6 Days Serengeti Self Drive Safari Experience
Get ready for adventure and stunning landscapes as you explore Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater at your own pace with a Serengeti Self Drive safari.
Imagine the vast African plains stretching endlessly before you, punctuated by the golden hues of the setting sun and the majestic silhouettes of wildlife roaming freely. This is the scene that awaits you on a thrilling Serengeti Self Drive safari. Driving through one of the world’s most iconic national parks provides not just a journey but a personal connection to the heart of nature. In this article, we will explore the exhilaration and unique experiences offered by a self-drive adventure in the Serengeti and the stunning Ngorongoro Crater.
Serengeti Self drive Safari Cost
Vehicle Rental Fee: US $ 1320
Planning a self-drive safari in the Serengeti is an exhilarating adventure that promises an unforgettable experience amidst one of the most iconic wildlife reserves in the world. Before embarking on this journey, the first step is to select the right vehicle for your safari. Having a reliable 4×4 is essential, as it enables you to navigate the often rough terrains, allowing for better access to remote parts of the park. Once you have your vehicle sorted, packing essential items such as food supplies, water, a first-aid kit, and a quality map or GPS is crucial for a smooth trip. Additionally, it’s vital to familiarize yourself with the park’s permits and regulations, ensuring compliance with local rules to protect the wildlife and ecosystems.
Exploring the Serengeti on a self-drive trip allows travelers to enjoy the freedom of the open road while encountering breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife. Choose the best routes to experience the park’s stunning vistas—budgets too—will often lead you near riverbanks, expansive plains, and hills that offer panoramic views of the Serengeti. Timing your visit is key to maximizing your wildlife encounters, as certain months are peak seasons for migration and calving seasons, making it possible to witness dramatic predator-prey interactions and other exhilarating moments in nature.
After experiencing the Serengeti, head to the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique ecosystem within a volcanic caldera. Highlights include picturesque viewpoints and points of interest like Empakaai Crater. Emphasize safety on the steep and narrow roads, and familiarize yourself with local wildlife behavior to enrich your experience. Overall, self-driving through these iconic regions promises breathtaking scenery and memorable wildlife encounters.
6 Days Self Drive Safari to Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater
If you’re dreaming of an adventure filled with wild animals and stunning landscapes, a serengeti self drive safari is the perfect escape. This 6-day itinerary takes you through Tanzania’s diverse ecosystems, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Let’s dive into the natural wonders you can discover.
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha
Your Serengeti self drive safari begins in the bustling city of Arusha, known as the gateway to northern Tanzania’s national parks. Here, you can stock up on supplies and gear for your safari adventure.
After you get your rental car and the necessary permits, consider visiting a local market. Taste the local cuisine and interact with friendly locals. You might even want to prepare for an early start the next day!
Day 2: Tarangire National Park
Start your Serengeti self drive safari by heading to Tarangire National Park, just a couple of hours from Arusha. Famous for its large elephant herds and breathtaking baobab trees, Tarangire is truly a wildlife haven.
Upon arrival, split your day between game drives and relaxing at a picnic spot. Bring your binoculars, as you might spot lions resting under a tree or leopards lounging in the branches. Did you know that Tarangire experiences more elephants than any other park during the dry season? Keep an eye out for this gentle giant!
Tip: Visit the Tarangire River for an afternoon game drive. The wildlife tends to gather around the water, making it an excellent spot for some memorable photos.
Day 3: Travel to Serengeti National Park
After an exhilarating day in Tarangire, it’s time to hit the road to Serengeti National Park. The drive takes about 4-5 hours, but the scenery is breathtaking, filled with rolling hills and endless savannah.
Once you arrive, dive right into the wilderness with an evening game drive. The Serengeti is known for its diverse wildlife, including the Big Five—lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, and rhinoceroses. Spend the night camping under the stars, which offers a unique perspective on the beauty of the African night sky.
Statistics to Note: The Serengeti is home to around 3 million animals, including an estimated 1.5 million wildebeest. Imagine witnessing their great migration!
Day 4: Full Day in Serengeti
Day four is all about exploring the majestic Serengeti. Start early to capture the sunrise over the savannah, then embark on a full-day adventure.
Consider checking out different ecosystems to see various wildlife. The Serengeti is incredibly diverse, ranging from grasslands to woodlands. Make a checklist of animals you’d like to see, and keep a sharp eye out for the elusive cheetah!
In the evening, gaze at the stunning sunset before heading back to your campsite. The colors can be breathtaking, providing unforgettable photos.
Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater
The next morning, make your way to the Ngorongoro Crater. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the world’s largest inactive volcano and houses a unique ecosystem teeming with wildlife.
Drive down into the crater, which offers a convenient way to spot wildlife in a relatively small area. Here, you can witness animals such as zebras, wildebeests, and elephants all sharing this compact space. It’s amazing to think that about 25,000 large animals reside here.
Quote to Ponder: “The Ngorongoro Crater is must-see to understand the beauty of wildlife in Africa.” – Local Tour Guide.
In the afternoon, visit a Maasai village nearby to learn about their culture and relationship with wildlife. It is a fantastic opportunity to understand local traditions and interact with the villagers.
Day 6: Return to Arusha
On the final day of your Serengeti self drive safari, enjoy a relaxing morning in the Ngorongoro area before beginning your drive back to Arusha. Take in the majestic views one last time!
You can take scenic detours back to town, exploring different landscapes along the way. Ensure you have a little time for souvenir shopping in Arusha, as the shops in the local markets have handmade crafts worth visiting.
The memories you create during this serengeti self drive safari will last a lifetime. The freedom of driving yourself and the closeness to nature is truly unforgettable. Experience the thrill of seeing incredible wildlife in their natural habitat, which connects you to the beautiful world around us.
Safari Cost Excludes
- Vehicle Rental Fee
- Comprehesive Coverage
- Two spare tyres & Tool Kit
Safari Cost Excludes:
- Park fees,
- Accommodation
- Fuel