Chapter 1: Arusha in Tanzania
Day 1: Welcome to Tanzania
Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
We've made reservations at our hotel of choice in Arusha so you can recoverm from the flight. You will arrive into Kilimanjaro International Airport in Tanzania where our representative will meet you after clearing customs in Kilimanjaro International Airport for the included private transfer to the hotel in Arusha. Remember, you must pay with a fresh, crisp US $100 dollar bill for your entry Visa.
What to Expect on Most Flights
NOTE: Most of the direct flights from Europe (such as KLM from Amsterdam) to Kilimanjaro International Airport will arrive beginning at 7pm through 1am (seasonal changes may occur so check with your airline). Mount Kilimanjaro airport is a small and compact site. After arriving and meeting our representative, you will be whisked away to Arusha, about a 1-hour drive on a partial unsurfaced highway.
Please Note: We do recommend you fly in a day early — we have a great rate for the extra, pre-adventure hotel room so inquire today.
About Arusha
Arusha, cradled by Mount Meru and near the iconic Kilimanjaro, is the vibrant "safari capital" of East Africa. A city where jacaranda-lined streets and distant mountain views blend with a rich cultural mosaic, Arusha is both a gateway to world-renowned national parks and a destination with its own inviting charm. The lively atmosphere, shaped by the coexistence of modern life and Maasai traditions, along with its temperate climate and lush landscapes, makes Arusha the perfect launching point for unforgettable African adventures.
Welcome Dinner
Tonight, join the Tour Captain and your small group of fellow Adventurers for a memorable dinner together as we enjoy the Safari Eve! The location remains a delightful surprise, adding a touch of anticipation to the evening. Gather together in a warm, inviting setting, where conversation flows as easily as the expertly paired wines. Share your excitement and expectations for the journey ahead, while savoring a delicious meal that celebrates the flavors of Tanzania. This dinner marks the beginning of your adventure, a time to connect with your fellow travelers and toast to the incredible experiences that await on your safari. Now Journey Africa begins!
Where We Stay in Arusha, 1 Night with breakfast
Safari Hotels Collection —
Arusha Coffee Lodge or Similar
Arusha Coffee Lodge is a serene oasis nestled within the verdant embrace of a working coffee plantation, where luxurious accommodations blend seamlessly with the natural beauty of Tanzania. Here, the aroma of freshly roasted coffee fills the air, inviting guests to indulge in the rich flavors and traditions of the region. This charming retreat offers not only a peaceful escape but also an authentic immersion into the heart of Tanzania's coffee culture, all set against the stunning backdrop of Mount Meru.
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Chapter 2: Ngorongoro
DAY 2: To Ngorongoro
Wildebeest
Today's Adventure: Arusha to the Ngorongoro Crater
This morning, we embark on our journey from Arusha in our safari-equipped vehicles, heading towards the breathtaking Ngorongoro. Our adventure immerses us in the beauty of the landscape and its incredible wildlife as we make our way to our lodge.
There is a rich diversity of the crater which due to the enclosed nature of the extinct volcano has formed its own ecosystem. We will arrive at our luxurious lodge, perched at the highest point on the rim of Ngorongoro Crater and begin to enjoy the stunning, panoramic views of the expansive caldera on one side and the plains of the Serengeti on the other. There will be time this afternoon to unwind and refresh before we gather to witness the sun setting over this awe-inspiring natural wonder. The camp's remote location ensures a feeling of exclusivity and tranquility, making it the perfect retreat after a day of exploration. Our journey culminates in the warm welcome of the Entamanu staff, who are ready to make our stay an unforgettable part of our African adventure.
Rhinoceros
Where We Stay in the Ngorongoro, 1 Night with breakfast
Safari Hotels Collection:
Sanctuary Crater Camp or Similar
Sanctuary Crater Camp offers a secluded safari experience with breathtaking views of the Ngorongoro Crater, where elegance meets nature's raw beauty. Each tent serves as a private haven, boasting expansive interiors that seamlessly blend modern luxuries with the timeless charm of traditional African design.
Dining in the Ngorongoro
This evening, embrace the opportunity to dine in an extraordinary setting, where every detail has been carefully curated to enhance the magic of the moment. Join the Tour Captain for an intimate gathering, where culinary excellence meets the charm of a location unlike any other, promising an unforgettable night of shared stories, laughter, and exquisite flavors.
