Synergies, Summits & Savannahs
Highlights
Serengeti National Park – Quintessential Africa
Ndutu Plains – Serengeti’s off-roading playground and calving grounds for Great Migration
Oldupai Gorge – aka Cradle of Humankind
Tarangire National Park – Baobob trees & elephants galore
Ngorongoro Crater – You just have to see it to believe it
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!

A Safari Like No Other—Crafted Just for You!
Periquito Adventures and WANDERFUL TANZANIA have teamed up to create what might be our favorite safari experience yet!
This incredible 12-day journey has been designed to showcase the absolute best of Tanzania, delivering breathtaking wildlife encounters, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable moments in the heart of the wild.
-
Itinerary
-
Accommodations
-
Add-On Experiences
-
Inclusions & Exclusions
The safari begins as you exit the Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and are greeted by your local safari guides. They will help you with your luggage, and will take you to your first night’s accommodation at a safari lodge in Arusha town.
Your local guides will collect everyone from the safari lodge on the morning of Day 2, and take you to the Arusha Airport. The group will take a bush plane into the Central Serengeti, landing at the Seronera Airstrip. Upon landing and deplaning, you will meet your safari guides for the first time. We will have a briefing once the luggage has been loaded into the vehicles, and then immediately set out on our first game drive of the safari!
Let the adventure begin! After all, you’ve just arrived in the world-famous Serengeti National Park, and its the thing dreams are made of! Spectacular scenery in every direction, and a well-earned reputation for reliable and unforgettable wildlife encounters which, at times, seem to be around every bend in the road make for an amazing adventure that you’ll not soon forget.
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, but are often around the granite kopjes (pr. ko-pees) which dot the landscape like islands in the sea of wind-blown grasses.
You’ll spend your days exploring the various regions on the park, always on the lookout for the Big 5 (Rhino, Lion, Leopard, Elephant, and Cape Buffalo), in addition to the vast numbers of herding animals, birds, flora and fauna that make this place so special! And the BIRDS! Never overlook the birds of Tanzania, as they are nothing short of spectacular! You can sit back and relax knowing that Wanderful Tanzania vows to never to operate in such a way as to put undue pressure or stress on the animals or ecology of the parks we visit! As such, we painstakingly hand-select each of our guides, ensuring that not only are their skills and qualifications impeccable, but that they share and support our vision and commitment to preserve, conserve, and protect these wild places and all of the creatures that make their home there! The guides are there to inform and delight you throughout the safari. They love your questions, and will give you loads of information… but they are also aware that they do not need to “blah blah” the whole time we are out and about. They understand that nature is best experienced using all of your senses… and the soundtrack of these parks is a huge part of the experience.
So… a reminder to our photography friends — get your shots, but then take several minutes at each encounter to put your camera(s) down and just be present…soak it in. Who knows if you’ll ever come back there again! While in this park, your group will spend four nights in a beautifully appointed tented camp or “nyumba” (which means “home” in Swahili), smack dab in the heart of the action in the central region of the Serengeti National Park.
As we leave the Serengeti, we will stop at the OLDUPAI GORGE – Cradle of Mankind for a “lunch-and-learn” session and a visit to their museum. This gorge is known around the world as “The Cradle of Mankind,” as the footsteps of our oldest human relatives were found in the mud of this gorge, as well as some of the oldest stone tools, and other important discoveries.
The site remains an active archeological excavation site, with universities, museums, and other research institutions sending teams of scientists there each year to continue the exploration. It is a fascinating place to spend a few hours and realize that every single person on the planet can trace their lineage to this very spot on Earth.
While in this region, we have built in a “Day of Rest” from the bumpy dirt roads and daily game drives. Instead we take the group to the African Galleria for a morning of shopping, learning, and exploring at this crazy cool outpost. While at the Galleria, the group will enjoy a delightful lunch filled with authentic East African dishes, served family style.

ON CRATER DAY, we will be getting a very early start to ensure we are one of the first groups to reach the floor of the Ngorongoro Crater. We will spend the entire day exploring this 8th wonder of the world. The primary goal of this day is to make sure we spot the endangered Black Rhino (shown below). This will be our best shot at completing the “Big 5”!

