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16 Days Hot-Air Balloon Family Safari Tanzania
Luxury Safari Experience - Starting from $17,199 USD
16 Days Hot-Air Balloon Family Safari Tanzania
This 16 Days Hot-Air Balloon Family Safari Tanzania is built for families who want a private luxury safari with real time in the parks (not just quick drive-throughs), plus a Zanzibar finish that feels effortless.
Start with a calm Arusha welcome and settle into the rhythm with Tarangire's elephant country — wide landscapes, baobabs, and relaxed game drives with plenty of stops for photos and breaks.
Continue to Lake Manyara for a mix of groundwater forest, open lake views, and the best chances of spotting tree-climbing lions, before moving into the Serengeti where the trip truly becomes immersive.
The signature experience is your Serengeti hot-air balloon safari: a sunrise flight over the plains followed by a champagne-style bush celebration and a full day of wildlife viewing tailored to your family's interests.
With multiple Serengeti days (Central, Western Corridor, and the Northern Lobo area), your guide can track big cats, follow seasonal movements, and shape each drive to match the pace and curiosity of both adults and children.
Then it's into the Ngorongoro Crater for a concentrated wildlife spectacle (with luck, black rhino) and a cool highlands stay that resets energy before a cultural contrast at Lake Eyasi with the Hadzabe community.
Finally, fly to Zanzibar for Stone Town heritage and ocean days — Prison Island, snorkeling options, and Safari Blue-style cruising depending on tides and conditions — all supported by private transfers and smooth coordination.
Throughout, you get handpicked luxury accommodation options, flexible meal timing, and clear communication so your family can relax and simply enjoy Tanzania.
Price from: $17,199 USD per person. Final pricing depends on season, lodge category, and your preferred travel dates.
Your 16-Day Safari Journey
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Day 1 – Arrival in Arusha – Luxury Welcome
Warm private airport welcome and a relaxed transfer into Arusha for rest, briefings, and an easy first evening.
Perfect start for families: smooth logistics and flexible timing.Night: Gran Melia Arusha / Arusha Coffee Lodge / Mount Meru Hotel / Kibo Palace Arusha / Sanaa Boutique Hotel
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Day 2 – Tarangire National Park – Elephant Paradise
Drive to Tarangire for your first classic safari day: elephants, baobabs, and river habitats.
Private guiding means you can stop, watch, and learn at your own pace.Night: Nimali Tarangire / Nyikani Tarangire / Acacia Tarangire / Seriani Tarangire Camp / Tarangire Kuro Treetop Lodge
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Day 3 – Tarangire National Park – Elephant Paradise
Full safari day in Tarangire with flexible start times and breaks for kids.
Focus on big herds, predator sightings, and seasonal birdlife around water sources.Night: Nimali Tarangire / Nyikani Tarangire / Acacia Tarangire / Seriani Tarangire Camp / Tarangire Kuro Treetop Lodge
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Day 4 – Lake Manyara National Park – Tree-Climbing Lions
Explore Lake Manyara's forest-to-lake landscapes: baboons, elephants, flamingos, and the famous tree-climbing lions (when lucky).
A shorter drive day that keeps family energy high.Night: Lake Manyara Kilimamoja Lodge / The Escarpment Luxury Lodge / Serena Safari Lodge Manyara / Suricata Boma Lodge
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Day 5 – Serengeti National Park – Endless Plains
Journey into the Serengeti and begin your long-stay safari rhythm with sweeping plains and classic big-cat country.
Arrive, settle in, and enjoy the first golden-hour moments.Night: Melia Serengeti / Nimali Serengeti / Four Seasons Serengeti / The Ark Serengeti / Sound of Silence
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Day 6 – Full Day Serengeti – Central Seronera - Balloon safari early morning
Signature day: early hot-air balloon safari over the Serengeti plains (optional, weather permitting), followed by a full-day Seronera game drive.
Private pacing keeps it comfortable and unforgettable for families.Night: Melia Serengeti / Nimali Serengeti / Four Seasons Serengeti / The Ark Serengeti / Sound of Silence
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Day 7 – Serengeti – Western Corridor Exploration
Explore the Western Corridor landscapes and river zones depending on season and wildlife movement.
