Whatever your arrival time at Kilimanjaro International Airport, your Pumba Safari guide will be waiting for you with a warm welcoming smile. Kick back and relax in your comfortable vehicle as he takes you to your hotel in Arusha, Tanzania’s self-styled ‘safari capital.’ On your one-hour journey to the hotel, you will get a brief impression of this large, bustling, commercial city. Depending on your arrival time, you may have your pre-safari briefing today; if not, it will take place early tomorrow morning.
Our two-hour drive (130 km) from Arusha to Lake Manyara offers a glimpse into the vibrant life of Tanzania. You might see Maasai herdsmen tending their goats, adding local color and culture to our journey. During the drive, you'll have the chance to chat with your driver-guide, whose extensive knowledge and insights will enrich your experience. Lake Manyara, located in Tanzania, is a scenic alkaline lake within Lake Manyara National Park. Renowned for its diverse wildlife, including large flocks of flamingos and tree-climbing lions, it offers picturesque views with the backdrop of the Great Rift Valley escarpment, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts.
As we bid farewell to the enchanting sights of Karatu, our next adventure takes us central Serengeti. This 4-hour drive, covering approximately 231.9 km. Serengeti—Tanzania's unparalleled natural wonder. Here, the next few days will be filled with spectacular wildlife sightings. Each game drive blends familiar scenes with thrilling unpredictability: you never know what you’ll see or when. The changing light and rotating cast of animal characters ensure that every moment brings something new. Make sure to capture some unforgettable photos, but also take time to breathe in and appreciate the unfiltered beauty of nature as it unfolds around you.
Safari in Serengeti National Park Today offers a full day immersed in the diverse landscapes of the Central Serengeti. The Seronera River, a lifeline for the park’s wildlife, snakes through this area, providing essential water sources. You’ll also encounter the iconic kopjes—massive rock formations that are as old as 600 million years, predating even the rise of the earth’s continents from the oceans. These granite outcrops are favorite spots for lions and other big cats, and they also shelter snakes and hyraxes. The kopjes, shaped by centuries of wind and rain, reveal their ancient layers upon closer examination.
As the seasons change, so does the spectacle of wildlife. During the months of May, November, and December, migratory herds swell the park's year-round residents, creating an even richer tapestry of animal life. In the rainy season, the plains darken with the massive herds of wildebeest—an incredible sight that underscores the dynamic nature of this ecosystem.
Safari in Serengeti National Park The Seronera region, located in the heart of the Central Serengeti, is not only a hub for visitors with its informative center but also a favorite among the wildlife. Thanks to the Seronera River's reliable water supply, this area offers year-round wildlife viewing opportunities. Here, our game drives may uncover large prides of lions, basking hippos, or roaming herds of elephants, whose numbers have been flourishing recently. Depending on the day's animal movements and sightings, we might visit the Serengeti Visitor Centre. This facility provides a detailed overview of the park's ecosystem and the history of conservation efforts here, including the influential work of the Frankfurt Zoological Society and conservationist Bernhard Grzimek. The Visitor Centre itself is also a wildlife hotspot, home to hyrax and mongoose populations, along with numerous small bird species, adding another layer to our exploration.
After breakfast, you will continue into the 600 meters deep unbroken caldera, and you will have a moment to take in the fantastic, awe-inspiring views of the collapsed volcano. Then you will descend into the caldera for a game drive. Over 25,000 mammals such as spotted hyenas and the “Big Five” – elephant, rhino, buffalo, leopard and lion being part of them. You will enjoy lunch at a picnic spot inside the crater. After lunch, you will continue the game drive and in the afternoon drive to back for overnight.
Tarangire National Park, located in northern Tanzania, is renowned for its diverse landscapes, including savannahs, swamps, and the Tarangire River. The park hosts a rich variety of wildlife, such as elephants, lions, leopards, and over 550 bird species. Its ancient baobab trees and seasonal marshes provide crucial habitats for these animals, particularly during the dry season when the river attracts large herds of elephants and other wildlife seeking water.
After breakfast, depart for ARK or JRO for your further travel plans.