Maasai Tribe Herdsmen
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Chapter 3: The Serengeti
DAY 3: Exploring the Ngorongoro's Ecosystem | On to the Serengeti
Today's Adventure: Game Drive through the Crater
Today, prepare for our amazing adventure as we delve deeper into the wonders of this extraordinary game reserve. With eager eyes, we'll seek out the legendary Big Five — rhinos, buffaloes, leopards, lions, and elephants — each a marvel of the African wilderness.
The Ngorongoro Crater, a World Heritage Site and the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera, is often called the 8th Wonder of the World. Surrounded by 2,000-foot-high walls and spanning 13 miles, this natural amphitheater is home to Tanzania’s densest concentrations of wildlife. During today's game drive, we’ll likely encounter a variety of magnificent creatures up close, including the endangered black rhino, elephants, buffaloes, zebras, and wildebeests—all within this unique and confined habitat.
Welcome to Serengeti National Park
Our Journey from Ngorongoro Crater to Lemala Nanyukie Lodge unfolds as a breathtaking adventure through Tanzania's magnificent landscapes. As we ascend, the lush greenery of the crater rim yields to expansive plains that stretch towards the Serengeti. This drive reveals panoramic vistas, dotted with acacia trees and occasional glimpses of wildlife, all framed by crisp, invigorating air and sweeping views that showcase the grandeur of this extraordinary region.
Upon arriving at Lemala Nanyukie Lodge, we will check in, freshen up and greet the camp, staff and beautiful views.
Welcome Dinner: Now Journey's Exclusive Dining
Savor a unique Chef-prepared dining experience as we commence our 1930s Style Under Canvas Safari at our luxurious camp in the Central Serengeti.
Where We Stay in the Central Serengeti, 2 Nights
Safari Hotels Collection —
Serengeti Pioneer Camp or Similar
Serengeti Pioneer Camp, nestled in the heart of the Serengeti, offers a luxurious retreat surrounded by the vast, untamed wilderness. This elegant camp features spacious tented suites that blend classic safari charm with modern comforts, providing stunning views of the sweeping plains. Guests can savor gourmet meals, relax by the campfire, and witness extraordinary wildlife right from the privacy of their suite. With attentive service and exclusive game drives, Serengeti Pioneer Camp promises an unforgettable safari experience in one of Africa's most iconic landscapes.
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DAY 4: Game Drives in the Serengeti
Start your day with a delightful breakfast, savoring the fresh, locally sourced ingredients that fuel your adventure ahead. Envision a landscape where the sun often rises to reveal cheetahs in pursuit of their prey, where leopards frequently drape themselves across tree branches, and where the night is resonant with the roar of lions. Our Now Journey Professional Guides, with their no mileage limit policy, offer unrestricted exploration of the Serengeti's wildlife-rich expanses, ensuring an immersive and unforgettable safari experience.
Today's Adventure: Game Drive
As the sun begins to rise, we’ll set off on an exhilarating Game Drive, where the landscape comes alive with the sights and sounds of the wild. Keep your camera ready as we venture into the heart of the wilderness, where every turn reveals a new and breathtaking scene—from majestic elephants grazing to the stealthy movement of big cats on the prowl. This is the moment when nature unfolds its wonders before your eyes, making for an unforgettable experience.
Why We Choose This Region of the Serengeti: Exceptional Safari Experiences
The area around Lemala Nanyukie Lodge in the central Serengeti offers some of Tanzania's most spectacular game drives, set amidst rolling savannahs, acacia-dotted plains, and rocky outcrops. This region is teeming with wildlife, including lions, elephants, giraffes, and, during the Great Migration, vast herds of wildebeest and zebras. The diverse landscape provides an ever-changing backdrop for intimate encounters with Africa's iconic animals.
What sets this location apart is its sense of exclusivity and solitude. The central Serengeti is less crowded than other regions, allowing for more private and uninterrupted wildlife viewing. As you traverse different habitats, from lush riverine areas to open grasslands, you’ll experience the rich biodiversity of the Serengeti in a truly unique and personal way.
Now Journey's Exclusive Dining
Tonight, savor an exquisite dining experience prepared by our Chef, where every dish is a culinary masterpiece. What can you anticipate from our 'exclusive dining experiences?' Picture savoring exquisite meals under a canopy of stars, enjoying intimate receptions and toasts at sunset, and indulging in Now Journey's traditional Prosecco toast—imported directly to the Serengeti for your delight.
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Chapter 4: The Great Migration
DAY 5: Safari Flight to the Mara River in the Northern Serengeti
Today's Adventure: This morning we are off to the airstrip for an airhop to the Northern Serengeti and Sayari Camp.