Our guides will take the group into the Great Rift Valley for the purpose of visiting three different tribal families that live in this region of Tanzania. As we make our way towards our next accommodation (Lake Eyasi Safari Lodge), we will stop to meet the Blacksmiths and the Farming families of the Datoga tribe.
The Blacksmith family is delightful, and they will astonish you with their metal-working skills. You can participate in a good bit of the demonstration, or just sit back and watch the magic!
WARNING!!!! Our overnight accommodations at the safari lodge may be challenging for some of you. While the lodge, itself, is amazing, and it’s reliably spectacular views of the sunset are unbeatable… the windows in the rooms are NOT! The wind picks up in this region each night, like clockwork, and whistles through the poorly fitted windows all night long! Ear plugs would be a bonus here, so make sure you have a couple of pair with you!
The day we go to see the Hadzabe tribe will be a very early start to the day. will be VERY VERY EARLY! We will likely take a cup of coffee to go and be on the road by 4:30 or 5 a.m. (which you may actually welcome, after the terrible night’s sleep you’ve had/not had). We do this because we will have to drive out into the bush to “find” the HADZABE tribe. If we are fortunate enough to find them early, and the hunters are going on their morning hunt, they will welcome us to join them. This is an optional activity… please make your own decision on whether to join them on the hunt or not. If you do not want to see an animal killed, or feel that you cannot physically keep up with the tribe, please make the choice to stay back with our guide(s) or interact with the women and children of the tribe instead. join the ladies if they go “gathering” that morning.
After we leave the Hadzabe, we will set a course for the amazing Tarangire National Park. We will actually be game driving as we make our way to our accommodations for the next 2 nights.
The TNP is most famous for the massive elephant herds that can be found there year round… and for large numbers of the iconic and beautiful Baobob trees.

We will all be on the lookout for the final animal sightings as we game drive our way out of the park this morning. Once back on the tarmac, we will head directly back to Arusha so that we can arrive at our final lodge in time for a final lunch as a group… and more importantly, the final meal with our GREAT GUIDES! These guys, perfect strangers just 12 short days ago, are very likely to now be your treasured friends. They will wish you safe travels and know they are sending you home with your hearts and minds full of the wonderful memories from your time in Tanzania! During this final lunch is the perfect time to show your guides some love in the form of gratuity! If you valued their driving and guiding skills, hard work, and protection along the way, please offer a tip from your heart.
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.
The Kahawa House is a newer hotel that has opened up not far form Arusha’s regional airport. This beautiful lodge is quietly tucked away from the bustling main streets of Arusha. The food here is delicious and the grounds are beautiful. It makes a great place to stay upon arrival into Tanzania.
Wanderful Tanzania selects only well-located and well-run tented camps that can truly deliver an amazing experience to our guests. Nothing beats a hot shower and a spacious, comfy place to relax after a long day of game driving, bumpy roads, and close-up wildlife encounters. After you’ve rested a bit, wander over to the campfire for an evening drink and to compare notes with others about that day’s adventures…or just sit quietly and reflect on your own amazing day.
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!
Another beautiful tented camp will be home base for your final two nights on safari. This time, you’ll be smack dab in the heart of the mighty Serengeti!
The sunsets in Tanzania are incredible, as is the beauty of this wild and precious place. Enjoy your tent or come to the fire pit… before you know it dinner is once again served!
We will stay at another beautiful camp, this time located inside the Tarangire National Park. By staying inside the park, we will have access to the far reaches of the park that other visitors never reach with a simple day pass.
Enjoy the free evening happy hour, poolside, as you watch the sun slide behind the mountains across the beautiful lake… and then dinner should be served!

“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.

“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 your cart when you register! By arriving just one day early, you’ll have the chance to participate in this fun and sweet excursion that our past guests have absolutely raved about!
SYNERGIES INCLUSIONS:
- Meet & greet upon arrival at JRO, including transfer to River Trees Country Inn
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner on November 1st.
- 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.
- NOTE: Susie will ensure that $50 of your fee for this extension will be donated to the orphanage.
- 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!