Tanzania Under Canvas (2009)

This morning, depart overland on a full day of exploration along the Rift Valley and on to your first camp, located on the southern end of Lake Natron. The area is known as the "Mountain of God" by the Maasai. Tonight a special welcome dinner is held in your honor, providing a perfect opportunity to become better acquainted with both your guide and fellow travellers. Ngarasero Natron Camp B L D

Today is spent exploring the environs of moon-like Lake Natron, a soda lake at the base of the active Ol Donyo Lengai volcano. You have the option of taking short walks around the lake to the streams and waterfalls along the nearby escarpment for a true off-the-beaten- path adventure. On the surrounding plains you see many Maasai families in their traditional bomas, and the tall, elegant, proud Maasai herdsmen draped in red cloths and strings of beads. Visit one of the villages for a firsthand look into the unique lifestyle of the Maasai people. You may witness one of the Maasai cattle markets that occur occasionally on the plains outside of town. This is a rare spectacle when thousands of colorful Maasai herdsmen gather to trade. Ngarasero Natron Camp B L D

Today you drive toward the northern part of Serengeti National Park and on to your lodge. Serengeti is derived from the Maasai word "serenget" meaning "wide open space," an appropriate description as you experience uninterrupted views of the horizon from the swimming pool built on a rock deck overlooking the wide open plains. There is also a waterhole that attracts a variety of animals during the day and night. Lobo Wildlife Lodge B L D

Today you transfer to your Tanzania Under Canvas camp for two memorable days on safari in the Serengeti. Tanzania Under Canvas Tented Camp B L D

Spend a full day exploring the rolling Serengeti plains in search of large predators and gentle herbivores. Tonight, relax with fellow travellers and share stories about your Serengeti experience. Tanzania Under Canvas Tented Camp B L D

After breakfast, travel overland toward the majestic Ngorongoro Crater. En route stop at Olduvai Gorge for a guided visit of this most famous archaeological site. Here the Leakey family has made many of the fossil discoveries, including the Zinj skull, that identified man's remote ancestors in East Africa. Continue your drive into the Ngorongoro Crater highlands and on to your lodge. This afternoon take an optional walk in the nearby highland forest. Plantation Lodge B L D

Today you drive down into the Ngorongoro Crater, one of Africa's most fascinating wildlife areas. Up to twelve miles in diameter, the crater's short grass prairies are an ideal haven for animals, and you may see many species, including lion, elephant, hyena and gazelle. You may also see Maasai herdsmen and their cattle. Plantation Lodge B L D

Depart this morning, overland into the heart of the Rift Valley and on to your campsite located along the shores of Lake Eyasi. This is one of the soda lakes on the floor of the Rift Valley, an area now devoid of water. Arrive at camp in time for lunch and a chance to settle in. This afternoon you embark on an excursion to explore the Lake Eyasi area, including a visit to a boma (homestead), belonging to one of the local tribes, the Datooga. The Datooga pursue a nomadic, herding lifestyle similar to that of the Maasai. Their bomas provide security for livestock in central corrals, enclosures made of thorns and emanyara plant, protecting them from predators and rival tribes. The Datooga themselves blend in with their environment, their dress being the color of the reddish brown soil. Tanzania Under Canvas Tented Camp B L D

Drive to the Endabagha River, a vital source of water for this dry area. Meet your Hadzabe guide who introduces you to the world of these hunter-gatherer bushmen whose language involves a collection of clicking sounds. This unique opportunity is truly an encounter to treasure. Share stories tonight at a special farewell dinner. Tanzania Under Canvas Tented Camp B L D

Depart your camp and travel overland to Arusha, making a stop in the small town of Mto Wa Mbu. The balance of the day is at leisure. Dayrooms are provided for your comfort and convenience. The Arusha Hotel B L

Connect with your homebound flight.