Tanzania Walking Safari
5 Good Reasons To Do This Trip!
Chart your own course off the main safari drag to experience a Tanzania most visitors never see – some of the world’s most remote and untouched wilderness, only-seen-here wildlife and end-of-day fiery sunsets.
Scavenger hunts, intimate meetings with locals and smack-in-the-middle-of-it meals in the wild dot the itinerary to keep you on your toes, eager for what’s around the bend.
Game Drives are a must in Tanzania, so this trip has plenty. It’s your chance to spot the Big 5 – lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo and the critically endangered black rhino – plus giraffes, hippos and more.
Never thought you’d see a pink lake on this trip, right? Lake Natron, salty by nature and surreal in colour, is the place you’ll find calcified animals, human history and a million pink flamingos.
Your Camino Crew is a small group of adventurous, curious women who like to travel solo – and it’s not uncommon to walk away with lifelong friendships… or at least someone to compare wildlife pics with over dinner.
Uncover more info by clicking the tabs below!
Trip Details
| Dates | Price AUD (per person twin share) |
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$2,407 AUD
Private Supplement: +$363
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$2,407 AUD
Private Supplement: +$363
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Details
- 2 week cooling off period applies.
- Lifetime Deposit. If you need to cancel, your deposit is transferable to other trips.
- Twin Share: we’ll match you with a roomie if you’re travelling solo.
- Partial private supplement available: max 4 spots
Please refer to our payment terms in the FAQs.
Trip length
12 days, 11 nights
Meeting point
Olerai Lodge, Arusha, Tanzania
Departure point
Kati Kati Camps, Northern Serengeti, Tanzania
Group size
Maximum 14
Participation requirements
- You’re open-minded and open-hearted.
- You try to embrace the little things.
- You love adventure and the surprises that come with it.
- You are gracious to others and a team player.
Fitness
Level 3 – Moderate Plus
A fair amount of endurance and a slightly more than moderate level of fitness is needed for our Level 3 rated trips. Expect to walk for between 4 and 7 hours a day, that’s somewhere between 10 and 15 kilometres. Also keep in mind that we’ll need to cover that distance at a fairly moderate pace through undulating terrain. Some days may be solely devoted to trekking through isolated wilderness, while others are dedicated to relaxation and cultural experiences. Half-day cycle tours are a regular addition to many of our trips – another somewhat challenging physical activity that allows you to see a destination in a whole new light!
Included
- Meals: 12 breakfasts, 11 lunches and 12 dinners (meals are provided at the accommodations)
- Private vehicle transportation/4WD transportation/domestic flight (Kogatende Airstrip – Arusha)
- 3 nights in lodges
- 4 nights wildlife camping
- 4 nights in tented safari camps
- Bike tour in Mto Wa Mbu
- Game drive in Ngorongoro Crater
- Exploring Lake Natorn Area
- Game drive in Northern Serengeti during the Great Migration
- A top-rated and English-speaking Tour Leader
- All listed activities and more!
Not included
- International flights
- Travel insurance (compulsory)
- Personal trekking equipment
- Late check-out at hotels
- Meals and drinks not mentioned in the itinerary
- Drinks with included lunches and dinners
- Tip kitty
- Personal expenditure
- Visa Fee
Accommodation Preview
Olerai Lodge
BSG Marera Valley Lodge
Overview
What our Camino Women say
Trip Map
Get to Know Your Donkey Trail Walking Safari Itinerary
What You'll See & Do
Day 1 – Arrival
Karibu and welcome to Tanzania! You’ll barely have time to switch your phone from airplane mode before your driver whisks you from the airport to your first pitstop, Arusha. Wait… was that a monkey hanging around outside your lodge?
Often called the ‘Safari Capital of Tanzania’, it’s no surprise really that Arusha, a buzzing city-hub, should be the natural starting point for your about-to-kick-off trek. Arriving early? Take this opportunity to explore the town, and definitely don’t miss your first (of many) cups of high-quality Arabica coffee, grown and harvested – in this case – just down the road. This evening, kick off your adventure for real with the official welcome dinner, where you’ll finally get to meet your fellow Caminos, compare hiking boots and practice your Swahili. Jambo!
Accommodation: Olerai Lodge, Arusha
Included: Dinner
Day 2 – Karatu
Today could have been just a travel day toward Ngorongoro, but you’ll be so busy making discoveries along the way that you may find yourself wishing the journey would last even longer. A stop in the small town of Karatu to scour the local market for handicrafts will have you working up a bit of sweat – best refresh yourself with a local brew at the local brew afterwards.
