TANZANIA ADVENTURE SAFARI
17 Days
16 Nights
Witness nature’s raw drama unfold with every leap, splash, and chase—a breathtaking spectacle of survival and instinct.
Custom Photo Safari rigs
Small Group
- Maximum of three guests per vehicles
- Each Photographer gets their own row with access to both sides of the vehicle
- Increased weight allowance for extra camera gear
Great Migration Photo Expedition With
Melissa
Days of discovery
February 24, 2025
Arrival Day
Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, a well-coordinated transition awaits. Following the requisite completion of customs and immigration formalities, our adept representatives will extend a personalized welcome, overseeing your seamless progression. Your journey then leads to your chosen hotel, thoughtfully curated to offer a haven of tranquility for your rejuvenation and renewal. This initial night serves as an oasis of replenishment, allowing you to unwind, recharge, and prepare for the extraordinary photo safari experience that lies ahead.
Lodging
Meals and overnight at Airport Planet Lodge
February 25, 2025
Journey to Mkomazi National Park
Morning Session
The day commences with a refined breakfast at the lodge, serving as a fitting preamble to the series of carefully curated activities ahead. Meticulously planned, the next phase of our expedition unfolds—an eastward journey toward the majestic slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro, nestled near Moshi.
We then gracefully transition southeast through the enchanting landscapes of the Pare Mountains, ultimately arriving at the entrance of the esteemed Mkomazi National Park.
As we traverse this captivating expanse, the landscape provides a lush backdrop for vibrant avian life in flight, while diverse mammalian species roam in graceful motion. This immersive journey of observation continues until we reach our coveted destination—Mkomazi Wilderness Camp. Perched on the western slope of one of the park’s modest mountains, the camp welcomes us with open arms. Our arrival is perfectly timed for a delightful lunch, ensuring a seamless continuation of our day.
Afternoon Session
As the afternoon sun casts its warm glow, we embark on an immersive game drive within the captivating confines of Mkomazi National Park. Here, nature’s ever-changing tableau offers boundless inspiration as we explore its diverse landscapes and wildlife.
As daylight yields to twilight, the embrace of Mkomazi Wilderness Retreat becomes your sanctuary. A delectable dinner is served, and the tranquility of the surroundings envelops you as you settle in for a restful night’s reprieve—a perfect harmony with the untouched wilderness that defines our sojourn.
Lodging
Meals and Overnight at Mkomazi Wilderness Retreat
February 26-27, 2025
Capturing the Essence of Mkomazi National Park
Day One: Immersing in Mkomazi’s Wildlife
Your journey begins at the break of dawn, perfectly aligned with the rhythms of the wilderness. The morning game drive sets the stage for an unforgettable adventure, offering a chance to capture the breathtaking beauty of Mkomazi National Park. As you traverse the rugged landscapes, you’ll encounter a diverse array of wildlife, including the elegant fringe-eared oryx, the elusive red duiker, the mysterious lesser kudu, and the long-necked gerenuk—endearingly known as Swala Twiga in Swahili, meaning “giraffe-antelope.”
Afternoon Session:
As the golden hues of the afternoon light bathe the savannah, your photographic journey continues. This session unveils a different dimension of Mkomazi, with an emphasis on the park’s rich birdlife. Here, Somali-Masai endemic species such as the Black-throated Barbet, Purple Grenadier, White-bellied Go-away-bird, Orange-bellied Parrot, Red-fronted Warbler, Rosy-patched Bushshrike, and Somali Golden-breasted Bunting come into focus, adding vibrant splashes of color to your collection.
Day Two: Exploring Mbula Rhino Sanctuary & Mkomazi’s Wonders
The morning begins with an exciting visit to Mbula Rhino Sanctuary, a crucial conservation area dedicated to protecting the endangered black rhino. Here, you’ll have the rare opportunity to photograph these majestic creatures up close while learning about the ongoing efforts to safeguard their future.
In addition to its rhino conservation efforts, the sanctuary is home to a wild dog breeding program, which plays a vital role in rehabilitating and reintroducing these highly endangered predators into the wild. Observing and capturing images of these fascinating animals offers a unique insight into their social dynamics and conservation challenges.
Afternoon Session:
After an inspiring morning at the sanctuary, your adventure continues with another immersive game drive through Mkomazi. The afternoon light casts a mesmerizing glow over the savannah, providing the perfect conditions to capture the park’s enchanting scenery and diverse wildlife in its natural splendor.
