Lake Victoria and Serengeti Safari

Set out on an unforgettable journey through Tanzania with an itinerary designed to showcase the country’s incredible landscapes, wildlife, and culture. Your adventure begins with a warm welcome at either Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha Airport, followed by a comfortable transfer to La Mama Hotel. After settling in, you’ll receive a short pre-safari briefing before the real adventure begins.

The journey continues to Tarangire National Park, known for its dramatic landscapes, towering baobab trees, and large herds of elephants. From there, you’ll travel to the endless plains of Serengeti National Park, where incredible wildlife sightings await, including the famous Great Migration. A stay at Ikoma Wild Camp offers the unique experience of a night game drive, giving you a chance to see nocturnal animals in action.

Your journey then takes you to Mwanza, a lively city on the shores of Lake Victoria. Here, you’ll explore local markets, cultural landmarks, and the scenic lakeside environment. A visit to Victoria Park provides an excellent opportunity for bird watching and enjoying peaceful lake views.

After your time in Mwanza, you’ll return to the Serengeti for more wildlife encounters before continuing to the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, one of Africa’s most remarkable wildlife destinations and home to a rich variety of animals within its natural volcanic caldera. The safari journey then concludes with a return to Moshi.

Your final day is spent relaxing at La Mama Hotel, giving you time to unwind and reflect on the experiences of the trip. If you wish, you can extend your stay with additional day excursions or travel onward to Zanzibar to enjoy its beautiful beaches and vibrant coastal culture.

Price From

$ 6061

Per Person

Price From

$ 4076

Per Person

Price From

$ 3671

Per Person

Price From

$ 3422

Per Person

When you arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha Airport, a friendly driver will be waiting to greet you with a sign displaying your name. After a warm welcome, you’ll be comfortably transferred to the charming La Mama Hotel. Later, a representative from Claris Tours & Travel will meet you for a short pre-safari briefing, giving you an overview of the journey ahead and what to expect during your adventure. Spend the rest of your time relaxing at La Mama Hotel, where you can enjoy the peaceful surroundings, a refreshing swimming pool, a lovely garden, as well as the bar and restaurant.

Overnight
La Mama Hotel (with lunch, dinner & breakfast) or similer.

After breakfast, you will set out for Tarangire National Park, a destination well known for its excellent wildlife viewing, particularly during the dry season when large numbers of animals gather around the park’s water sources. The landscape here is varied, featuring open savannahs, seasonal swamps, rolling hills, and the famous baobab trees that dot the scenery.

Elephants are especially common in Tarangire, often seen moving in large herds, while zebras, buffalo, lions, and oryx can also be spotted as they come to drink from the river. The park is also a haven for birdlife, making it a rewarding place for bird enthusiasts. The Tarangire River serves as the park’s lifeline during the dry months, attracting wildlife from across the region.

After a full day of exploring and enjoying the wildlife, you will head back for an overnight stay at Highview Hotel or a similar accommodation arranged by Claris Tours & Travel.

Overnight
Highview Coffee Lodge (with lunch, dinner & breakfast) or similer.

After breakfast in the morning, your safari guide will pick you up from the hotel and begin the journey to the Serengeti through the beautiful Ngorongoro Conservation Area. As you enter this vast and world-famous park, you’ll start to notice the incredible wildlife that makes the Serengeti so special. Large herds of wildebeests, zebras, and other herbivores move across the plains in search of fresh grazing, creating one of nature’s most remarkable scenes.

The Serengeti is known for its diverse landscapes, ranging from wide open savannahs to scattered woodlands. These habitats support an amazing variety of wildlife, including the Big Five, as well as cheetahs, giraffes, hyenas, and countless bird species.

Later in the evening, you will arrive at Ikoma Wild Camp. Here, you’ll have the exciting opportunity to experience a night game drive, where you can spot nocturnal animals and see the wilderness from a completely different perspective.

Overnight
Ikoma Wild Camp (with lunch, dinner & breakfast) or similar

After enjoying a hearty breakfast at the hotel, you’ll set out on a scenic drive to Mwanza City, beautifully situated on the shores of Lake Victoria. Along the way, you’ll pause for a picnic lunch and take in the changing landscapes as you travel.

