Elephant Safari in Tanzania
Discover the heart of Tanzania on this intense four-day safari adventure! Explore the majestic Ngorongoro crater and its stunning landscapes with large animal concentrations, and the legendary Serengeti National Park, home to an incredible array of wildlife including zebras, rhinos, cheetahs and more. Spend your days among the lions and elephants, and your nights under the stars in the wild camps. Experience Africa in every way you’ve always imagined, in the very best way possible!
This brief elephant safari in Tanzania works perfect as a combination with a mountain climb, or a beach adventure at Zanzibar! If you’re looking for a short but rewarding safari, we give this is our warmest recommendations!
Rates vary due to seasons and availability - request a quote for precise, favorable pricing and tailored travel planning.
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HIGHLIGHTS
Witness unmatched wildlife in the majestic Ngorongoro Crater
Discover the vast plains of the iconic Serengeti National Park
Enjoy evenings at full-board wild camps in stunning surroundings
Explore Tanzania’s wonders with experienced guides
Optional visit to a Maasai Village for cultural insights
The Magical Ngorongoro and Serengeti Safari Experience
A truly breathtaking elephant safari adventure through Tanzania’s wonders and most iconic landscapes. From the unparalleled beauty of the Ngorongoro crater and its large variety of inhabitants, to the endless plains of the spectacular Serengeti, home to the earth’s largest concentration of wildlife – this journey, which is a relatively short in time but nothing short of perfect, promises unforgettable encounters with nature’s wonders! You will stay in comfortable, full-board wild camps at the heart of the wilderness, where you’ll fall asleep to the sounds of Africa’s vibrant life.
Maasai Village Cultural Excursion (Optional)
Why not combine your elephant safari in Tanzania with a cultural experience? Dive into the incredible Maasai culture and lifestyle with an optional visit to a local Maasai village. The welcoming people and vibrant traditions give you a glimpse into Tanzania’s soul, where you will get insights into their daily lives and their ancient customs. This is a unique opportunity for an authentic African experience that we promise that you’ll always remember!
In addition to this cultural immersion, don’t miss out on one of our most popular activities – a breathtaking Balloon Safari over the Serengeti. Floating above the plains like this, witnessing the vastness of the landscape and wildlife from the skies, is truly and unbeatable moment that is a must-do for a complete Serengeti adventure!
For some other short safari inspiration – check out the Original Maasai Lodge, or why not our best-seller Big Five Safari?
Option 1 – NGORONGORO CRATER | SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK
A vibrant and wild-life focused safari adventure across the incredible Ngorongoro Crater and the majestic Serengeti National Park, with luxurious camp stays and an optional Maasai cultural visit. Enjoy sightings of incredible wildlife and the breathtaking landscapes Tanzania is known for.
| Day 1 |
NGORONGORO CRATER | NGORONGORO WILD CAMPPick up from Moshi or Arusha and drive to the Ngorongoro Crater for game drives. This is the best place in Tanzania to see black rhinos and prides of lions that include the magnificent black-manned males. There are lots of colorful flamingoes and a variety of water birds. Other game that you can see include leopard, cheetah, hyena, other members of the antelope family, and small mammals. In the late afternoon drive to the Ngorongoro Wild Camp or similar to enjoy your evening. Overnight at Ngorongoro Wild Camp (Full Board) or Similar |
| Day 2 |
SERENGETI | SERENGETI WILDEBEEST CAMPHead out after breakfast for a drive to Serengeti National park. The word “Serengeti” is derived from the Maasai language meaning “endless plain” en-route to Serengeti, you can choose to visit a Maasai village, a perfect place to explore the Maasai culture and to even participate in some cultural activities. Later on, enjoy a game drive en route to your camp. Dinner and overnight at Serengeti Wildebeest Camp or similar. Overnight at Serengeti Wildebeest Camp (Full Board) or Similar |
| Day 3 |
SERENGETI | SERENGETI WILDEBEEST CAMPAfter breakfast, venture into the Serengeti’s wilderness corners for a full day of game viewing in the park. With a picnic lunch beside you, enjoy this world’s heritage site, where the earth’s largest concentration of plain game still roams free! In the late evening, go to the Serengeti Wildebeest Camp or similar for rest, dinner, and overnight. Overnight at Serengeti Wildebeest Camp (Full Board) or Similar |
| Day 4 |
SERENGETI – MOSHI/ARUSHAAfter breakfast, proceed for a half-day game drive in the Serengeti, and in the afternoon drive back to Arusha or Moshi. |
Option 2 – TARANGIRE NATIONAL PARK | SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK | NGORONGORO CRATER
Includes the underrated Tarangire National Park, where an array of animals cluster along the river, and the Serengeti’s endless plains with an option to explore Olduvai Gorge. Ngorongoro Conservation Area is the last stop with this option, where the wildlife is as varied as the landscape itself.
