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Tanzania: Hiking The Great Rift Valley

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Private
$
From $14,326
2
Guests
11
Days
Home — Tanzania: Hiking The Great Rift Valley

An Active Tanzania Safari

This 12-night safari follows the Rift Valley and Serengeti systems through a combination of vehicle exploration, multi-day hikes, and lightweight mobile camping. Beginning at the base of Mount Meru, the route passes through Lake Manyara before continuing into the Ngorongoro Highlands. From here, guests walk with Maasai guides across volcanic terrain, moving from Empakai Crater down to the floor of the Rift Valley at Lake Natron, with nights in simple camps set to trace the progression of the journey.

The second half of the itinerary focuses on the Serengeti, reached by road from Ngorongoro. Here the emphasis is on mobility and seclusion, walking and driving in little-visited sectors while staying in lightweight camps. This approach enables close study of predator–prey dynamics while maintaining the exploratory spirit of the earlier trek. The result is a practical and low-density way of experiencing northern Tanzania’s defining landscapes in both geological and ecological terms.

Daily Summary

Day
1

Arusha

Arrive at Kilimanjaro Airport and transfer to Rivertrees Country Inn on a coffee estate outside Arusha. The gardens, riverine woodland, and views of Mount Meru provide a gentle landing before the active stages of the journey begin. This first night is designed for rest and adjustment after the international flight.

Bed & Breakfast
Rivertrees Country Inn
Days
2-4

Lake Manyara National Park

Spend three days in Lake Manyara National Park, exploring by vehicle, on foot, and by canoe when water levels permit. Habitats shift from groundwater forest to open plains and the alkaline lake, supporting elephant, giraffe, hippo, and large flocks of flamingo. Evenings are spent in camp within the park, allowing early access to wildlife areas.

All Inclusive
Manyara Green Camp
Days
5-6

Empakai to Lake Natron (Hike)

Begin a guided trek with Maasai hosts, descending into Empakai Crater before traversing high ridges and pastoral villages. Camps are positioned along the route, with views towards Oldoinyo Lengai. The trail eventually drops towards the Rift Valley floor, linking volcanic uplands to the arid expanse of Lake Natron.

All Inclusive
Simple Lightweight Camp
Days
7-8

Lake Natron

Continue hiking along the Rift wall, with routes adjusted to group preference. Conclude at Lake Natron Camp, where natural pools provide relief from the semi-arid surroundings. The lake is one of East Africa’s principal breeding sites for lesser flamingo and sits within a stark volcanic landscape shaped by nearby Lengai.

All Inclusive
Lake Natron Camp
Days
9-11

Serengeti

Enter the Serengeti by road, staying in a mobile tented camp set in little-visited sectors. Activities combine extended drives with guided walks, designed to observe the migration and the interaction of predators with the herds. The lightweight style of camping maintains continuity with the exploratory nature of the earlier hike while providing access to diverse plains wildlife.

Fully Inclusive
Little Green Camp

Fitzroy are true specialists in accessing the wilderness. They know where to go and importantly, when to go there. Highly recommended!

Ed Charles

Bafta & Emmy award winning film producer of BBC’s Planet Earth 2 and A Perfect Planet

Ed Charles, BBC Producer
Ed Charles, BBC Producer

Our Approach

Remote, Exclusive, Seamless

At Fitzroy, we believe direct dialogue is essential in tailoring your travel experience. We favour engaging conversations over digital exchanges, ensuring your travel vision is clearly understood and promptly supported.

Our team is committed to a human-led process from start to finish, that goes beyond the online realm. Whether over the phone or in person, we work closely with you to develop a journey plan that is both thoughtfully considered and expertly executed. Please reach out to schedule a meeting or call and begin shaping your journey with us.

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