14 Days Elegant Safari Journeys in Western Tanzania

Day 1: Arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) – Arusha 

• Welcome to Tanzania! Upon your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you will proceed through immigration to arrange your visa. Afterward, head to the baggage hall to collect your luggage. Following customs clearance, exit the terminal where our friendly guide will be waiting to welcome you. They will assist you with your luggage and escort you to our vehicle.
• Transfer to Arusha: Enjoy a scenic drive to Arusha, a vibrant city nestled at the foot of Mount Meru. As you travel, take in the breathtaking landscapes, with lush greenery and distant mountains providing a picturesque backdrop. Your guide will share insights about the local culture and wildlife, setting the stage for your adventure ahead.
• Driving Time: The drive from the Kilimanjaro International Gran Melia Hotel in Arusha takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
• Check-In: Arrive at the luxurious Gran Melia Hotel Arusha, where you will check in to your elegant accommodations. The hotel features modern amenities, including a spa, swimming pool, and fine dining options, ensuring a comfortable stay.
• Relaxation: After your journey, take time to unwind and recharge. Enjoy the hotel’s amenities, perhaps indulging in a spa treatment or lounging by the pool.
• Evening Dining: In the evening, enjoy a delectable dinner at the hotel’s restaurant, where talented chefs prepare gourmet meals featuring local flavors and fresh ingredients. Your stay at the Gran Melia Hotel Arusha includes both dinner and breakfast the following morning, allowing you to savor the culinary delights of Tanzania.
• Overnight Stay: Retire to your luxurious room at the Gran Melia Hotel Arusha for a restful night, preparing for the exciting adventures that await you the next day.

Day 2: Journey from Arusha to Katavi National Park

• Breakfast: Start your day with a delightful breakfast at your hotel, featuring a selection of fresh fruits, pastries, and local specialties to fuel your adventure ahead.
• Transfer to Arusha Airport: After breakfast at Gran Melia Hotel Arusha around 7:00 AM, you will be transferred to Arusha Airport for a direct shared charter flight to Katavi National Park using a shared charter flight, departing between 08:00 and 09:00 and arriving at 11.55am and 12:55 PM respectively.
• Upon arrival at Katavi Ikuu Airstrip, you will be greeted by your guide, who will assist you with the transfer to Mbali Mbali Katavi Lodge for check-in. Enjoy a hot lunch and some relaxation before the afternoon game drive in the Katavi National Park, renowned for its stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife.
• After lunch and some relaxation, embark on an exciting afternoon game drive in a shared open vehicle. You’ll have the opportunity to observe a variety of animals in their natural habitat, including herds of buffalo, elephants, lions, and numerous bird species.
• Your stay at Mbali Mbali Katavi Lodge includes accommodation in a standard room, along with activities included in the game package.
• After a day filled with adventure and wildlife encounters, proceed to Mbali Mbali Katavi Lodge for dinner and overnight accommodations. As part of the game package, you will enjoy comfortable lodge accommodations, all meals (breakfast, picnic lunch, and dinner), three complimentary beverages per meal while dining on site (includes water, soft drinks and beers), full-day guided game drives, Laundry, Tourism Development Levy, and VAT & Expert guidance on wildlife and conservation
• Rest well as you prepare for another day of exploration in the stunning landscapes of Katavi National Park.
• Mbali Mbali Katavi is ideal for traveler looking for truly remote experience away from regular tourist routes.

Days 3 & 4: Full days of exploration in Katavi National Park.

• After a hearty breakfast, embark on a full-day game drive through the breathtaking landscapes of Katavi National Park. Experience the thrill of wildlife viewing as you traverse the park’s diverse habitats, with opportunities to spot elephants, lions, hippos, and a variety of bird species.
• Enjoy a delicious picnic lunch amidst the stunning scenery, allowing you to fully appreciate the beauty of your surroundings.
• All activities as organized by Mbali Mbali Katavi Lodge, including Chimpanzee Trekking, will be conducted on a shared basis under the guidance of an English-speaking driver.
• At the end of each day, return to Mbali Mbali Katavi Lodge for dinner and overnight say, as part of the game package.

Day 5: Travel from Katavi to Mahale Mountains National Park.

• Start your day with a healthy breakfast at Mbali Mbali Katavi Lodge. Afterward, you’ll be transferred to Katavi Ikuu Airstrip to catch your domestic flight to Mahale National Park, departing at 11:30 AM and arriving at 12:30 PM.
• Upon arrival, you will be greeted by a representative from Mbali Mbali Mahale Lodge, who will assist you with a safe transfer to the lodge.
• Once at the lodge, you’ll check in according to the standard room allocations and enjoy a delicious hot lunch, followed by a briefing of your entire safari program in Mahale National Park.
• All activities, including Chimpanzee Trekking over the next three days, will be organized by Mbali Mbali Mahale Lodge as part of the game package, using professional English-speaking driver guides on a shared basis. This includes conforable lodge accommodations, all meals (breakfast, picnic lunch, and dinner), three complimentary beverages per meal while dining on site (includes water, soft drinks and beers), water during chimpanzee trek, Laundry, Tourism Development Levy, and VAT, boat transfer to and fro Mahale Airstrip and Kayaking.