| Day 1 |
TARANGIRE NATIONAL PARK | HIGHVIEW HOTELDrive to Tarangire National Park in the morning. Tarangire is traversed by the Tarangire River, which never dries up. Being the only water source during the dry season, it draws hundreds of animals to the park, making wildlife and bird viewing spectacular. The landscape is varied, with grassy savannah plains, swamps, hills, and spectacular baobabs. Overnight at Highview Hotel (with lunch, dinner & breakfast) |
| Day 2 |
SERENGETI | SERENGETI WILDEBEEST CAMPHead out after breakfast for the drive to Serengeti National Park. “Serengeti” is derived from the Maasai language, meaning “endless plain.” En route to the Serengeti, you can experience Maasai culture by visiting a Maasai village. Also, you can visit Olduvai Gorge (at your own cost), known as the Cradle of Humanity. This Museum is a testament to the long journey that humanity has made from its humble roots in East Africa to its current state as the dominant species on Earth. Enjoy a game drive enroute to your camp. Overnight at Serengeti Wildebeest camp (with lunch, dinner & breakfast) |
| Day 3 |
SERENGETI | NGORONGORO CRATER | NGORONGORO WILDEBEEST CAMPEnjoy a morning game drive in the Serengeti before your transfer to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, part of the southern Serengeti ecosystem. Most wildebeest migration can normally be found on the short-grass plains from December to April. The area is usually heavily populated with elephants, birds, and resident game. Check-in at the lodge with an afternoon game drive. Overnight Ngorongoro Wildebeest Camp (with lunch, dinner & breakfast) |
| Day 4 |
NGORONGORO CRATER | MOSHI/ARUSHAAfter breakfast, have a game drive en route to Ngorongoro Crater with a packed lunch. On the way, have an optional visit to Maasai Village. You will then drive to Ngorongoro Crater for a once-in-a-lifetime safari tour. The jewel in Ngorongoro’s crown, this thick volcanic crater is the most significant unflooded and unbroken caldera in the world. Upon descending to the crater floor, you will visit Lake Magadi, a large but shallow alkaline lake in the southwestern corner. This is one of the crater’s leading features. In the afternoon await a drive back to Arusha or Moshi. |
Time-Efficient Journey Through Tanzania’s Natural Marvels
The Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti are truly unique and awe-inspiring places that offer an unforgettable experience for anyone who loves wildlife, nature, culture, and adventure. During your elephant safari in Tanzania you can expect:
- Time-efficient 4-day travel plan, making it the perfect addition to combine with out other adventures.
- Comfortable adventure-like accommodations, the wild camps selected give you the best exposure to nature while staying in tents with beds and proper toilets.
- Visit the Big 2, the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, the pearls of Tanzania.
- A qualified English-speaking safari guide will inspire you and make this experience interesting.
Spectacular Wildlife and Cultural Wonders of the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater
This elephant safari will take you to both Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, some of the most beautiful places in Africa. The Serengeti is a stunningly beautiful wilderness area with rolling grasslands, acacia woodlands, and riverine forests and home to the world’s largest terrestrial mammal migration. The Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is known for its dense population of predators and other wildlife, including elephants, lions, zebras, giraffes, and many more. The Ngorongoro Crater has one of the most breathtaking sceneries in Africa. The Maasai people, who have lived in the area for centuries, have a fascinating culture and way of life. During your elephant safari in Tanzania you can visit their villages, learn about their customs, and even go on a guided walk with a Maasai warrior. Whether you want to go on a game drive, hot air balloon safari, or guided walking safari, there are many opportunities for adventure and exploration in these two amazing destinations.
Tanzania activities
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What documents do I need to travel to Tanzania?
A visa is required when traveling to Tanzania. Currently, this can be obtained online, on arrival at airports and border crossings, and is valid for 90 days. A valid passport is mandatory. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Tanzania.
Do lodges and camps have mosquito nets?
