Follow a family-rooted path through northern Tanzania, from the shores of Lake Victoria to the plains of the Serengeti and the crater highlands
Baba Yangu means “my father” in Swahili, and this tour was created in his honor. Every year, we traveled to the Mara Region, where my father is from and where some of my paternal family still live. This area borders Lake Victoria, the second-largest freshwater lake in the world, and is home to the famed Great Migration. Our journey includes Arusha, the Ngorongoro Crater, the Serengeti, Mwanza, and Ukerewe Island, where my grandfather once lived. This tour is a tribute to legacy, land, and the stories that connect the paternal side of my family across generations.
Arrival in Mwanza
Upon arrival at Mwanza Airport (MWZ), you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Mwanza, a bustling lakeside city known for its massive granite boulders, earning it the nickname Rock City. As one of Tanzania’s largest urban centers, Mwanza offers a unique blend of natural beauty, Sukuma heritage, and vibrant local life along the shores of Lake Victoria.
There are no scheduled activities today to allow for rest and recovery from travel. Settle into your room, meet your tour coordinator, and begin connecting with fellow travelers.
Meals Included: Lunch & Dinner
Ferry Mwanza to Ukerewe
This morning, we take the ferry across Lake Victoria to Ukerewe Island, the largest inland island in Africa and the birthplace of my paternal grandfather. After checking in at a hotel along the island’s coast, we’ll spend the afternoon on a walking tour led by a local guide with deep roots in the community.
The tour includes a visit to the bustling market and several historic landmarks, offering insight into the island’s distinct character and history.
This day offers a meaningful connection to my personal heritage while honoring the living culture of the Kerewe people, the island’s original inhabitants.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner
Lake Victoria by Canoe and the Island’s Healing Traditions
This morning, we’ll explore the shoreline of Ukerewe by canoe, paddling with local guides through the calm waters of Lake Victoria. It’s a peaceful way to experience island life from a different perspective.
In the afternoon, we’ll visit a respected local healer to learn about traditional plant-based remedies and healing practices. Guests are welcome to ask questions or seek advice on natural approaches to everyday wellness.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner
Return to Mwanza & Safari Prep
This morning, we take the ferry back to Mwanza and return to our hotel for a bit of rest and reset. The afternoon is free for last-minute shopping or relaxing before we begin the safari portion of the journey.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner
Mwanza to Serengeti National Park
After breakfast in Mwanza, we begin our journey eastward toward Serengeti National Park. The drive takes us through a changing landscape—lakeside towns, rolling hills, and open farmland—offering a glimpse into rural life in this region of Tanzania. We’ll enter the park through the scenic Ndabaka Gate, where the savannah stretches out ahead and the safari experience begins.
The drive takes approximately 6 to 8 hours, depending on road conditions. Along the way, you’ll have time to take in the views, settle into the rhythm of the road, and prepare for the wildlife encounters to come. By afternoon, we’ll be surrounded by the wide-open plains that make the Serengeti one of the world’s most iconic natural landscapes.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner
Full-Day Game Drive in the Serengeti
Today is your first full day on safari in the legendary Serengeti National Park, where vast golden plains and dramatic skies create one of the most iconic landscapes in Africa. After an early breakfast at Nyikani Camp Serengeti, you’ll head out for a full-day game drive, guided by expert eyes attuned to the rhythms of the wild. From lions resting in the shade to herds of wildebeest and zebra moving across the savannah, each moment offers a new window into life on the plains. With a packed lunch enjoyed in the bush, the day is yours to explore, observe, and be immersed in the raw beauty and wonder of the Serengeti..
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner
Another Day on Safari in the Serengeti
Today takes you deeper into the Serengeti, with morning and afternoon game drives across its wide-open plains. From early light to sunset, the park reveals its rhythms—lions stretching after sleep, elephants gathering at watering holes, cheetahs on the move, and giraffes gliding quietly through the bush.
As you explore, you may spot herds of zebra and wildebeest, buffalo standing firm, or leopards resting in the trees. The kopjes, rivers, and endless skies offer a striking backdrop to each wildlife encounter.