Days 6, 7 & 8: Full days of exploration in Mahale National Park. 

• During the three days, all activities, including Chimpanzee Trekking, will be organized by Mbali Mbali Mahale Lodge as part of the game package.
• Chimpanzee Trekking will be led by professional English-speaking guide
• Accommodation will be in standard rooms with full board occupancy.

Day 9: Journey from Mahale National Park to Gombe Stream National Park via Kigoma. 

• Enjoy an early breakfast at Mbali Mbali Mahale Lodge before departing for Kigoma. 
• After breakfast, board your boat to Mahale Airstrip. 
• Upon arrival at the airstrip, check in for your shared charter flight to Kigoma Airport. 
• The flight from Mahale Airstrip to Kigoma Airport takes approximately 40 minutes, followed by a scenic boat ride from Kigoma to Gombe Stream National Park, which takes about 2 hours.
• After landing in Kigoma, there is a 25minute pickup to Kigoma Hilltop Hotel followed by a boat transfer to Gombe Stream National Park, enjoying scenic views of Lake Tanganyika along the way.
• Arrive at Gombe Stream National Park followed by registration in the park at Kasekela then head to Mbali Mbali Gombe Lodge for a smooth check in.
• Check in at your accommodation and enjoy a hot lunch or meal at the lodge. 
• Participate in a guided nature walk or chimpanzee tracking excursion, depending on your interests and the park schedule, before returning to the lodge to relax and freshen up. 
• All activities, including Chimpanzee Trekking over the next two days, will be organized by Mbali Mbali Gombe Lodge as part of the game package, with professional English-speaking guides provided on a shared basis.
• Please note that after the Trek they can also have a swim in the Lake Tanganyika or snorkelling or kayaking.
• Enjoy dinner at the lodge, sharing experiences from the day’s journey, followed by a brief discussion with your guide about the next day’s activities and what to expect in Gombe Stream National Park.

Days 10 & 11: Full days of exploration in Gombe Stream National Park. 

• All activities, including Chimpanzee Trekking over the next two days, will be organized by Mbali Mbali Gombe Lodge as part of the game package, with professional English-speaking guides provided on a shared basis.
• Every day morning after a delightful breakfast, embark on a guided chimpanzee trekking adventure. Explore the lush forests and clear waters of Gombe Stream National Park while participating in educational walks that delve into the primates’ behavior and ongoing conservation efforts.
• In the evening, return to Mbali Mbali Gombe Lodge for dinner and overnight accommodations as part of the game package, which includes comfortable lodge accommodations, all meals (breakfast, picnic lunch, and dinner), three complimentary beverages per meal while dining on site (includes water, soft drinks and beers), water during chimpanzee trek, Laundry, Tourism Development Levy, and VAT, boat transfer and Kayaking.

Day 12: Travel from Gombe Stream National Park back to Arusha.

• Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at Mbali Mbali Gombe Lodge, savoring the flavors of the region while overlooking the stunning natural surroundings. Take your time to reflect on the incredible wildlife experiences you’ve enjoyed during your stay.
• After breakfast, pack your luggage and prepare for check-out. You will board a direct chartered shared flight to Arusha, with a departure time around 11:00 AM. This scenic flight offers a unique opportunity to view the breathtaking landscapes of Tanzania from above.
• You are expected to arrive at Arusha Airport around 6:00 PM. Upon landing, our friendly team will be waiting to greet you and assist with your transfer to Arusha Town.
• Once you arrive in Arusha, you’ll check in to the Gran Melia Hotel Arusha, where you will enjoy a comfortable overnight stay on a half-board basis. Take some time to relax and unwind, perhaps enjoying the hotel’s amenities or exploring the local area.
• Your evening will include dinner at the hotel, where you can indulge in a delightful dining experience featuring both local and international cuisine.

Day 13: Extended Tour of Arusha City.

• Enjoy a hearty breakfast at the Gran Melia Hotel Arusha to fuel up for the day.
• Begin your adventure with a visit to the Tanzanite Museum Center in Arusha.
• Next, head to the Arusha Cultural Heritage Centre, where you can immerse yourself in Tanzanian culture and art. Browse through local crafts, paintings, and sculptures, and take this opportunity to pick up unique souvenirs.
• Savor a delicious BBQ lunch at Tembo Club, where you can also try traditional Tanzanian dishes such as ugali or nyama choma.
• Visit the Shanga Centre, known for its beautiful handmade crafts and community impact.
• Conclude your day by returning to your hotel to relax, dinner and overnight stay after a fulfilling exploration of Arusha.
• As your journey comes to a close, reflect on the remarkable adventures and unforgettable memories you’ve created throughout your trip.

Day 14: Departure from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).

• Enjoy your final breakfast in Arusha, Tanzania, where you can savor the delicious flavors of the region.   
• Depending on your flight schedule, we will transfer you to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for your onward flight home. This marks the end of your safari holiday with us, filled with unforgettable experiences and cherished memories. We hope you take with you the warmth of Tanzania and the spirit of adventure as you journey back home. Safe travels!