The real gem of the day however is the Scavenger Hunt you’ll take on in Mto Wa Mbu, a true melting pot of Tanzania’s 120 tribes. Hop on a bike, flex your brain and get to solving the puzzles your guide lays out for you. We won’t reveal what you might discover where ‘X’ marks the spot, but it’s safe to say that what you learn about local culture along the way could be the true treasure.
Accommodation: BSG Marera Valley Lodge, Karatu
Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3 – Ngorongoro Crater
Your eagerness is about to be rewarded. It’s time to dive head-first into the full safari experience at the Eighth Natural Wonder of the World. Leave your bags at the lodge and prepare yourself (as if it were possible to be ready for this!) for the Ngorongoro Crater. A place where the Maasai and wild animals live side by side, you’ll spend all day right in the middle of it.
Prop yourself up in an open-top vehicle and keep an eye out for the wild animals that call this flourishing, lost world home. Your chances of spotting Africa’s Big Five here are high, and you’ll want to keep your binoculars nearby to catch sightings of lions stealthing about in the tall grass. Pro tip: this is one of the best places to spy one of Africa’s rarest animals – the black rhino. If you’re feeling really brave – or just hungry after all this amazement – tuck into a picnic lunch in the presence of your barrel-shaped ‘neighbours’ in the famous hippo pool… our guide will make sure you have the best viewing point
Accommodation: BSG Marera Valley Lodge, Karatu
Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4 – Lake Magadi
This morning, fuel up with a filling breakfast and grab an extra mandazi before lacing up your boots, because it’s time to get stuck into some real hiking. Get your heart racing on well-trodden cattle paths, in the footsteps of the Maasai. The trail will carry you through acacia forests of umbrella-shaped trees and open grasslands, at the foot of several ancient volcanoes rising to meet you (although hopefully not too excitedly, we’d rather they keep their cool). Worried about tired feet? You’ll be too busy snapping the next wildlife pic of the year to even notice.
They say the journey is the destination, but when the actual destination is your camp in Kamnana Village, the goal is just as sweet as getting there. Remain one with nature while getting some well-deserved, restful sleep, and take a wood-fire heated shower to soothe your muscles.
Accommodation: Public campsite in Kamnana Village
Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5 – Empakai Crater
Now that your legs have warmed up, it’s time for an absolute cannot-be-missed hike to the Empakai Crater. You’ll be on top of the world at the crater rim, keeping an eye out for smoke at the distant Ol Doinoyo Lengai volcano and sneaking a preview of Tanzania’s alien-looking pink (or, let’s be honest here, it’s more like blood-red) Lake Natron. You’ll get to see it up close soon!
Did you manage to get your fill of these panoramic vistas across Tanzania’s northern highlands? Time to take a deep breath and start your steep descent into the crater. It will challenge your endurance, but you will be well rewarded for your effort. Did you catch sight of the blue monkeys in the trees? Exactly! This crater hike is often overlooked by tourists. Take this chance to absorb the experience of being alone with your fellow Caminos and guide in this wilderness, and your own personal symphony of birdsong, before heading back to the rim where you’ve earned an epic night’s sleep.
Accommodation: Empakaai Crater Rim Campsite
Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 6 – Empakai rim and Maasai friends
Spend the morning stretching your hamstrings, recharging your energy stores and confirming with your Camino gang which animals have already come your way. You’re only halfway through, with so much left to see.
Your lungs – and your heart – will expand in the vastness of the Empakai rim, as you take the long way around. Don’t miss this chance to really feel the sights and sounds of Tanzania sink into your bones. It’s a feeling that will remain long after you’ve come down from this mountain.
Landing in the village of Naiyobi, get ready for a cultural appreciation encounter like no other, meeting with the soul-warming and generous Maasai locals. Hopefully you’re hungry (after that hike, how could you not be!), because you’re about to dive into the mouth-watering flavours of traditional Maasai cooking. Psst, don’t tell, but we’ve snuck in a secret, heart-hugging surprise trip into your schedule before you set up camp underneath the sweet scents of an acacia grove.
Accommodation: Ngorongoro Campsite
Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 7 – Mounwongoni Village
Today you rise at dawn to set out on a seemingly world-crossing trek that will transport you a whopping 11 kilometres, from the greenery of the highlands to dusty,wide trails. Let your mind drift as you wander, with each turn a mind-boggling, can’t-believe-it’s-real change in scenery, vegetation and animal life. The symphony of birdsong will be the soundtrack to both of your journeys: the physical one, and the one that is hard to put into words until you’ve experienced it. Your soul may leave your body, but your steady steps (and chatting with a new-found friend or two) will keep you grounded.
The best news? Your glutes will get a break since this hike is mainly downhill! Snag a steady walking stick and you’re on your way.
