From the legendary Serengeti migration to the year-round concentrations of big game in Tarangire National Park, Tanzania is known as the greatest safari destination on Earth. We'll take you off the beaten path to our own private luxury camps for exciting bush walks, night game drives, off-road travel, and cultural encounters with the Maasai. Picture yourself among the elephant herds in Tarangire, taking a sunset walk with a glass of champagne, and relaxing by the fire with a billion stars overhead. This is the way safari was meant to be.
Arrive: Arusha, Tanzania
Depart: Arusha, Tanzania
Scroll through our signature accommodations for this trip below. Although it is highly unlikely, we may make substitutions when necessary.
At our private camps, we have opportunities for optional bush walks with a professional tracker as well as the flexibility to go out on game drives. The game-tracking walks are not difficult and are conducted at a pace that allows an intimate exploration of the African bush. Although this is not a particularly rigorous trip, we recommend that each participant undertake a preparatory program of physical conditioning. Daily walking or regular hiking, jogging, and stair-climbing are excellent ways to prepare for the trip.
"Fantastic trip. Absolutely amazing. Our guides were superior!!"
Allie F.
Surprise, AZ
"This was a wonderful trip! Well planned, well staffed, well outfitted."
Amy W.
New York, NY
"A wonderful experience for our entire family. We loved it. Very well done!"
Barry M.
Lakewood, CO
"Our Tanzania experience was so much more than we ever expected. It was truly the trip of a lifetime."
Betsey M.
Clayville, RI
"This was a trip for a lifetime. I can't fathom the work that goes on behind the scenes. To have these camps set up to serve us so elegantly is most amazing. I will carry the memories of the Serengeti in my heart forever. Thanks to everyone who makes it all happen."
Betsy M.
The Woodlands, TX
"This trip was outstanding and exceeded our expectations. It immersed us in the country, and gave us an unanticipated feel for the bush, its grandeur, its wildlife, its culture. The close association with the Maasai was a special treat, and the ability to explore in open cars and on foot enriched the experience, and left clients of other companies with their mouths agape. When we reflect on the trip, the first word which comes from each of us is ‘wow.’"
Bob K.
Orinda, CA
"What an excellent itinerary. I loved the fly camp, the night game drives, and the walks at Alamana. The "real" Maasai experience we had vs. a canned tourist experience is unforgettable. Loved the camping in Serengeti National Park. I was always comfortable, well fed, and well cared for."
Carol B.
Pacifica, CA
"There were unexpected treats that were great: the two lunches in the bush that had beautiful tables, place settings and fantastic food; having champagne and treats on top of a rock with a view that we hiked to; the visit to the Maasai sacred rock and eating the grilled goat and being with them. The safari itself was fantastic...the added treats were incredible."
Carole C.
Brookline, MA
"Accommodations were unbelievable! Could never have imagined that such delicious meals and plush accommodations would be found in the Serengeti. It was more than I could have ever dreamed of—and the best trip of my life...so far!"
Carole O.
Berkeley, CA
"Trip of a lifetime! Beyond our expectations in all aspects."
Carolyn G.
Buckeye, AZ
"This bucket list trip was everything and more than I expected. I cannot tell you how much I've enjoyed every minute of it."
Carrie G.
Sturgeon Bay, WI
"This was our first time on safari and it went way beyond any of our expectations for what was to come. Our guides were more than terrific and for our first time in Africa, this trip has us wanting to go back for more. We saw four of the Big Five, but this became secondary to just being on the Serengeti with a half million wildebeests!"
Cathy S.
Santa Cruz, CA
"Best trip of my life. It was always my dream to go to Africa and now I want to broaden my horizons and see more of this great continent."
Cheri M.
Deer Harbor, WA
"Wilderness Travel certainly outdid themselves with this trip. It was the best ever. We knew we would see a variety of animals and birds, but the numbers were beyond our expectations. The accommodations were luxurious, the food was gourmet, the service was attentive and friendly. The staff made sure that this trip would be an experience of a lifetime and never forgotten."
Curt K.
Brainerd, MN
"The guides were a big reason for an awesome trip!"
Diane B.
El Campo, TX
"The attention to detail, luxury in the wild, provision for my safety, and the excellent tent camps (meals, cleanliness, service provided) were extraordinary."
Diane K.
Berkeley, CA
"Great guides, beautiful campsites and hotel, gained 10 pounds (so food obviously awesome), and perfect pace of travel!"