Your guide tailors the day: cats, elephants, migration stories, or photography focus.Night: Melia Serengeti / Nimali Serengeti / Four Seasons Serengeti / The Ark Serengeti / Sound of Nature
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Day 8 – Serengeti – Northern Lobo Area
Head toward the Northern Serengeti / Lobo area for a change of scenery and seasonal wildlife routes.
Enjoy open plains, kopjes, and quieter corners at an easy family pace.Night: Melia Serengeti / Nimali Serengeti / Four Seasons Serengeti / The Ark Serengeti / Sound of Silence
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Day 9 – Ngorongoro Crater – Wildlife Spectacle
Descend into the crater for a concentrated safari: lions, hippos, flamingos, and (with luck) black rhino.
Return to a cool highlands lodge for a restful evening.Night: Elewana The Manor at Ngorongoro / Melia Ngorongoro / Serena Ngorongoro
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Day 10 – Ngorongoro Highlands
Enjoy a luxury day tailored to your pace, with expert guiding and premium service throughout.
Night: Elewana The Manor at Ngorongoro / Melia Ngorongoro / Serena Ngorongoro
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Day 11 – Lake Eyasi – Hadzabe culture activities
Discover Lake Eyasi's cultural side with a guided Hadzabe experience arranged respectfully and at a comfortable pace.
A meaningful contrast to the wildlife parks and a memorable family learning day.Night: Foot on Africa Safari Lodge / Lake Manyara Kilimamoja Lodge / The Escarpment Luxury Lodge / Suricata Boma Lodge
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Day 12 – Flight to Zanzibar
Enjoy a luxury day tailored to your pace, with expert guiding and premium service throughout.
Night: Park Hyatt Zanzibar / The Neela Boutique Hotel / Golden Tulip Zanzibar Airport Hotel & Spa
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Day 13 – Stone Town & Spice Tour – Cultural Immersion
Stone Town heritage lanes plus a guided spice experience, with easy pacing, rest breaks, and time for photos.
Return to your hotel for a relaxed evening.Night: Park Hyatt Zanzibar / The Neela Boutique Hotel / Golden Tulip Zanzibar Airport Hotel & Spa
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Day 14 – Prison Island & Snorkeling Adventure
Enjoy a luxury day tailored to your pace, with expert guiding and premium service throughout.
Night: Nungwi Dreams by Mantis / Park Hyatt Zanzibar / Golden Tulip Zanzibar Airport Hotel & Spa / The Neela Boutique Hotel
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Day 15 – Safari Blue – Marine Paradise
One of Zanzibar's signature ocean days: scenic cruising, sandbanks, snorkeling stops, and island-style lunch (weather and tides permitting).
Back to comfort for your final relaxed night.Night: Nungwi Dreams by Mantis / Park Hyatt Zanzibar / Golden Tulip Zanzibar Airport Hotel & Spa / The Neela Boutique Hotel
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Day 16 – Departure – Farewell Tanzania
Private transfer to the airport timed to your flight schedule, with support for a smooth check-in.
No overnight accommodation is included on this day.Night: None (Departure day)
Why Choose This Luxury Safari?
Made for families who want space, flexibility, and privacy — your own guide and vehicle so you can stop when the kids want photos, take breaks when needed, and stay longer when sightings are excellent.
A true Serengeti focus with a hot-air balloon morning and multiple nights on the plains, giving your guide time to follow fresh tracks and build a wildlife story day-by-day.
Smart pacing across regions: Tarangire + Manyara for variety, Serengeti for depth, Ngorongoro for the crater spectacle, and Lake Eyasi for meaningful cultural contrast.
Zanzibar is planned as a seamless extension (Stone Town + marine experiences), with timing adjusted to tides, weather, and family comfort.
Handpicked luxury accommodation options that fit family travel (room layout, service level, location, and atmosphere) with clear alternatives to match your budget and season.
Seamless logistics and fast communication from Tanzania Safari Source Tours from arrival to departure.