We carefully select the accommodation on safari so that you are comfortable and relaxed and can experience a one-of-a-kind atmosphere during your safari. All rooms/tents during your safari are fitted with mosquito nets or are insect-proofed to protect you against bites. You are also advised to use insect repellent to further protect yourself, especially outdoors in the evenings.
Is Tanzania safe to travel to?
Tanzania is generally considered a safe destination for safari-goers. Visitors should follow the safety guidelines provided and take necessary precautions, such as avoiding walking alone at night or leaving valuables unattended.
When does the wildebeest migration take place?
The wildebeest migration takes place in Tanzania typically between the months of November to August, although the timing can vary slightly depending on the weather patterns each year. The migration is a continuous movement of around 1.5 million wildebeest and large numbers of zebras and gazelles across the Serengeti plains in Tanzania in search of fresh grazing land and water. In November and December, the herds of wildebeest can be found in the northern Serengeti near the Kenyan border, where they start calving. As the rains stop and the dry season sets in, the herds begin to move south in search of water and fresh grazing. By April and May, the herds are usually in the central Serengeti. By June, the wildebeest and other herbivores gather at the Grumeti River, where they must cross to continue their journey south. By July, the herds are usually in the eastern Serengeti; by August, they move into the northern region of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Is it safe to drink water in Tanzania?
Drinking tap water in Tanzania is generally unsafe, as it may contain harmful bacteria and parasites that can cause illnesses such as typhoid, cholera, and hepatitis A. Drinking only bottled or filtered water is important to avoid getting sick. You can buy bottled water at most shops, hotels, and restaurants in Tanzania. When traveling in Tanzania, it’s also important to avoid drinking water from sources such as lakes, rivers, and streams, which may also contain harmful bacteria and parasites. Instead, use bottled or filtered water to brush your teeth and rinse your mouth after brushing. Additionally, avoiding ice in drinks and peeling fruits and vegetables before eating them is a good idea to reduce the risk of ingesting contaminated water.
What are the best national parks to visit in Tanzania for a safari?
Tanzania is home to many national parks, but the most popular ones for safaris are Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire National Park, and Lake Manyara National Park.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see on a Tanzania safari?
Tanzania is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, hippos, buffalo, leopards, cheetahs, and many species of birds.
What is the best time of year to go on a Tanzania safari?
The best time to go on a Tanzania safari depends on your preferences. The dry season from June to October is the best time for game viewing, but it can be crowded and more expensive. The wet season from November to May offers lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and lower prices, but some parks may be closed due to flooding.
What kind of transportation will be used during my safari?
Our safaris are in 4×4 vehicles, which are ideal for navigating the rugged terrain of the national parks. Some safaris may also include flights to remote areas or walking safaris.
What should I wear on my safari?
It’s important to dress in layers and pack versatile, easy-to-wash, and dry clothing. Don’t forget also to bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and a small backpack to carry your essentials while on safari. Choose comfortable, practical, and appropriate clothing for the weather conditions. Lightweight, breathable clothing such as cotton or linen shirts, pants, and shorts. Long-sleeved shirts and pants can also help protect you from the sun, insects, and thorny bushes. Neutral-colored clothing such as khaki, beige, or olive green. Avoid bright colors or patterns, as they can scare off wildlife or attract insects. Closed-toe shoes such as sneakers or hiking boots for walking safaris or nature walks. Sandals or flip-flops can be worn around camp but may not provide enough protection for outdoor activities. A hat or cap to protect your head and face from the sun. Sunglasses protect your eyes from the bright sunlight. A light jacket or sweater for cooler mornings and evenings. Swimwear if you plan to visit a lodge or camp with a swimming pool. A rain jacket or poncho if you’re traveling during the rainy season.
What is the tipping etiquette for safari guides and mountain crews on trips like this?
Tipping is highly appreciated at the end of safari/mountain climb. The size of tips will vary depending on the length and complexity of the trip, the number of staff on the trip and the number of clients on the trip. Generally, groups like to meet together before the end of the trek to discuss how much they would like to tip each staff member based on their individual trek experience. You should prepare an envelope after your trek for your tip money at the Hotel. You can use US dollars, Euros, TZ Shillings or a combination of these. Please ask the Safari/Climbing coordinator at the Hotel for advice.
RECOMMENDED TIP:
Mountain Climbs: $25-50 USD per Day per Climber to be shared between guides, chefs and porters.