Don P.
Park City, UT
"The trip totally exceeded our expectations! The activities were so varied and exciting we could hardly wait to get going each morning. The attention to detail made every aspect special and the size of the group was great."
Ellen W.
Oakland, CA
"The trip was one of a lifetime! It was so fun to spend these 12 days as a family of four. Seeing all the animals in their natural habitat was magical—the loping of the giraffes, the grace of the elephants, the majesty of the lions, the beauty of the cheetahs and leopards, the skittish and beautiful zebras, the hordes of wildebeests, the size of the hippos, the angry looking water buffalo, and the cunning crocodiles! So amazing and the photos bring it all back!"
Faith B.
Brunswick, ME
"The amazing and abundant wildlife, the stupendous vistas, and the wonderful people (including guides with superhuman eyes!), made this a trip I will never forget. I thought I would visit Africa only once, but I'm already thinking about a return trip!"
Frank J.
Damascus, OR
"Everything we dreamed of and more. Our best trip ever. We’ll definitely use WT in the future."
Gail P.
The Villages, FL
"The trip was life-changing on so many levels. We're so happy we went! It's not just seeing the animals up close and personal. We both felt a deep connection with the people, the place. Fantastic!"
Gena C.
Santa Cruz, CA
"This trip was transformative, amazing, terrific, wonderful! It exceeded all our expectations."
Irene K.
Oakland, CA
"Beyond my dreams!"
Jean Z.
Hercules, CA
"WT always does an excellent job. It was truly a "no worries" vacation, as all our trips with you have been! Great job!"
Joan S.
Piney Flats, TN
"This safari was as unique as it was outstanding. Our up-close and personal introductions to the wildlife in a safe and respectful way made me feel privileged to a part of such an awesome adventure."
Joanne M.
North Vancouver, BC
"The accommodations in the private camps were out of this world. It was so surprising how far out in the bush we could be, and yet still feel like we were living the life of luxury. The staff at the private camps was superb; always responding instantly to requests for shower water and escorts to help us safely wander around the camp without fear."
Jobie S.
New York, NY
"This was the best trip out of the US I've ever had. Lots of stories and memories. And Wilderness Travel was a key part of making it a very special trip!"
John C.
Santa Cruz, CA
"One of the best trips we've ever taken!"
Jon and Debbie W.
Chapel Hill, NC
"It was a trip of a lifetime and exceeded our expectations. We saw so many amazing things, not limited to animals and unbelievable landscapes, but also a sense of the people and how they live."
Jonathan D.
Seattle, WA
"The trip was beyond expectations and way better than I dared to hope for. Great, great guides and staff, great facilities, wonderful planning and execution. I couldn't be more pleased."
Joseph J.
West Hartford, CT
"We really enjoyed the private camps. We saw animals and birds better and closer than ever before and this was our sixth safari! In one outing we saw a leopard in a tree, a lioness on a kopje and a cheetah lying in the grass."
Julia and Vernon S.
River Edge, NJ
"This trip exceeded our expectations. The trip leaders were fabulous, all the accommodations were great, and we certainly ate well. And of course, seeing all the wildlife was beyond belief. We feel so fortunate to have experienced this safari."
Karen B.
New York, NY
"I saved up for five years to make this trip. It was well worth it and I will never forget the people, places, and the overall experience. I'm looking forward to my next Wilderness Travel experience."
Kent P.
Green Bay, WI
"This was a trip of a lifetime and an experience that will never be forgotten. The little surprises along the way, sunset cocktail hours and luncheons in the bush, made it special. Getting the feeling that we were away from the rush of the plethora of other safari tour companies gave us perceived value for having chosen Wilderness Travel."
Kevin H.
Longview, TX
"This was an incredible adventure! Well-planned, well-executed, informative, and fun. The private camps were wonderful and the guides were superb."
Leo and Christine S.
Wayzata, MN
"One of my best trips ever, greatly enhanced by the surprises: out of the dust of the serengeti plain—the formal lunch (linen, silver, glass, chef with toque); and the sunset hike, ending with champagne on top of the kopje!"
Linda N.