In the evening, return to Nyikani Camp Serengeti, where you’ll unwind in comfort and fall asleep to the sounds of the wild under a sky full of stars.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner
Olduvai Gorge & Afternoon Game Drive
After breakfast, you’ll head out on one final game drive through the Serengeti. This is one more chance to soak in the beauty of the landscape and spot wildlife—lions, elephants, giraffes, or perhaps even a cheetah in the morning light.
Leaving the open plains behind, you’ll make your way toward Olduvai Gorge, one of the most significant paleoanthropological sites in the world. Known as the “Cradle of Mankind,” this is where groundbreaking discoveries in the 1950s and 60s helped shape our understanding of human evolution.
At the Olduvai Museum, perched on the rim of the gorge, you’ll explore exhibits that tell the story of early humans. Fossils, tools, and reconstructions—many found at this very site—connect you to our shared human past in a powerful way.
Later in the day, you’ll arrive at Ngorongoro Farm House, a cozy lodge tucked into the lush hills of Karatu. Set on a working coffee plantation, it’s a peaceful place to relax before heading into the Ngorongoro Crater region tomorrow.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner
Ngorongoro Crater Safari
At sunrise, you’ll begin your journey to the legendary Ngorongoro Crater—one of Africa’s most breathtaking wildlife havens. The descent into the crater floor feels like stepping into another world, teeming with life and stunning natural beauty.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts one of the highest concentrations of wildlife in Africa. With luck, you might spot all of the Big Five in a single day, including the elusive black rhino. Massive elephants, over 600 hyenas, and a strong population of lions make this one of the best places for predator sightings.
Beyond the wildlife, the scenery is unforgettable—misty forested walls, open plains, and streams where hippos laze, all set inside the caldera of an ancient volcano.
After a full day exploring the crater, you’ll drive to Arusha and check in at Arusha Planet Lodge. Nestled at the base of Mount Meru, this eco-lodge offers a peaceful atmosphere, mountain views, and a warm local welcome.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner
Materuni Waterfalls & Coffee Experience
Today we head to Materuni Village, nestled in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro. A short, scenic hike takes us through lush greenery and banana groves to the stunning Materuni Waterfalls, where water plunges over 80 meters into a cool, clear pool. Feel free to dip your feet or dive in for a refreshing swim.
After the hike, we’ll visit a local Chagga coffee farm, where you’ll learn how coffee is grown, roasted, and brewed using traditional methods. Join in the process, then relax with a fresh cup while taking in views of the surrounding highlands.
This day offers a rich blend of nature, culture, and community with a chance to experience daily life at the base of Kilimanjaro.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner
Banana Farm Visit near Mount Kilimanjaro
Today we visit a local banana farm in the fertile foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro, where banana cultivation is a vital part of daily life. You’ll learn about the different varieties grown in the region and how bananas are used for food, drink, and traditional ceremonies.
Walk through the fields with a local farmer, discover sustainable farming practices, and see how this versatile crop shapes both diet and culture. To complete the experience, you’ll get to try traditional banana beer, brewed locally and often shared during celebrations and communal gatherings.
This visit offers a hands-on glimpse into rural life and the cultural significance of bananas in northern Tanzania.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Departure Day
After breakfast, it’s time to say kwa heri to Tanzania. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time to relax at the lodge or pick up a few last souvenirs before your transfer to the airport.
As you head home, we hope you carry with you the memories of the landscapes, connections, and stories that made this journey unforgettable. Asante sana for traveling with us. Safe travels and we hope to welcome you again.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Every detail of the Misafara Tour is designed to provide a seamless, enriching, and comfortable experience. Here’s what’s included:
Accommodations
Stay in handpicked, mid-to-luxe boutique hotels and lodges that combine comfort with cultural charm.
Local Transportation
All in-country ground transportation, intercity travel, and safari vehicles, as per the itinerary and included activities (excludes airport transfer).
Expert Local Guides
Knowledgeable, locally based guides who offer cultural insight, historical context, and on-the-ground support throughout your journey.
