Signature: Tanzania's Serengeti, Tarangire & Ngorongoro Crater Adventure Tour

Traverse the wild heart of Tanzania, from Tarangire's ancient baobabs to the Serengeti's endless horizon. Your path leads deep into the Ngorongoro Crater and through the history of Olduvai Gorge, connecting you with conservation experts who reveal the living story of the landscape, its wildlife, and its people.

What information should I be aware of as the itinerary draws to a close?  

You will be met at your hotel property and transferred to the airport for your onward travels at the end of your expedition. Please refer to your individual itinerary for more details.

What should I know about currency, credit cards, and exchanging money while on this tour?  

The local currency in Tanzania is the Tanzanian Shilling (TSH).

Shillings can be obtained locally by changing foreign currency or by using ATMs (where available) which will disperse local currency. Your Expedition Leader will inform you where you can change money throughout the tour and approximately how much money you will need for each country.
The easiest foreign currency to exchange for locally for any of the local currencies is the $US; however the British Pound and Euro may also be exchanged as well. Please note that due to past problems with forgery, $US notes that are older than year 2006 are not accepted in Africa.
Large note ($US 50, $US 100 etc) can be difficult to change in some places, but will gain you the best exchange rate.

If you plan to rely on cash, please bring foreign currency (Euro, Pound, USD) with you, as it is often expensive to buy these currencies locally. And in more rural areas, it is often not likely.
If you plan to buy your visas at borders, you will need to bring $USD cash to pay for these visas. Please note you cannot use the local currency or any other currency to buy these visas- they must be purchased in USD.

Please do not bring Travellers' cheques toAfrica. They are difficult if not impossible to exchange in many places.

Visa/Plus system cards are the most widely accepted debit cards. it is harder to find machines Mastercard/Cirrus cards. We highly recommend that if you hold a Mastercard, you obtain a Visa card prior to departure and travel with both. This is also useful should something unforeseen happen to one of your cards during your travels.
While there are many ATMs in the major centres, there are no guarantees that your credit or debit cards will actually work in Africa. Check with your bank.

Credit cards can be used in major cities and towns ONLY but please do not rely on them as a method of payment because they are generally not widely accepted. You should be aware that to purchase products or services on a credit card a fee of 5%-10% usually applies. The majority of our optional activities can also be paid by credit card. Your Expedition Leader will advise on these.

Please note that in many areas there may be occasional power-outages, where there will be no electricity for hours at a time. In addition, ATMs outside of larger centers often run out of cash or can be out of order unexpectedly. These factors could affect your ability to access money from ATMs. As such, please do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money.
A combination of foreign currency and debit/credit cards for cash advances is best. Always take more rather than less, as you don't want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds.

As currency exchange rates can fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com.

What activities are optional on this trip?  

No optional activities

Do I need to pay a departure tax?  

USD30, usually included in most international air tickets.

Should I be tipping on my trip?  

To ensure a seamless and elevated experience throughout your National Geographic Signature departure, gratuities have been fully taken care of for all included meals, activities, and luggage porterage.

On our National Geographic Signature tours, tipping is included for all included activities and meals, and porterage. Tipping is not included for the Expedition Leader. Should you want some basic guidelines on tipping for the activities you do on your own, please see below. At the end of each trip if you felt your National Geographic Signature Expedition Leader did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline would be $10-$15 per person per day.

Tipping is neither required nor expected for your National Geographic Expedition Expert.

For meals and activities not included in your itinerary, it is appropriate in Africa to tip 10%. Though not compulsory, tipping is expected. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels and shows an expression of satisfaction.

Are there any health considerations I should know before travelling?  

Please note that health requirements and recommended inoculations vary by destination. To ensure your well-being, it is your responsibility to consult with a specialized travel physician for up-to-date medical guidance well before departure.

We highly recommend carrying a personal first aid kit, hand sanitizer, and any essential prescription medications. Because our itineraries frequently trace paths through remote regions far from advanced medical facilities, legal regulations prohibit our National Geographic Expedition Leaders from administering any medication, including standard over-the-counter pain relievers. While local pharmacies along our route may stock familiar remedies, they are often produced under regional names, so we advise bringing the generic chemical name of any critical prescription. Before finalising your plans, please carefully review the itinerary and physical requirements to ensure your personal fitness aligns with our style of exploration. To safeguard the well-being of the group, we reserve the right to excuse any traveller from all or part of an itinerary if, in the professional judgment of our Expedition Leader, continuing would pose an undue risk to themselves or their fellow travellers.

Is travel insurance required for my trip?  

Comprehensive travel insurance is a mandatory prerequisite for participation in all our departures. To safeguard your well-being, your National Geographic Expedition Leader will kindly request to verify your physical policy details before you may officially join your fellow travellers.

When choosing your coverage, please ensure your policy includes full medical protection, featuring a strict minimum requirement of $200,000 USD for emergency rescue and medical repatriation. For complete peace of mind while exploring, we also strongly advise securing comprehensive coverage for personal liability, trip cancellation or curtailment, and the loss of luggage and personal belongings. If you intend to rely on insurance provided through your credit card, you must supply formal proof of purchase-such as a credit card statement or receipt in your name-along with explicit confirmation from your banking institution regarding the participating insurer, exact policy limits, and their dedicated 24-hour emergency contact number.