Upon arriving in Mwanza, you’ll get a glimpse of the city’s lively economic and cultural life. The first stop is the Sukuma Museum, where you can learn about the traditions, history, and heritage of the Sukuma people, the largest ethnic group in Tanzania.

Later, you’ll visit the bustling local fish market, a vibrant centre of trade where fishermen and vendors bring in their fresh catch each day. It’s a great place to experience the rhythm of daily life and see the variety of fish that Lake Victoria is known for.

In the evening, you’ll head back to Tilapia Hotel to unwind, enjoy a relaxing dinner, and spend the night while reflecting on the experiences of the day.

Overnight
Tilapia Hotel (with lunch, dinner & breakfast) or similar.

After breakfast, you’ll head out to enjoy a full day exploring the beautiful surroundings of Lake Victoria, the largest lake in Africa and the second-largest freshwater lake in the world. Begin with a visit to Victoria Park, where you can take in the peaceful scenery and spend some time birdwatching. The park is known for its diverse birdlife, including the rare White-Bellied Sea Eagle along with many other interesting species. The nearby bushland is also home to wildlife such as Eastern Grey Kangaroos and Black Wallabies. Later in the day, return to Tilapia Hotel for dinner and an overnight stay, relaxing while taking in the calm views of the lake.

Overnight
Tilapia Hotel (with lunch, dinner & breakfast) or similar.

After breakfast, continue exploring the local culture and everyday life of Mwanza City. Spend some time visiting different commercial centers to get a better understanding of the city’s economic activities and lively market environment. You can also explore the local fish markets, where the daily trade offers a glimpse into one of Mwanza’s most important industries. Take the opportunity to walk around, visit nearby attractions, and interact with residents to learn more about their traditions and way of life. Later in the evening, return to Tilapia Hotel for dinner and a relaxing overnight stay, bringing another enriching day in Mwanza to a close.

Overnight
Tilapia Hotel (with lunch, dinner & breakfast) or similar.

After breakfast, you will begin your drive back to Serengeti National Park, famous for its vast open plains and remarkable wildlife. The journey itself is scenic, offering plenty of chances to take in Tanzania’s changing landscapes along the way. Once you arrive, you’ll check in at either Serengeti Wild Camp or Ikoma Wild Camp, both known for providing a comfortable and authentic safari atmosphere.

In the afternoon, you can unwind at the camp or head out for a short game drive to get acquainted with the surrounding wilderness. As evening sets in, enjoy dinner around the campfire, sharing stories from the day before settling in for a peaceful overnight stay in the heart of the Serengeti.

Overnight
Serengeti Wild Camp / Ikoma Wild Camp (with lunch, dinner & breakfast) or similar

Start your day with an early morning game drive in Serengeti National Park, when wildlife activity is at its peak. This is one of the best times to spot predators on the hunt as well as large herds of animals roaming the open plains. The Serengeti’s endless savannahs are also home to the famous Great Migration, so you may witness thousands of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles moving across the landscape.

After an exciting morning safari, the journey continues toward Ngorongoro Crater, with a stop along the way at Olduvai Gorge. Often referred to as the “Cradle of Humankind,” this important archaeological site offers fascinating insights into early human history and evolution. After exploring the area, proceed toward the Ngorongoro highlands. Upon arrival, check in at Ngorongoro Wild Camp, where you can relax, enjoy a delicious dinner, and spend the night on the crater rim, surrounded by breathtaking views of the vast volcanic caldera.

Overnight
Ngorongoro Wild Camp (with lunch, dinner & breakfast) or similar.

Early in the morning, after enjoying a hearty breakfast, you’ll set off on a scenic drive toward the famous Ngorongoro Crater, one of the most extraordinary wildlife destinations in the world. As you descend into the crater, get ready for an exciting day of game viewing in this unique natural sanctuary. The crater’s varied landscapes are home to an impressive range of wildlife, including leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, several antelope species, and many smaller mammals that thrive within this remarkable ecosystem.

Around every corner, there’s a chance to witness the incredible diversity of life that makes this place so special. After a full day of exploration, you’ll begin the drive back to Moshi. Upon arrival, you’ll check in at La Mama Hotel for a comfortable overnight stay.

Ngorongoro Crater 1
Overnight
La Mama Hotel (with lunch, dinner & breakfast) or similar.

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward journey. If you would like to make the most of your time, you can also extend your trip by adding a day excursion to explore nearby attractions or experience the local culture. You can visit the Day Trip page to learn more about the available options.

