7 DAYS SELF DRIVE SAFARI IN TANZANIA

Durations

7 days / 6 nights

Group Size

Up to the seats of your vehicle

Price per person

$ 3,920.00

7 DAYS SELF DRIVE SAFARI IN TANZANIA - Overview

Embark on an unforgettable 7-day Northern Tanzania self-drive safari. This trip is perfect for travelers who want freedom, adventure, and flexibility. Drive your own 4×4 Land Cruiser with a rooftop tent and full camping gear. Explore iconic parks and experience nature on your own terms.
This self-drive safari leads you from village life in Mto wa Mbu to the dramatic Ngorongoro Crater. You’ll also visit Lake Manyara and the vast plains of the Serengeti. Along the way, encounter elephants, lions, and maybe the Big Five. This adventure offers full immersion in the wild.

Fully-equipped 4×4 Land Cruiser with rooftop tent

Offline GPS routes & printed roadbook

24/7 phone support

Pre-booked park permits & campsites

Itinerary

Day 1Pick up the vehicle – Sleep in Arusha

After a meet and greet at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you’ll transfer to Arusha, where you will pick up your fully equipped 4×4 vehicle.

Camping Public campsite

Lodge Arusha Planet Lodge

Day 2Mto wa Mbu village and Lake Manyara

Drive to Mto wa Mbu and join a guided village walk through farms and banana plantations. Then enter Lake Manyara National Park, known for its tree-climbing lions, elephants, and rich birdlife. Enjoy an afternoon game drive.

Camping Public campsite

Lodge Karatu Tented Lodge

Day 3Safari in Ngorongoro crater

Early drive to Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Descend into the crater for a game drive of up to about six hours in one of Africa’s most biodiverse habitats.

Camping Public campsite

Lodge Karatu Tented Lodge

Day 4Drive to Serengeti with game drives en route

Drive from Karatu over the Ngorongoro highlands into the Serengeti, with game drives on the way. You may encounter elephants, giraffes, hippos, lions, and cheetahs.

Camping Public campsite

Lodge Mawe Serengeti Tented Camp

Day 5Full day in Serengeti National Park

Spend a full day on game drives in the Serengeti. The open plains are great for lions, cheetahs, and large herds of grazing animals.

Camping Public campsite

Lodge Mawe Serengeti Tented Camp

Day 6Morning game drive, then drive to Karatu

Enjoy a last morning game drive in the Serengeti. Then drive back over the Ngorongoro highlands to Karatu (about 150 to 180 km).

Camping Public campsite

Lodge Karatu Tented Lodge

Day 7Drive to Arusha and drop off

After breakfast, drive from Karatu to Arusha (about 140 km, around 3 hours). Then drop off the vehicle.

Faqs

What are the recommended destinations for a 7-day self-drive safari in Northern Tanzania?

A 7-day self-drive safari in Northern Tanzania typically includes visits to renowned national parks and conservation areas like the Ngorongoro Crater, famous for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife; the Serengeti, famous for its endless plains and big cats; and Lake Manyara National Park, known for its flamingos and tree-climbing lions. These destinations offer a comprehensive experience of Tanzania’s unique wildlife and landscapes.

What type of vehicle is recommended for a self-drive safari in this region, and are there any special driving requirements?

For a self-drive safari in Northern Tanzania, a 4×4 vehicle is strongly recommended due to the varying terrain and off-road conditions. These vehicles are equipped to handle rough tracks, especially during the rainy season. It’s important to have a vehicle with high ground clearance. As for driving requirements, you need a valid driver’s license and an International Driving Permit (IDP). No 4×4 experience is needed, as we give a vehicle briefing at pickup. Additionally, understanding basic vehicle maintenance and carrying a map or GPS device is advisable for navigating remote areas. At Safari Masters, we provide Land Cruisers that are built for such roads.

What should one pack for a 7-day self-drive safari in Northern Tanzania?

When packing for a self-drive safari in Northern Tanzania, it’s important to include lightweight, breathable clothing with neutral colors for game drives; a sturdy pair of walking shoes; sun protection such as hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen; binoculars for wildlife viewing; a first-aid kit; and sufficient water and snacks for long drives. Packing a camera with extra batteries and memory cards is essential for capturing the safari experience. Lastly, since evenings can be cool, we suggest you bring a warm jacket or fleece. Check out our blog for a more comprehensive packing list.

Stories from Our Africa RoadTrip Adventure

Exceptional Safari Experience with Safari Masters

Sagar C, August 2026

“Overall, I would definitely recommend Safari Masters.” …

Self-drive safari Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro, Serengeti, and Mara River

Felix Drinkall

We had such a great experience with Safari Masters. We self-drove through the Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Ngorogoro, Serengeti, and up to the Mara River to see the Great Migration. The car was powerful, very reliable and well-stocked. We also had great support from Felix who helped us work out where we should stay on our journey

4x4 with a rooftop tent and pop-up roof from Safari Masters

Tidjane Mangane

Unforgettable self-drive safari thanks to Safari Masters! My wife and I rented a 4×4 with a rooftop tent and pop-up roof from Safari Masters in Arusha for a 5-day self-drive through Ngorongoro and the Serengeti — and it was the adventure of a lifetime.

Ready to take the wheel?

Vehicles are limited in peak season. Reserve your 4×4 and start planning your route.