Palo Alto, CA
"This was the trip of a lifetime! It was especially meaningful to me because I celebrated my 65th birthday while there and the staff couldn't have been more accommodating. They set up our dinner outside, surrounded by tiki torches and lanterns hung in the trees. Dinner was wonderful and they even baked a special birthday cake for me. When the staff sang the Swahili version of a birthday song, it melted my heart. Of course, the sights that we saw over the course of the two weeks were just unbelievable! I learned so much about so many aspects of Tanzania, its people and wildlife. All of this will remain in my heart for many years to come."
Lisa W.
Far Hills, NJ
"The tents were simply amazing, and the camp staff and cooking was top notch. I've never camped in such luxury. Impressive!"
Lynn Z.
Tucson, AZ
"This was one of the best trips I've ever taken, perhaps the best. I will long remember the Serengeti in the evening, the animals we saw, our trip guides, and the group we toured with."
Mark F.
Bowie, MD
"Fantastic trip, good variety of sites, excellent leadership."
Mark J.
Paradise Valley, AZ
"Have been to Africa multiple times, and have even done a safari before. This trip was far and away the best organized and executed I have been on. I was astounded by how well everything was done."
Mark W.
Rochefort En Terre, France
"The trip was far beyond expectations!"
Marriam R.
Newport, RI
"This trip was fabulous—everything was better than expected."
Melinda C.
Sammamish, WA
"We couldn't have been more pleased with our safari....everything was PERFECT!"
Michele H.
Houston, TX
"WOW! I can’t even begin to tell you how completely fabulous the trip was! Everything was perfect, the camps were gorgeous, tons and tons of animals, and yes—the Big 5. Just know that we are now full-blown Wilderness Travel evangelists."
Nancy R.
Palo Alto, CA
"Every aspect of the trip was excellent but even more, the overall experience of interacting with nature, the country, and the people was touching and inspiring."
Nina B.
Irvine, CA
"I have dreamed of taking this trip for years, and it truly exceeded my expectations on all fronts. The wildlife, terrain, people, staff, and fellow trip mates made it an adventure to treasure always. I feel blessed and fortunate."
Paula C.
Mount Arlington, NJ
"The trip was fabulous and wonderful beyond anything I could possibly have imagined."
Pauline W.
Los Angeles, CA
"Our trip was flawless. All details were managed beautifully. I still can't believe how good the food was at our two campsites. What came out of such small kitchens was amazing."
Penny A.
Chicago, IL
"This was the best trip I've ever had. Magical is the best way to describe it. Everything was so well planned and executed. The entire staff, especially at the camps, was friendly, courteous and helpful. I also appreciated the cultural aspects of the trip, meeting and learning about the Maasai and the day spent with the Datoga and Fatiha Hadzabe tribes. Thank you for including that aspect for us. The game drives were so much fascinating and fun. Every day we would all wonder how the next day could be any different than the previous one. But somehow it always was. Great job!! "
Rob R.
San Francisco, CA
"It was a wonderful trip: the guides were superb, the accommodations very comfortable, and the itinerary was beautifully organized. It delivered everything that was promised, and I learned a great deal on what was my very first safari. Thank you for everything!"
Robert B.
New York, NY
"The tent camps were extremely comfortable and we are so glad we picked a trip where we camped inside the parks. Waking up to hyenas drinking just outside made this a once in a lifetime experience."
Sally M.
Sunnyvale, CA
"This trip was beyond our highest expectations."
Sandra P.
Blue Bell, PA
"The Serengeti is an amazing place and WT provided the perfect trip. Our guides were top notch; the support staff were wonderful. I loved all the special things like picnics in the bush and champagne at sunset. This trip surpassed all my expectations and gave me the experience of a lifetime. I was a little apprehensive about going to Africa, but knowing Wilderness Travel's reputation made it easier for me and they did not disappoint. We will definitely be back. Wonderful!"
Sandy H.
Tucson, AZ
"It was a great trip and will be hard to top!"
Sandy M.
Harrisburg, PA
"Many people have told me that going on safari has been their favorite trip of all. Now that I have gone on my first safari with Wilderness Travel I understand what they mean. I didn't enter a single museum or cathedral, but I witnessed something much more moving and emotional—the circle of life in the bush of Tanzania that predates all the museums and cathedrals in the world."
Skip M.