Another great way to continue your adventure is by heading to the beautiful island of Zanzibar. Known for its pristine beaches and rich cultural heritage, Zanzibar is perfect for travelers looking to relax or explore something new.

Destination Location

Lake Manyara National Park covers about 330 sq km (127 sq mi), and nearly 70% of the park is made up of the lake itself. The park lies along the dramatic western wall of the Great Rift Valley. It is well known for its rich birdlife, with close to 400 recorded species. Lake Manyara is also famous for its large elephant population and the unique tree-climbing lions that rest in the branches of the park’s diverse trees. A short game-viewing drive through the park offers a wonderful introduction to Tanzania’s wildlife and landscapes.

Ngorongoro Crater is one of the world’s most remarkable natural wonders and a dream destination for photographers. It is the largest intact volcanic crater on Earth, covering around 265 square kilometers (102 sq mi). The crater floor, which lies about 2,000 feet below the rim, is home to an incredible concentration of wildlife. Visitors may encounter elephants, rhinos, lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, serval cats, jackals, elands, waterbucks, wildebeest, various antelope species, and a wide variety of birds. The scenery and wildlife here create a truly unforgettable safari experience.

Tarangire National Park spans approximately 6,734 sq km (2,600 sq mi) and features open plains along with a seasonal swamp in the southern part of the park. It is known for its striking landscapes filled with baobab and acacia trees. The park supports a wide range of wildlife including zebras, elephants, giraffes, and waterbucks, all of which rely on the Tarangire River as a vital water source. Wildlife viewing is particularly rewarding during the dry season when animals gather near the river. Visitors may also spot elands, oryx, lesser kudu, lions, leopards, cheetahs, and the rare Roan antelope. Birdlife is also abundant, making it an excellent destination for birdwatchers.

Is This Trip for You?

We work with travellers who want to experience Tanzania’s incredible landscapes, wildlife, and mountains in a well-organized and reliable way. With years of experience arranging safaris and mountain treks, the team focuses on creating safe and memorable journeys for visitors exploring destinations such as the Serengeti plains or climbing to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Our experienced guides and safari specialists combine their local knowledge with professional service to ensure travellers enjoy a smooth and rewarding adventure. Safety, efficiency, and reliability remain at the heart of every trip, helping travellers explore Tanzania with confidence.

A fleet of well-equipped 4x4 vehicles, including Land Cruisers and safari minibuses with pop-up viewing roofs, is available for game drives and transfers. English-speaking guides accompany guests throughout the journey, sharing their knowledge of Tanzania’s wildlife, ecosystems, and culture while helping travellers get the most from their safari experience.

 Travel Companions

The maximum group size for this trip is 16 travellers, creating a comfortable and social safari experience. If you are interested in organizing a private group, special arrangements and group incentives may also be available.

Guide(s)

Professional English-speaking guides accompany the safari and provide valuable insights about Tanzania’s national parks, wildlife, and landscapes. Their experience and local knowledge help ensure both an enjoyable and informative journey.

Safari Tips for Guide and Cook

Tipping is a common practice on safaris and is greatly appreciated by the crew.

  • Driver/Guide: around $15 per day (per group)

  • Cook (for basic camping safaris): around $10 per day

Gifts: Guides and porters often appreciate practical items such as warm clothing, shoes, or backpacks. Some travellers bring older clothing items specifically to give as gifts.

Celebration: Many guests also choose to thank their guides by inviting them for a meal or drinks after the trip as an additional gesture of appreciation.

Expectations

Tips should not depend solely on whether you reach a summit or complete every activity. Instead, they should reflect the professionalism, dedication, and effort shown by the guides and crew throughout the journey.

Transportation

Except for international airfare, all transportation within Tanzania is arranged as part of the trip. This includes safari vehicles and travel between destinations. Airport transfers and certain personal equipment for activities may not be included unless specifically stated.

Money

The local currency in Tanzania is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). U.S. dollars, Euros, and credit cards are often accepted at larger hotels and stores, but using Tanzanian shillings usually provides a better exchange rate. ATMs are mainly available in larger towns and cities such as Moshi and Arusha.

Safari Packing List Notes

  • You can leave extra luggage in a locked storage room at the Springlands Hotel for no charge.
  • You can leave valuables in a safe deposit box at the Springlands Hotel for $1/day.

