Arusha National Park, Manyara National Park & Ngorongoro Crater

Your Unforgettable Safari Awaits. Book Now with Protea Kilimanjaro!

Imagine waking up to the call of the wild, surrounded by some of the most pristine landscapes on Earth. From the towering peaks of Mount Meru to the lush, wildlife-packed floor of the Ngorongoro Crater, this tour takes you through the best of Tanzania’s safari destinations. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time explorer, these parks offer an unparalleled adventure.

Arusha National Park: Where Adventure Begins

Tucked away just outside Arusha, Arusha National Park is a paradise for those seeking diverse landscapes and intimate wildlife encounters. As you explore this hidden gem, you’ll find it offers more than meets the eye.

  • Why Visit Arusha National Park?
    • Breathtaking Views: Get up close to the majestic Mount Meru, Africa’s fifth-highest peak—Marvel at panoramic views that range from forested hills to sweeping savannahs.
    • Wildlife Galore: This park is home to giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and monkeys—plus hundreds of bird species, including flamingos and the rare white-headed vulture.
    • Ngurdoto Crater: A miniature version of Ngorongoro, this lush, less crowded crater is perfect for stunning photography and peaceful wildlife encounters.
  • The Perfect Time to Visit: For the best safari experiences, travel during the dry season (June to October). But the park’s rich green landscapes offer a magical escape even in the rainy season.

Lake Manyara National Park: The Heart of Tanzania’s Wildlife

A world-class safari experience awaits in Lake Manyara National Park—famous for its tree-climbing lions, flamingo-filled lakes, and vibrant forests.

  • Why Visit Lake Manyara?
    • Tree-Climbing Lions: Watch in awe as the famous tree-climbing lions lounge lazily in the acacia trees. A truly unique sight!
    • Birdwatcher’s Paradise: Over 400 bird species, including huge flocks of flamingos, make this park one of Africa’s top birding destinations.
    • Game Drives & Walking Safaris: Explore a variety of habitats, from lush woodlands to open plains, where you’ll see elephants, wildebeests, giraffes, and baboons.
  • The Best Time to Go: Peak game viewing occurs during the dry season (June to October), but the park’s beauty is timeless—whether it’s the green landscape after the rains or the vibrant wildlife during the dry season.

Ngorongoro Crater: The Eighth Wonder of the World

Step into one of the most incredible wildlife sanctuaries on Earth. The Ngorongoro Crater is an expansive, wildlife-rich volcanic caldera, teeming with game and natural beauty.

  • Why Visit Ngorongoro Crater?
    • A Safari Within a Crater: Imagine a 2,000-foot-high rim surrounding a valley full of wildlife, including the famous “Big Five”—lions, elephants, buffaloes, rhinos, and leopards.
    • Epic Views & Unique Landscapes: Descend into the crater floor for one of the world’s best game viewing opportunities. You’ll encounter vast herds of wildebeest, flamingos in the lakes, and the ever-elusive leopard.
    • Cultural Heritage: The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is not only a wildlife sanctuary but also home to the Maasai people, who live harmoniously with the park’s ecosystem.
  • When to Visit: The Ngorongoro Crater is a year-round destination. However, for the clearest views and optimal wildlife sightings, the dry season from June to October is ideal.

Why Choose Protea Kilimanjaro for Your Safari Adventure?

When you book your safari with Protea Kilimanjaro, you’re not just booking a trip—you’re embarking on an adventure crafted with passion, expertise, and care.

  • Unrivaled Expertise: Our experienced guides know the ins and outs of Tanzania’s national parks, ensuring you have the most enriching and safe safari experience.
  • Tailored Itineraries: Whether you’re looking for a private tour, a family-friendly safari, or a romantic getaway, we offer flexible itineraries to meet your needs.
  • Luxury in the Wild: Stay in world-class accommodations, from luxury lodges to cozy tented camps, and enjoy all the comforts of home in the heart of the wilderness.

Exclusive Tour Packages Available:

  • Arusha, Manyara & Ngorongoro Safari: A 5-day adventure packed with wildlife, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable moments.
  • Private Safari Experience: A custom-designed safari tailored to your preferences. Explore Tanzania at your own pace.

Book Your Safari Today!

Ready to explore the wild wonders of Tanzania? Don’t wait—secure your spot on an unforgettable journey through Arusha National Park, Manyara National Park, and Ngorongoro Crater today. Click below to begin your adventure!

Arusha National Park

Arusha National Park is a compact yet incredibly diverse destination in northern Tanzania. Located just 25 km from Arusha city and 35 km from Kilimanjaro International Airport, this park is an ideal day trip for nature lovers, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts. Despite its small size (137 square kilometers), Arusha National Park boasts a variety of habitats, including montane forests, grasslands, alpine zones, and volcanic landscapes, making it one of the most scenic parks in Tanzania.

The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, buffalos, and rare primates like the black-and-white colobus monkey. Birdwatchers will also find this park fascinating, with over 400 bird species recorded. The park’s highlights include Mount Meru, the Momella Lakes, and the Ngurdoto Crater.