Lafayette, CA
"An extraordinary experience. We traveled as a family with three teenage daughters (14, 16, 19) and the trip to Tanzania exceeded all our expectations. The naturalist guides were wonderful—friendly, knowledgeable, patient—and could spot, and identify, animals hundreds of yards away. The tent camps were very special—private picturesque settings, comfortable sleeping arrangements, outstanding staff and service, amazing food (truly amazing, given how remote we were), and easy access to boundless animals for morning and late afternoon drives. I do not know how Wilderness Travel could have organized and orchestrated a better adventure in Tanzania. We will all remember this trip for the rest of our lives."
Steve D.
Danville, CA
"The trip was outstanding. Well designed itinerary, great camp sites and extremely nice and informative guides. Great food, especially at the two camps—we were all asking for a few of the recipes!"
Steve H.
Verona, WI
"What an exceptional itinerary, safari, and camping experience! The different parks highlighted different animals and the biodiversity and majesty of the region. The volume of animals is extraordinary and our guides did a great job of finding things that few others would find (cheetahs on the hunt! cheetah cubs! lion cubs by themselves!). I'll never forget how moving seeing these animals in their natural habitat was. The bush camps were exceptional—brings new meaning to ‘glamping!’ Being able to stay in the bush in comfort really magnified the overall excellence of the safari."
Steve S.
San Francisco, CA
"The trip exceeded my expectations. The guides were incredible (they saw animals where I only saw bushes). The accommodations were perfect and the food was delicious and healthy. We saw so many animals and the guides were so knowledgeable."
Susan C.
Schaumburg, IL
"This was my first safari and first trip with Wilderness Travel...it will not be my last! This was truly a trip of a lifetime, outstanding in every way!"
Susan Q.
Vienna, VA
"It is impossible to find anything to criticize on this trip. It was a dream come true, and Wilderness Travel never fails to thrill!"
Susan S.
Riverwoods, IL
"I could not be more happy about my Wilderness Travel experience. My eyes and heart were opened by the environment and the animals. I'm grateful for morning call with tea, for porridge by the fire, and for the subtle variety in each day."
Suzanne L.
Norwich, VT
"All the planning, all the money in the world, does not make for an excellent trip. It's all a matter of the guides and staff. To that end, WT has the creme de la creme. From Mzee on down to the water carriers, everyone was professional, friendly, helpful, and competent."
Suzette N.
New Orleans, LA
"Fabulous trip. The best vacation I've experienced."
Thomas T.
Walnut Creek, CA
"All three of our guides were exceptional. Always happy and able to communicate their expertise extremely well."
Tom H.
Brandon, SD
"This entire experience allowed us to return home with spirits soaring. Many times I needed to pinch myself to make sure I was not dreaming. We were blessed from beginning to the very end."
Wayne M.
Morrison, CO
"The trip was outstanding in every way, exceeding our (already high) expectations! Animals, guides, service, attention to detail, food...everything was wonderful!"
William L.
West Hartford, CT
Our Area Specialists know every detail about our tours. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!
Submit the form below to download itinerary
With more than 200 different adventures to choose from, we want to help you find the trip that’s right for you. Our Trip Level system ranks each trip in two ways: a number rating from 1 to 6 according to the activity, and general travel rigors. 1 is the easiest and 6+ the most difficult—see descriptions below for explanations of each number. A plus (+) sign means the trip is a bit more strenuous than other trips of that level. The detailed explanation of each trip—below the bar with the number rating—is perhaps more important, specifying activities, altitudes, hiking, and travel conditions. The Detailed Itinerary, available by download or mail, gives further information. Our Area Managers can also answer questions and guide you to the trip that best suits your interests.
Level 1 – Easiest
Non-camping journeys, optional walks, little elevation gain or loss.
Level 2 – Easy to Moderate
Hotel nights and/or safari-style camping, hikes of two to four hours on some days. Other physical activities are sometimes included, such as optional sea kayaking.
Level 3 – Moderate
Half- to full-day hikes (3-6 hours) over rolling countryside on most days, occasional steep trails. Many of our hotel-based walking tours are in this category, as are our snorkeling adventures.
Level 4 – Moderate to Strenuous
Full-day hikes (4-6 hours), mountainous terrain, significant elevation gains and losses (hiking up or down as much as 3,000 feet) on many days. Altitudes no greater than about 10,000 feet.
Level 5 – Strenuous
Full-day hikes (4-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Trips with hiking at average altitudes of 10,000 to 12,000 feet are in this category.
Level 6 – Very Strenuous
Full-day hikes (5-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Most hikes take place at altitudes above 10,000 feet, with some days ascending as high as 18,000 feet.