Overview
9-Day Northern Safari Adventure
The 9 - Day Northern Safari Adventure offers an exceptional blend of wildlife, culture, and landscapes across Tanzania’s most iconic destinations. Beginning with a scenic flight into the Serengeti, you’ll enjoy immersive game drives in Africa’s most famous national park, with seasonal opportunities to witness the Great Migration and close encounters with big cats. A descent into the Ngorongoro Crater follows, where the UNESCO-listed caldera delivers dense wildlife populations and excellent chances to see endangered black rhinos.
This journey also embraces cultural depth, with time at Lake Eyasi to meet the Hadzabe hunter-gatherers and Datoga blacksmiths, experiencing traditions untouched for centuries. The adventure continues with a refreshing hike to Materuni Waterfalls on Kilimanjaro’s lush slopes, paired with an authentic Chagga coffee tour. Finally, explore the arid beauty of Mkomazi National Park, home to unique dryland species and a special black rhino conservation project, before returning enriched with unforgettable memories of northern Tanzania.
9-Day Northern Safari Adventure Itinerary Options
Choose between immersive Serengeti game drives, Ngorongoro Crater’s dense wildlife, Lake Eyasi cultural encounters, Materuni waterfalls, or Mkomazi’s unique rhino project.
Day 1 - Moshi / Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) / Arusha → Serengeti National Park (Fly-In)

Your safari adventure begins with a morning flight from Arusha to the world-famous Serengeti National Park. On arrival, enjoy a scenic game drive across the vast plains, home to iconic wildlife including lions, elephants, giraffes, and large wildebeest herds. A picnic lunch will be served en route, followed by an afternoon game drive before heading to your selected camp or lodge for dinner and overnight.
Quick facts
- Approx driving distance: 1–2 hours (Arusha – Serengeti)
- Expected game drive: Morning - Afternoon
- Meals usually included: Picnic lunch, dinner
- Optional activities: Sundowner at the lodge/camp (on request)
- Commonly seen animals: Elephant, lion, buffalo, giraffe, wildebeest, zebra, leopard, cheetah, and over 500 bird species
Night 1 - Overnight accommodation options
Overnight: Serengeti Arukore Lodge

Style: Mid range
Location: Central Serengeti National Park (Arukore area, ~25 km from Seronera), Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Karibu Sametu Camp

Style: Mid range
Location: Eastern edge of Central Serengeti, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge

Style: Mid range
Location: Central Serengeti, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Mbali Mbali Soroi Camp

Style: Mid range
Location: Banagi / Western-Central Serengeti, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Embalakai Serengeti Camp

Style: Mid-range tented camp
Location: Banagi area, Central Serengeti, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Kenzan Central Camp

Style: Budget tented camp
Location: Tunner 5, Central Serengeti, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Narudi Tented Camp

Style: Budget‑range
Location: Central Serengeti, Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip‑Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Thorn Tree Camp

Style: Mid‑range lodge
Location: Karatu, Arusha Region, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip‑Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: The Whisper Camp

Style: Boutique tented bush camp
Location: Seronera, Central Serengeti, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Melia Serengeti Lodge

Style: Luxury lodge
Location: Central Serengeti, Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip-Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Nimali Serengeti

Style: Luxury lodge
Location: Central Serengeti (near Makoma Hill), Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip-Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Lemala Serengeti Nanyukie

Style: Luxury lodge
Location: Eastern Central Serengeti (east of Seronera), Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip-Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Four Seasons Serengeti Safari Lodge

Style: Luxury lodge
Location: Central Serengeti, Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip-Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Elewana Serengeti Pioneer camp

Style: Luxury lodge
Location: South-Central Serengeti (near Moru Kopjes), Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip-Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Seronera Campsite

Style: Campsite
Location: Serengeti National Park
No website available
No reviews available
Day 2 – Serengeti National Park (Full-Day Game Drives)