Best Time to Visit

Arusha National Park can be visited year-round, but the best time depends on your interests:

  1. Dry Season (June to October):
    • Ideal for game drives and walking safaris.
    • Wildlife is easier to spot as animals gather around water sources.
    • The weather is dry and clear, offering stunning views of Mount Meru.
  2. Wet Season (November to May):
    • Best for birdwatching, as migratory species arrive.
    • The park is lush and green, perfect for photography.
    • February to March offers a chance to see baby animals during the calving season.
    • Note: April and May experience heavy rains, which can make some roads muddy and less accessible.

Key Attractions

  1. Mount Meru:
    • The park is the gateway to Mount Meru, Tanzania’s second-highest peak (4,566 meters). It offers excellent trekking opportunities and stunning views of Kilimanjaro on clear days.
  2. Momella Lakes:
    • A series of shallow alkaline lakes that attract flamingos, pelicans, and other water birds. Canoeing is also available for a closer look at the wildlife.
  3. Ngurdoto Crater:
    • Often referred to as the “Little Ngorongoro,” this volcanic caldera is home to buffalos, warthogs, and other animals grazing on the crater floor.
  4. Wildlife:
    • Known as a “giraffe paradise,” the park also hosts zebras, warthogs, bushbucks, blue monkeys, and rare black-and-white colobus monkeys. Predators like leopards and hyenas are occasionally spotted.
  5. Birdlife:
    • The park is a birdwatcher’s dream, with species like flamingos, crowned eagles, and turacos.

How to Get There

  • By Road:
    Arusha National Park is about a 45-minute drive from Arusha town or 1.5 hours from Moshi.
  • By Air:
    The nearest airport is Kilimanjaro International Airport, a 45-minute drive away.

Activities in Arusha National Park

  1. Game Drives:
    • Explore the park’s diverse habitats and spot giraffes, zebras, and other wildlife.
  2. Walking Safari:
    • Accompanied by an armed guide, you can explore the forest and observe wildlife up close.
  3. Canoeing:
    • Paddle on the serene Momella Lakes and enjoy views of flamingos and other water birds.
  4. Mount Meru Climb:
    • For adventurous travelers, a multi-day trek to the summit of Mount Meru offers stunning scenery.

Tarangire, Ngorongoro & Lake Manyara National Park: 3 Days, 2 Nights Safari

If you’re seeking an unforgettable safari experience, this 3-day journey through Tarangire, Ngorongoro, and Lake Manyara National Parks is a dream come true. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Northern Tanzania, where every day is filled with adventure, wildlife, and breathtaking scenery.

What Makes This Safari Special?

This is more than just a trip; it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience designed to give you a glimpse of Tanzania’s wild heart. From the vibrant landscapes to the sheer diversity of animals, this safari package ensures you won’t miss a thing.

Here’s why this safari is a must:

  1. Tarangire National Park – The Land of Giants
    • Home to the largest concentration of elephants in Tanzania, Tarangire is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. Picture massive elephant herds roaming the grasslands, grazing under ancient baobab trees.
    • Unique species like the fringe-eared oryx and greater kudu can also be spotted here, along with predators like lions and leopards.
    • The Tarangire River acts as a magnet, attracting animals throughout the year for unparalleled game viewing.
  2. Ngorongoro Crater – Africa’s Eden
    • The Ngorongoro Crater, also known as the Eighth Wonder of the World, is a wildlife haven like no other. It’s one of the few places where you can spot the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, buffalo) in a single day.
    • With its lush grasslands, sparkling soda lakes, and volcanic highlands, the crater offers a mix of habitats teeming with life.
    • You’ll also have the chance to visit Maasai villages, where you can experience the rich culture of Tanzania’s indigenous people.
  3. Lake Manyara National Park – Nature’s Hidden Gem
    • Famous for its tree-climbing lions, this compact park is bursting with life. The stunning Lake Manyara is a seasonal home to thousands of pink flamingos, creating a scene straight out of a painting.
    • From baboons and giraffes to hippos and buffaloes, the park is a microcosm of East Africa’s wildlife.

Wildlife Encounters

On this safari, expect to see some of Africa’s most iconic animals up close:

  • Elephants: Found in abundance, especially in Tarangire.
  • Lions: Watch them lounging under the shade or climbing trees in Lake Manyara.
  • Leopards: Stealthy and elusive, these big cats are often spotted at dawn or dusk.
  • Rhinos: The Ngorongoro Crater is one of the best places to spot these critically endangered giants.
  • Birdlife: From flamingos to crowned cranes, bird lovers will find paradise here.

Cultural Experiences

Tanzania’s safaris aren’t just about animals; they’re also about connecting with the people and culture. On this tour, you’ll have opportunities to:

  • Visit a Maasai boma and learn about their traditional way of life.
  • Interact with locals and experience authentic Tanzanian hospitality.
  • Gain insight into the history and importance of wildlife conservation efforts in Tanzania.