Safaris: Driver/Guide: $35-50 USD per Day per Car. If it is a camping safari there will be a tip for the cook $10 USD per Day.
THESE ARE JUST GUIDELINES AND TIPS CAN BE GIVEN TO SAFARI STAFF/MOUNTAIN CREW ACCORDING TO SERVICES PROVIDED.
Accommodation
Ngorongroro Wild Camp
Ngorongoro Wild Camp, situated south of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, offers 20 luxury tents and 6 cottages near Karatu Town.
The camp features ample amenities including a dining area, bar, internet access, sundowner cocktails, private bush meals, a fireplace, Maasai barbecue, and a multi-cuisine restaurant for an unforgettable wilderness experience.
Upgrade to Ngorongoro Safari Lodge or Endoro Lodge or Ngorongoro Serena Lodge or Ngorongoro O’ldeani Mountain Lodge.
Serengeti Wild/Wildebeest Camp
The Serengeti Wild Camp features 20 spacious, self-contained tents, offers a close-to-nature experience including hearing distant elephant trumpeting at night.
Nearby, the Serengeti Wildebeest Camps – an extra area with 10 similar tents, providing comfortable wildlife encounters in the heart of Serengeti National Park.
Both camps offer modern amenities like internet, bars, a multi-cuisine restaurant and special dining experiences, including bush meals.
Upgrade to Serengeti Safari Lodge or Ole Serai Luxury Camp.
Accommodation Upgrades
Ngorongoro Safari Lodge
In the southern Ngorongoro Conservation Area, this lodge offers 10 luxury tents with a large dining area and a reception.
Known for its abundant wildlife including “The Big Five” and significant archeological sites, you can enjoy unique birdlife, game drives, cultural displays, wildlife talks and a view of the extraordinary wildebeest and zebra migration.
Ngorongoro O’ldeani Mountain Lodge
Located on top of a scenic hill, this 5-star colonial lodge offers breathtaking views of Oldeani Mountain and the Ngorongoro Crater rim, as well as 360 degree views all the way to Lake Eyasi and Lake Manyara.
The property is set among green gardens and local vegetation with over 130 bird species, and offers 50 deluxe rooms and a signature Livingstone Suite, as well as luxurious amenities including a spa, bouthique and a rim flow pool.
Endoro Lodge
Luxury accommodations with elegant chalet-themed rooms with fireplaces and immersion tubs, a swimming pool, a well-stocked bar and conference facilites with a P.A system for over 40 people.
Welcome to privacy, tranquility and elegance.
Serengeti Safari Lodge
Located in the Seronera Tana Spring Area of Serengeti National Park, Serengeti Safari Lodge offers 15 luxury self-contained tents with private facilites.
Enjoy a luxurious experience with amenities as a swimming pool, spa services, a restaurant with local and continental dishes, a bar with a fireplace, internet access and a gift shop.
Ole Seria Luxury Camp, Moru Kopjes
Ideally located in the Central Seronera region of Serengeti National Park, near Moru Kopjes and Lake Magadi, this luxury camp is surrounded by hills and close to the Mbalageti/Seronera River and its diverse array of wildlife and a nearby hippo pool.
It features 20 well-appointed luxury tents, all en-suite with modern amenities, providing guests with panoramic views of nature and wildlife from the comfort of their beds or verandas.
Included in the price:
- Full board (breakfast, lunch & dinner) accommodation while on safari
- Pick up from your hotel in Arusha or Moshi and drop off
- All game drives viewing in a custom-built 4×4 Safari Land Cruiser
- All park and entrance fees
- Transportation with 4×4 vehicles with viewing roofs
- Professional English-speaking driver/guide during the safari.
- Bottled water in safari vehicles
- Ngorongoro Crater car supplement fee
- Current Government taxes and levies
- 24-Hour support during the safari from our office in Moshi.
Price does not cover:
- Internal or International flights
- Pre-safari night accommodation
- Balloon excursion
- Entry visa to Tanzania
- Travel and health insurance
- Gratuities to your guide, hotel staff, and porters – Find guidelines in the FAQ
- Meals, drinks, and excursions not described in the itinerary
- Any other items of a personal nature, laundry, telephone, and postage
- Items of a personal Nature
- Masaai village tour & Olduvai Gorge Tour
Rest assured, we’re here to assist with anything not covered in the price.
Your convenience is our priority.
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