8 Days (Ndutu Migration) - Lake Manyara, Lake Natron, Serengeti, Ndutu and Ngorongoro Crater
This itinerary includes Lake Manyara National Park(1N), with diverse habitats, rich birdlife and tree-climbing lions; Lake Natron(1N), where you’ll enjoy scenic hikes, waterfalls, and flocks of flamingos; Central Serengeti(2N), a haven for big cats and varied wildlife; Ndutu(2N), known for the calving season (last week of December-March) of the Great Migration and high predator activity; and Ngorongoro Crater(1N), renowned for its breathtaking views and high wildlife density, before returning to Arusha.
Short Itinerary
Day 1 (February 11, 2026) - Arusha to Lake Manyara. Game drives at Lake Mnayara
Day 2 (February 12, 2026) - Transfer to Lake Natron (Bird Watching/ Flamingo Walk)
Day 3 (February 13, 2026) - Optional short hike to Ngare sero waterfalls and proceed to Central Serengeti with short enroute game drives in Serengeti
Day 4 (February 14, 2026) - Central Serengeti full day game drives
Day 5 (February 15, 2026) - Morning game drives in Central Serengeti and transfer to Ndutu, Ngorongoro for afternoon game drives
Day 6 (February 16, 2026) - Ndutu - full day game drives
Day 7 (February 17, 2026) - Morning game drives in Ndutu and transfer to Ngorongoro/Karatu
Day 8 (February 18, 2026) - Ngorongoro Crater Tour (5 hours) and transfer to Arusha
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Safari tour prices vary depending on the starting date, your group size, and the choice of stay.
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Itinerary
Day 1 - Arusha to Lake Manyara
Pick up at 8:30 AM from your hotel in Arusha and depart for Lake Manyara National Park with a picnic lunch for a full day game drive. As you enter the national park, lush forests of Acacia and Mahogany trees begin to set the mood for what is waiting ahead. The game drive will go on till evening with a small break for picnic lunch. During the game drive watch out for buffaloes, giraffes, impalas, baboons and the blue monkeys. Another spectacle of Lake Manyara National park is the tree climbing lions, however spotting them is a game of luck. In the right season, you can see the shoreline turning pink with millions of flamingos flocking there. Post the game drive, you will head back to your camp/lodge where a delicious dinner awaits you.
Day 2 - Lake Natron
Your day will begin after breakfast by about 8:00 AM. We depart with packed lunch boxes towards Lake Natron. Located about 3.5 hours drive away from Mto Wa Mbu/Manyara, Lake Natron is a surreal destination and unique natural spectacle. Its waters are highly alkaline and are unusually shallow, averaging just one meter in depth. After checking into your lodge and a short break, put your walking shoes on as a Maasai tribesman takes you on a walk around the shores of Lake Natron on the lookout for birds, especially the lesser flamingos. Lake Natron is the most important and regular breeding site for lesser flamingos in East Africa hosting up to 2 million of them during the breeding season. The majority of egg-laying and hatching takes place from September to January. After the hike, you will head back to your camp/lodge for a well deserved dinner and rest.
Day 3 - Lake Natron to Central Serengeti
Your day starts early. Around 6:00 AM, accompanied by a Maasai guide, enjoy some light hiking to the nearby Ngare Sero waterfalls and relax in the cool spray of water cascading down the rocks of this scenic ravine. Make sure to bring your shoes! We return to accommodation by 8:30 AM and finishing up a good breakfast, will head out towards the Serengeti National Park. This road trip takes through variety of sites: towns and villages, savannah and forest, and you’ll be able to spot animals like antelope, wildebeest and zebra. We enter Serengeti in the afternoon and drive towards Central Serengeti. You will have an afternoon game drive in the endless plains of the Serengeti for a chance to see the great herds of wildebeest, zebras and gazelles or a pride of lions lounging in the shade. A picnic lunch will be done during the day long game drive itself. The eventful day comes to an end with dinner and a good night’s rest in your accommodation.