The landscape of this area is marked by rolling plains and verdant riverbanks that attract an abundance of wildlife. This area is renowned for its spectacular annual migration of wildebeest and zebras. The local Maasai people, known for their vibrant red shúkà and intricate beadwork, have a deep connection to this land. They maintain their traditional way of life, grazing cattle and practicing age-old customs, all while coexisting with the rich wildlife and dramatic scenery of the region.
We make our way from the airstrip to our luxury camp, our home for the next 3 days and nights.
Now Journey's Exclusive Dining
Welcome to the North! Tonight, we invite you to savor a culinary journey with a dinner prepared by our skilled Chef. The cuisine at Sayari Camp reflects the rich flavors of the Serengeti, combining locally sourced ingredients with innovative techniques. Expect a delectable array of dishes featuring fresh game meats, succulent fish, and vibrant vegetables, all artfully crafted to highlight the natural bounty of the region.
Each meal is an experience, starting with gourmet appetizers that might include exotic salads and tantalizing starters, followed by hearty, flavorful main courses that showcase the best of local and international influences. Desserts are a treat, offering a sweet finish with options that are as indulgent as they are imaginative. Dining is complemented by a selection of fine wines and beverages, chosen to perfectly pair with your meal. Enjoy this evening in the serene ambiance of the camp, where every bite is a celebration of the northern Serengeti’s exceptional culinary offerings.
Where We Stay in the Northern Serengeti, 3 Nights
Safari Hotels Collection —
Sayari Camp
Sayari Camp offers a luxurious retreat amidst the untamed beauty of the northern Serengeti. The camp features elegant, spacious tents with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, providing a perfect blend of comfort and wilderness. Each tent is equipped with high-end furnishings, including plush beds with premium linens, stylish décor, and en-suite bathrooms with hot showers and flush toilets.
About Sayari Camp
- Sayari Camp offers a luxurious retreat amidst the untamed beauty of the northern Serengeti. The camp features elegant, spacious tents with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, providing a perfect blend of comfort and wilderness. Each tent is equipped with high-end furnishings, including plush beds with premium linens, stylish décor, and en-suite bathrooms with hot showers and flush toilets.
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DAY 6: The Mara Region
Today's Adventure: Game Drive to witness the Mara River Crossing
A magnificent day in the far northern Serengeti offered breathtaking wildlife encounters, from majestic elephants to the elusive big cats. This region is renowned for its dramatic scenery, where leopards and lions find refuge in the rocky kopjes, while cheetahs traverse the open plains in pursuit of their prey. Perhaps the area’s most awe-inspiring spectacle is the Great Migration, when vast herds of wildebeest and zebras cross the Mara River. This extraordinary event unfolds from mid-July to early October, though the exact timing can vary each year, creating a mesmerizing display of nature’s grandeur.
We return to our luxury Under-Canvas Camp, where you can unwind and soak in the serenity of the Serengeti. Whether you choose to relax in your well-appointed tent, take a dip in the refreshing pool, or simply enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness, the rest of the day is yours to savor at your own pace. Indulge in the camp's amenities, perhaps with a refreshing beverage in hand, as you reflect on the incredible wildlife encounters of the day. This is your time to fully immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the African savanna.
Now Journey's Exclusive Dining
Tonight, we indulge in a sumptuous feast at the exquisite Sayari Camp, a luxurious retreat in the Northern Serengeti that echoes the elegance of the 1930s.
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DAY 7: Hot Air Ballooning & Soaking up the Sayari
Today's Adventure: Game Drive, Ballooning & Relaxing
On our final day in the Serengeti, we’ll embark on an exhilarating game drive, those who desire will experience the serenity of a breathtaking hot air balloon ride over the 'Endless Plains,' and then unwind as we soak in the tranquil beauty of this remarkable place. Interested in the Hot Air Balloon experience? Inquire with your Trip Specialist to learn more about details and pricing.
"I used to dream of Africa as a place of vast and beautiful landscapes, a land of endless horizons and exquisite light. And I have found that dream to be true.”
— from Out of Africa by Karen Blixen
Now Journey's Farewell
Tonight, we gather to celebrate the joys of living, exploring, and forging new friendships as we conclude our adventure with a magnificent dinner and a heartwarming farewell. Our Journey has been filled with breathtaking sunrises, awe-inspiring wildlife, unforgettable sunsets, and exquisite meals. As this chapter comes to a close, we bid you "Kwaheri"—goodbye—until we meet again.
Jambo!
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