Accommodation: Ngorongoro campsite
Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 8 – Lake Natron
Are you ready for another breath-tumbling moment of landscape change? They keep coming your way! Under the watchful eye of Ol Doinyo Lengai, you and the Crew will wend across the land to end up at the impossible shores of the ‘toxic’ soda lake, Natron. This is surely one of the most anticipated days of the trip so far. Just take care to not get calcified, as so many animals have, in its waters!
In a region filled to the brim with natural wonders, this one is far enough off the beaten path to let you gather memories few others ever will. Arrive at the lodge in the late afternoon, perfectly timed to wrap up the day with a rewarding bevvy by the swimming pool, as the sun melts into the horizon giving you one last panorama before nightfall. Hold on tight to your snacks though, lest they be snatched up by a roaming herd of giraffes or zebras passing by!
Accommodation: Paradise & Wilderness African Safari, Lake Natron
Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 9 – Lake Natron
Lake Natron can’t be experienced in a moment, so you’ll have the full day to immerse yourself in one of Tanzania’s least-visited masterpieces… something that will stay with you forever. Getting up early to see the earth painted with all the colours of sunrise, rivalled only by the pink and orange hues of the lake itself. Today’s must-see: unaffected by the cyanobacteria of the lake, up to a million flamingos can be found here and you’ve got a front row seat.
The rest of the day is a pick-and-mix of pinch-me moments. Bravely venture as close as you can to the toxic lake. Line up your footprints with those of early humans who crossed the land and imagine what it might have felt like for them. Hike to the nearby waterfall and let its powerful flow massage your weary muscles. Then return to the lodge for dinner and a show – the one-and-only Great Rift Valley sunset.
Accommodation: Paradise & Wilderness African Safari, Lake Natron
Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 10 – Northern Serengeti
Today, swap hiking boots for safari wheels as you journey from Lake Natron to the Northern Serengeti. The drive is far from just a transfer – it’s a safari in its own right. Keep your eyes peeled as you travel through ever-changing landscapes, with plenty of chances to spot wildlife along the way. Every bend in the road could reveal a herd of zebra grazing on the plains, towering giraffes browsing the treetops, or a curious elephant wandering through the bush.
By the time you arrive in the Northern Serengeti, you’ll be stepping into one of nature’s greatest spectacles. Visiting during the time of the Great Migration means the plains are teeming with life, as vast herds of wildebeest and zebra move across the ecosystem in search of fresh grazing. And where the herds gather, the predators are never far behind, making this one of the most thrilling times to experience the Serengeti.
After an unforgettable day on the road, settle into camp and soak up the atmosphere of the African wilderness. As the sun sinks below the horizon and the sounds of the bush come alive, you’ll quickly understand why the Serengeti captures the hearts of so many travellers.
Accommodation: Kati Kati Camps, Northern Serengeti
Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 11 – Serengeti
Not everyone knows this, but you simply cannot visit the Serengeti and not spend a full day exploring its endless plains. We would, however, never keep it from you!
This day is All. About. Animals. Hand over the reins to your local guide, who will expertly navigate the vast savannah in search of lions lounging in the shade, elegant leopards draped across tree branches, towering giraffes, curious elephants, and perhaps even a cheetah scanning the horizon. But the real stars of the show are the enormous herds of wildebeest and zebra taking part in the Great Migration – one of the most spectacular wildlife events on Earth.
When it’s time to stretch your legs, you’ll stop for a picnic lunch in the heart of the park, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the African bush. Between bites, keep your binoculars close and your camera even closer, because in the Serengeti, the action never really stops.
As the day unfolds, you’ll discover that every game drive is completely different. One moment you’re watching a family of elephants amble across the plains, the next you’re holding your breath as a pride of lions appears in the grass. It’s the kind of day that reminds you why the Serengeti is one of the world’s greatest wildlife destinations and why you’ll still be talking about it long after you’ve returned home.
Accommodation: Kati Kati Camps, Northern Serengeti
Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 12 – Return to Arusha and Farewell
It feels like your adventure is gently starting to wind down, but there are still a few precious moments left to savour every last drop. Wake up in the Northern Serengeti and take a slow, lingering morning to soak it all in one final time.
Enjoy a coffee or tea as the bush comes alive around you – maybe from the comfort of your lodge or camp, where sweeping views remind you just how special this corner of the world really is. Keep your eyes open for any final wildlife sightings drifting through the landscape, as if nature itself is offering you a quiet goodbye.
After breakfast, it’s time to wave farewell to the Serengeti and transfer to Kogatende Airstrip. From here, you’ll take a scenic domestic flight back to Arusha, trading endless golden plains for a bird’s-eye view of the landscapes you’ve just explored.
