7 Days Tanzania Big Five Safari Experience: A Comprehensive Itinerary by Africa Gorilla Wild

The 7 Days Tanzania Big Five Safari Experience is a meticulously crafted journey through some of Tanzania’s most iconic national parks, offering an unparalleled adventure to witness the majestic Big Five — lions, elephants, leopards, buffaloes, and rhinoceros — in their natural habitats. This safari takes you through breathtaking landscapes that range from the expansive savannahs of the Serengeti to the rich biodiversity of Ngorongoro Crater, where wildlife thrives in abundance. Whether you’re looking for heart-pounding game drives, cultural interactions, or world-class photography opportunities, this 7 Days Tanzania Big Five Safari Experience offers it all.

Africa Gorilla Wild has carefully designed this itinerary to ensure that you enjoy the best of Tanzania’s wildlife, all while experiencing the warmth of the local culture. Each day of the itinerary is packed with incredible experiences, tailored to give you a truly memorable time. In this detailed itinerary, you’ll also discover luxury upgrades, fly-in transfer options, cultural add-ons, and comprehensive inclusions and exclusions, ensuring that every part of your journey is seamless and fulfilling.

7 Days Tanzania Big Five Safari Experience Highlights

• Day 1: Arrival at Arusha Airport and Transfer to Palace Hotel Arusha for Relaxation
• Day 2: Morning Road Transfer to Ngorongoro Crater (Game Drives and Nature Walks)
• Day 3: Morning Road Transfer to Visit Olduvai Gorge, and Proceed to Ndutu Plains in Southern Serengeti
• Day 4: Game Drives in Ndutu Plains and Proceed to Central Serengeti National Park
• Day 5: Another Day of Game Drives in Central Serengeti National Park, Hot Air Balloon, Photography, and Maasai Boma Village Visit
• Day 6: Great Migration Experience at Grumeti River, Photography, and Game Drives
• Day 7: Scenic Road Transfer to Arusha Airport and Flight Back Home

Detailed 7 Days Tanzania Big Five Safari Experience

Day 1: Arrival at Arusha Airport and Transfer to Palace Hotel Arusha for Relaxation

Upon your arrival at Arusha Airport, you will be warmly greeted by your Africa Gorilla Wild guide, who will assist you with the transfer to the luxurious Palace Hotel Arusha. This hotel is known for its superb hospitality, stunning views, and exceptional service, setting the perfect tone for your safari adventure. Spend the rest of the day unwinding and acclimatizing to your surroundings.

After settling in, you can enjoy the serene atmosphere of the hotel, explore the local area, or simply relax before embarking on the adventure of a lifetime. If time permits, indulge in the hotel’s premium amenities, such as the swimming pool, restaurant, and spa.

Meals Included: Dinner

 

Day 2: Morning Road Transfer to Ngorongoro Crater (Game Drives and Nature Walks)

After a hearty breakfast, your journey begins with a scenic drive to one of the world’s most famous wildlife conservation areas: Ngorongoro Crater. Often referred to as the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” this UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to over 25,000 animals, including the rare black rhinoceros.

You’ll enjoy a full day of game drives and nature walks in the Crater. The vast floor of the crater is teeming with wildlife, including large herds of wildebeest, zebras, buffaloes, and gazelles. Your experienced guide will ensure you don’t miss any wildlife sightings, while also sharing insightful information about the ecosystem and conservation efforts.

The Crater also provides fantastic opportunities for photography, with stunning landscapes as your backdrop. In addition to the game drives, you’ll enjoy a guided nature walk, giving you the chance to experience the beauty of Ngorongoro up close and personal.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Overnight at a luxury lodge near the Crater

 

Day 3: Morning Road Transfer to Visit Olduvai Gorge, and Proceed to Ndutu Plains in Southern Serengeti

On Day 3, you’ll embark on an enriching journey to Olduvai Gorge, one of the most important archaeological sites in the world. Often called the “Cradle of Man Made,” Olduvai Gorge is where some of the earliest evidence of human evolution has been discovered. Your guide will take you on a tour of the gorge, where you’ll learn about its significance to both anthropology and geology.

Afterward, you’ll continue your journey to the Ndutu Plains in the southern part of the Serengeti. The Ndutu Plains are renowned for their wildlife-rich environment, particularly during the wildebeest migration, which brings millions of animals through this region annually. The area is also home to abundant predator activity, including lions and cheetahs.

In the evening, you’ll settle into your accommodation in Ndutu, enjoying the tranquility of the African bush.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Overnight at a luxury lodge in Ndutu Plains

 

Day 4: Game Drives in Ndutu Plains and Proceed to Central Serengeti National Park

On Day 4, you’ll enjoy a full day of game drives in the Ndutu Plains, where wildlife sightings are abundant. The Plains are particularly famous for the migration, as well as for its large resident populations of lions, elephants, and cheetahs. Your expert guide will help you navigate the terrain and provide detailed commentary on the animals and landscapes.