Day 4 - Central Serengeti
You can either have a relaxed breakfast and depart for full day game drives around 9:00 AM with packed lunch and return back to lodge late afternoon around 6:00 PM. Or you can depart at 6:00 AM on an early morning game drive. Later return to accommodation for breakfast and relax for a bit and depart on an afternoon game drive with packed lunch. You will explore the central portion of the Serengeti National Park today. The legendary Serengeti National Park is the most renowned safari destination for its incredible population of lions and leopards. The central portion of the Serengeti - known as Seronera area is one of the richest wildlife habitats in the park. It features the Seronera River, which provides a valuable water source to this area and therefore attracts wildlife well representative of most of the Serengeti’s species. During the off season of the migration, one must really look out for the many lion pride that thrive in this region. The interactions and survival of these lion pride provide an excellent game viewing experience all year round. Along with a picnic lunch during the full day game drive, the day will come to a close by around 5PM. The long day comes to an end with a heavy dinner and a good night’s rest in your accommodation.
Day 5 - Central Serengeti to Ndutu
After an early breakfast, embark on a morning game drive in Serengeti National Park, immersing yourself in its vibrant wildlife. Around noon, you will depart for Ndutu, with a picnic lunch provided for your journey. The drive begins with a scenic route through the Serengeti, where you may encounter gazelles and impalas. Before exiting the Serengeti and entering the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, enjoy a picnic lunch at Naabi Hill Gate. You can also take a short hike to the top of the hill for breathtaking views of the Serengeti plains.
As you progress, you enter the Ndutu region which is the North-western part of Ngorongoro Conservation Area, on the outskirts of the Southern Serengeti Plains. This region is characterized by expansive grasslands that gradually blend into the Serengeti. As a crucial waypoint in the annual migration route of over 2 million wildebeests, along with thousands of zebras, antelopes, and gazelles, Ndutu offers exceptional opportunities to witness the great migration from late December to April. From mid-January to February, the calving season attracts numerous predators preying on the vulnerable young wildebeests. Additionally, Lake Ndutu and Lake Masek, vital water sources, draw a variety of wildlife, especially during the dry season.
Ndutu is also renowned for its diverse population of big cats, including leopards, lions, cheetahs, caracals, servals, and wildcats. Your exhilarating game drive will conclude in the early evening, around 6 PM, followed by a hearty dinner and a restful night at your accommodation.
Day 6 - Ndutu
oday offers a full day to delve into the rich wildlife and stunning landscapes of Ndutu. You can start your day with a leisurely breakfast before setting out for a comprehensive game drive around 8:00 AM. With packed lunch boxes provided, you can immerse yourself in the beauty of the region throughout the day, returning to the lodge in the late afternoon around 5:30 PM.
Alternatively, you might opt for an earlier start by departing after breakfast at 6:20 AM for a morning game drive. After enjoying the early hours of wildlife viewing, you will return to your accommodation around 10:30 AM. This allows you time to relax and savor a hot lunch before embarking on an afternoon game drive at 3:00 PM. You will return to the lodge by 6:00 PM.
Whichever option you choose, ensure to take advantage of the opportunity to rest and recharge, preparing yourself for another exciting day of exploration and adventure.
Day 7 - Ndutu to Ngorongoro
Today presents another opportunity to immerse yourself in the enchanting wildlife of Ndutu. You can begin your day with breakfast at your accommodation before embarking on a game drive. A packed lunch will be provided, allowing you to enjoy a leisurely meal at a picturesque picnic spot amidst the stunning landscape.
Alternatively, you may choose to start with breakfast followed by a morning game drive. After returning to your lodge for a hot lunch, you can continue with additional game drives before departing Ndutu around 3:00 PM.