Your Complete Safari Itinerary
A detailed day-by-day breakdown of your luxury safari journey
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha - Luxury Welcome
Luxury Day 1
Day Highlights
VIP-style meet-and-greet on arrival and warm welcome to Tanzania
Private transfer into Arusha with flexible pacing for families
Smooth check-in at your chosen luxury hotel and time to settle in
Light itinerary briefing with your guide and gentle route overview
Optional easy town views or hotel gardens walk (time and energy permitting)
Relaxation time: pool, lounge, or a quiet early evening for jetlag recovery
Dinner planning based on your family preferences and dietary needs
Prepare a simple day-pack for the first safari drive (camera, hats, sunscreen)
Early night recommended to start fresh for Tarangire
Clear communication on next-day pickup times and comfort stops
Overnight in Arusha
Meals & Service
Meals are arranged as per the itinerary and your lodge schedule, with special dietary needs accommodated on request.
Night: Gran Melia Arusha / Arusha Coffee Lodge / Mount Meru Hotel / Kibo Palace Arusha / Sanaa Boutique Hotel
Day 2: Tarangire National Park - Elephant Paradise
Luxury Day 2
Day Highlights
Scenic drive from Arusha toward Tarangire with comfort breaks as needed
Arrive at Tarangire National Park and begin your first true game drive
Focus on elephants, giraffes, and buffalo around the Tarangire River system
Enjoy the iconic baobab landscapes and wide-open savannah scenes
Private guiding means flexible stops for photos and family curiosity moments
Picnic-style break or lodge lunch depending on timing and preferences
Continue wildlife viewing in the afternoon for predators and birdlife
Gentle pacing with shade breaks to keep kids comfortable
Sunset return toward your lodge/camp for a calm evening
Dinner and storytelling about the day's sightings
Overnight in Tarangire
Meals & Service
Meals are arranged as per the itinerary and your lodge schedule, with special dietary needs accommodated on request.
Night: Nimali Tarangire / Nyikani Tarangire / Acacia Tarangire / Seriani Tarangire Camp / Tarangire Kuro Treetop Lodge
Day 3: Tarangire National Park - Elephant Paradise
Luxury Day 3
Day Highlights
Early start option for the best morning wildlife activity (your choice)
Track elephant herds and watch river crossings and family interactions
Look for big cats along game trails and shaded thickets
Explore seasonal swamps and watering points for high-density sightings
Flexible breaks for kids: snacks, restroom stops, and short stretching moments
Learn animal behavior with your guide — a fun, educational safari day
Lunch arranged to match your schedule (picnic or lodge setting)
Afternoon drive to follow fresh tracks and changing light for photos
Optional shorter late drive if you prefer more rest at the lodge
Sundowner views and a relaxed evening atmosphere at camp
Overnight in Tarangire
Meals & Service
Meals are arranged as per the itinerary and your lodge schedule, with special dietary needs accommodated on request.
Night: Nimali Tarangire / Nyikani Tarangire / Acacia Tarangire / Seriani Tarangire Camp / Tarangire Kuro Treetop Lodge
Day 4: Lake Manyara National Park - Tree-Climbing Lions
Luxury Day 4
Day Highlights
Short, comfortable transfer into the Lake Manyara region
Enter Lake Manyara National Park for forest-to-lake game viewing
Search for the famous tree-climbing lions (sightings depend on luck)
Enjoy large baboon troops and blue monkeys in the groundwater forest
Watch elephants moving through shaded areas and open clearings
Birdwatching opportunities: hornbills, storks, and flamingos near the lake
Flexible photo stops and breaks for families in scenic viewpoints
Picnic-style break or lunch timing arranged around your comfort
Afternoon continuation or early finish depending on your preference
Settle into your luxury lodge with views and cooler evening air
Overnight near Lake Manyara
Meals & Service
Meals are arranged as per the itinerary and your lodge schedule, with special dietary needs accommodated on request.
Night: Lake Manyara Kilimamoja Lodge / The Escarpment Luxury Lodge / Serena Safari Lodge Manyara / Suricata Boma Lodge
Day 5: Serengeti National Park - Endless Plains
Luxury Day 5
Day Highlights
Depart the Manyara area and travel toward the Serengeti ecosystem
Scenic views through the highlands with flexible comfort stops
Arrive into Serengeti National Park and begin wildlife viewing en route
First taste of the endless plains — classic Serengeti photo moments
Search for lions, cheetahs, and leopards in prime big-cat habitats
Learn Serengeti landscapes: kopjes, plains, and seasonal water points
Picnic or lodge lunch depending on timing and your preference
Afternoon game drive tailored to recent sightings and your interests
Arrive at camp for sunset views and a relaxed family evening
Dinner and stargazing atmosphere on the plains
Overnight in the Serengeti
Meals & Service
Meals are arranged as per the itinerary and your lodge schedule, with special dietary needs accommodated on request.