Later in the day, you’ll travel to Central Serengeti National Park, one of the world’s most iconic safari destinations. The Serengeti is synonymous with the Great Migration, and the park is also home to large populations of predators, including lions, leopards, and hyenas.

Here, you’ll enjoy a luxury stay in a lodge with stunning views of the Serengeti plains, offering an immersive experience of the African wilderness.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Overnight at a luxury lodge in Central Serengeti

 

Day 5: Another Day of Game Drives in Central Serengeti National Park, Hot Air Balloon, Photography, and Maasai Boma Village Visit

Day 5 promises to be one of the most thrilling of your safari journey. You’ll begin your day with a hot air balloon safari over the Serengeti. As the sun rises over the plains, you’ll soar above herds of wildlife, providing you with unparalleled views of the landscape and animals below. This activity is a photographer’s dream and an unforgettable experience.

After the balloon ride, enjoy a thrilling game drive in Central Serengeti. This area is renowned for its diverse wildlife, from massive elephant herds to stealthy leopards lurking in the trees.

Later, you’ll visit a Maasai Boma Village, where you can learn about the traditional lifestyle of the Maasai people. Experience the Maasai culture firsthand through dances, songs, and a fascinating insight into their customs.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Overnight at a luxury lodge in Central Serengeti

 

Day 6: Great Migration Experience at Grumeti River, Photography, and Game Drives

On Day 6, you’ll venture to the Grumeti River, one of the key locations for observing the Great Migration. During certain months, the river is the site of dramatic river crossings, where thousands of wildebeest, zebras, and other animals brave the fast-moving waters in search of greener pastures. This provides a truly awe-inspiring spectacle, perfect for wildlife photography.

In addition to the river crossing, you’ll enjoy game drives in the surrounding areas. The Serengeti’s diverse ecosystems ensure that there’s always something to see, from predators stalking their prey to elephants peacefully grazing on the plains.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Overnight at a luxury lodge near Grumeti River

 

Day 7: Scenic Road Transfer to Arusha Airport and Flight Back Home

On the final day of your 7 Days Tanzania Big Five Safari Experience, you’ll enjoy a scenic road transfer back to Arusha Airport for your flight back home. As you drive through the picturesque Tanzanian landscapes, you’ll have the chance to reflect on the unforgettable wildlife encounters and the incredible memories you’ve made throughout the safari.

Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: None (End of Safari)

End of 7 Days Tanzania Big Five Safari Experience

Luxury Upgrades

For those seeking an extra touch of luxury, Africa Gorilla Wild offers a range of upgrades, including:

• Private Game Drives: For a more exclusive experience, opt for private game drives with your own dedicated guide.
• Luxury Safari Lodges: Enjoy the finest lodgings with exclusive amenities, including infinity pools, private butler services, and gourmet dining options.
• Helicopter Tours: Add a helicopter tour for a unique perspective of the Serengeti and other national parks.

 

Fly-In Transfer Options

Africa Gorilla Wild understands that time is precious, so we offer fly-in transfer options that allow you to enjoy a quicker and more comfortable journey between national parks. Fly from Arusha to Serengeti or Ngorongoro to maximize your game time and minimize road travel.

 

Cultural Add-Ons

In addition to the Maasai Boma visit, Africa Gorilla Wild can arrange other cultural experiences, including:

• Visit to a Hadzabe group of people Village: For a deeper cultural immersion, visit the Hadzabe, one of the last remaining hunter-gatherer groups of people in Tanzania.
• Local Cooking Classes: Learn to cook traditional Tanzanian dishes with local chefs.

 

7 Days Tanzania Big Five Safari Experience Inclusions and Exclusions

Safari Inclusions

• All park fees and entrance fees
• Expert safari guides and drivers
• Luxury accommodation throughout the safari
• Meals as outlined in the itinerary
• All game drives and activities mentioned
• Hot air balloon safari on Day 5
• Visit to Maasai Boma Village
• Road transfers between destinations

 

Safari Exclusions

• International flights
• Travel insurance
• Visa fees (if applicable)
• Optional activities or luxury upgrades
• Gratuities for guides and staff

 

The 7 Days Tanzania Big Five Safari Experience promises to deliver an unforgettable adventure filled with spectacular wildlife sightings, cultural encounters, and luxury experiences. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this safari offers something for everyone, from the thrill of seeing the Big Five to the peaceful serenity of the African landscape. With Africa Gorilla Wild, you are guaranteed a seamless, customized experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.