengeti: From USD 380 per person
Fly out of Serengeti
From North Serengeti to Arusha: From USD 300 per person
From North Serengeti to Zanzibar: From USD 500 per person
From North Serengeti to Dar es salaam: From USD 500 per person
Note 1: Rates mentioned above are indicative and subject to change based on exact dates, airlines and party(group) size
Note 2: In the Fly into Serengeti rates mentioned above, in addition to airfare, above rates also include cost to send the safari landcruiser with guide a day in advance to Serengeti, in time for your arrival & additional park fees that results due to rerouting of itinerary.
Note 3: Flights into Serengeti land at around 10:30 AM and game drives can start soon after landing while flights out of Serengeti depart around 11:00 AM and game drives can be done till about 45 min before flight departure.
We do not book International Flights.
We can book local flights based on availability. Below are indicative additional costs for local flights.
The tour starts in Arusha and ends in Zanzibar. You can also take flights to Zanzibar from Serengeti and Dar es Salaam.
Fly Into Zanzibar
From Central Serengeti to Zanzibar: From USD 415 per person
From North Serengeti to Zanzibar: From USD 500 per person
From Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar: From USD 50 per person
Fly out of Zanzibar
From Zanzibar to Arusha: From USD 110 per person
From Zanzibar to Central Serengeti: From USD 220 per person
From Zanzibar to North Serengeti: From USD 275 per person
From Zanzibar to Dar es salaam: From USD 50 per person
Note : Rates mentioned above are indicative and subject to change based on airlines and party(group) size
Meals
Day 1 (December 07, 2025) - Lunch & Dinner
Day 2 (December 08, 2025) - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3 (December 09, 2025) - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4 (December 10, 2025) - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5 (December 11, 2025) - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 6 (December 12, 2025) - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 7 (December 13, 2025) - Meal plan depend on the hotel chosen
Transfer Times
Day 1 (December 07, 2025) - Arusha to Lake Natron takes about 4.5 to 5 hours (216 km)
Day 2 (December 08, 2025) - Lake Natron to North Serengeti takes about 5 to 6 hours
Day 3 (December 09, 2025) - No transfers
Day 4 (December 10, 2025) - North Serengeti to Central Serengeti takes about 4.5 to 5 hours (103 km)
Day 5 (December 11, 2025) - No transfers
Day 6 (December 12, 2025) - Central Serengeti to NCA takes about 3 to 3.5 hours (151 km)
Day 7 (December 13, 2025) - NCA to Arusha takes about 4 to 4.5 hours (154 km). Arusha to Zanzibar flight takes about 1 hour to 1.2 hours and Zanzibar airport to Zanizbar beach hotel takes about 1.5 hours
Day 8 (December 14, 2025) - No Transfer
Day 9 (December 15, 2025) - No Transfer
Day 10 (December 16, 2025) - Zanizbar beach hotel to Zanzibar airport takes about 1.5 hours
Note: These are estimated drive times. Because of the traffic, location of the accommodations, and several other factors, actual drive times may vary. Driving distances are approximate and do not account for exact places.
Inclusions
All Taxes and VAT.
Meals as per itinerary.
Drinking water while on safari (2 litres per person per day).
Daily game drives while on Safari.
Arusha to Zanzibar flight.
4x4 Land Cruiser.
Airport transfers.
Concession/ Camping Fees.
A professional English speaking driver/ guide.
Park Fees (for Non-Residents).
Exclusions
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour (Unless mentioned otherwise).
Tips (Tipping guidelines).
Personal Items (Souvenirs, Travel Insurance, Visa Fees, etc.).
International flights.
Any activities not mentioned in the itinerary.
Airport Transfers (Unless mentioned otherwise).
Government imposed increase of Taxes and or Park Fees.
Addons
Add-on tours in Serengeti
Hot Air Balloon Ride: USD 540 per person
Rhino Tracking: USD 130 per person
Short Walking Tour (upto 4 hours): USD 45 per person
Long Walking Tour (upto 6 hours): USD 60 per person
Information on Serengeti Add-on tours
Add-on tours in Ngorongoro
Masai Village Tour: USD 25 per person
Olduvai Gorge museum visit: USD 35 per person
Ngorongoro Crater Rim Hike: USD 35 per person
Information on Ngorongoro Add-on tours
Add-on tours in Karatu
Coffee Plantation Tour: USD 20 per person
Iraqw Village Tour: USD 25 per person
Endoro Falls & Elephant Caves visit: USD 35 per person
Information on Karatu Add-on tours
Add-on tours in Zanzibar
Nungwi village tour: USD 120 per person
Sunset dhow cruise: USD 100 per person
Dolphin tour & Snorkeling: USD 150 per person
Safari Blue: USD 150 per person
10 days - Central Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Natron, North Serengeti & Zanzibar
This itinerary includes Lake Natron(1N), where you’ll enjoy scenic hikes, waterfalls, and flocks of flamingos; North Serengeti(2N), where you see the Great Migration (July–Oct); Central Serengeti(2N), a haven for big cats and varied wildlife; and Ngorongoro Crater(1N), renowned for its breathtaking views and high wildlife density, before returning back to Arusha.
This itinerary includes Arusha to Zanzibar(3N), a post-safari beach haven with spice tours, marine life, and cultural excursions, before dropping-off at Zanzibar Airport.
We use equipment of international standards & our guides are trained in First aid & personal protection equipment
We reward our staff based on your feedback & that results in all of us working towards making your trip memorable
Our guides are trained to pay attention to each clients requirements & situation & customize the program accordingly
Once a tour is booked, its guaranteed to go, even if there is only single client for the entire trip
Book by paying advance by card on our website. Balance can be paid upon arrival, before the tour
Our minimum requirement for operation is only one client. So we can offer the tour any day of the year for you
Our Reviews
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"After a long and exhausting climb to the top of Kilimanjaro, it was time to relax and take a look at the beautiful national parks of Tanzania and its colorful inhabitants......"
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"We went with monkey adventures to Arusha national park, terangerie national park, Serengeti and ngorongoro and we loved it......"
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"This company cannot do enough for you! We had a fantastic Safari from beginning to end. Good communication from when we made the booking until the tour began. We were welcomed the morning of our......"
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"We did a private 6 days safari tour around the north parks of Tanzania with Monkey Adventure & what an experience!! the guide David was amazing, very funny, i didn't feel for one second that he......"
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"We just completed a 13 day , 3 camp safari in the Serengeti, with Monkey Adventures and had a blast. Our driver was a 15 yr veteran of the Serengeti and took us into places some didn't get to see......"