Wake to birdsong and set out for sunrise wildlife viewing across the Central Serengeti/Seronera plains. Spend the day tracking predators along river lines and kopjes, with picnic lunch in a scenic spot. Afternoon continues with game drives for big cats, elephants, large buffalo herds, and seasonally Great Migration columns. Return to your camp/lodge for sunset, dinner, and overnight.
Quick facts
- Approx driving distance: Flexible inside park
- Expected game drive: Full day (sunrise + afternoon)
- Meals usually included: Breakfast, picnic lunch / hot lunch, dinner
- Optional activities: Sunrise hot-air balloon (pre-book), sundowner at camp/lodge (on request)
- Commonly seen animals: Lion, leopard, cheetah, elephant, buffalo, giraffe, hippo, hyena, wildebeest, zebra, plus rich birdlife
Night 2 - Overnight accommodation options
Overnight: Serengeti Arukore Lodge

Style: Mid range
Location: Central Serengeti National Park (Arukore area, ~25 km from Seronera), Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Karibu Sametu Camp

Style: Mid range
Location: Eastern edge of Central Serengeti, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge

Style: Mid range
Location: Central Serengeti, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Mbali Mbali Soroi Camp

Style: Mid range
Location: Banagi / Western-Central Serengeti, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Embalakai Serengeti Camp

Style: Mid-range tented camp
Location: Banagi area, Central Serengeti, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Kenzan Central Camp

Style: Budget tented camp
Location: Tunner 5, Central Serengeti, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Narudi Tented Camp

Style: Budget‑range
Location: Central Serengeti, Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip‑Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Thorn Tree Camp

Style: Mid‑range lodge
Location: Karatu, Arusha Region, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip‑Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: The Whisper Camp

Style: Boutique tented bush camp
Location: Seronera, Central Serengeti, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Melia Serengeti Lodge

Style: Luxury lodge
Location: Central Serengeti, Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip-Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Nimali Serengeti

Style: Luxury lodge
Location: Central Serengeti (near Makoma Hill), Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip-Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Lemala Serengeti Nanyukie

Style: Luxury lodge
Location: Eastern Central Serengeti (east of Seronera), Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip-Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Four Seasons Serengeti Safari Lodge

Style: Luxury lodge
Location: Central Serengeti, Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip-Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Elewana Serengeti Pioneer camp

Style: Luxury lodge
Location: South-Central Serengeti (near Moru Kopjes), Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip-Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Seronera Campsite

Style: Campsite
Location: Serengeti National Park
No website available
No reviews available
Day 3 – Serengeti National Park

Another thrilling day in Serengeti. Begin with a sunrise game drive through the Seronera Valley prime big-cat territory then range toward Moru/Kitaa kopjes and the hippo pools. Track lions, leopards, and cheetahs hunting among acacia woodlands and open plains. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the bush before an unhurried afternoon drive. Return to camp/lodge for dinner and overnight.
Quick facts
- Approx driving distance: Flexible within park
- Expected game drive: Full day (sunrise + afternoon)
- Meals usually included: Breakfast, Picnic lunch / hot lunch, dinner
- Optional activities: Hot-air balloon (pre-book), sundowner at camp/lodge (on request)
- Commonly seen animals: Lion, leopard, cheetah, elephant, buffalo, giraffe, hippo, hyena, wildebeest, zebra, extensive birdlife
Night 3 - Overnight accommodation options
Overnight: Serengeti Arukore Lodge

Style: Mid range
Location: Central Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Karibu Sametu Camp

Style: Mid range
Location: Eastern edge of Central Serengeti, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge

Style: Mid range
Location: Central Serengeti, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Mbali Mbali Soroi Camp

Style: Mid range
Location: Banagi / Western-Central Serengeti, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Embalakai Serengeti Camp

Style: Mid-range tented camp
Location: Banagi area, Central Serengeti, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Kenzan Central Camp

Style: Budget tented camp
Location: Tunner 5, Central Serengeti, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Narudi Tented Camp

Style: Budget‑range
Location: Central Serengeti, Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip‑Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Thorn Tree Camp

Style: Mid‑range lodge
Location: Karatu, Arusha Region, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip‑Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: The Whisper Camp

Style: Boutique tented bush camp
Location: Seronera, Central Serengeti, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Melia Serengeti Lodge

Style: Luxury lodge
Location: Central Serengeti, Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip-Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Nimali Serengeti

