Healing Hearts Safari
Highlights
Serengeti National Park – Quintessential Africa
Ndutu Plains – Serengeti’s off-roading playground and calving grounds for Great Migration
Baby Bloom – Witness the awe-inspiring Great Migration as more than 2 million animals flood the plains and bring over 400,000 new babies into the world.
Ngorongoro Crater – You just have to see it to believe it
If you’ve experienced profound loss and are seeing a way to heal your heart and reconnect with life, THIS is the safari for you.
Susie Langley (Founder of Wanderful Tanzania) has personally curated an incredible safari that skillfully mixes a soul-moving safari deep into the wilds of Tanzania with a heart-centered personal journey of discovery designed to help heal your heart and invite passion and purpose back into your life.
SPACE IS LIMITED TO JUST 11 SPECIAL GUESTS
This one is expected to sell out quickly — sign up today to secure your spot!
Our Safari Philosophy
All Wanderful Tanzania safaris are intentionally crafted with a unique rhythm designed to strike a balance between adventure and rest. We refer to this cadence as an “unhurried journey of discovery.” So, while you’ll have ample opportunity for exploration and excitement, there will also be plenty of time for relaxation, reflection and rejuvenation. We believe that this balance creates a more meaningful, enjoyable, and memorable safari experience for our guests.
Come into the wild with Wanderful, and lose yourself to Tanzania!
Why Safari During Green Season?
The short answer to that question is… because its green and its time for the Baby Bloom!!
If you picture endless plains of golden grasses waving in the wind, with some magnificent beast in the foreground when you think of a safari, you’re not alone! You share that iconic image with millions of people around the world, as it is the epitome of PEAK Season in Tanzania.
Now imagine that same scene, but this time imagine your creatures surrounded by vibrant green grasses and blue waterways under stunningly gorgeous skies. That’s what Green Season is all about in Tanzania!
More Benefits of a Green Season Safari
- Smaller crowds
- Little to no dust
- Fun mud-bogging is possible (and sometimes necessary)
- Access to the spectacular Ndutu region (seasonal region of the Serengeti)
- Soft light and drama!!! This time of year there are dramatic clouds and breathtaking skyscapes in every direction (a photographer’s dream!)
- A slight chance for rainbows over the savannas
- A chance to hear the sound of rain on your tent as you drift off to sleep
- You’ll be immersed in the Great Migration as they gather on the Ndutu plains, where they will give birth to more than 400,000 babies between around the February timeframe.
- There are beautiful birds, everywhere!
- Love is in the air! (while the Great Migration is busy bearing their young, it seems like everyone else is mating!)
Your safari begins the moment you exit the Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and are greeted by Wanderful Tanzania’s local guide(s). They will help you with your luggage and will take you to your first night’s accommodation at a beautifully appointed safari lodge in Arusha.
KLM / DELTA – Recommended airlines to Tanzania
An exhilarating bush flight will take you from the Arusha Airport to the Seronera Airstrip in the central region of the Serengeti National Park, where you’ll meet your safari guide(s) for the first time! They will be there to welcome you to the Serengeti, will help you to get situated in the safari vehicle(s)… and you’ll be off on your first game drive of the safari, straight away!
The central region of the Serengeti National Park is the thing dreams are made of! Granite kopjes (pr. co-pees) pop up, seemingly out of nowhere, and dot the landscape like islands in a sea of wind-blown grasses.
Be on the lookout for elephants, giraffes, zebras, antelopes, hippos, and so much more! Your guide(s) will help you spot the big cats, as those are usually much harder to locate.
And the birds in the parks of Tanzania are nothing short of mind blowing in terms of volume, variety, and beauty!
Your next adventure will take place on the Ndutu Plains in the Southern Serengeti. This area was made famous by documentary and cinematic filmmakers, and by researchers such as Jane Goodall.
