Discover Tanzania’s iconic wildlife in just four days. Starting and ending in Arusha, this compact safari visits Lake Manyara National Park and the legendary Serengeti National Park. Along the way, see tree-climbing lions, large elephant herds, the Big Five, and depending on the season the spectacular wildebeest migration.
Key highlights
Iconic wildlife: tree-climbing lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, rhinos, lions.
Migration spectacle: witness millions of wildebeest (seasonal).
Two parks: Lake Manyara’s lush riverine habitat and Serengeti’s endless plains.
Cultural stop: visit Mto wa Mbu for local crafts and culture.
Daily game drives: morning and afternoon drives maximize sightings.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arusha → Lake Manyara National Park
First, your guide collects you from your Arusha hotel and gives a short safari briefing. Then, you’ll drive to Lake Manyara with a stop in Mto wa Mbu to explore local arts and meet the community. After arrival, check in, enjoy lunch, and later go on an afternoon game drive to spot elephants, waterbuck, gazelles and the famous tree-climbing lions. Finally, return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.
Â
Day 2: Transfer to Serengeti National Park
After an early breakfast, check out and drive to the Serengeti. Upon arrival, check in and have lunch. Afterwards, enjoy an evening game drive search the open plains and rocky kopjes (including Simba kopjes) where predators gather. Expect to see wildebeest, zebras, giraffes, hyenas, and more. Then, relax at your Serengeti lodge for dinner and overnight.
Â
Day 3: Full day in Serengeti National Park
Wake up for a full day of game viewing. In the morning, explore the central Serengeti plains and look for the Big Five, big herds of wildebeest and curious predators. After lunch, continue afternoon game drives to see different habitats and behaviors. In the evening, return to the lodge for dinner and overnight.
Â
Day 4: Serengeti → En-route game drive → Arusha
On the final morning, enjoy breakfast and an en-route game drive as you depart Serengeti. Then, your guide will drive you back to Arusha and drop you at your hotel or the airport, marking the end of the safari.
What to expect:
Daily morning & afternoon game drives.
Comfortable lodge stays with meals included (unless otherwise arranged).
Expert guides who explain wildlife behavior and local ecology.
Short cultural stop at Mto wa Mbu to meet local artisans.
Why book this safari?
Because it combines two contrasting ecosystems, maximizes wildlife sightings, and fits into a long weekend. Moreover, it’s perfect for first-time safari goers and for those wanting a condensed, high-impact wildlife experience.