Style: Luxury lodge
Location: Central Serengeti (near Makoma Hill), Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip-Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Lemala Serengeti Nanyukie

Style: Luxury lodge
Location: Eastern Central Serengeti (east of Seronera), Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip-Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Four Seasons Serengeti Safari Lodge

Style: Luxury lodge
Location: Central Serengeti, Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip-Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Elewana Serengeti Pioneer camp

Style: Luxury lodge
Location: South-Central Serengeti (near Moru Kopjes), Tanzania
Website: Visit website
Trip-Advisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Seronera Campsite

Style: Campsite
Location: Serengeti National Park
No website available
No reviews available
Day 4 – Serengeti → Ngorongoro Conservation Area (Rim Overnight)

After Serengeti game drive, depart south/east toward the Ngorongoro highlands, wildlife viewing en route across the plains. Pause at Naabi Hill Gate for sweeping views, then continue into the Conservation Area. Optional stop at Olduvai Gorge Museum or a traditional Maasai boma. Arrive at the crater rim by late afternoon cool, misty, and dramatic check in for dinner and overnight.
Quick facts
- Approx driving distance: 3–4 hrs
- Expected game drive: Morning in Serengeti + en-route sightings
- Meals usually included: Breakfast, Picnic lunch, dinner
- Optional activities: Olduvai Gorge Museum visit, Maasai cultural visit (on request)
- Commonly seen animals: Lion, leopard, cheetah, elephant, buffalo, giraffe, hippo, hyena, wildebeest, zebra, extensive birdlife
Night 4 - Overnight accommodation options
Overnight: Karibu Lions Paw

Style: Mid range lodge
Location: On the Eastern Crater Rim, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Ngorongoro Serena Lodge

Style: Mid range safari lodge
Location: On the rim of Ngorongoro Crater, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Farm of Dreams

Style: Budget range
Location: Karatu, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Marera Valley Lodge

Style: Budget range lodge
Location: Karatu, Tanzania (on the outskirts of Karatu town, between Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro)
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Country Lodge

Style: Budget range lodge
Location: Karatu, Tanzania (on the outskirts of Karatu, between Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro)
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Kankari Lodge

Style: Budget range lodge
Location: Karatu, Tanzania (on the outskirts of Karatu town, between Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro)
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Eileens Tree Inn

Style: Budget range lodge
Location: Karatu, Tanzania (just at the edge of Karatu town, in the Crater Highlands)
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Bougainvillea Lodge

Style: Budget range lodge
Location: Karatu, Tanzania (on the outskirts of Karatu town, between Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro)
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Gibbs Farm

Style: Luxury lodge
Location: Karatu, Tanzania (historic coffee & flower farm on the Ngorongoro Crater highlands)
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Ngorongoro Oldeani Mountain Lodge

Style: Luxury lodge
Location: Oldeani, Karatu, Ngorongoro Highlands, Tanzania (just north of the Ngorongoro Crater Gate)
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: The Plantation Lodge

Style: Luxury lodge
Location: Karatu, Ngorongoro Highlands, Tanzania (close to the Ngorongoro Crater Gate)
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: The Manor at Ngorongoro

Style: Luxury lodge
Location: Shangri-La Coffee Estate, Karatu, Ngorongoro Highlands, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Ngorongoro Simba Campsite

Style: Campsite
Location: Ngorongoro National Park
No website available
No reviews available
Day 5 – Ngorongoro Crater (Game Drive) → Lake Eyasi / Karatu

Descend early into the UNESCO-listed Ngorongoro Crater for one of Africa’s densest wildlife encounters black rhino, large tusker elephants, prides of lion, hyena, hippo pools, and vast plains of wildebeest and zebra. Enjoy a picnic at the hippo site, then exit the crater mid-afternoon. Continue to your overnight area: Karatu (Comfort) or the Lake Eyasi region (Basic/Budget). Dinner and overnight.
Quick facts
- Approx driving distance: Rim → 2–3 hrs.
- Expected game drive: Morning
- Meals usually included: Breakfast, Picnic lunch, dinner
- Optional activities: Maasai village visit near the rim (time-permitting); lodge/camp sundowner.
- Commonly seen animals: Elephant, lion, buffalo, hyena, hippo, wildebeest, zebra, Thomson’s gazelle, eland, ostrich, kori bustard, crowned crane
Night 5 - Overnight accommodation options
Overnight: Ziwani Lodge