Upon arrival in Arusha, your journey officially comes full circle. For those heading home, a transfer to the Arusha Airport is included, making your onward travel smooth and effortless. And for anyone staying on a little longer, you’ll be taken to your next accommodation to continue the adventure at your own pace.
Included: Breakfast
FAQs
Prior to the payment of your full balance, the final price may change if there is significant variation in the AUD:USD exchange rate. Our trip pricing is determined by what the exchange rates are at the time of publishing the trip.
The pricing on this trip is based on an exchange rate of 1 AUD:0.70 USD
A deposit of 25% of the total trip price is required to hold your spot. Payment can be made by credit card (fees apply) or bank deposit.
There is a cooling-off period of 2 weeks. (Applicable to all bookings made at least 120 days before trip departure.)
We have implemented a ‘lifetime deposit’ guarantee. Deposits are not refundable, but they are transferable at any time, right up until the first day of the trip.
The final balance of the trip is required 120 days in advance of the departure date. Our suppliers require upfront payment well in advance to guarantee availability.
Please refer to the full terms and conditions for further information.
You’ll need a visa to enter Tanzania. Australian citizens can apply online for their Tanzanian visa. We will share more information about visa requirements closer to the departure date.
Level 3 – Moderate Plus
A fair amount of endurance and a slightly more than moderate level of fitness is needed for our Level 3 rated trips. Expect to walk for between 4 and 7 hours a day, that’s somewhere between 10 and 15 kilometres. Also keep in mind that we’ll need to cover that distance at a fairly moderate pace through undulating terrain. Some days may be solely devoted to trekking through isolated wilderness, while others are dedicated to relaxation and cultural experiences. Half-day cycle tours are a regular addition to many of our trips – another somewhat challenging physical activity that allows you to see a destination in a whole new light!
Most of our trips have a tip kitty because many cultures have diverse rules when it comes to tips. We’ve found it to be the easiest way to avoid over-tipping, under-tipping, or having the tip fall into the wrong hands. Our goal is for guests to relax and know that the complexities of tipping are taken care of, on their behalf.
For the Tanzania Walking Safari trip, we ask for your contribution to be:
- $200 USD, given to your guide on Day 1.
In both July and October, Arusha, Lake Natron, and the Serengeti are typically in their long dry season, with warm, sunny days and cool mornings and evenings. Temperatures generally range from the low 20s to around 30°C, depending on altitude and location.
This is one of the best times to explore northern Tanzania. The skies are often clear, the landscapes are golden and dramatic, and wildlife is easier to spot as animals gather around remaining water sources. In the Serengeti especially, July and October fall right in the heart of the Great Migration period, offering an incredible chance to witness vast herds moving across the plains alongside predators following close behind.
Lake Natron feels particularly raw and striking in the dry season, with its otherworldly landscapes and shimmering heat, while Arusha remains pleasantly warm and acts as a comfortable gateway to and from safari adventures.
During the trek, we primarily rely on wild camping – sleeping in tents in remote mountain valleys, either without facilities or with minimal amenities such as basic bathrooms.
When we stay in lodges, they typically range from 3 to 4 stars. The tented safari camps are set-up camps with hotel-like facilities.
Yes, we offer an optional Accommodation Concierge Service for guests who would like us to organise pre-trip arrival and or post-trip departure accommodation.
The concierge fee is AU$40 per guest for arrival arrangements and AU$40 per guest for departure arrangements, regardless of how many nights are booked. The fee is charged per guest, including when sharing a room (for example, AU$40 for person A and AU$40 for person B). This fee is in addition to the cost of the accommodation.
This service allows our team to take care of all the research, bookings and coordination for your extra nights, so you can arrive feeling relaxed and focus on enjoying your trip.
You are also very welcome to book your own accommodation if you prefer. Some guests choose this option for greater flexibility or access to different cancellation terms.
If you are unsure which option is best for you, our team is always happy to help.
Suitcases are not suitable for hiking, so you will only need a backpack with the essentials for the day. Your main luggage will be transported by car to the Natron Camp.
This trip begins in Arusha, Tanzania, and ends in Arusha, Tanzania. We recommend that you fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport, as that is where your hotel transfer will be waiting for you.
The most convenient departure airport is Kilimanjaro International Airport. Both transfers – on arrival and on departure are included in your price.
The local currency is the Tanzanian shilling (TZS).
In the unlikely event of a health or security related incident during a trip, we’ve engaged a local partner to assist. From our experience, there is not one framework that fits all, and every incident is unique and requires a different approach. With all trips, your guides are your day-to-day support. While behind the scenes, there is an active line of communication – between your guide, the on-ground support team, and Australian Ops.
