12-Day Birding & Wildlife Photography Safari
This 10-day luxury safari combines Tanzania’s best wildlife parks with an indulgent beach holiday in Zanzibar. Explore Tarangire, Ngorongoro, and Serengeti in search of the Big Five, then unwind in style along Zanzibar’s pristine shores. Perfect for couples, honeymooners, or anyone seeking a mix of adventure and relaxation.
Duration: 12 Days / 11 Nights
Destinations: Arusha, Lake Manyara, Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Ruaha National Park
Safari Type: Birding + Wildlife Photography Safari (Private or Small Group)
Starting Point: Arusha, Tanzania
Safari Highlights
Over 500 bird species across multiple ecosystems
Big Five and predator photography in Serengeti and Ruaha
Guided birding walks and slow-paced game drives
Custom vehicle with camera support gear (bean bags, charging ports)
Great variety of scenery: lakes, woodlands, savannahs, crater
Optional macro, landscape, and low-light photography opportunities
🗓️ Itinerary Overview
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
Pick-up from Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to a luxury lodge in Arusha. Welcome dinner and safari briefing.
Overnight in Arusha.
Day 2: Lake Duluti & Arusha National Park Birding
Start with a relaxed birding walk around Lake Duluti, followed by a short drive to Arusha National Park for forest and highland bird species.
Overnight in Arusha.
Day 3: Arusha to Lake Manyara National Park
Drive to Lake Manyara, a paradise for birdwatchers. Expect flamingos, pelicans, storks, and forest species like hornbills and kingfishers.
Overnight in Karatu.
Day 4: Birding & Wildlife Photography in Lake Manyara
Early morning game drive with focus on both birdlife and elephants, giraffes, and hippos.
Overnight in Karatu.
Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater Safari
Descend into the crater for wildlife and landscape photography. Look for crowned cranes, ostriches, and rare black rhinos.
Overnight in Karatu.
Day 6: Transfer to Serengeti National Park (Central)
Drive to Serengeti with photography stops along the way. Afternoon game drive targeting lions, leopards, and large herbivores.
Overnight in Serengeti.
Day 7: Full-Day Wildlife Photography in Serengeti
Track big cats and migrating herds. Opportunities for raptors, vultures, bee-eaters, and dramatic animal scenes.
Overnight in Serengeti.
Day 8: Another Day in Serengeti
Optional early morning balloon safari (extra cost). Focus on different zones for new species and light conditions.
Overnight in Serengeti.
Day 9: Serengeti to Ruaha National Park (Fly-in)
Fly from Serengeti to Ruaha—Tanzania’s best-kept secret. Transfer to lodge and afternoon game drive in baobab-studded landscapes.
Overnight in Ruaha.
Day 10: Birding & Big Game Photography in Ruaha
Photograph elephants, buffalo, lions, and birds like bateleurs, rollers, and barbets.
Overnight in Ruaha.
Day 11: Last Game Drives in Ruaha
Morning and evening drives for final photo opportunities. Capture warm sunset light and silhouettes.
Overnight in Ruaha.
Day 12: Fly to Arusha – Departure
After breakfast, transfer to the airstrip and fly back to Arusha for international connection or overnight stay.
End of tour.
✅ What’s Included
Domestic flights (Serengeti to Ruaha and Ruaha to Arusha)
All park fees and birding permits
11 nights’ accommodation in photography-friendly lodges/camps
Full-board meals on safari
Private safari vehicle with pop-up roof and photo gear support
Professional birding/photo guide
Bottled water, snacks, and charging access
Airport transfers
❌ What’s Not Included
International flights
Visa fees and travel insurance
Hot air balloon (optional in Serengeti)
Alcoholic drinks and personal expenses
Tips and camera equipment rental (available on request)