Style: Mid range
Location: Lake Eyasi (Karatu), Arusha Region, Tanzania (on an escarpment overlooking Lake Eyasi)
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Lake Eyasi Safari Lodge

Style: Budget lodge
Location: Lake Eyasi, Karatu, Tanzania (on the Rift Valley floor / edge of Ngorongoro Conservation Area)
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Lake Eyasi Campsite

Style: Campsite
Location: Ngorongoro Conservation Area
No website available
No reviews available
Day 6 – Lake Eyasi Cultural Day → Moshi/Arusha (Kilimanjaro Foothills)

Pre-dawn start with the Hadzabe for a traditional walk/hunt, then visit the Datoga blacksmith and the lakeshore. After lunch, drive east via Karatu/Mto wa Mbu and Arusha toward Moshi/Kilimanjaro for dinner and overnight positioning you for tomorrow’s Materuni waterfalls and coffee experience.
Quick facts
- Approx driving distance: 5–6 hrs
- Activities Hadzabe experience, Datoga visit, lakeshore views.
- Meals usually included: Breakfast, Picnic lunch, dinner
- Optional activities: Craft stop in Karatu; arrival-day sundowner.
Night 6 - Overnight accommodation options
Overnight: Kilimanjaro Machare Coffee Lodge

Style: Mid range
Location: Moshi foothills, Kilimanjaro Region, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Tulivu Kilimanjaro Retreat

Style: Mid range
Location: Msaranga, Kilimanjaro Region, Tanzania (foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro)
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Bristol Cottage

Style: Budget range
Location: Moshi, Kilimanjaro Region, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Chanya Lodge

Style: Budget range
Location: Moshi, Kilimanjaro Region, Tanzania (Plot 298, Kiboriloni, off Arusha-Himo Road, A23)
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Maridadi Hotel

Style: Budget range
Location: Moshi (Karanga), Kilimanjaro Region, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Lindrin Lodge

Style: Budget range
Location: Moshi, Kilimanjaro Region, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Kilimanjaro Wonders Hotel

Style: High range
Location: Moshi, Kilimanjaro Region, Tanzania
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Basic camping is not recommended and a budget accommodation is usually a better choice
Day 7 – Materuni Waterfalls & Chagga Coffee → Mkomazi National Park

After breakfast, drive to Materuni village on Kilimanjaro’s lush slopes. Hike to the 80-m waterfall, swim in the clear pool, and join an authentic Chagga coffee experience picking, roasting, grinding, and brewing your own cup. After lunch, travel southeast through Mwanga and Same to Mkomazi National Park. Check in, enjoy golden-hour views of the Pare and Usambara ranges, dinner, and overnight.
Quick facts
- Approx driving distance: 3–4.5 hrs
- Expected game drive: Afternoon
- Meals usually included: Picnic lunch, dinner
- Optional activities: Swim at the falls; local handicrafts; lodge/camp sundowner.
Night 7 - Overnight accommodation options
Overnight: Mkomazi Wilderness Retreat

Style: Mid range Tented Camp
Location: Mkomazi National Park, Tanzania (on Dindira Hill, overlooking the park’s main watering hole)
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Mkomazi View Camp

Style: Budget tented safari camp
Location: Mkomazi National Park, Tanzania (north-western side, near Mbula Rhino Sanctuary & Dindira Dam)
Website: Visit website
Google Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Mkomazi Campsite

Style: Campsite
Location: Mkomazi National Park
No website available
No reviews available
Day 8 – Mkomazi National Park (Game Drives + Special Rhino Viewing)

