Ngorongoro Highlands & Serengeti: 11 Night Spectacular Walking Safari

Embark on a transformative 12-day odyssey across Tanzania's most pristine wilderness, blending the raw intimacy of walking safaris with the thrill of classic game viewing. This exclusive journey begins in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, where you will traverse ancient volcanic landscapes and Maasai villages on foot, guided by armed rangers and seasoned experts. The trek leads through the dramatic Olmoti and Empakaai craters, past the hauntingly beautiful Munge Falls, and into the remote highlands surrounding Oldoinyo Lengai, the sacred Mountain of God.

As the path winds toward Lake Natron, the landscape shifts to a surreal, otherworldly terrain where flamingos paint the alkaline waters in vibrant pinks. Here, you may choose to ascend the active sodium carbonite volcano under the cover of darkness or relax by the cool waters of Engare Sero Gorge. The final chapter of this expedition unfolds in the legendary Serengeti National Park. Settle into one of our seasonal wilderness camps, where luxury meets sustainability in the heart of the savannah. Enjoy private game drives through the endless plains, witnessing the great migration or the timeless dance of the Big Five, all while enjoying the comfort of en-suite tents and the camaraderie of your dedicated guide. This is not merely a safari; it is a deep communion with the soul of Africa.

• ◆Witness the Big Five and over 500 bird species in their natural habitat
• ◆Trek through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area via Maasai villages and extinct volcanoes
• ◆Engage with local Maasai culture and witness their traditional pastoral lifestyle
• ◆Descend into the dramatic Olmoti Crater and witness the Munge Falls
• ◆Explore the surreal shores of Lake Natron, a major flamingo breeding ground
• ◆Optional night climb of Oldoinyo Lengai, the only active sodium carbonite volcano in the world
• ◆Experience the vast, golden plains of the Serengeti with private game drives
• ◆Stay in exclusive, seasonal wilderness camps featuring en-suite tents and eco-friendly facilities.

Day 1: Depart Arusha at 07:00, drive over the Rift Valley to the Ngorongoro Crater rim for spectacular views. Descend 700 meters into the caldera for a game drive likely to reveal the Big Five. Enjoy a picnic lunch within the crater before settling into a lodge for dinner and overnight.

Day 2: Depart Ngorongoro and travel to the mobile camp at Nainokanoka Village near Olmoti. Optional afternoon walk into the Olmoti Crater to visit Munge Falls or rest for a longer trek the following day. Dinner and overnight at the campsite.

Day 3: Trek to Bulati campsite, walking approximately 7.5 hours through Maasai villages, the Embulbul depression, and rugged landscapes. An armed ranger and walking guide accompany the group. Overnight camping.

Day 4: Depart Bulati and walk to Empakaai Crater, a spectacular site often teeming with flamingoes. Descend into the crater for a few hours before returning to the Empakaai campsite. Total walking distance is approximately 10km over 7.5 hours. Overnight camping.

Day 5: Trek to Naiyobi Village and then to Acacia Camp for dinner and overnight. Walking distance is approximately 15km over 7.5 hours. The camp offers a remote setting with views of Oldoinyo Lengai. Overnight camping.

Day 6: Trek from Acacia Camp along the Lake Natron trail, viewing Oldoinyo Lengai. A vehicle meets you at the end of the trail to transport you to your camp at Lake Natron. Relax at a waterfall or visit the shoreline to see flamingo colonies. Overnight camping.

Day 7: Optional night climb of Oldoinyo Lengai (not included in base price). The 7-hour, 15km strenuous climb begins at night and completes by midday. Alternatively, spend the night at the tented camp. Overnight at camp or on the mountain.

Day 8: Explore the Lake Natron area by vehicle, visiting Engare Sero Gorge and the waterfall. Overnight camping.

Day 9: Depart early morning for the Serengeti. Spend the night at a Serengeti Wilderness Camp or Ndutu Wilderness Camp. All meals, game drives, and bottled water are included.

Day 10 & 11: Two full days of game viewing in the Serengeti National Park. Enjoy private vehicle drives with your guide to witness the Big Five, the great migration, and diverse birdlife. Overnight at your chosen wilderness camp with all meals included.

Day 12: Morning departure from the Serengeti. Opt to fly back to Arusha (at additional cost) or drive back via the Ngorongoro highlands, arriving in Arusha late afternoon.