Each day concludes at the Mkomazi Wilderness Retreat, where you can unwind amidst the tranquility of the bush. As the day fades, indulge in exquisite culinary delights and reflect on the extraordinary visual stories you’ve captured, setting the stage for more adventures to come.
Lodgings
Meals and Overnight at Mkomazi Wilderness Retreat
February 28, 2025
From Mkomazi to Arusha – A Blend of Relaxation and Local Market Experience
After enjoying a hearty breakfast at Mkomazi Wilderness Retreat, set off on a scenic drive to Usa River in Arusha, a vibrant town known for its lush landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Upon arrival, you will head to Ngaresero Mountain Lodge, where you will arrive in time for a delicious lunch, surrounded by the lodge’s serene and picturesque setting.
The afternoon presents a choice: unwind and enjoy leisure time at the lodge, soaking in its tranquil surroundings, or opt for a visit to a local market, where you can experience the lively atmosphere of Tanzanian daily life. Wander through stalls filled with fresh vegetables, aromatic spices, colorful fabrics, and handcrafted goods, gaining insight into local trade and traditions. Engage with friendly vendors, observe how they skillfully arrange and sell their products, and perhaps even pick up a few authentic souvenirs to take home.
As the day winds down, return to the lodge for a relaxing evening, savoring the peaceful ambiance before embarking on the thrilling safari ahead.
Lodgings
Meals and Overnight at Ngaresero Mountain Lodge
March 1, 2025
Arusha National Park
Your day will start with a leisurely breakfast at the lodge, following which you will embark on an enriching journey to Arusha National Park for a full day of game viewing. This will mark your first official photography session, where you can put into practice the invaluable tips and techniques imparted by your photography pro, and configure your camera settings to achieve optimal results on your upcoming photo safari.
Arusha National Park is a treasure trove of diverse ecosystems and stunning vistas of Mt. Meru, the iconic volcano that lends the region its name. This compact national park encompasses the verdant forests that drape the lower slopes of Mt. Meru, as well as the lofty summit, ash cone, Momela Lakes, and Ngurdoto Crater. The game viewing experience around the Momela Lakes unfolds at a leisurely and contemplative pace, allowing for the observation of an abundance of flamingos and other bird species that flourish in this unique habitat. While traversing through the forest, you will pause to scan the treetops for the rare and endangered Black and White Colobus monkeys as they swing and play amidst the lush canopy.
During the course of the day, you will have ample time to explore the mesmerizing landscapes of Arusha National Park, capturing remarkable photographs that will form cherished memories for years to come. As the day draws to a close, you will return to your lodge, rejuvenated and inspired by the natural splendor of Tanzania’s incredible wildlife.
Lodgings
Meals and Overnight at Ngaresero Mountain Lodge
March 2, 2025
Drive to Tarangire National Park
Your day will commence with an early breakfast at the lodge, followed by a scenic drive southward through Arusha towards the captivating Tarangire National Park. The journey from the lodge to the park’s entrance gate will take approximately two and a half hours. Upon arrival at the gate, your guide will handle the necessary paperwork to obtain permits. Subsequently, you will proceed to the lodge, reaching it in time for a satisfying lunch.
Later in the afternoon, an enchanting sundown game viewing experience awaits you amidst the picturesque landscape adorned with magnificent baobab trees and umbrella-thorn acacias. The focal point of this park is the Tarangire River, renowned for hosting some of the largest herds of elephants in Africa. During the dry season, a multitude of animals gather along this lifeline, creating a captivating spectacle. It is not uncommon to spot iconic wildlife species such as lions, leopards, cheetahs, lesser kudus, buffalos, Oryx, elands, giraffes, and zebras. Additionally, the park is celebrated for its century-old baobab trees and boasts a diverse avian population of over 300 bird species.
Lodging
Meals and Overnight at Tarangire Sopa Lodge
March 3, 2025
Exploring the Tarangire National Park
Immerse yourself in an extraordinary day of game viewing at Tarangire National Park, a sanctuary renowned for its awe-inspiring landscapes and remarkable wildlife. Your day will be divided into two captivating sessions, with morning and afternoon game drives, providing ample opportunity for an immersive exploration of this remarkable ecosystem. Prepare to be enthralled as you visit the iconic Silalei Swamp and the Tarangire River, the lifeblood of the park. It is within these pristine habitats that you will witness some of the largest herds of elephants in Africa, as they gather in impressive numbers during the dry season. Tarangire’s diverse terrains harbor a wealth of captivating species, including majestic lions, elusive leopards, swift cheetahs, both Greater and Lesser Kudu, formidable buffalos, elegant Oryx, stately elands, graceful giraffes, and striking zebras. As you traverse this magnificent landscape, you will also have the privilege of admiring the century-old baobab trees that stand as testaments to the passage of time, while being serenaded by the melodies of over 300 species of birds.