Explore Mkomazi’s semi-arid savannah for giraffe towers, elephant, buffalo, lesser kudu, gerenuk, oryx, and rich birdlife. In the afternoon, enter the Rhino Sanctuary for a pre-booked ~1-hour black rhino viewing with rangers (strict timings). Sunset game drive back to camp/lodge for dinner and overnight.
Quick facts
- Approx driving distance: Flexible inside park
- Expected game drive: Full day (sunrise + afternoon)
- Optional activities: Sundowner at camp/lodge; wild-dog info stop (time-permitting).
- Meals usually included: Breakfast, Picnic lunch / hot lunch, dinner
- Commonly seen: Rhino, elephant, buffalo, Giraffe, wildebeest, African wild dog
Night 8 - Overnight accommodation options
Overnight: Mkomazi Wilderness Retreat

Style: Mid range Tented Camp
Location: Mkomazi National Park, Tanzania (on Dindira Hill, overlooking the park’s main watering hole)
Website: Visit website
TripAdvisor Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Mkomazi View Camp

Style: Budget tented safari camp
Location: Mkomazi National Park, Tanzania (north-western side, near Mbula Rhino Sanctuary & Dindira Dam)
Website: Visit website
Google Reviews: Read reviews
Overnight: Mkomazi Campsite

Style: Campsite
Location: Mkomazi National Park
No website available
No reviews available
Day 9 – Mkomazi National Park → Moshi / Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) / Arusha

Enjoy a relaxed sunrise game drive in Mkomazi, scanning for giraffe, lesser kudu, oryx, and raptors with the Pare–Usambara ranges as a backdrop. After an early lunch (picnic or at camp), exit the park and drive to Moshi/Arusha or Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) for your onward flight. Option to extend with an extra night or beach add-on (Pangani/Tanga/Zanzibar).
Quick facts
- Approx driving distance: Same Gate → Moshi 3–4 hrs / Arusha 4.5–5.5 hrs / JRO 3.5–4 hrs.
- Expected game drive: Short morning drive before departure (as time allows).
- Optional activities: Short walking safari, Extra Activities in Moshi/Arusha, Zanzibar/Pangani/Tanga beach extensions.
- Meals usually included: Breakfast, Picnic lunch
- Commonly seen: Rhino, elephant, buffalo, Giraffe, wildebeest, African wild dog
Overnight Accommodation options
- None included but you can add post tour accommodation to any of our safaris on request in Arusha, Moshi or around Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
Prices, Inclusions & Custom Options
Enjoy transparent 9-Day Northern Safari prices with park fees, 4×4 transport, and full-board stays included. Tailor your journey with cultural add-ons, premium lodge upgrades, or unique wildlife experiences for a fully personalized adventure.
Private group (private departure)
please request a quoteScheduled group (shared departure)
please request a quote* All prices are in USD ($) and serve as indications only for a standard package excluding pre/post accommodation, add-ons and comfort upgrades.
Scheduled departures for Complete North safari are currently not available however for small groups we can consider offering your dates for others to join.
Standard packages usually include
- Extensive Big Five game drives across Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Mkomazi, maximizing your chances of unforgettable wildlife encounters.
- A diverse 9-day journey combining Serengeti plains, Ngorongoro’s UNESCO caldera, Lake Eyasi culture, Materuni waterfalls, and Mkomazi conservation.
- Distinctive accommodations in well-selected lodges or tented camps, ensuring comfort, authentic settings, and proximity to key safari highlights.
- All government taxes, VAT, and local levies
- Full safari itinerary coverage, including crater descent fees
- Private 4x4 Land Cruiser with pop-up roof, radio calls, English-speaking driver-guide, charging ports, and luggage space (soft bags, max 20kg per person).
- 1.5 litres bottled water per person per day
- Comfortable, handpicked full-board lodges depending on category selected)
- For basic camping at special campsites: Portable camping shower and toilet (with porter to service)
Optional extras, add-ons and comfort upgrades
Looking for more comfort or a tailored experience? Explore our optional upgrades, add-ons, and customization ideas below.
Standard packages usually exclude
- Tips and gratuities for guides, cooks, hotel staff and other crew
- Beverages such as soft drinks, bottled juices, and alcoholic drinks (unless your accommodation is booked with an all inclusive drinks package)
- International flights. Learn more about international airports.
- Insurance. Learn more about insurance.
- Visas. Learn more about visas.
- Personal items not specifically listed in the inclusions
Trip Add-Ons & Comfort Upgrades
Enhance your 9-Day Northern Safari Adventure with optional add-ons like hot air balloon rides, Maasai village visits, walking safaris, treetop walkways, or luxury lodge upgrades for extra comfort.

