10 Days – Big Game And Birding Safari

Arusha Np – Lark plains- Tarangire – Serengeti – Ngorongoro & Lake Manyara

Tanzania’s Iconic Wildlife and Rich Birdlife

Overview

Experience the ultimate big game and birding safari in Tanzania with Charles Tours. This immersive 10-day journey blends spectacular wildlife encounters with diverse bird species in some of East Africa’s most renowned national parks. It offers a perfect combination of thrilling game drives and expert-guided birdwatching tours, creating unforgettable memories for both nature enthusiasts and avid birders.

Day To Day Itinerary

Day 1: Day 1: Arrival in Arusha

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport or the border, our representative will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Arusha. Relax and prepare for the exciting adventure ahead.
Overnight stay in Arusha

Day 2: Arusha National Park – Big Game and Birding Safari

For big game enthusiasts, you can spot giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and even the occasional leopard—all set against the stunning backdrop of Mount Meru. It’s the perfect place to enjoy both birding and wildlife in one amazing location!

Day 3: Lark Plains & Tarangire National Park

Begin your morning birding at the Lark Plains, searching for the endemic Beesley’s Lark, before heading to Tarangire National Park, famous for elephants, lions, and over 500 bird species. Overnight at the lodge.

Day 4: Tarangire A Haven for Big Game and Birds

Tarangire National Park is a dream for wildlife lovers. Picture massive elephant herds roaming beneath ancient baobabs, lions lounging on termite mounds, and leopards slipping through the trees. You might even spot rare antelopes like the oryx or the odd-looking gerenuk.

Birdwatchers will be in heaven too—Tarangire is home to over 500 species! Look out for the colorful Yellow-collared Lovebird, the quirky Secretary Bird strutting through the grass, and the mighty Martial Eagle soaring overhead.

Whether you’re after big cats, rare birds, or just breathtaking scenery, Tarangire never disappoints.

Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater Safari

Ngorongoro Crater offers an incredible experience for both big game and bird enthusiasts. The crater floor is home to the Big Five—lions, elephants, buffalo, rhinos, and leopards—offering an up-close safari experience. Additionally, the crater is a paradise for birdwatchers, with species like flamingos, ostriches, kori bustard, Black-winged Stilt , White-backed Vulture, Gray Crowned Crane , Common Ostrich, African Water Rai and many more – all thriving in this unique ecosystem. It’s a perfect destination to witness nature’s finest wildlife and birdlife.

Day 6: Morning Game Drive in Ngorongoro Highland & Transfer to Serengeti

Start your day with a peaceful morning birding adventure in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, where you might spot the striking Abyssinian Ground Hornbill, the majestic Augur Buzzard, and perhaps a Rüppell’s Vulture soaring overhead. As you travel towards the legendary Serengeti, the route offers plenty of wildlife encounters – keep an eye out for giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, and buffaloes grazing along the way. You may also catch glimpses of cheetahs and hyenas. Bird lovers can enjoy sightings of the Secretary Bird, Lilac-breasted Roller, and Gray Crowned Crane. After an exciting day, settle into a cozy tented lodge and unwind, surrounded by the sounds of nature

Day 7 & 8: Birding & Wildlife Safari in Serengeti

Spend two amazing days exploring the Serengeti while staying at wonderful lodge, following the Great Migration and spotting incredible wildlife. Keep an eye out for unique birds like the Secretary Bird, Martial Eagle, and the Tanzanian Grey Flycatcher. You’ll also encounter lions, cheetahs, elephants, and more. With its stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife, the Serengeti offers an unforgettable experience you’ll cherish forever.

Day 9: Morning Birding & Transfer to Mto wa Mbu

Wrap up your adventure with a peaceful birdwatching session in the Serengeti, where you might spot stunning birds like the Crowned Crane, Usambiro Barbet, Yellow-necked Spurfowl, Grey-crested Helmet-shrike, and the majestic Bateleur Eagle. As you drive towards Karatu via Ngorongoro, take in the beauty of the landscapes, with colorful weavers and francolin and many more along the way. In Ngorongoro, you might catch a glimpse of the rare Black-headed Heron or the quirky White-bellied Go-away Bird, Hildebrandt’s Francolin, Rufous-naped Lark and many more.
The journey offers a perfect mix of vibrant birdlife and exciting wildlife sightings, from wildebeests to zebras. A truly unforgettable experience! Overnight at the lodge in Karatu

Day 10: Lake Manyara Birding & Departure

On the final day of your 10-day safari, enjoy one last morning game drive in Lake Manyara National Park, home to incredible birdlife and diverse mammals. As you explore the park, you’ll have the chance to spot tree-climbing lions, giraffes, – Giraffes, Buffaloes , Zebras, Elephants, Leopards, Baboon and a wide variety of bird species like the Crowned hornbill, white-headed Vulture, African Fish Eagle, Lilac-breasted Roller, and many more.

After this memorable adventure, you’ll be transferred to the airport, filled with unforgettable experiences and ready for your next journey.

Safari Included

Park entry fees for national reserves (Serengeti, Ngorongoro, etc.).
Guided game drives with experienced drivers/guides.
Accommodation (lodges, tented camps, or safari tents).
Meals (often full-board: breakfast, lunch, dinner).
Transportation (4x4 safari vehicle between parks).

Safari Excluded

International flights and visas.
Travel insurance (medical/evacuation coverage).
Tips for guides, drivers, or camp staff.
Optional activities (hot-air balloon rides, cultural village visits).
Personal expenses (souvenirs, alcohol, laundry).

What Makes This Safari Uniquely “You”

For Families: Kids receive a “Safari Detective Kit” with animal checklists and Swahili wildlife phrases.
For Photographers: Guides position vehicles for perfect golden-hour lighting over the crater floor.
For Eco-Travelers: Carbon-offset itineraries and plastic-free picnic packs included.