Night: Melia Serengeti / Nimali Serengeti / Four Seasons Serengeti / The Ark Serengeti / Sound of Nature
Day 6: Full Day Serengeti - Central Seronera - Balloon safari early morning
Luxury Day 6
Day Highlights
Pre-dawn wake-up for the balloon safari experience (weather permitting)
Short transfer to the launch site and full safety briefing with the crew
Sunrise hot-air balloon flight over the Serengeti plains
Spot wildlife from above — herds, predators, and vast landscapes
Celebratory landing moment and bush-style breakfast experience
Continue with a private full-day game drive in Central Seronera
Focus on big cats, hippo pools, and prime predator territories
Flexible pacing with breaks and shade stops for kids
Lunch timing matched to your energy levels and preferred style
Late-afternoon golden light for photography and final sightings
Return to camp for dinner and a restful night
Meals & Service
Meals are arranged as per the itinerary and your lodge schedule, with special dietary needs accommodated on request.
Night: Melia Serengeti / Nimali Serengeti / Four Seasons Serengeti / The Ark Serengeti / Sound of Silence
Day 7: Serengeti - Western Corridor Exploration
Luxury Day 7
Day Highlights
Start the day with a briefing based on the latest wildlife movements
Drive toward the Western Corridor landscapes and river zones
Look for hippo pools, crocodile areas, and seasonal river crossings
Track predators following herds depending on season and conditions
Enjoy long, unhurried sightings without rushing to keep up with other vehicles
Private guide adapts the day to your family interests (cats / elephants / birds)
Picnic lunch in a scenic area with comfort breaks as needed
Afternoon exploration across open plains and kopjes for varied scenery
Photo stops during the best light with time to explain animal behavior
Return to camp for a calm evening and dinner
Overnight in the Serengeti
Meals & Service
Meals are arranged as per the itinerary and your lodge schedule, with special dietary needs accommodated on request.
Night: Melia Serengeti / Nimali Serengeti / Four Seasons Serengeti / The Ark Serengeti / Sound of Nature
Day 8: Serengeti - Northern Lobo Area
Luxury Day 8
Day Highlights
Travel toward the Northern Serengeti / Lobo region with scenic stops
Enjoy changing landscapes: rolling hills, kopjes, and wide plains
Focus on elephants, giraffes, and big cats using fresh track information
Seasonal migration routes and crossing stories explained by your guide
Flexible pacing to suit family energy levels and interests
Longer wildlife sightings when the moment is special (no rushing)
Picnic or lodge-style lunch depending on the day's movement plan
Afternoon game drive exploring quieter corners and viewpoint areas
Sunset return with golden light photography opportunities
Relaxed evening and dinner under the Serengeti skies
Overnight in the Serengeti
Meals & Service
Meals are arranged as per the itinerary and your lodge schedule, with special dietary needs accommodated on request.
Night: Melia Serengeti / Nimali Serengeti / Four Seasons Serengeti / The Ark Serengeti / Sound of Silence
Day 9: Ngorongoro Crater - Wildlife Spectacle
Luxury Day 9
Day Highlights
Early start to reach the crater area in the best morning light
Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a concentrated game viewing day
High chances for lions, large buffalo herds, and elephant bulls
Watch hippos and waterbirds around crater lakes and wetlands
Search for hyena, jackal, and (with luck) the rare black rhino
Picnic-style lunch at a safe designated site with restroom access
Private guide adjusts pacing for kids and stops longer at top sightings
Learn the crater ecosystem story — geology, wildlife, and conservation
Afternoon drive to explore different habitats (forest edges, open plains)
Return to the highlands for cool air and a relaxed lodge evening
Overnight in the Ngorongoro Highlands
Meals & Service
Meals are arranged as per the itinerary and your lodge schedule, with special dietary needs accommodated on request.
