Welcome to Tanzania, a land of untamed beauty, legendary wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes. After touching down in Arusha, your journey into the heart of East Africa begins. The anticipation builds as you leave the airport behind and venture into the open countryside, where the rhythm of local life and the wild terrain begin to unfold before you.

Travel westward towards the tranquil surroundings of Lake Manyara National Park, a scenic drive offering glimpses of bustling market towns, rolling hills, and traditional villages. As you approach the park, the terrain shifts dramatically, revealing lush groundwater forests, acacia woodlands, and the vast soda lake that gives the park its name.

On arrival at your lodge, take a moment to relax and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. Nestled among baobab trees with sweeping views of the Rift Valley, your accommodation provides a comfortable and welcoming base from which to begin your safari experience.

As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, enjoy the serenity of the African bush. The chorus of crickets and distant animal calls marks the start of your wilderness adventure — a magical introduction to the wonders of Tanzania that lie ahead.

After breakfast, set off on an exciting morning game drive in Lake Manyara National Park, a compact yet biodiverse reserve nestled between the escarpment of the Great Rift Valley and the shimmering lake below. Once a sport hunting ground, Lake Manyara is now a protected sanctuary known for its unique habitats and rich concentration of wildlife.

This is one of the few places in Africa where you might spot tree-climbing lions, lounging on acacia branches to escape the midday heat. Along the lake’s edge, flocks of flamingos paint the shoreline pink, while hippos, elephants, baboons, giraffes, zebras and an abundance of birdlife fill the park’s forests, swamps, and open plains.

Midday, pause for a packed bush lunch at a scenic picnic spot — a chance to refuel and absorb the tranquillity of the Tanzanian wilderness. Then, the journey continues as you travel northwards through the iconic savannahs of northern Tanzania.

Your destination is none other than the world-renowned Serengeti National Park, famed for its endless golden plains, Big Five game viewing, and the awe-inspiring Great Migration that moves through the region from July to September. Wildlife sightings are frequent, even on the drive in, and the landscapes unfold in cinematic splendour. On arrival at your next accommodation, settle into a haven of luxury designed to blend seamlessly with the wild surroundings — offering elegant suites, a tranquil infinity pool, wellness spa, and fine dining under the stars.

Wake to the sounds of the wild and prepare for a full day of unforgettable wildlife encounters in the heart of the Serengeti National Park. After an early breakfast, you’ll set out with your expert guide on a morning game drive, venturing deep into the park’s endless savannahs in search of some of East Africa’s most iconic species.

From July to September, the Serengeti becomes the dramatic stage for the Great Migration, when over a million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles thunder across the plains in search of greener pastures. It’s a spectacle of raw survival and natural wonder, followed closely by predators such as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas.

Even outside the migration season, the Serengeti teems with life. Scan the horizon for the elusive leopard lounging in a tree, or a herd of elephants silhouetted against the acacia-dotted plains. With luck, you may even complete your sightings of the coveted Big Five: lion, leopard, elephant, black rhino, and Cape buffalo.

Return to your lodge for a short rest and lunch before heading back out for an afternoon game drive, when the golden light transforms the landscape and wildlife activity picks up once again. Keep your camera ready — the Serengeti always surprises.

As dusk settles over the plains, return to your luxurious lodge for a delicious dinner under the stars. Share stories of the day’s sightings with fellow travellers and let the stillness of the African night lull you into deep relaxation.

After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to the Serengeti — but the journey is far from over. Today’s included game drive takes you through the heart of the park one final time, offering one last opportunity to spot resident wildlife in their natural habitat. Keep your eyes peeled for lions on the hunt, towering giraffes grazing on acacia trees, and perhaps even the elusive black rhino, one of the most endangered members of the Big Five.

You’ll travel overland toward the lush hills of Karatu, journeying through striking savannahs and volcanic highlands where the landscape gradually shifts from open plains to forested escarpments.

Midway through the day, stop at the legendary Olduvai Gorge — often referred to as the ‘cradle of mankind’. This internationally renowned archaeological site has revealed some of the earliest evidence of human life on earth. Here, you’ll have the chance to explore the small museum, view excavated fossil beds, and stand where pioneers like Mary and Louis Leakey unearthed remains that forever changed our understanding of evolution.

Arriving in Karatu by late afternoon, you'll find yourself in the heart of Tanzania’s fertile highlands. Settle into your peaceful surroundings and perhaps enjoy a serene sundowner overlooking the valley below, before a delicious dinner rounds off your day of discovery.

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast before setting off on an extraordinary journey through some of Tanzania’s most iconic landscapes. Today, you’ll travel with your expert guide through a section of the immense Great Rift Valley — a dramatic geological feature that stretches over 4,000 miles from Lebanon to Mozambique. Towering escarpments, wide-open grasslands, and ancient volcanic formations mark your route as you head deeper into the wild.

As you enter the Ngorongoro Conservation Area — a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its exceptional biodiversity and sweeping scenery — the vistas become more dramatic, and the anticipation builds for the incredible encounters that lie ahead.