Serengeti Hot Air Balloon Safari

Serengeti Walking Safari

Ngorongoro Crater Highlands Trek

Lake Eyasi Cultural Experience

Mkomazi Rhino Viewing

Mkomazi Walking Safari

Mto wa Mbu Village & Activities

Chemka (Kikuletwa) Hot Springs

Olduvai Gorge & Shifting Sands
Essential Information for Your 9-Day Northern Safari Adventure
The essential information for your 9-Day Northern Safari Adventure covers key travel tips, packing advice, park rules, and practical details. It ensures a seamless journey through Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Lake Eyasi, Materuni, and Mkomazi, maximizing wildlife, cultural, and scenic experiences.

Travel Info for Tanzania

Which Airport to Choose?

Vaccinations & Health Tips
Photos & Videos at 9-Day Northern Safari Adventure
Discover stunning Photos & Videos of the 9-Day Northern Safari Adventure, showcasing Serengeti wildlife, Ngorongoro Crater views, Lake Eyasi culture, Materuni waterfalls, and Mkomazi’s unique landscapes.
Why Book Your 9-Day Northern Safari Adventure with Shah Tours?
Book your 9-Day Northern Safari Adventure with Shah Tours for expert guides, seamless logistics, and a perfect blend of wildlife, culture, and landscapes.

Decades of Cultural Safari Expertise

Local Guides Who Understand the Land

Safe, Comfortable & Respectful Travel
Frequently Asked Questions About 9-Day Northern Safari Adventure
Get quick answers to common questions about the 9-Day Northern Safari Adventure, covering highlights, wildlife, best seasons, accommodations, park fees, cultural visits, and travel tips.
Destinations Covered
The 9-Day Northern Safari Adventure explores Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Eyasi, Materuni Waterfalls, and Mkomazi National Park. This itinerary balances world-class wildlife encounters with cultural immersion, offering the Big Five, Hadzabe and Datoga traditions, and a refreshing Kilimanjaro coffee experience. Travelers enjoy both iconic safari highlights and hidden gems, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a complete northern Tanzania safari circuit.
Best Time to Visit

