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.
Overnight at Rivers tree Inn
Breakfast included.
Begin your safari adventure with a stay at the Original Maasai Lodge, a serene retreat where you can reconnect with nature and immerse yourself in Maasai culture. Nestled at the base of Kilimanjaro amid the Maasai steppe, our charming bungalows boast handcrafted furniture and breathtaking views of Africa's tallest peak. Surrounded by the savanna, you'll have the opportunity to engage with the Maasai people, learn about their traditions and rituals, and embrace a slower pace of life. Experience authentic Maasai hospitality by staying in a traditional Maasai Boma, participating in cultural activities, and gaining insights into Maasai customs.
Spanning 400 acres of protected wildlife territory, the Original Maasai Lodge was generously donated by the villagers of Ngabobo to support the charitable efforts of Africa Amini Alama. Our lodge serves as a vital source of empowerment for the local community, funding social, educational, conservation, and medical projects. Rooted in Maasai heritage, our lodge offers a distinctive and enriching experience for visitors from around the globe. Embraced by the Maasai as an integral part of their village, we extend a warm welcome to travelers seeking an authentic Maasai encounter.
Overnight at Amini Maasai Lodge
Breakfast, lunch, dinner inclusive.
Lake Natron, nestled amidst the rugged terrain of the Great Rift Valley, exudes an eerie yet captivating allure. Its shimmering waters, tinged with hues of red and orange from the mineral deposits, create an otherworldly landscape. This remote salt lake, the lowest point in the Rift Valley, stands as a testament to the raw power of nature. Despite its harsh conditions, Lake Natron teems with life, hosting vast flocks of flamingos that thrive in its alkaline waters.
Exploring Lake Natron offers a journey into the heart of wilderness. Visitors can embark on a hike to the base of Ol Doinyo Lengai, the revered "Mountain of God," which looms majestically over the lake. The ascent of this active volcano presents a formidable challenge, rewarded by panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the opportunity to witness the sunrise from its summit.
Alternatively, one can venture to the mesmerizing waters of the Ngare Sero River, tracing its course through narrow gorges and verdant oases. Along the way, hidden waterfalls and natural swimming pools beckon, offering respite from the arid surroundings.
At dusk, the shores of Lake Natron come alive with a kaleidoscope of colors as thousands of flamingos gather to feed and socialize. This spectacle, set against the backdrop of the setting sun, is a reminder of the delicate balance of life in this harsh yet vibrant ecosystem.
Overnight at Lake Natron Camp
Breakfast, lunch, dinner inclusive.
The northern Serengeti is a vast expanse of wilderness teeming with wildlife and natural wonders. Here, the iconic Great Migration unfolds, with millions of wildebeest, zebras, and other animals crossing the Mara River in search of greener pastures. This area offers some of the best game viewing opportunities, especially during the dry season when the herds gather in large numbers. Visitors can witness thrilling predator-prey interactions, including lion hunts and crocodile attacks. The landscape is characterized by sweeping savannahs, rocky outcrops known as kopjes, and winding rivers, creating a breathtaking backdrop for unforgettable safari adventures. Whether it's witnessing the dramatic river crossings or simply soaking in the serenity of the African wilderness, the northern Serengeti promises an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Overnight at Nyikani Migration Camp
Breakfast, lunch, dinner inclusive.
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.
Overnight at Angata Serengeti Camp
Breakfast, lunch, dinner inclusive.
Olduvai Gorge, nestled in the Great Rift Valley of Tanzania, is a renowned archaeological site that offers a fascinating glimpse into our ancient past. Often referred to as the "Cradle of Mankind," Olduvai Gorge has yielded some of the most important discoveries in human evolution. It is here that the remains of early hominins, including Australopithecus and Homo habilis, were unearthed, providing crucial insights into our ancestors' lives and behaviors.
Visitors to Olduvai Gorge can explore the various excavation sites, where scientists continue to uncover fossils, tools, and artifacts dating back millions of years. Interpretive displays and exhibits provide context to the discoveries, allowing visitors to understand the significance of the findings and the evolutionary journey of humanity.
The landscape surrounding Olduvai Gorge is as captivating as its archaeological treasures, with sweeping plains and dramatic cliffs forming a stunning backdrop. Guided tours offer visitors the opportunity to learn about the geological processes that shaped the gorge and the diverse ecosystems that thrive in this ancient landscape.
A visit to Olduvai Gorge is not only an educational experience but also a journey through time, allowing visitors to connect with our shared human heritage and gain a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry of life on Earth.
Overnight at Ngorongoro Farm House.
Breakfast, lunch, dinner inclusive.
After an early breakfast, you'll be among the first to descend 600 meters into the Ngorongoro Crater for exceptional game viewing with picnic lunches. The crater is a natural sanctuary, housing 20,000-30,000 animals at a time, resembling Noah's ark with almost every East African wildlife species. Known as one of the world's natural wonders, it boasts Africa's highest predator densities, including lions, hyenas, and leopards, and is a prime spot to see endangered black rhinos. In the afternoon, we'll gradually ascend from the crater and journey toward Lake Eyasi for dinner and an overnight stay.
Overnight at Ziwani Lodge
Breakfast, lunch, dinner inclusive.
The Hadza and Datoga tribes are two distinct indigenous groups that inhabit the East African region, each with their own unique cultural practices and way of life.
The Hadza people are one of the last remaining hunter-gatherer societies in the world, residing primarily in the bushland of northern Tanzania near Lake Eyasi. With a lifestyle deeply rooted in the traditional practices of hunting, gathering, and foraging, the Hadza lead a nomadic existence, moving with the seasons in search of food and resources. Their intimate connection to the natural environment and their deep knowledge of the land make them exceptional hunters and gatherers.
In contrast, the Datoga tribe, also known as the Tatoga or Barabaig, are pastoralists who primarily reside in the central and northern regions of Tanzania, particularly in the vicinity of Lake Eyasi and the Rift Valley. The Datoga are skilled herders of cattle, goats, and sheep, and their way of life revolves around livestock farming. They are known for their distinctive cultural practices, including traditional ceremonies, metalworking skills, and intricate beadwork.
Despite their differences in lifestyle and cultural practices, both the Hadza and Datoga tribes play important roles in preserving Tanzania's rich cultural heritage. Visitors to the region have the opportunity to engage with these communities, learn about their customs and traditions, and gain a deeper appreciation for the diversity of cultures that call East Africa home.
Overnight at Ziwani Lodge
Breakfast, lunch, dinner inclusive.
After breakfast, depart for ARK or JRO for your further travel plans.