Introduction:

Are you an outdoorsy adventurer with an interest in the history of human evolution? Then this itinerary is for you. Explore the remarkable landscapes of northern Tanzania while retracing the footsteps of early mankind through Laetoli, Olduvai Gorge, scenic gorges, and the dramatic beauty of Lake Natron, perfectly blending adventure, nature, and history.

Itinerary: –

Day 01: Arrival in Kilimanjaro / Arusha

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative. If you wish to exchange currency, we recommend doing so at the airport for convenience. You will then be transferred to your hotel in Arusha. The rest of the day is at leisure to relax after your journey.

Overnight: Tumbili Lodge
Meals: Dinner only

Day 02: Arusha / Ngorongoro Crater

Breakfast at your hotel and check-out. Thereafter, depart for Ngorongoro Crater, approximately a 4-hour drive, with picnic lunch boxes. Upon arrival, descend to the crater floor for an afternoon game drive.
Ngorongoro Crater, the world’s largest unbroken volcanic crater, is often described as a true Garden of Eden. Its year-round grazing and freshwater support over 23,000 large mammals, including wildebeest, zebra, buffalo, and gazelles. The crater also has one of the highest concentrations of predators, with lions, spotted hyenas, and jackals commonly seen. Other wildlife includes male elephants, hippos, waterbuck, the endangered black rhino, and over 220 bird species, including flamingos.

Overnight: Ngorongoro Tortilis Camp
Meals: All meals (Lunch / Dinner & Breakfast)

Day 03: Full Excursions to Shifting Sands / Laetoli Footprints site & Ol Duvai Gorge

Enjoy a fascinating journey through Tanzania’s prehistoric heritage with visits to the Shifting Sands, a unique moving dune of volcanic ash, the ancient Laetoli Footprints Site, home to 3.6-million-year-old early human footprints, and the world-famous Olduvai Gorge, often referred to as the “Cradle of Mankind,” where important fossils and archaeological discoveries reveal the story of early human evolution, all perfectly integrated into a scenic day excursion through the Ngorongoro plains.

Overnight: Ngorongoro Tortilis Camp
Meals: All meals (Lunch / Dinner & Breakfast)

Day 04: Ngorongoro – Olduvai Gorge 

Begin 5 days Reverse Trek – Footsteps of Mankind.
Breakfast at your camp and check-out. Thereafter, depart for Olduvai Gorge, beginning your journey with a visit to the cast of the 3.6-million-year-old hominid footprints at Laetoli. Meet your guides and commence the 5-day reverse Footprints of Mankind trek, retracing the story of early human history. In the afternoon, enjoy a trek to ancient cave paintings. PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU BRING AT LEAST 3 LITRES OF WATER.

Overnight: Piyaya Camp
Meals: All meals (Lunch / Dinner & Breakfast)

Day 05: Trek to Sanjan Gorge

This morning, begin your trek to the scenic Sanjan Gorge (approximately 4 km), or opt for a drive to the head of the gorge. Thereafter, continue on foot, through the dramatic landscapes of the gorge to reach Sanjan Camp, enjoying the unique scenery and wilderness along the way.

Overnight: Sanjan Camp
Meals: All meals (Lunch / Dinner & Breakfast)

Day 06: Sanjan to Lake Natron

After breakfast, enjoy a morning exploration of the scenic Sanjan Gorge before a vehicle transfer to the top of the Great Rift Valley escarpment. Thereafter, trek down through striking landscapes to Ngare Sero Village in the Lake Natron area, followed by a transfer to your camp at Lake Natron

Overnight: Lake Natron Camp
Meals: All meals (Lunch / Dinner & Breakfast)

Day 07: Full day in Lake Natron

Relax and enjoy the activities on offer at camp. Take a refreshing dip in the natural pool, where tiny fish provide a unique natural pedicure for your feet. Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, the camp staff are on hand to make your stay as active or as restful as you wish.

Overnight: Lake Natron Camp
Meals: All meals (Lunch / Dinner & Breakfast)

Day 08: Lake Natron – Manyara – Arusha

After breakfast, depart the Lake Natron area and journey to Mto wa Mbu, a vibrant cultural town set at the base of the Great Rift Valley and known for its colourful local markets, farming community, and rich mix of cultures. Enjoy a hot lunch at Ol Mesera Restaurant before continuing your scenic drive to Arusha for check-in at your accommodation and an overnight stay.

Overnight: Tumbili Lodge
Meals: All meals (Lunch / Dinner & Breakfast)

Day 09: Departure day

Breakfast at your hotel and check-out. Depending on your international flight departure time, you will be transferred to the Kilimanjaro International Airport.

END OF SAFARI!