This safari runs year-round, but the best times depend on your focus. From June to October, dry-season conditions make wildlife easier to spot, while December to March offers lush green scenery and the Serengeti’s calving season. Migration river crossings typically occur from July to October in northern Serengeti. No matter the season, the itinerary ensures exceptional wildlife and cultural experiences across Tanzania’s most iconic landscapes.
Big Five Viewing Chances
The itinerary is designed to maximize your chances of spotting all Big Five species: lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino. Serengeti offers excellent predator viewing, while Ngorongoro Crater is one of the best places to spot endangered black rhino. With multiple game drives across prime wildlife habitats, your chances of completing the Big Five checklist are extremely high, making this safari perfect for wildlife enthusiasts.
Cultural Experiences
Yes, this adventure goes beyond wildlife by including authentic cultural visits. At Lake Eyasi, you’ll meet the Hadzabe hunter-gatherers, experiencing traditional hunting methods, and the Datoga blacksmiths, known for metalwork. In Materuni, enjoy a Chagga coffee tour alongside a scenic waterfall hike. Optional add-ons in Arusha and Moshi allow deeper cultural exploration, from village walks and markets to local food tastings. Culture and wildlife blend seamlessly.
Driving & Travel Times
This safari begins with a fly-in to the Serengeti, reducing long road transfers and maximizing time on game drives. Daily wildlife drives average 4–6 hours, depending on sightings and routes. Overnight stays are strategically chosen to minimize travel fatigue, ensuring comfort and efficiency. Transfers between destinations like Ngorongoro, Lake Eyasi, and Mkomazi are designed to balance scenic landscapes with smooth travel logistics, offering a relaxed pace.
Accommodation Options
Travelers can choose from three levels of accommodation tailored to budget and style. Options include basic camping for adventurous travelers, comfortable mid-range lodges and tented camps for balance, or luxury safari lodges for premium comfort. Each property is selected for location, safety, and quality service. Whether you prefer rustic charm or upmarket indulgence, accommodations are designed to complement the safari experience while ensuring rest and relaxation.
Meals & Dining
Meals are generally included in the safari package, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided daily. Picnic lunches are offered during full-day game drives to maximize wildlife viewing. Unique culinary experiences may also be included, such as traditional meals with the Chagga during the Materuni coffee tour or Hadzabe meals at Lake Eyasi. Special dietary requests can usually be accommodated with advance notice, ensuring a comfortable dining experience.
Health & Safety Tips
Travelers should prepare with recommended vaccinations, including yellow fever if arriving from an endemic country, and take malaria prophylaxis. Staying hydrated, using insect repellent, and wearing sun protection are essential throughout the journey. Guides provide regular safety briefings for both wildlife and cultural visits. With proper preparation, this safari is safe and enjoyable, ensuring peace of mind while exploring Tanzania’s iconic destinations and natural wonders.
Customizing with Add-Ons
This safari can be customized with exciting add-ons. Options include Serengeti hot air balloon safaris, crater rim treks, cultural extensions at Lake Eyasi, Chemka Hot Springs relaxation, or Mkomazi black rhino viewing. Add-ons enrich the experience by blending wildlife adventure with culture and relaxation. Tailored itineraries can be arranged to suit your preferences, creating a personalized safari adventure that enhances the value of the 9-day journey.
Fitness & Activity Levels
The 9-Day Northern Safari Adventure is moderately active, with most exploration done by 4x4 vehicles. Optional activities, such as walking safaris in Mkomazi, crater rim treks, or the Materuni waterfall hike, require a basic level of fitness but are accessible to most travelers. This makes the safari suitable for families, groups, and solo adventurers alike, blending comfort with occasional activity for a well-rounded African safari experience.
Other Tours & Destinations Connected to 9-Day Northern Safari Adventure
Extend your 9-day safari with Kilimanjaro treks, Zanzibar beach escapes, Tarangire or Manyara add-ons, and cultural village experiences for a complete Tanzania journey.