Group Coordinator Support
A dedicated Refracting Africa Group Leader will accompany you on the trip and manage logistics before and during your journey, ensuring a stress-free experience.
Meals
Enjoy 12 breakfasts, 12 lunches, and 12 dinners, showcasing traditional East African cuisine and locally sourced ingredients.
Cultural & Historical Site Entry Fees
All admission fees to scheduled sites, including Kilwa Kisiwani, Bagamoyo, and Nyerere National Park.
Curated Experiences
Community-led tours, heritage site visits, wildlife safaris, and guided explorations that offer authentic, immersive engagement.
Activities & Park Fees
All scheduled activities and national park entrance fees included in the itinerary
On-Tour Support
A Refracting Africa coordinator to ensure your comfort, answer questions, and enhance your travel experience.
While we’ve designed this tour to include everything you need for an enriching and comfortable experience, the following are not included:
Flights
Airfare is not included
Medications, Antimalarials, or Vaccinations
Travelers are responsible for any personal health preparations, including medications or vaccinations recommended for travel to Tanzania.
Airport Transfer
We'd be happy to arrange an airport transfer for you for an additional fee.
Drinks & Meals Not Mentioned in the Itinerary
Additional meals and beverages not outlined in the itinerary are at the traveler's expense.
Visas
Travel visas are the responsibility of the traveler.
Tips for Local Guides
Gratuities for guides and support staff are not included and are left to the group’s discretion (encouraged!).
Travel/Trip Insurance
Travel insurance is mandatory and must be purchased by each participant prior to departure.
Our payment schedule applies to journey costs only and is structured as follows:
$500 non-refundable deposit required at the time of booking. 90 Days Prior to Departure: 50% of the total journey cost is due. 60 Days Prior to Departure: Remaining balance is due.
If your reservation is made within 60 days of departure, full payment is due at the time of booking.
If you choose to pay the full amount at the time of booking. For those selecting a payment plan, a 3% payment plan fee will be applied.
***For latest payment policy check the client service agreement***
Most travelers will need a visa to enter Tanzania. Requirements vary depending on your nationality, so we recommend checking with the Tanzanian embassy or consulate in your country for the most accurate and up-to-date information. If you have trouble finding the information you need, feel free to email us—we’re happy to help.
Packing for a group tour to Tanzania depends on the season and planned activities, but comfortable, lightweight, and breathable clothing is essential, especially for warm days and cooler evenings. Neutral-colored clothing is recommended for safaris to blend in with the environment. Comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are useful for outdoor activities, while insect repellent is important for protection against mosquitoes. A light rain jacket may be needed, especially during the rainy season. Other essentials include a camera with a spare battery, power bank, a universal plug adapter , and a small daypack for excursions. More detailed packing recommendations will be provided by your group leader after you book.
Travelers should check recommended vaccinations and health precautions for Tanzania. Commonly suggested vaccines include Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid, and routine immunizations. Malaria is present in some areas, so preventive medication may be advised. We recommend consulting your doctor or a travel health specialist to determine the best precautions based on your health and itinerary. For those living the U.S., here is link to CDC that you can use find the nearest travel health specialist in your area: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/find-clinic.
The Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) is the official currency and is required for most local purchases. While U.S. dollars are no longer accepted by many local vendors, you can exchange USD notes dated 2009 or newer at banks or currency exchange offices.
Credit cards are generally accepted at hotels and larger establishments, but for local markets and tips, cash in Tanzanian Shillings is essential. We recommend bringing some cash and withdrawing additional TZS from ATMs upon arrival. Your group coordinator can assist with currency exchange and ATM access as needed.
Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and lodges, but speeds can be slow, especially in remote areas. Mobile network coverage is generally good in cities and towns but may be limited in national parks and rural regions. For reliable connectivity, travelers can purchase a local SIM card from providers like Airtel, Vodacom, or Tigo upon arrival. If your phone supports eSIM, you can also use international eSIM providers like Airalo or Holafly, which allow you to activate a data plan before arriving in Tanzania. This can be a convenient option for staying connected without needing a physical SIM card. Another option is to be a global plan via your cell.