Footwear

  • Sturdy, comfortable shoes, preferably waterproof. They will get dirty.
  • Tennis shoes or sandals for lounging in the evening
  • Comfortable, breathable socks

Clothing

  • Shorts, mid-thigh or longer
  • Lightweight, breathable pants
  • Short-sleeved shirts, cool and breathable
  • Long-sleeved shirt or sweater for evenings
  • Rain racket and pants or rain poncho

Baggage

  • Day pack, for you to carry
  • Large duffel bag or backpack

Sleeping, for camping safaris

  • Sleeping bag
  • Sleeping pad and repair kit
  • Tents are supplied by Zara at no charge
  • Foam sleeping pads are provided by Zara at no charge

Other

  • Water bottles, and water purification tablets or purifier
  • Bottled water is also available for purchase on safari
  • Sun hat with brim
  • Sunglasses
  • Bandana (for dust, etc.)
  • Money ($400 or more in cash and/or travellers cheques, including some small U.S., Euro, or Tanzanian bills)
  • Headlamp or flashlight
  • Camera, film/disks, mini-tripod
  • Video camera, tapes
  • Maps, guidebooks
  • Batteries
  • Binoculars
  • Notebook, pencil, and pen
  • Pocket knife
  • Electricity adapter
  • Energy bars, hard candy, snacks, and comfort foods
  • Playing cards, games, books, frisbee, football, kite
  • Chocolate or pens for village children, momentos for guides and other travellers
  • Umbrella, particularly useful in the rainy season, can be purchased in the market for around $2
  • Plastic bags and zip-lock bags for waterproofing
  • Sewing kit
  • Salt, pepper, spices for bland food
  • Business cards
  • Alarm clock
  • Calculator (for currency conversion)
  • Swim suit for hotel swimming pool

Toiletries

  • Toilet paper (and baggie to carry used paper while walking)
  • Small towel
    Soap
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Handi-wipes (moist towelettes for cleaning)
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Lotion
  • Glasses, contacts, solution
  • Comb, mirror

Documents

  • Passport
  • Yellow fever certificate
  • Tanzania Visa
  • Medical insurance
  • Address book
  • Vaccination records
  • Airline tickets
  • Cash, travellers cheques, credit cards
  • Maps, guidebooks
  • Make copies of passport, TZ visa, airline tickets/schedule, travellers cheques numbers.
    Leave a copy with someone at home and put a copy in a separate place in your luggage.

First Aid

  • Ibuprofin, Aceteminophen, or Aspirin
  • Throat losenges
  • Bandaids
  • Moleskin
  • Sunscreen (SPF 15+)
  • Lip balm with sunscreen
  • Insect repellent
  • Disinfectant, Antiseptic cream
  • Bandages and tape
  • Diahrea medicine
  • Antihistemines
  • Ace bandage
  • Melatonin (1-3mg) or other sleep aid
  • Malaria pills (talk to your doctor)
  • Antibiotics (talk to your doctor)
  • Prescription drugs (talk to your doctor)
  • Diamox (talk to your doctor)

Gifts for Guides, Locals

  • Shoes
  • Any warm clothing
  • T-shirts
  • Hats
  • Nerf football, frisbees
  • Candy
  • Pens

Packing for your flight to Africa

  • U-shaped neck pillow (blow-up)
  • Books/magazines
  • Toiletries
  • Snacks
  • Water
  • Walkman and music
  • Eye shades, ear plugs
  • Melatonin or other sleep aid
  • Critical items (in case baggage is delayed)

Springlands Hotel, Pembo Road, Moshi, Tanzania

Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)

Cancellation Policy – Claris Tours & Travel

If you need to cancel your booking or are unable to join your scheduled tour, the following cancellation terms will apply:

  • If we receive your written cancellation 30 days or more before departure, Claris Tours & Travel will retain 20% of your booking amount, and the remaining balance will be refunded to you.

  • If your cancellation is made between 14 and 29 days before departure, 50% of the total package cost will be retained.

  • If you cancel less than 14 days before departure, unfortunately, 100% of the total package cost will be retained, and any outstanding balance must be paid immediately.

If you are able to find someone to take your place at least 14 days before departure, and that person completes a new booking form individually, no cancellation charges will apply to you.