As the late afternoon approaches, your exhilarating game drives will draw to a close, and it will be time to make your way to Tarangire Sopa Lodge, your luxurious haven for the evening. Indulge in a delectable dinner, savoring the culinary delights that capture the essence of the region. The tranquil ambiance of the camp will provide the perfect setting to reflect upon the day’s adventures and immerse yourself in the serenity of the African wilderness.
Lodging
Meals and Overnight at Tarangire Sopa Lodge
March 4, 2025
Cultural Encounters and Ngorongoro Highland Retreat
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before heading out for a morning of wildlife viewing in the spectacular Tarangire National Park. Known for its iconic baobab trees, large herds of elephants, and diverse wildlife, this park offers a truly memorable safari experience.
After your exploration of Tarangire, take a scenic drive to the vibrant village of Mto wa Mbu, nestled along the picturesque Mto wa Mbu River. Here, you’ll enjoy an engaging cultural experience, gaining insight into the traditions and lifestyles of the many communities that call this village home.
Savor a delicious local lunch in Mto wa Mbu, relishing the authentic flavors of Tanzanian cuisine. The meal, paired with the warmth and hospitality of the locals, provides an enriching and delightful experience.
In the late afternoon, embark on a scenic drive to the breathtaking Ngorongoro Highlands for dinner and an overnight stay. Surrounded by the region’s stunning landscapes, unwind and prepare for the adventures that await in this remarkable setting.
Lodging
Meals and Overnight at Embalakai Ngorongoro Camp / Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge
March 5, 2025
Explore the basin of the Ngorongoro Crater.
very early start at around 5:30am, we collect our luggage’s, breakfast and lunch boxes before proceeding with the drive to Ngorongoro conservation area Authority where we will descent into the crater for an in-depth exploration of this distinctive ecosystem. Enjoy abundant wildlife viewing set against this impressive backdrop. These drives provide one of the best opportunities in Africa to view black rhino, which tend to spend their time on the crater floor. Ngorongoro Crater is one of the world’s greatest natural spectacles; its magical setting and abundant wildlife never fail to enthrall visitors. Another big draw card to this picturesque Caldera, is its dense population of predators, which include lions, hyenas, jackals, cheetahs and the ever-elusive leopard, and if Lucky enough you will have chance to see the small cats like the Rare Caracal, Serval cat as well as the African wild cat which sometimes requires a trained eye to spot. Picnic Lunch will be served at one of the picnic sites at the crater floor, followed by another game viewing visiting the hippo pool near the Mandusi Swamp, Lake Magadi, a large but shallow alkaline lake in the southwestern corner which is one of the main features of the crater, the lerai forest as well as other parts of the crater.in the late evening you will drive to your lodge for dinner and overnight.
Lodging
Meals and Overnight at Embalakai Ngorongoro Camp / Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge
March 6-10, 2025
Journey Through the Serengeti's Southern Beauty: Ndutu Forest and Beyond
Prepare to embark on a transformative four-day photographic adventure, immersing yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of the Ngorongoro Crater and the untamed beauty of the southern Serengeti plains and Ndutu woodlands. This journey offers an unparalleled opportunity to capture nature’s most dramatic moments, from the depths of the ancient caldera to the vast plains teeming with life.
Your expedition begins with a morning descent into the Ngorongoro Crater, a world unto itself where lush grasslands, shimmering lakes, and acacia woodlands form the perfect backdrop for an extraordinary wildlife spectacle. Encounter the legendary Big Five in their natural domain, from the elusive black rhino grazing in the misty morning light to prides of lions basking in the golden glow of dawn. After a rewarding morning of exploration and photography, ascend the crater walls and set off toward the enchanting realm of Ndutu.
As you traverse the boundless wilderness, the scenery shifts to the rolling plains of the southern Serengeti and the magical woodlands surrounding Lake Ndutu. This region, a sanctuary for the Great Migration from December to May, offers front-row seats to nature’s grandest spectacle. Thousands of wildebeest and zebras blanket the land, their rhythmic movements shaping the heartbeat of the savannah.
