21 Days 20 Nights
Kenya

21 DAYS BUSH TO BEACH SAFARI-TANZANIA
21-Day Tanzania Self-Drive Safari: From Savannah to Sea
This 21-day Tanzania self-drive safari leads you across famous parks in the north and wild, untouched regions in the south. Explore at your own pace in a fully equipped 4×4. Combine wildlife encounters, diverse landscapes, cultural immersion, and even time at the beach. It’s the perfect adventure for independent travelers.
Tarangire National Park
Start your Tanzania self-drive safari in Tarangire, a peaceful park known for its large elephant herds and iconic baobab trees. During the dry season, the Tarangire River becomes a vital water source, drawing a wide range of wildlife. It’s an ideal setting for birdwatching and slow-paced exploration.
Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara is compact but rich in ecosystems, offering a full wildlife experience in just one day. It’s known for its tree-climbing lions and flocks of flamingos, with diverse landscapes that include forests, hot springs, and wetlands.
Ngorongoro Conservation Area
The Ngorongoro Crater is one of Tanzania’s most iconic safari destinations and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It offers a chance to see the Big Five, including the rare black rhino, within a unique and self-contained ecosystem of varied habitats.
Serengeti National Park
No Tanzania self-drive safari is complete without the Serengeti. Here, you can witness the Great Migration and a high concentration of predators across classic open plains. With varied wildlife year-round, it’s a must-visit. For a unique perspective, consider a hot air balloon safari for panoramic views.
Lake Natron
Lake Natron is a remote and otherworldly destination, where the bright red alkaline waters provide a vital breeding ground for thousands of flamingos. Located near Ol Doinyo Lengai, a volcano considered sacred by the Maasai, this area combines dramatic natural beauty with opportunities for deep cultural immersion and exploration.
Mkomazi National Park
Tucked along the border with Kenya, Mkomazi National Park is a lesser-known yet rewarding stop. Its wide, open acacia landscapes are home to rare and endangered species such as black rhinos and African wild dogs. With over 400 recorded bird species, it is also a top destination for birding enthusiasts seeking a quieter, off-the-beaten-path experience.
Usambara Mountains
The Usambara Mountains offer a refreshing change of pace, with cool temperatures and lush greenery in the heart of the Eastern Arc range. This region is ideal for scenic hikes through forests rich in endemic species, and also provides opportunities for cultural exchange through village stays and guided treks, making it a perfect contrast to the lowland savannahs.
Saadani National Park
Bringing your Tanzania self-drive safari to a unique and relaxing end, Saadani National Park is the only place in the country where the Indian Ocean meets classic wildlife territory. Here, you can see elephants and lions roaming near the beach, and enjoy a peaceful boat safari or simply unwind on the sand after days of adventure in the bush.
Rates vary based on group size, season, and accommodation choice. Please contact us for a detailed quote tailored to your preferences.
With over two decades of expertise in crafting immersive journeys across East Africa, we ensure every detail is thoughtfully planned — from a seamless vehicle handover to curated accommodations that reflect the authentic character of each destination.
Enquire this 21 days safari in Tanzania to start your journey to these great places.
Overview
Overview
Tarangire National Park, Lake Manyara National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti National Park, Lake Natron, Mkomazi National Park, Usambara Mountains, Saadani National Park.
Itinerary
Itinerary Expand All
Day 1 Arrival in Arusha
Pick up the vehicle
Arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport and transfer to your lodge in Arusha. Briefing and handover of your 4x4 vehicle. Time to rest before your adventure begins.
Camping Public campsite
Lodge Arusha Planet Lodge
Day 2 Arusha to Tarangire National Park
Safari Tarangire
Drive to Tarangire, known for its baobabs and elephants. Enjoy your first afternoon game drive.
Camping Public campsite
Lodge Baobab Tented Camp
Day 3 Full-day in Tarangire
Tarangire National Park
Spend the day exploring the park’s diverse habitats and wildlife. Great sightings of big cats, birdlife, and huge elephant herds.
Camping Public campsite
Lodge Baobab Tented Camp
Day 4 Drive to Mto wa Mbu
Mto wa Mbu
3 hours scenic drive to Mto wa Mbu, a cultural hotspot. Optional biking tour or local lunch.
Camping Public campsite
Lodge Karatu Tented Lodge
Day 5 Lake Manyara
Lake Manyara
Visit the nearby Lake Manyara for a full-day game drive. Spot hippos, monkeys, flamingos, and possibly tree-climbing lions.
Camping Public campsite
Lodge Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge
Day 6 Ngorongoro
Drive to Ngorongoro Area
Ascend into the misty Ngorongoro Highlands. Enjoy sweeping views and stay in a lodge or campsite near the crater rim.