What rules should I know before joining this trip?  

Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our Expedition Leaders have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they utilize the services of paid sex workers, in any capacity.

How can I share feedback about my trip experience?  

Upon your return, we invite you to share your insights with us. Your valued feedback shapes the future of our itineraries and ensures we continue to deliver meaningful experiences. As a token of our appreciation for your time, we are pleased to offer a 5% savings (up to a maximum of $100 USD) toward your next expedition with us. Simply submit your evaluation within four weeks of completing your travels to unlock this benefit and join our global community of returning travellers.

*This offer is valid for new bookings only, limited to one per person, and cannot be combined with other promotions or applied to independent itineraries. Maximum value of $100 USD (or local currency equivalent). This program may be amended or withdrawn at any time.

Are international flights included in this trip?  

No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour.

However, on some combo tours travelling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Please speak to your National Geographic Signature Specialist or booking agent for further details.

In addition, check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.

Who will be leading the group?  

National Geographic Expedition Leader and National Geographic Expedition Expert throughout.

What is the maximum number of travellers on this tour?  

18

What are the main highlights of this trip?  

Learn how experts empower communities to protect wildlife in the Tanzanian savanna, Connect with the team helping Maasai herders and lions coexist on the crater rim, Walk the gorge where the Leakeys unearthed history on a National Geographic funded expedition to Tanzania, Witness the drama of the wild on drives through the Serengeti's endless golden plains

What happens if I experience problems when arriving?  

Our philosophy of travel is rooted in deep respect for the people, cultures, and lands we encounter. To ensure the safety of our travellers, staff, and the communities that welcome us, the possession or use of illegal drugs is strictly prohibited on all departures. While certain substances may be woven into local traditions in some regions, they are not permitted within our groups. Furthermore, any form of exploitation, including the solicitation of sex workers, directly contradicts our values. To protect the integrity of the experience and the well-being of the group, our National Geographic Expedition Leader retains the right to remove any traveller who violates these standards.

What's Included  

Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group, Arusha
Signature Moment: KopeLion Presentation & Field Work Visit, Ngorongoro. Arrival transfer. Safari drives in Tarangire National Park. Safari drive in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Morning safari drive to the floor of the Ngorongoro Crater with brunch in the bush. Visit to the Olduvai Gorge and its museum. Safari drives in the Central Serengeti. Free time to enjoy lodge amenities. Engaging Discussions with the National Geographic Expert Throughout. Internal flight from the Serengeti to Arusha. Departure transfer. Porterage at hotels and when getting on and off of vehicles. Tips are included for all activities, meals and porterage, except for your Expedition Leader. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.

What transportation will we take on this trip?  

Across the vast, sun-baked savannas of Africa, the line between a rugged journey and a front-row seat to the natural world depends entirely on your vessel. For this expedition, the terrain is traversed in custom-engineered, private 7-seat 4x4 safari vehicles. Outfitted with expansive sliding windows and a signature large pop-up roof, these mechanical beasts are meticulously designed to optimize wildlife viewing. To ensure both comfort and an intimate connection with the landscape, occupancy is strictly capped at six explorers per vehicle, with larger expeditions utilizing a convoy of up to three vehicles.

The African interior is a study in elemental extremes. The tracks beneath our wheels span the entire spectrum of terrain, from newly paved stretches to deeply rutted, bone-rattling pathways. During the scorching dry seasons, these trails transform into ribbons of dust. Yet, this traditional style of overland travel remains unrivaled. The vehicles offer a vital sanctuary of comfortable seating, while the autonomy of a private fleet grants us the invaluable luxury of spontaneity-allowing the expedition to halt at a moment's notice to witness a crouching lioness lock eyes with her prey.

In these remote regions, safety dictates our pace. All vehicles are outfitted with speed governors locked at a conservative 80 km/h, ensuring a controlled transit through unpredictable environments. For your personal protection against the sudden jolts of the terrain, seat belts must be worn at all times while the vehicle is in motion. Our vehicles are maintained to the highest standards, and in the unlikely event of a technical issue, our expert drivers are equipped to resolve it efficiently.

When can I do my laundry on this trip?  

Laundry services are available during your journey. Please consult your Expedition Leader for assistance with making these arrangements during your stay.

How large will the group be?  

Max 18, avg. 14.

Where will we stay during the trip?  

Hotel (1 nt), Lodges (6 nts)

Is there a travel disclaimer for my itinerary I should review before booking this trip?  

This compiled itinerary represents our thoughtfully designed plan, provided in good faith and correct at the time of publication. However, to ensure we deliver the most rewarding experience possible, our itineraries remain dynamic; we continuously refine our routes based on research, field insights, and guest feedback, meaning details may evolve between the release of our annual directory and your departure. Flexibility is a cornerstone of our travel philosophy, and while we intend to follow the path described, the nature of exploring unpredictable environments means alterations may occur, and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife encounters cannot be guaranteed. We invite you to view these travel times and details as an approximate guide rather than a strict contract, and we kindly ask that you review a final copy of your Trip Details a few days prior to departure to ensure you have the most current information for your upcoming expedition.