Things to Keep in Mind

  • Health Tips:
    • Tanzania is a malaria-risk zone, so pack anti-malarial medication and insect repellent.
    • Bring any personal medications you may need, and ensure you have travel insurance that covers emergencies.
  • Photography Tips:
    • Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best lighting for wildlife photography.
    • Bring a zoom lens to capture close-ups of animals in their natural habitats.
  • Respect Wildlife:
    • Always keep a safe distance from animals, and follow your guide’s instructions.
    • Avoid loud noises or sudden movements that could disturb the wildlife.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or an adventure with friends, this safari caters to all. The flexibility of group sizes ensures that everyone can enjoy the magic of Tanzania’s wilderness.

Lake Manyara National Park

Overview

Lake Manyara National Park is a small yet diverse park in northern Tanzania, located just 126 kilometers west of Arusha. Covering 330 square kilometers, the park is famous for its alkaline lake that covers two-thirds of its area and attracts thousands of flamingos and other bird species. Known for its iconic tree-climbing lions, lush groundwater forests, and vast wildlife, Lake Manyara offers a unique safari experience ideal for day trips or short visits.

The park’s landscapes range from dense rainforests and savannahs to hot springs and floodplains, making it a scenic destination for photographers, nature enthusiasts, and bird watchers.

Best Time to Visit

Lake Manyara National Park can be visited year-round, but the experience varies depending on the season:

  1. Dry Season (June to October):
    • Best for spotting big game like elephants, lions, and giraffes.
    • Animals congregate near water sources, making wildlife sightings more predictable.
  2. Wet Season (November to May):
    • The park becomes lush and green, offering breathtaking scenery.
    • Ideal for birdwatching as migratory birds arrive during this time.
    • Babies of many animals are born during this period, providing opportunities to see young wildlife.

Key Attractions

  1. Lake Manyara:
    • A shallow soda lake that is home to thousands of flamingos and over 400 other bird species.
  2. Tree-Climbing Lions:
    • A rare behavior observed in this park, where lions rest on tree branches to escape insects or cool off in the shade.
  3. Maji Moto Hot Springs:
    • Natural geothermal springs located within the park, offering beautiful scenery and a tranquil atmosphere.
  4. Wildlife:
    • Known for its large elephant population and animals like buffalos, giraffes, hippos, zebras, and baboons.
    • Predators such as lions and leopards are also present, though less frequently seen.
  5. Groundwater Forests:
    • Dense forests fed by underground springs, home to primates like blue monkeys and vervet monkeys.

How to Get There

  • By Road:
    Lake Manyara is a two-hour drive (126 km) from Arusha, easily accessible via a well-paved road.
  • By Air:
    The nearest airstrip is Manyara Airstrip, which is serviced by domestic flights from Arusha or Kilimanjaro International Airport.

Activities in Lake Manyara National Park

  1. Game Drives:
    • Explore the park’s diverse ecosystems and spot wildlife such as elephants, baboons, and giraffes.
  2. Birdwatching:
    • Perfect for bird enthusiasts, with species like flamingos, pelicans, and storks.
  3. Canoeing (Seasonal):
    • Canoeing on Lake Manyara offers a unique perspective of the park’s wildlife.
  4. Cultural Tours:
    • Combine your visit with cultural experiences in nearby Mto wa Mbu village, known for its vibrant markets and diverse local communities.
  5. Walking Safari:
    • Guided walks near the lake and through the forests for close encounters with nature.

Rongai Route: A Scenic and Peaceful Kilimanjaro Trek

The Rongai Route is a unique and scenic trail approaching Mount Kilimanjaro from the northern side, near the Kenyan border. Known for its peaceful and remote paths, it offers trekkers an unforgettable experience through untouched wilderness and diverse landscapes. This route is ideal for climbers looking for a quieter alternative to the busier southern routes like Machame or Marangu.

The trek spans 6-7 days and has a steady and gradual ascent, making it moderately challenging and suitable for trekkers with basic fitness levels. Along the journey, you’ll hike through lush forests, cross alpine meadows, and experience the barren beauty of the high-altitude desert. Summit night is a thrilling and rewarding challenge, leading to the breathtaking Uhuru Peak. The Rongai Route perfectly balances adventure, tranquility, and natural beauty.

Best Time to Visit:

  • January to March: Cooler weather with clearer skies and fewer trekkers.
  • June to October: Dry season with stable weather conditions and fantastic summit views.

Activities:

  • Trekking through diverse landscapes, from forests to alpine zones.
  • Wildlife spotting, including colobus monkeys and antelopes.
  • Camping at remote and quiet sites surrounded by wilderness.
  • Conquering the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro at Uhuru Peak.
  • Photography of stunning sunrise views and dramatic landscapes.

Why Visit:

  • Less Crowded Trails: Ideal for those seeking solitude and peaceful trekking.
  • Unique Northern Perspective: Offers views and experiences not found on the southern routes.
  • Wildlife Opportunities: Encounter unique flora and fauna in the forested areas.
  • Gradual Ascent: A steady climb that helps trekkers ease into high-altitude conditions.
  • Authentic Adventure: Experience the raw beauty of Kilimanjaro with rustic campsites and minimal distractions.