Camping Public campsite
Lodge Lions Paw Lodge
Day 7 Safari in Ngorongoro Crater
Full day in Ngorongoro Crater
Descend into the crater for one of Africa’s best wildlife experiences. Look out for rhinos, lions, zebras, and hyenas.
Camping Public campsite
Lodge Lions Paw Lodge
Day 8 Ngorongoro to Serengeti
Safari Central Serengeti
Drive through the conservation area and enter the legendary Serengeti. Game drive en route to your central camp.
Camping Public campsite
Lodge Mawe Tented Camp
Day 9 Full day Safari in Serengeti
Safari Central Serengeti
Full day exploring the plains of Seronera. Expect lions, cheetahs, elephants, and possibly the Great Migration.
Camping Public campsite
Lodge Mawe Tented Camp
Day 10 Full day Safari in central Serengeti
Safari Central Serengeti
Another chance to explore deeper into Serengeti. Tailor your route based on wildlife activity and season.
Camping Public campsite
Lodge Mawe Tented Camp
Day 11 Lake Natron
Transit to Lake Natron
Exit via Klein’s Gate, drive trough masaai land and head to the remote and dramatic Lake Natron. Enjoy views of Ol Doinyo Lengai volcano.
Camping Public campsite
Lodge Giraffe Eco lodge
Day 12 Lake Natron
Explore Lake Natron
Visit flamingo breeding sites, take a guided waterfall hike, and learn about Maasai life. Unique, off-grid landscapes.
Camping Public campsite
Lodge Giraffe Eco Lodge
Day 13 Lake Natron
Explore Lake Natron
Visit flamingo breeding grounds, waterfalls, and enjoy Maasai village walks.
Camping Public campsite
Lodge Giraffe Eco Lodge
Day 14 Arusha
Drive back to Arusha
Return to Arusha via remote highlands and Maasai villages. Rest and prepare for the southern circuit.
Camping Public campsite
Lodge Arusha Planet Lodge
Day 15 Mkomazi National Park
Mkomazi National Park
Drive east to Mkomazi, a dry savannah reserve with great views of Kilimanjaro. And have a game drive in the afternoon.
Camping Public campsite
Lodge Tona Lodge
Day 16 Mkomazi National Park
Mkomazi National Park
Enjoy self-drive exploration of this quiet park. Possible visit to the rhino sanctuary
Camping Public campsite
Lodge Tona Lodge
Day 17 Drive to Usambara Mountains
Usambara Mountains
Climb into the lush Usambara highlands. Arrive in Lushoto and enjoy forest air and views over the valley.
Camping Public campsite
Lodge Muller's Lodge
Day 18 Usambara Mountains
Usambara Mounitains
Hike to Irente Viewpoint or visit villages and farms. A refreshing contrast to the savannah landscape.
Camping Public campsite
Lodge Muller's Lodge
Day 19 Usambara to Pangani Beach
Pangani Beach
Descend to the Indian Ocean and reach the quiet beaches of Pangani.
Camping Public campsite
Lodge Beach lodge
Day 20 Pangani to Saadani National Park
Saadani National Park
Drive south along the coast and enter Saadani. Unique setting where wildlife meets the ocean. Afternoon game drive.
Camping Public campsite
Lodge Safari Lodge
Day 21 Saadani to Dar es Salaam
Dar es Salaam
Final drive to Dar es Salaam via Bagamoyo. Return the vehicle and prepare for your travel.
Cost Info
Cost Info
Price includes
- Fully equipped 4x4 Toyota Land Cruiser
- Comprehensive insurance
- Camping equipment
- GPS navigation
- All park entrance and crater fees
- Pre-booked accommodations
- 24/7 on-call road support
- Safari briefing and vehicle handover in Arusha
Price excludes
- Fuel (car provided full, return full)
- International flights
- Tanzania tourist visa
- Personal travel insurance
- Meals, alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
- Optional activities
FAQ
FAQ Expand All
Can I customize the itinerary or shorten it?
Of course. This itinerary is fully flexible, so just let us know your interests or time constraints.
Do you assist with park bookings and permits?
Yes. All park entries, crater permits, and campsite/lodge bookings are handled in advance.
What are the road conditions like?
The route combines tarmac and well-maintained gravel. The Land Cruiser is suitable for all terrain, including Saadani’s rougher roads.
Is Dar es Salaam a safe place to end the safari?
Yes. We recommend planning your drop-off during the day. We’ll coordinate a secure meeting point and can assist with transfers to the ferry, airport, or hotel
Can I continue to Zanzibar after the safari?
Absolutely. We can arrange transfers to the ferry or Julius Nyerere International Airport for your onward flight to Zanzibar.