Southern & Eastern Tanzania Safaris

Mount Kilimanjaro Treks

Ngorongoro Highlands Trekking

Cultural Tours in Tanzania

Kilimanjaro Culture & Coffee Walks

Usambara Mountains Hiking
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Excellent rating
Based on 347 reviews![]()
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My group of five colleagues and I climbed Kilimanjaro via the seven-day Machame Route with Shah Tours. Communication with Ramon before and after the climb was seamless and extremely professional. All questions were answered quickly and promptly. Even a glove I forgot in my rental luggage was later delivered to my hotel in Arusha by our guide. Our guides, Baraka, Hillary, and Felix, were excellent mountain guides who provided outstanding support throughout the tour and kept our spirits up even during the most challenging moments. The food during the climb was always freshly prepared. We usually had soup as a starter, followed by either a stew with rice or noodles, or, for example, potatoes with fried fish or meat. A delicious pizza was served the evening before the summit attempt. I would also like to commend the rest of the crew for their consistently positive attitude and courteous service. The rental equipment was of good quality. However, on a future tour, I would opt for better sleeping mats, as the standard ones became quite thin after a while. Overall, it was a great experience to do the climb with Shah Tours.
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Nils Bindauf14 September 2026Verified
Kilimandscharo It was the best experience we have ever had with Shah Tours. We always felt completely comfortable and well taken care of. The guides, porters, and cook were incredibly kind and friendly. They always greeted us with a smile and even sang for us. Even at 4,700 meters above sea level, they baked us a cake because it was our wedding anniversary. That was such a special and unforgettable gesture. I can honestly say that this was one of the most amazing experiences of our lives, and we would recommend Shah Tours to anyone without hesitation! Thank you all and best wishes to Mathayo, Felix and the Team! We miss you guys.
Laura S2 September 2026Verified
7-Day Kilimanjaro Machame circuit climb Our Kilimanjaro trek via the 7-day Machame Route was an unforgettable experience from start to finish. The admission fee for our group of 12 was included in the tour package. The route itself was breathtaking, with incredible scenery that changed every day—from lush rainforest and dramatic valleys to rocky alpine landscapes and the spectacular summit views above the clouds. What truly made the trip exceptional was the professionalism and kindness of the Shah Tour and guides with special mention of Matheyo. The Matheyo and team was organized, supportive, and attentive throughout the hike. Our guides set a steady, comfortable pace, constantly checked on everyone’s wellbeing, and shared valuable encouragement and knowledge about the mountain. Their experience and calm leadership gave us confidence, especially on the more challenging summit night. The porters and camp crew also deserve enormous appreciation. They worked incredibly hard to make sure we were comfortable, well fed, and prepared each day. The meals were delicious and surprisingly varied for a mountain trek, and the camps were always ready when we arrived. Reaching Uhuru Peak was one of the proudest moments of our lives, and we could not have done it without this amazing team. We highly recommend this company to anyone planning to climb Kilimanjaro on the Machame Route. Their care, expertise, and genuine commitment to their guests made this adventure truly special.
2jipatel25 August 2026Verified
Great Kili hike Great hike! Guides and support staff handled all the logistics and we made it up to the summit. A challenging hike, but our experience was great
Cooper N22 August 2026Verified
Pole pole to the roof of africa with Shah, was great. When deciding which company to book for our Kilimanjaro and Safari trip in Tanzanie we have been in contact with several companies. We wanted to do the private tour as a couple. We had 9 full days to organize. Firstly we thought we will do 7 days and 2 days safari (Tarangire and Ngorngoro). Nevertheless, as our priority was Kilimanjaro we selected 8 days Lemosho route to increase our chances to reach the top. This left only 1 day for safari first. I was trying to discuss with companies the options to go faster If we feel well and then possibly have time to do both national Parks of Tarangire and Ngorongoro. Shah Tours tourned out to be the only very flexible operator to offer this option of shortening the trip If everything goes well. So, on the day 6, when arriving to Kosovo camp from Karaga camp, we asked If we could proceed with our summit on the same day, they did not hesitate to support us. During the whole trip the guides (Innocent and Leon) and the porters shared very positive energy and support. A Lot of dancing, laughter and happy faces even in hard moments. Finally, thanks to all that, we manager to finish our hike in 7 days instead of 8 and had enough time to include another day of safari in our itinerary. No planning, no phone calls, no waiting. Shah was monitoring our progress and once the office received the message we are descending on day 7, everything was organized (additional accomodation and guide for safari, food and transport). We had amazing time in tanzanie, Thank you Shah Tours for your work and efforts in making our trip unforgetable.
Anna M17 August 2026Verified
Enjoyed We started our tour with 4 guides, the walk through the different terrains was an amazing experience, i was happy that Shah Tours catered for vegan food through and the chef cooked delicious food apt for mountain climbing. This route was hard for me as a beginner but i made it. All the personal porters were amazing.
Krunali G16 August 2026Verified
An unforgettable experience we wouldn't want to miss Great, motivating guides, superbly organized tour, very customer-focused, friendly, courteous, and very attentive porters… absolutely no complaints! Highly recommended!
Esther D12 August 2026Verified
Unique, years-long contact with Shah Tours. There's nothing better for travel off the beaten track.
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Andreas kurt B6 August 2026Verified
Kilimanjaro I climbed Mount Kilimanjaro with Joker as the main tour operator and Shah Tours as the local partner. It was truly an unforgettable experience, thanks to the amazing team that supported us throughout the entire trek. Our head guide, Calvin, and our second guide, August, were both incredibly experienced, professional, and motivating. Their knowledge and guidance made me feel safe and confident every step of the way. They did everything they could to help us reach the summit safely and successfully. The entire crew, including the porters and cooks, was outstanding. After seven days together on the mountain, they felt like a second family. Their kindness, encouragement, and dedication made this challenging adventure even more special and memorable. I highly recommend Joker and Shah Tours to anyone planning to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Thank you for an incredible experience—I will never forget it!
Justine A25 July 2026Verified
Just do it whit shah tours! We had a great experience!! From emails at home to pickup, hotel,... Shoutout to our guide Mathayo, he's the best. Amazing work by the porters!! So much respect.
Lennert F24 July 2026