It is worth the early wake up to be one of the first groups to reach the crater floor on “Crater Day!” The primary goal of this day is to be on the lookout for the endangered Black Rhino. This will be your best shot at finding this element of the Big Five!
Although Tanzania has many wilderness and wildlife show pieces, this one is particularly difficult to put into words. With remarkable views from the ridge above, to the real action on the crater floor, the crater embodies a constant stir of wildlife and unspoiled scenes to keep you engrossed.
We will embark upon a fun botanical walking tour with one of the local tribes’ healers on Day 9 of the safari. The indigenous tribes of Tanzania have been using plant-based and other naturopathic healing methods for centuries. Our guide will show us various plants and will describe their uses as medicine, as well as explain the other types of healing used by the tribes.
Get ready to say goodbye to your safari guide(s) at the end of an incredibly spiritual journey. They have shared their knowledge, expertise and passion for Africa’s wilderness with you, making your safari experience safe, comfortable, and unforgettable.
After lunch, all guests will have access to a day-use room that they can use to rest, relax, repack, shower, or whatever is needed to get you ready to head back to the airport for your homebound flights this evening.
You’ll spend your first night in Tanzania at one of the adorable safari lodges in town. Gmodations are spread out amongst the beautifully manicured lawns and gardens, and guests can enjoy a meal or drink at their onsite restaurant and bar in the man building.
During your time in the Central Serengeti, you’ll be staying at one of the incredible tented camps in that region. While each camp has a different vibe, they are little havens of comfort and relaxation smack-dab in the middle of the bush! With all the amenities you could desire, they are truly a wonderful home away from home!
This spectacular property is located in the Karatu area of Tanzania. It provides ideal access to the Ngorongoro Crater, and is a splendid lodge at which to spend a couple of nights during the safari.
Guests are welcome to join a guided tour of the grounds each evening, or you are most welcome to just explore on your own. There are more than 600 acres of manicured gardens and groves to wander through. Perhaps you’d rather have a dip in the pool, or enjoy a massage or pedicure? Just check with the hotel staff to verify schedule of activities and spa openings!
“SUMMITS” Conquer Africa’s Rooftop Before your Safari Adventure!
If you’re ready to take on the ultimate challenge, seize the opportunity to summit Mt. Kilimanjaro before your safari begins! At a breathtaking (literally) 19,341 feet, Kili is Africa’s highest mountain, and is iconic the world over. This 7-day trek on the Marangu Route is a true Bucket List adventure—demanding, exhilarating, and absolutely life-changing.
Kilimanjaro International Airport
On arrival at Airport, you will meet your driver who will transfer you to your lodge.
Overnight at Airport Planet Lodge – Meals Dinner and Breakfast
Marangu Gate to Mandara Hut
In the morning you will be collected from your lodge and transferred to Marangu Gate, approximately 3 hours. After the registration process, we will start the trek through the Kilimanjaro rainforest. Within the rainforest, look for towering Eucalyptus trees, birdlife, and monkeys. At these lower elevations, it can be wet and muddy so trekking poles will help. After dinner, you will be briefed for the following day by your head guide.
- Elevation: 1,843m (6,046ft) to 2,700m (8,858ft)
- Distance: 8km (5 miles)
- Trekking Time: 7 hours
- Vegetation Zone: Rainforest
Overnight at Mandara Hut
Mandara Hut to Horombo Hut
Today we continue through the rainforest, around the base of the Maundi Crater, and then transition rather rapidly into the low alpine moorland zone. If the weather is clear you will have the opportunity to climb up the Maundi Crater to get your first full view of Kibo Peak. During the trek, you will also see giant lobelias which are scattered throughout the landscape at this altitude. Once at Horombo Hut you will be shown your sleeping quarters and be briefed about the following day by your head guide after dinner.