The highlight of the day awaits: a descent into the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera. With its steep rock walls rising up to 2,000 feet, this ancient natural amphitheatre shelters an incredible concentration of wildlife in a surprisingly compact area. Drive down into the crater floor where zebra, gazelles, wildebeests, and warthogs graze across open plains, while predators like lions and hyenas roam nearby.

Lush swamps, freshwater lakes, and patches of acacia forest add to the crater’s rich diversity of habitats — all of which support over 30,000 animals, including endangered species like the black rhino. It's one of Africa’s most spectacular safari settings, with jaw-dropping scenery and exceptional photographic opportunities at every turn.

After a memorable day of discovery, ascend from the crater floor and return to your lodge in Karatu before sunset. Enjoy some time to unwind before gathering for dinner — a perfect chance to reflect on one of the most awe-inspiring days of your journey.

After a leisurely breakfast at your lodge, it's time to begin the next chapter of your journey — a retreat to the tranquil shores of Zanzibar. You'll transfer to Arusha’s domestic airport and board your short flight to this fabled island, long regarded as one of the true jewels of the Indian Ocean.

Touch down in Zanzibar and embark on a scenic drive through the heart of the island. As you journey eastward, take in views of traditional villages, where red clay homes and makuti-thatched rooftops are framed by lush banana groves and gently swaying palms — a peaceful contrast to the mainland’s rugged terrain.

Upon reaching the island’s serene east coast, check in to your handpicked beach resort — your idyllic base for the next four nights. Renowned for its exceptional hospitality, your resort offers spa facilities, a serene swimming pool, and direct access to powder-soft white sand beaches just steps away.

Take your time to settle in, explore the tropical gardens, or simply unwind after your travels. This evening, enjoy your first dinner in Zanzibar, with the sound of the ocean setting the tone for days of sun, sea, and gentle island rhythms to come.

Wake to the sound of lapping waves and the scent of ocean breeze — today marks the beginning of three indulgent days on Zanzibar’s serene beachfront. With no scheduled excursions, you’re free to spend your time exactly as you wish, making the most of this Indian Ocean paradise.

Your resort offers a curated daily programme of optional activities (optional at extra cost), organised by the friendly in-house team. Choose to kayak across the turquoise waters, try out the on-site diving pool, or unwind in the tranquil surroundings of the African-inspired wellness centre, which features four treatment rooms, two Jacuzzis, a steam room, sauna, and fitness suite — all designed to restore body and mind.

For those looking to explore beyond the resort, you can visit the palm-fringed villages of Kiwengwa and Pwani Mchangani, located nearby. These coastal communities offer glimpses of authentic Zanzibari life, with opportunities to engage with local artisans, taste freshly caught seafood, or simply admire the rhythm of daily island life.

With an all-inclusive stay, all your meals and drinks are taken care of — leaving you free to focus on what matters: relaxation, exploration, and enjoying every moment of your tropical retreat.

Today is all about relaxation. Whether you choose to soak up the sunshine on a lounger or stroll barefoot along the shore, Zanzibar’s paradise beaches provide the perfect setting to unwind and disconnect.

Feel the powdery white sand between your toes and listen to the rhythm of the Indian Ocean as gentle waves roll onto the beach. The day is yours to enjoy at your own pace — take a dip in the crystal-clear waters, sip a cool drink poolside, or book a spa treatment (optional at extra cost) to fully embrace the serenity of your surroundings.

With your all-inclusive resort providing delicious meals, refreshing cocktails, and uninterrupted ocean views, all you need to do is relax and savour every moment of your Zanzibar escape.

Today marks your final opportunity to enjoy the calm rhythm of Zanzibar’s tropical shores. Whether you choose to relax by the pool, walk along the beach one last time, or reflect on your journey with a quiet oceanfront moment, this day is yours to enjoy however you wish.

If you’d prefer to explore, this is a great chance to pick up some last-minute souvenirs or handcrafted gifts from local shops and boutiques. Look out for spices, carved wooden artefacts, Maasai jewellery, or woven baskets — beautiful mementoes of your time on the island.

As your holiday draws to a close, take in the ocean breeze, the golden afternoon light, and the gentle sway of the palms — a final dose of Zanzibar’s magic before your journey home begins.

Savour your last full day in Zanzibar, where the tropical breeze and laid-back rhythm of island life offer a final chance to relax before your journey home. Whether you stretch out beneath a shady palm, take one more refreshing dip in the Indian Ocean, or enjoy a cool drink by the pool, make the most of this peaceful finale to your East African adventure.

If you haven’t yet done so, wander into a nearby village or artisan shop to pick up locally made keepsakes — from fragrant spices to hand-carved trinkets and colourful fabrics, they’ll serve as a reminder of the magic you experienced here.

As the sun dips low over the ocean, reflect on your unforgettable journey through iconic landscapes and untamed wilderness, ending with the soothing charm of this island paradise.

This morning, enjoy one final breakfast surrounded by the tranquil beauty of Zanzibar’s coastline. With hearts full of unforgettable memories — from the thrill of the Serengeti to the serenity of the sea — it’s time to bid farewell to this extraordinary corner of the world.

You’ll be transferred to Zanzibar Airport for your return journey to NEW YORK, carrying home stories of epic game drives, crater explorations, and sun-soaked beach days that will stay with you long after you return.