What are the modes of transportation on my trip?  

Private vehicle, 4x4 safari vehicle, plane, walking

What are the joining instructions?  

To review the specific details of your starting property, please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the G Adventures App or contact your travel agent.

A seamless arrival transfer is included for guests landing on the first day of the itinerary, or up to three days prior if your pre-trip accommodations were arranged directly through G Adventures at our starting property. To maintain the exceptional quality and continuity of your experience, all scheduled services must run consecutively.

Upon arriving at the starting property, where check-in begins typically by 3:00PM, please look for a dedicated notice from your National Geographic Expedition Leader at the reception desk. This message will outline the specific details for our evening welcome reception and meeting-typically held between 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.-where you will gather with your Expedition Leader, Expedition Expert, and fellow travellers to look ahead at the days to come. Should you arrive later in the evening and miss this initial gathering, your Expedition Leader will leave a comprehensive briefing note for you at reception detailing the next morning's schedule.

Please note that the joining day of the itinerary can vary, please refer to your specific itinerary for further details.


For this particular itinerary day 1 is an arrival day and no activities have been planned on this day. Your Welcome Meeting will take place on day 2 (in the morning), where you will get a chance to meet your leader and other travellers, as well as learn more about how the tour will run. If you don't see a note, please ask reception for details!

What is the group leader like?  

Every National Geographic Signature departure is accompanied throughout by a dedicated National Geographic Expedition Leader, whose purpose is to ensure a seamless experience so you can fully immerse yourself in the destination. Your Expedition Leader offers deep insight into the landscapes you traverse, suggests enriching independent activities, recommends exceptional local dining venues, and connects you with our community friends along the way. Rather than acting as conventional guides, they possess a broad, sophisticated understanding of the historical, cultural, religious, and social tapestry of the region. To offer the ultimate perspective, we complement their expertise with specialist local guides whose deep regional knowledge adds profound depth to specific sites-delivering a masterfully balanced exploration.

Is there an extra cost for travelling solo?  

Yes, for those travelling solo there is a single supplement.

What important notes should I be aware of before the trip?  

MIGRATION
The Great Migration is not a singular event but a continuous, year-round phenomenon involving over a million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles. These animals consistently traverse the landscape between Tanzania's Serengeti and Kenya's Maasai Mara, guided by rainfall and the availability of fresh grass. Consequently, their precise location varies annually.Observations will differ depending on the season. At times, the animals congregate in vast groups across open plains. On other occasions, they disperse into smaller herds, frequently accompanied by their young. It is also possible to witness them migrating in extended single-file lines. It is important to note that their movements and river crossings are entirely subject to natural forces.Nonetheless, the most compelling aspect of the Great Migration is the sheer abundance of wildlife it showcases, regardless of the herds' exact position. This provides a remarkable opportunity to observe predator-prey interactions, which are integral to this magnificent natural cycle.

DRIVES
This is not a physically demanding journey; however, travelling can be difficult, as long drives and poor road conditions are the rule as opposed to the exception in Tanzania. A safari is about travelling to see animals, so we cover long distances crossing the country to visit different national parks. Once there, we spend the majority of the time viewing wildlife from the safari vehicles while driving in the parks. This translates to a lot of driving and sitting. Despite this, the diversity and scenery of the African landscape, the local culture and abundant wildlife are all well worth the experience.

ELECTRICITY
All lodges and camps will have electricity although many work off solar, or generators with limited times.
The power supply in Tanzania is nominally 240VAC, 50hz.
Variable voltage, spikes and sporadic, unexpected, unscheduled power cuts of varying duration can be expected.

YELLOW FEVER
It may be required to show a Yellow Fever certificate upon entering the country visited. Please check in with your local health expert for advice on Yellow Fever and other inoculations required for this area.

ACCOMMODATION
Please note all accommodation listed below is not guaranteed, but is indicative of the types of accommodation used.

Are there any additional packing suggestions I should consider?  

When deciding what to pack, considerations will vary based on your specific itinerary, the regions you are visiting, and the season in which you are travelling. Generally speaking, we recommend packing thoughtfully and keeping your luggage to one checked bag at a manageable weight to facilitate seamless transitions throughout your expedition.

In addition to your primary luggage, you will also require a small day pack or shoulder bag. This smaller bag is essential for keeping your camera, water, and personal items close at hand during day walks, excursions, and daily explorations.

What should I consider when planning my personal expenses and discretionary spending for this itinerary?  

While personal spending habits naturally vary, we recommend factoring in your individual preferences for shopping, tipping, and beverages to ensure a seamless experience. In addition to these day-to-day comforts, we kindly ask that you maintain access to a minimum of USD $200 (or its equivalent) as a dedicated emergency fund; though exceptionally rare, unpredictable circumstances such as changing weather patterns or natural events may occasionally necessitate a shift from our planned route, and this reserve ensures we can navigate any path ahead with peace of mind.

What meals are included in this trip?  

7 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 6 dinners