Following your departure, we will transfer you to your accommodation in Ngorongoro or Karatu. The journey takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, with an anticipated arrival between 5:30 and 6:00 PM, where you will enjoy dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 8 - Ngorongoro Crater Tour (5 hours) to Arusha
On the final day of your safari, you will start early with a quick breakfast before descending into the Ngorongoro Crater around 6:30 AM (you might reach Crater floor by 7:00 AM if you sleep in Karatu the previous night). The Ngorongoro Crater, the world’s largest collapsed volcanic caldera, encompasses approximately 260 square kilometers of pristine natural beauty. Surrounded by a ring of extinct volcanoes, the crater floor, which is adorned with various watering holes, supports a diverse population of around 25,000 animals. With depths exceeding 2,000 feet, this remarkable caldera offers a unique and breathtaking landscape.
A 5-hour game drive on the crater floor offers a chance to see diverse wildlife, including African elephants, buffalo, black rhinos, hippos, hyenas, cheetahs, and lions. Keep your camera ready to capture the action. After a picnic lunch at the scenic Hippo Pool, you will begin your ascent out of the crater. The drive to Arusha showcases varied landscapes, starting from Ngorongoro's highlands and descending through rugged terrain, farmland, and Maasai villages. The well-maintained road winds through hills and forests before opening up to expansive grassy plains and distant mountains.
You will complete your journey with a 4-hour drive to Arusha, arriving at your preferred location by 5:30 PM. As your safari ends, you’ll leave with unforgettable experiences and cherished memories of Tanzania’s stunning landscapes and rich cultures.
Maps
Weather Information
In February, Karatu, Tanzania typically experiences warm and mild weather. The average temperatures usually range from about 15°C (59°F) at night to around 27°C (81°F) during the day. February is part of the short rainy season in this region, so occasional rain showers can be expected, contributing to higher humidity levels. On average, about 50-70 mm of rain may fall during the month, often in brief bursts. Overall, February tends to be a pleasant month for visitors, with lush landscapes due to the rain and comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities.
In February, Ndutu, Tanzania, typically experiences warm and relatively dry weather. Average daytime temperatures usually range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), while nights can be cooler, with temperatures dropping to around 15°C to 18°C (59°F to 64°F).
February falls within the short rainy season, so there can be occasional rain showers, but they are generally light and infrequent. Humidity levels are moderate, and the landscape is often lush and green due to the preceding rains from December and January, providing excellent conditions for wildlife viewing. Overall, February is considered a pleasant time to visit Ndutu, especially for those interested in observing the great migration in the nearby Serengeti.
In February, the Central Serengeti typically experiences warm to hot weather. Historical averages indicate daytime temperatures can range from about 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), while nighttime temperatures usually drop to around 15°C to 18°C (59°F to 64°F).
February is also part of the wet season, so you can expect occasional rainfall, with some days experiencing short, heavy showers. The humidity tends to be higher, and the landscape is lush and green, making it a great time for wildlife viewing, as animals are often more active during this season. Overall, February can offer a unique experience in terms of both climate and wildlife activity in the Serengeti.
In February, Lake Natron, Tanzania, typically experiences warm and dry weather. Historical averages indicate daytime temperatures usually range from about 30°C to 35°C (86°F to 95°F), while nighttime temperatures can drop to around 20°C (68°F). February is part of the dry season, so rainfall is minimal, and humidity levels tend to be lower, making it a generally pleasant time to visit the area. The region's unique landscapes, including the salt flats and the nearby mountains, can also be enjoyed under clear skies during this month.
In February, Lake Manyara, Tanzania typically experiences warm and humid weather. Historical averages indicate that daytime temperatures range from around 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), while nighttime temperatures can drop to about 15°C to 18°C (59°F to 64°F).
February falls within the wet season, so you can expect occasional rain showers, with an average precipitation of about 100 to 150 mm (4 to 6 inches) for the month. The humidity is generally high, making it feel warmer. Despite the rain, there are usually plenty of dry spells as well, and the landscapes become lush and vibrant during this time, ideal for viewing wildlife and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
In February, NCA (Ngorongoro Conservation Area) in Tanzania typically experiences warm and relatively dry weather. 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).