Night: Elewana The Manor at Ngorongoro / Melia Ngorongoro / Serena Ngorongoro
Day 10: Ngorongoro Highlands
Luxury Day 10
Day Highlights
Slow morning start option after the crater day (family-friendly pacing)
Enjoy scenic highlands views and fresh, cool air around the conservation area
Flexible day design: light driving, viewpoints, and relaxed photography stops
Time to rest at the lodge — pool, gardens, or quiet lounge moments
Optional short nature moments near the lodge (time and lodge rules permitting)
Learn about Ngorongoro conservation history and local culture from your guide
Lunch and downtime aligned to your preferred routine
Gentle afternoon outing or full relaxation depending on how your family feels
Early dinner option available for families with children
Prepare for the Lake Eyasi cultural day with a simple briefing
Overnight in the Ngorongoro Highlands
Meals & Service
Meals are arranged as per the itinerary and your lodge schedule, with special dietary needs accommodated on request.
Night: Elewana The Manor at Ngorongoro / Melia Ngorongoro / Serena Ngorongoro
Day 11: Lake Eyasi - Hadzabe culture activities
Luxury Day 11
Day Highlights
Depart toward Lake Eyasi with a comfortable start time and rest breaks
Arrive in the Eyasi area and meet local hosts for a respectful cultural experience
Guided Hadzabe interaction focused on learning, stories, and daily life insights
Optional gentle walk to understand traditional tracking and bush skills (by request)
Family-appropriate pacing with shade breaks and water available throughout
Photography guidance and cultural etiquette support from your guide
Time to visit the lake scenery and enjoy quiet landscape moments
Lunch arranged around your comfort and dietary preferences
Afternoon relaxation back at the lodge/camp environment
Evening briefing for the Zanzibar flight day and packing assistance tips
Overnight near Lake Eyasi
Meals & Service
Meals are arranged as per the itinerary and your lodge schedule, with special dietary needs accommodated on request.
Night: Foot on Africa Safari Lodge / Lake Manyara Kilimamoja Lodge / The Escarpment Luxury Lodge / Suricata Boma Lodge
Day 12: Flight to Zanzibar
Luxury Day 12
Day Highlights
Breakfast and an unhurried morning depending on flight time
Private transfer to the airstrip/airport with comfort stops if needed
Assistance with check-in and smooth flight connections to Zanzibar
Scenic flight over Tanzania and the Indian Ocean (window seats on request)
Meet-and-greet support on arrival and private transfer to your hotel
Flexible check-in and rest time after travel (pool or lounge time)
Optional easy Stone Town waterfront walk at sunset (time permitting)
Dinner recommendations matched to your preferences and dietary needs
Clear plan for the next day's touring with timing adapted to weather and heat
Relaxed evening in Zanzibar to reset after the safari circuit
Overnight in Zanzibar (Stone Town area)
Meals & Service
Meals are arranged as per the itinerary and your lodge schedule, with special dietary needs accommodated on request.
Night: Park Hyatt Zanzibar / The Neela Boutique Hotel / Golden Tulip Zanzibar Airport Hotel & Spa
Day 13: Stone Town & Spice Tour - Cultural Immersion
Luxury Day 13
Day Highlights
Easy start with breakfast and a brief plan for the day's comfort breaks
Guided spice experience: smell, touch, and learn Zanzibar's famous spices
Taste tropical fruits and discover how cloves, vanilla, and cinnamon are grown
Family-friendly interpretation and gentle walking pace throughout the spice farm
Return to Stone Town for a guided historical walk in the cooler hours
Explore carved doors, alleys, and Swahili-Arab architecture highlights
Stop for local crafts, coffee, and short rest breaks as needed
Time for waterfront viewpoints and sunset photos by the sea
Flexible dinner timing and restaurant recommendations to suit your family
Relaxed evening back at the hotel with packing support for marine day
Overnight in Zanzibar (Stone Town area)
Meals & Service
Meals are arranged as per the itinerary and your lodge schedule, with special dietary needs accommodated on request.