- Elevation: 2,700m (8,858ft) to 3,720m (12,205ft)
- Distance: 11.5km (7 miles)
- Trekking Time: 6-8 hours
- Vegetation Zone: Rainforest and Low Alpine
Overnight at Horombo Hut
Acclimatization Trek to Zebra Rocks
Today serves as a acclimatization day. This should not be underestimated and greatly improves your chance of success in reaching the summit. After a relaxing breakfast, we will trek to the Zebra Rocks (4,010m). The distinctive black and white stripes give the rock formation its name. Spend the afternoon relaxing once we return to Horombo Hut.
- Elevation: 3,720m (12,205ft) to 4,010m (13,156ft)
- Distance: 5km (3.1 miles)
- Trekking Time: 4 hours
- Vegetation Zone: Low Alpine
Overnights at Horombo Hut
Horombo Hut to Kibo Hut
We continue our trek to Kibo Hut taking the lower-left route as it is the easiest trek to the huts. Once we reach Kibo Hut you will have an early dinner. We recommend resting and sleeping before being awoken at 11pm to prepare for the summit climb. During dinner, you will be briefed for the following day by your head guide.
- Elevation: 3,720m (12,205ft) to 4,703m (15,430ft)
- Distance: 10km (6 miles)
- Trekking Time: 5-7 hours
- Vegetation Zone: Low Alpine and High Alpine
Overnight at Kibo Hut
Summit Day
We start the summit climb at midnight and walk steeply upwards to the summit glaciers. We will be climbing slowly but gain incredible height over a short distance and pass the Hans Meyer Cave at 5,220m. We will reach Gillman’s Point (5,681m)
as the first rays of sunlight begin to show. Here we will take a short break to watch the sunrise over Africa. We continue for another 1-2 hours up to the summit, Uhuru Peak (5,895m). We begin our descent back to Kibo Hut for breakfast. After a short rest, you will continue to descend to Horombo Hut for a long well-earned rest.
- Elevation: 4,703m (15,430ft) to 5,895m (19,341ft) to 3,720m (12,205ft)
- Distance: 16km (9,6 miles)
- Trekking Time: 13-15 hours
- Vegetation Zone: Glacial, High Alpine, and Low Alpine
Overnight at Horombo Hut
Horombo Hut to Marangu Gate
On the final day we continue through the rainforest until we reach Marangu Gate where we complete park formalities and present you with a certified confirming you summited Mount Kilimanjaro. We are then met by our vehicles and transferred back to your lodge for day use then transferred to the airport.
- Elevation: 3,720m (12,205ft) to 1,843m (6,046ft)
- Distance: 20km (12.5 miles)
- Trekking Time: 6-8 hours
- Vegetation Zone: Low Alpine and Rainforest
Day use at Airport Planet Lodge – Meal Lunch
HOT AIR BALLOON EXPERIENCE
There is nothing quite like the serenity and breathtaking beauty of the Serengeti at sunrise as you float above it all in a gigantic hot-air balloon. This activity is an option you may choose to add to your safari, and is priced separately at $650 per person. This once-in-a-lifetime experience is a blast, as is the champagne toast and a full English-breakfast in the bush that are also part of this package.
"Self Care" Early Check In and Chill
Would you like to arrive a couple days early to get settled? Did you just summit Kili and “need a minute” to rest and recover before starting the safari? Perhaps you simply wish to get those long flights out of the way and allow your body to adjust to the new timezone before starting the early wake ups and long days on safari. THIS OPTION IS FOR YOU! Add 3 days and 2 nights to your itinerary before the safari begins.
You’ll have ample time to schedule a massage, soak in the tub, or enjoy the pool. You might go for a stroll through the beautiful gardens or find a place to watch vervet monkeys and exotic birds in the canopies of the trees throughout the property. Order a wood-fired pizza and a cocktail for lunch, and let your cares melt away!
If the idea of checking in and chilling out matches your vision, please be sure to ADD the “Self Care” option to your registration.