Wander along the shimmering shores of Lake Masek, where mirror-like waters reflect the drama of the wild. Explore the hidden gems of the Ndutu region, from the secluded serenity of the Hidden Valley to the sweeping grasslands of the Kusini Valley and the remote, untouched expanse of the Kakesio Plains. In this predator-rich domain, cheetahs chase with breathtaking speed, while lions—both resident prides and wandering nomads—follow the migration, drawn by the abundance of prey.
This season also marks the calving period, when thousands of newborn wildebeest take their first steps into the wild. Witness these tender yet fleeting moments as new life emerges onto the stage of the Serengeti, offering a rare and profound connection to the cycle of nature.
With every frame captured, this journey will etch itself into your soul, unveiling the raw and unfiltered essence of Africa’s wilderness. From the dramatic depths of the Crater to the sweeping plains of Ndutu, prepare for an unforgettable photographic expedition that will redefine the way you see the world.
Lodging
Meals and Overnight at Canopy Migration Camp - Ndutu
March 11- 13, 2025
Discovering the Enchanting East Serengeti's Plains and Kopjes
As the sun bathes the Ndutu forest and the southern plains of the Serengeti in its warm golden glow, your next photographic journey takes you through the Gol Kopjes to the captivating landscapes of the Eastern Serengeti plains and Kopjes. With camera in hand, you capture the essence of this mesmerizing region, where nature’s beauty and wildlife encounters intertwine.
After a delightful breakfast at your camp, you’ll immerse yourself in morning and afternoon photography sessions amidst the Central and Eastern Serengeti plains and Kopjes. The Eastern Serengeti unveils a tapestry of photographic opportunities, with its expansive vistas, rolling plains, and abundant wildlife.
Meandering through the Gol Kopjes, your lens captures the enchanting beauty of the Serengeti’s central-eastern expanse. Arriving at the camp in the central-eastern part of the Serengeti, you savor a delicious lunch that rejuvenates you for the photographic adventures that lie ahead.
The Central-Eastern Serengeti and its Seronera River valley boast a unique ecological tapestry that supports an incredible diversity of wildlife. Here, where the plains seamlessly merge with woodlands, an abundance of wildlife thrives. Elephants gracefully traverse the landscape, while giraffes stand tall against the endless horizon. Impalas, waterbucks, hippos, topis, reedbucks, buffalos, baboons, and vervet monkeys add their vibrant presence to the scene. Amongst the scattered kopjes, elusive predators like lions, leopards, and cheetahs await their moment to shine.
You have the option to tailor your days to maximize your photographic endeavors. Embrace the magic of early mornings and late afternoons as you traverse the central Serengeti in the ethereal light of dawn and dusk. Witness nature’s theater unfold before your lens, capturing the intricate interactions and dramatic moments that make the Serengeti a photographer’s paradise.
The Eastern Serengeti beckons with its sweeping plains, hidden gems, and ever-changing light. Each click of your camera captures a fleeting instant, preserving the untamed spirit of this extraordinary land. Let your photographs tell a tale of the Serengeti’s timeless beauty, inspiring others to appreciate the wonders that lie within this breathtaking corner of the world.
Lodging
Meals and Overnight at Canopy Wilderness Camp – Eastern Central Serengeti
March 14, 2025
Soaring from Serengeti to Arusha: The Bush Flight Experience
After enjoying an early breakfast at your Serengeti camp, your homeward journey starts. En route to the Seronera Airstrip, you’ll have the privilege of indulging in some game viewing, providing a final opportunity to immerse yourself in the Serengeti’s awe-inspiring natural beauty.
Upon reaching the airstrip, you’ll board a domestic flight bound for Arusha. In Arusha, you’ll have the option to visit the Cultural Heritage Center for shopping, where an extensive array of authentic African souvenirs and handicrafts awaits your perusal.
Next, your path leads you to the Ngaresero Mountain Lodge, where you will have lunch and early dinner.
Day Use Room
Ngaresero Mountain Lodge
Enhacement choices
Early arrival Option.
Arrive a day before your scheduled trip to unwind, explore the area at your own pace, and fully immerse yourself in the journey ahead. This extra time allows for a smooth start, ensuring you're refreshed and ready for the adventure that awaits.
Balloon safari
As the sun rises, you’ll gently ascend into the sky, floating silently above the vast Serengeti plains. From this unique vantage point, you’ll witness herds of wildebeest, zebras, and other wildlife roaming freely below.