The vibrant city of Arusha, Tanzania, is more than just a gateway to the country’s world-famous Northern Safari Circuit. For travelers who choose to spend a little extra time here before or after their safari, Arusha offers a rich mix of cultural experiences, scenic views of Mount Meru, bustling local markets, and vibrant dining options. Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK), a friendly Sopai Safaris representative will warmly welcome you. After a brief introduction, you’ll be transferred to your handpicked Arusha hotel for a relaxing overnight stay. Whether you’re preparing for your safari or winding down after your adventure, Arusha is the perfect stop to immerse yourself in Tanzania’s charm.

Meal plan: Bed and breakfasts 
Accommodation: Ilboru Safari Lodge 

After breakfast, depart for a scenic drive to Tarangire National Park, one of Northern Tanzania’s hidden safari gems. Enjoy a full-day game drive with a delicious picnic lunch surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. In the evening, head to your safari camp for a relaxing dinner and overnight stay. Located slightly off the main Northern Circuit safari route, Tarangire National Park is renowned for its large elephant herds, ancient baobab trees, and exceptional birdwatching opportunities. Unlike other parks that attract heavy crowds, Tarangire offers a more authentic and peaceful safari experience. Many visitors only spend a few hours here, leaving much of the park untouched and ideal for wildlife photography and exploration.

Meal Plan: Full board 
Accommodation: Farm of Dream Lodge 

After breakfast at your Karatu accommodation, depart for the world-renowned Ngorongoro Crater, one of Tanzania’s most iconic and must-visit safari destinations. Located in Northern Tanzania, this stunning natural wonder was formed millions of years ago by a volcanic eruption and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Often referred to as one of Africa’s Seven Natural Wonders, the Ngorongoro Crater offers a completely unique ecosystem with lush grasslands, forests, and a soda lake that supports an incredible diversity of wildlife. It boasts one of the densest lion populations in the world, making it a prime location for Big Cat sightings. Here, you’ll have excellent opportunities to spot the Big Five – lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, and the rare black rhino – as well as zebra, wildebeest, cheetahs, gazelles, ostriches, and hippos. After a full day of game viewing in Ngorongoro Crater, continue your journey to the legendary Serengeti National Park, where your Tanzania safari adventure will continue with dinner and an overnight stay at a mid-range safari lodge or tented camp.

Meal Plan: Full board
Accommodation: Serengeti Heritage Luxury Camp / Serengeti Pure Tented Camp or Embalakai Tented Camp

Enjoy an early breakfast in the Serengeti National Park before heading out for a full-day game drive across the vast savannah. The Serengeti is home to one of the most extraordinary wildlife spectacles on Earth – the legendary Great Wildebeest Migration. Every year, over 1.5 million wildebeest, along with hundreds of thousands of zebra and gazelle, journey from the Ndutu region in the southern Serengeti to the northern plains and onward to Kenya’s Maasai Mara, following the rains and fresh grazing. This dramatic journey includes perilous river crossings, thrilling predator action, and breathtaking landscapes that make the Serengeti a year-round safari destination. Depending on the time of year, travelers can witness incredible highlights such as:

• Calving season (January–March) in Southern Serengeti

• Grumeti and Mara River crossings (June–August) in Western & Northern Serengeti

• Return migration (October–November) from Maasai Mara

With abundant wildlife, stunning scenery, and unmatched safari experiences, the Serengeti remains a must-visit destination for Tanzania safaris.

Meal Plan: Full board 
Accommodation: Farm of Dream Lodge 

After breakfast at your lodge, depart with your picnic lunch for an unforgettable full-day game drive in Lake Manyara National Park, one of Tanzania’s most beautiful safari destinations. Famous for its tree-climbing lions and breathtaking scenery, the park is home to lush groundwater forests, open savannah, and a stunning alkaline lake that attracts thousands of pink flamingos and a wide variety of bird species. During your Lake Manyara safari, enjoy opportunities to photograph elephants, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, hippos, and troops of playful baboons. The park is a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers, offering a unique mix of landscapes and wildlife. After extensive game viewing and photography, drive back to Arusha for your onward flight or travel to your next safari destination as per your schedule.

Meal Plan: Full board 
Accommodation: No accommodation (End of tour)