However, if no replacement is arranged by 14 days prior to departure, a 100% cancellation fee will be charged.

Please note that Claris Tours & Travel, along with its representatives, reserves the right to end the participation of any traveler during the tour at their discretion and with immediate effect if necessary.

Booking & Payment Information

To secure your reservation with Claris Tours & Travel, a 20% deposit is required at the time of booking. The remaining balance must be paid 60 days before your arrival date.

We gladly accept Visa, AMEX, and Mastercard. If you prefer, you may also transfer funds directly to our bank account via wire transfer.

Before confirming your booking, please take a moment to review our Cancellation Policy outlined below.

Price Adjustments

Our quoted prices remain valid unless changes or add-ons are requested. If you choose to modify your itinerary or add extra services, the total cost may be adjusted accordingly. Any requested changes will be clearly communicated and confirmed by Claris Tours & Travel before proceeding.

Required Travel Documents

To ensure a smooth journey, all passengers are responsible for preparing the following:

  • A valid VISA (see details below)

  • A signed waiver form (to be returned to us)

  • A passport valid for at least six months beyond your travel date

Please note that entry into a country is ultimately determined by immigration authorities. Even with complete documentation, entry may be refused at their discretion.

VISA Information for Tanzania

Visitors can obtain a visa upon arrival at:

  • Dar es Salaam International Airport

  • Kilimanjaro International Airport

  • Zanzibar International Airport

  • Border posts at Namanga, Tunduma, Taveta, and Holili

Visa fees are as follows:

  • Canadian passport holders: US$50 for an ordinary visa

  • United States passport holders: US$100 for an ordinary visa

  • EU passport holders: US$50 or €50 for an ordinary visa

For the most current visa updates, we recommend checking with the relevant Tanzanian immigration authorities prior to travel.

Living Standards

Travelling abroad can be a beautiful cultural experience. However, living standards, infrastructure, utilities, and accommodation conditions may differ from what you are accustomed to at home. We encourage guests to travel with an open mind and flexible expectations.

Travel Insurance

For your peace of mind, we strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance. This should cover medical expenses, trip cancellation or interruption, baggage loss, and other unforeseen travel issues.

We recommend exploring options through trusted travel insurance providers to ensure you have adequate coverage before departure.

Cancellation Policy

Once your deposit has been received and your reservation confirmed, the Claris Tours & Travel cancellation policy applies.

If you need to cancel your booking, the following terms will apply:

  • 30 days or more prior to departure:
    20% of the reservation cost will be retained. The remaining balance will be refunded.

  • 14–29 days prior to departure:
    50% of the total package price will be retained.

  • Less than 14 days prior to departure:
    100% of the total package price will be retained, and any outstanding payments will become immediately due.

If you are able to find a replacement traveler at least 14 days before departure and they complete the booking process independently, no cancellation fee will apply. However, if a replacement is not secured by that time, a 100% cancellation charge will be enforced.

Claris Tours & Travel reserves the right to terminate a guest’s participation in a tour at its discretion if necessary.

Refund Processing Fees

Please note the following processing fees:

  • A 3% credit card processing fee will be deducted when refunds are issued to Visa, AMEX, or Mastercard.

  • For refunds processed via bank wire transfer, applicable bank charges will apply.

Disclaimer of Liability

We kindly ask you to carefully review all trip details before travel. If you have any questions or need clarification, please contact us directly:

info@claristourandtravel.com
+255 744 631 646

Thank you for choosing Claris Tours & Travel. We truly appreciate your trust in us and look forward to welcoming you on an unforgettable adventure! 

  • Full board (breakfast, lunch & dinner) accommodation.
  • All game drives are viewed 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 or other language as specified during the safari.
  • Bottled water in safari vehicles
  • Ngorongoro Crater car supplement fee if itinerary includes the crater.
  • Current Government taxes and levies
  • 24-Hour support during the safari from our office in Moshi.
  • Internal or International flights
  • Transfers to and from the airport
  • Balloon excursion (US$600 pp)
  • Entry visa to Tanzania.
  • Travel and health insurance
  • Gratuities to your guide, hotel staff, and porters
  • Meals, drinks, and excursions not described in the itinerary
  • Any other items of a personal nature, laundry, telephone and postage
  • Item of personal Nature
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