Night: Park Hyatt Zanzibar / The Neela Boutique Hotel / Golden Tulip Zanzibar Airport Hotel & Spa
Day 14: Prison Island & Snorkeling Adventure
Luxury Day 14
Day Highlights
Morning transfer to the boat departure point with private timing where possible
Cruise to Prison Island (Changuu) with ocean views and sea-breeze comfort
Visit the giant tortoises and learn their story in a relaxed, family-friendly way
Explore island surroundings with shade stops and gentle walking pace
Snorkeling option in clear-water areas (conditions and safety permitting)
Non-snorkel alternative: beach time, swimming, or relaxed island views
Lunch arranged around your family schedule (picnic or simple local meal)
Return by boat and enjoy downtime at the hotel/resort in the afternoon
Optional sunset walk or beach relaxation depending on where you stay
Dinner arranged to suit your preferences and dietary needs
Overnight in Zanzibar
Meals & Service
Meals are arranged as per the itinerary and your lodge schedule, with special dietary needs accommodated on request.
Night: Nungwi Dreams by Mantis / Park Hyatt Zanzibar / Golden Tulip Zanzibar Airport Hotel & Spa / The Neela Boutique Hotel
Day 15: Safari Blue - Marine Paradise
Luxury Day 15
Day Highlights
Early departure timed to tides and weather for the best ocean conditions
Dhow-style or boat cruising through turquoise waters and island scenery
Sandbank stop for swimming and relaxed sun time (conditions permitting)
Snorkeling in reef areas with guidance for beginners and kids (safety first)
Lagoon or mangrove moments depending on the day's route and tide level
Fresh island-style lunch experience (seafood common; alternatives on request)
Leisure time to float, swim, and enjoy the coastline without rushing
Return cruise and private transfer back to your hotel/resort
Final Zanzibar sunset moments and relaxed family photo time
Farewell dinner and packing time with assistance as needed
Overnight in Zanzibar
Meals & Service
Meals are arranged as per the itinerary and your lodge schedule, with special dietary needs accommodated on request.
Night: Nungwi Dreams by Mantis / Park Hyatt Zanzibar / Golden Tulip Zanzibar Airport Hotel & Spa / The Neela Boutique Hotel
Day 16: Departure - Farewell Tanzania
Luxury Day 16
Day Highlights
Breakfast and a relaxed morning depending on your flight time
Checkout support and luggage handling arranged by your hotel team
Private transfer to Zanzibar airport timed to your departure schedule
Assistance with airport procedures and check-in for a smooth exit
Optional last-minute souvenir stop if time allows (by request)
Final coastal views and a calm end to the journey
Clear communication on meeting times and logistics from your team
No rushing: timing is adapted to your family needs
End of services after airport drop-off
No overnight accommodation is included on this day
Safe onward travels
Meals & Service
Meals are arranged as per the itinerary and your lodge schedule, with special dietary needs accommodated on request.
Night: None (Departure day)
Package Pricing & Extras
16-Day Luxury Safari
Price from
$17,199 ++ per person
Price Options (Base)
| Group | Total | Offer |
|---|---|---|
| 2 Adults | $17,199 | Contact us |
| 4+ Adults | On request | Contact us |
| Custom (Tailor-made) | On request | Plan together |
Rates vary with travel season, room category, and special experiences. All prices are quoted in USD and inclusive of local taxes.
What's Included
- Luxury accommodation on Days 1–15 (no overnight on Day 16 departure)
- All meals as per the day-by-day plan
- Private transfers and game drives in a luxury safari vehicle
- Professional private safari guide
- Bottled drinking water and onboard safari essentials
- Hot-air balloon safari (where scheduled in the itinerary)
- Domestic flights / connections as per itinerary
What's Excluded
- International flights to and from Tanzania
- Park entry fees and conservation levies unless confirmed included in your quote
- Optional extras and personal activities not listed in the itinerary
- Comprehensive travel insurance, visa fees, and personal expenses
- Items of a personal nature and staff gratuities
Frequently Asked Questions
Luxury accommodation, private transfers, guided game drives, meals as per itinerary, and bottled water are included. Park fees, international flights, visas, and personal items are typically excluded unless confirmed in your final quote.
June–October is ideal for classic dry-season game viewing. January–March is excellent for calving season in the Serengeti. We can adjust camp locations seasonally to match wildlife movement.
Yes. We can tailor game drive pacing, vehicle setup, and lodge selections to family needs while keeping a luxury standard throughout.
Yes—this itinerary is planned as a private luxury experience with your own guide and vehicle, unless you request a shared option.
A deposit secures your booking. Cancellation terms depend on lodge policies and season; we share the full policy in writing before confirmation and recommend travel insurance.