Meet & greet upon arrival at JRO, including transfer to River Trees Country Inn
2 nights’ accommodation at River Trees Country Inn (NOTE: the night of Nov 1 is technically the first day of the standard safari)
3 meals daily, (drinks are on your own)
All entry, park, and activity fees involved with the Walking Safari in Arusha National Park
Transportation to The Small Things Orphanage for a tour and history of the property… a chance to meet some of the kids… and a chance to make a valued donation to this incredible organization.
Transfer to Kahawa House (your next accommodation)
“SYNERGIES” Ease Into Africa with Adventure & Heartfelt Connection
If you’re looking to start your journey with purpose, connection, and a little adventure, then add the “Synergies” extension to registration. By arriving early, you’ll have the chance to participate in this fun and sweet excursions that our past guests have absolutely raved about!
Just relax and chill at the inn – perhaps schedule a massage.
Hike along scenic trails of Arusha National Park, leading to a gorgeous waterfall at the base of Mt. Meru and if it’s an exceptionally clear day, they may even catch a breathtaking glimpse of the majestic Mt. Kilimanjaro towering in the distance! Your guide will then return you to the beautiful River Trees Country Inn in the afternoon so you may continue to enjoy the serenity of that incredible property.
- Meet & greet upon arrival at JRO, including transfer to River Trees Country Inn
- 2 nights’ accommodation at River Trees Country Inn for 2 nights (NOTE: the night of Nov 1 is technically the first day of the standard safari)
- 3 meals daily, (drinks are on your own)
- All entry, park, and activity fees involved with the Walking Safari in Arusha National Park
- Transportation to The Small Things Orphanage for a tour and history of the property… a chance to meet some of the kids… and a chance to make a valued donation to this incredible organization.
- Transfer to Kahawa House (your next accommodation)
* Dependent on final accommodations & level of room selected)
With some advanced planning, our “almost wallet-less” journeys can make safari dreams a reality for nearly everyone.
“Almost wallet-less“ means that we include about 90% of the total costs in the price of the safari, and then offer guests a flexible payment schedule which allows them to break the payments into smaller payments that can be made over many months leading up to the safari. The other 10% (+/-) of the associated costs is money that guests will need to bring in cash on the safari, which we talk about in detail in our Tour Packet, which we send out to every guest upon registration.
In fact, we guide you all the way through the paperwork and preparation needed before the safari. Our goal is for every guest to arrive in Tanzania relaxed and ready to enjoy their wild adventure, without needing to worry about their wallets.
Included
- Pre-trip preparation and guidance, including detailed Tour Packet and series of infographics designed to make sure you are ready to safari
- Arrival welcome by your safari guide(s) as you exit the Kilimanjaro International Airport in Tanzania
- All transfers throughout the safari (to/from airports, hotels, tour-related excursions, etc.)
- One-way bush plane flight from the Serengeti to Arusha (or vice versa)
- Experienced, local, professional driver(s)/guide(s) (English speaking)
- All accommodations at a variety of tented camps, safari lodges/resorts
- All breakfasts and dinners, chef-prepared daily
- All lunches (either hot lunch or box lunches, depending on daily schedule)
- All snacks, water, coffee, and tea (alcohol & sodas are on your own)
- All ground transportation in safari-modified Land Cruisers, inclusive of fuel
- All taxes related to tourism
- All park, service, conservancy, and entrance fees associated with safari itinerary
NOT Included
- Airfare to/from Tanzania
- Tips for driver(s), guide(s) and the staffs of the various camps & lodges – tipping guidelines are offered in Tour Packet
- Beverages (beer, wine, liquor, soft drinks) purchased from lounges, camps, restaurants or stores. (Beverages are generally very inexpensive in Tanzania)
- Travel and evacuation insurance (strongly recommended)
- Pre- or Post-Safari accommodations, transportation, meals, or tours
Reserve Your Spot
Pay a 20% deposit today to reserve your place on this once-in-a-lifetime safari!