February is generally part of the short rainy season, but significant rainfall is less common compared to the heavier rains in March and April. Occasionally, brief showers can occur, but they are usually not very intense. The humidity can be moderately high, but overall, February is a pleasant time to visit, with clear skies and good visibility for wildlife viewing.
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 50 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
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. Central Serengeti is the farthest location you will be visiting in this tour and it is 7 hours from Arusha, each way. You can check about driving and flying to Serengeti here. To save drive time, you can directly fly into Central 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 drive to Serengeti. We end the safari tour at Central 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 Central Serengeti: From USD 310 per person
From Zanzibar to Central Serengeti: From USD 370 per person
From Dar es Salaam to Central Serengeti: From USD 370 per person
Fly out of Serengeti
From Central Serengeti to Arusha: From USD 200 per person
From Central Serengeti to Zanzibar: From USD 420 per person
From Central Serengeti to Dar es salaam: From USD 420 per person
Note 1: Rates mentioned above are indicative and subject to change based on 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.
Meals
Day 1 (February 11, 2026) - Lunch & Dinner
Day 2 (February 12, 2026) - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3 (February 13, 2026) - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4 (February 14, 2026) - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5 (February 15, 2026) - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 6 (February 16, 2026) - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 7 (February 17, 2026) - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 8 (February 18, 2026) - Breakfast & Lunch
Transfer Times
Day 1 (February 11, 2026) - Arusha to Lake Manyara takes about 2.5 to 3 hours (114 km)
Day 2 (February 12, 2026) - Lake Manyara to Lake Natron takes about 3 to 3.5 hours (120 km)
Day 3 (February 13, 2026) - Lake Natron to Central Serengeti takes about 5.5 to 6 hours
Day 4 (February 14, 2026) - No transfers
Day 5 (February 15, 2026) - Central Serengeti to Ndutu takes about 3 to 3.5 hours (91 km)
Day 6 (February 16, 2026) - No transfers
Day 7 (February 17, 2026) - Ndutu to NCA takes about 2.5 to 3 hours
Day 8 (February 18, 2026) - NCA to Arusha takes about 4 to 4.5 hours (154 km)
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
Concession/ Camping Fees.
Park Fees (for Non-Residents).
Drinking water while on safari (2 litres per person per day).
All Taxes and VAT.
Meals as per itinerary.
A professional English speaking driver/ guide.
4x4 Land Cruiser.
Daily game drives while on Safari.
Exclusions
Personal Items (Souvenirs, Travel Insurance, Visa Fees, etc.).
Tips (Tipping guidelines).
Government imposed increase of Taxes and or Park Fees.
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour (Unless mentioned otherwise).
Any activities not mentioned in the itinerary.
International flights.
Airport Transfers (Unless mentioned otherwise).
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 Ndutu
Hot Air Balloon Ride: USD 540 per person
Short Walking Tour (upto 4 hours): USD 45 per person
Long Walking Tour (upto 6 hours): USD 60 per person
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 Lake Manyara
Canoeing in Lake Manyara: USD 74 per person
Night Game drives in Lake Manyara NP: USD 114 per person
Treetop Walkway: USD 54 per person
Information on Lake Manyara 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
8 Days (Ndutu Migration) - Lake Manyara, Lake Natron, Serengeti, Ndutu and Ngorongoro Crater
This itinerary includes Lake Manyara National Park(1N), with diverse habitats, rich birdlife and tree-climbing lions; Lake Natron(1N), where you’ll enjoy scenic hikes, waterfalls, and flocks of flamingos; Central Serengeti(2N), a haven for big cats and varied wildlife; Ndutu(2N), known for the calving season (last week of December-March) of the Great Migration and high predator activity; and Ngorongoro Crater(1N), renowned for its breathtaking views and high wildlife density, before returning to Arusha.
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
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