7 Days Western Circuit
Western Tanzania Signature
Katavi + Mahale + Gombe: Full Wilderness Focus This is a pure Western Tanzania expedition for travelers who want the country’s most remote, wild, and uncrowded experiences without any beach extension. You begin in Katavi National Park, one of Africa’s last true wilderness areas, known for intense big-game scenes: massive buffalo herds, huge hippo pods, crocodile-lined waterways, and strong predator potential in a landscape that feels untouched. From there, the journey shifts to Lake Tanganyika and the forested slopes of Mahale Mountains, where expert trackers lead you on unforgettable chimp trekking through lush rainforest, balanced with peaceful lake time and boat-based relaxation. Finally, you head to Gombe Stream National Park, the legendary chimp sanctuary made famous by Jane Goodall, for more intimate primate encounters and waterfall trails. It’s the ultimate combination of big game + chimp trekking + true remoteness, designed for adventurous guests who want Tanzania’s rarest safari circuit.
7 Days
3 Parks
$0 USDUSD
Destination Highlights
Your Route Through Tanzania
Click any destination to explore it on the map.
Detailed Itinerary
Your Day-by-Day Adventure
Every day curated for the perfect balance of adventure, wildlife, and relaxation.
Price Details
What's Included
✓ Included
✓ All scheduled flights
✓ All boat transfers
✓ Private 4x4 safari vehicle + professional driver-guide in Katavi (shared guiding rules apply inside some parks/camps)
✓ Park fees & conservation fees for Katavi, Mahale Mountains, and Gombe Stream (as per itinerary)
✓ Chimp trekking permits (Mahale + Gombe) and ranger/trackers fees
✓ Accommodation (Luxury or Midrange—same route, different lodging level)
✓ Meals at camps/lodges (typically Full Board; some Kigoma stays may be Half Board depending on property)
✓ Drinking water during activities/transfers (refillable bottle encouraged)
✓ All activities listed: Katavi game drives; Mahale chimp trek(s); Gombe chimp trek; forest/waterfall hikes where included
✓ All government taxes applicable to listed services
✗ Not Included
✗ International flights
✗ Visa fees and entry requirements
✗ Travel insurance (highly recommended for flights + remote logistics)
✗ Tips/gratuities for guides, camp staff, boat crew, rangers, trackers
✗ Alcoholic drinks & premium beverages (unless a lodge includes them)
✗ Personal expenses (laundry, souvenirs, extra snacks, SIM/data, etc.)
✗ Optional activities not listed (extra chimp trek, kayaking/boat hire upgrades, extra hikes, village visits if arranged)
✗ Private charter flights (if requested instead of scheduled flights)
✗ Single supplement (if traveling solo, where applicable)
✗ Medical costs including vaccinations/medication (e.g., malaria prevention)
Things you might be wondering
If you don’t find your answer below, message us via the chat or use the “Book this trip” button — we usually reply within a few hours.
What is included in the price of my safari?
Your safari price typically includes park fees, professional driver-guide, 4x4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof, accommodation on the tier you select (budget camping, mid-range lodges, or luxury lodges), all meals during the safari, drinking water in the vehicle, and airport transfers. Exact inclusions are listed in the cost overview of this itinerary.
What is NOT included?
Generally excluded: international flights to/from Tanzania, visa fees, travel insurance, tips for the driver-guide and lodge staff, alcoholic and soft drinks, personal expenses (laundry, souvenirs), optional activities such as hot air balloon flights or night drives, and any meals taken in Arusha town outside the safari.
Do I need a visa to enter Tanzania?
Most visitors need a visa. Citizens of the US, UK, EU, Canada, Australia and many other countries can obtain a Tanzania tourist visa on arrival or online via the official e-visa portal (eservices.immigration.go.tz). The single-entry tourist visa costs US$50 (US$100 for US passport holders). Bring a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel date with at least 2 blank pages.
What vaccinations and health precautions do I need?
A Yellow Fever certificate is required if you arrive from a Yellow Fever endemic country (including most of sub-Saharan Africa). Most travellers also take anti-malaria medication — consult your doctor 4–6 weeks before travel. Recommended (not required) vaccines include Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, and routine boosters. Bring insect repellent containing DEET, sunscreen, and a basic first-aid kit.
When is the best time to go on safari?
Tanzania is a year-round destination. The dry seasons (June–October and January–February) offer the best game viewing because animals gather around water sources and vegetation is sparse. The Great Migration river crossings in the northern Serengeti typically peak July–September. The "green season" (March–May, November) brings lush landscapes, fewer tourists, lower prices, and excellent birdwatching.
What should I pack for a Tanzania safari?
Pack light, neutral-coloured clothing (khaki, olive, beige — avoid bright colours and dark blue/black which attract tsetse flies). Layers are essential: cool early-morning game drives and warm midday sun. Bring a warm fleece for Ngorongoro Crater, a hat, sunglasses, comfortable walking shoes, binoculars, a good camera with extra batteries, and a soft duffel bag (hard suitcases don't fit well in safari vehicles). The total luggage limit on small bush flights is usually 15kg.
Is Tanzania safe for tourists?
Tanzania is one of the safest safari destinations in Africa, with a stable government and a tourism-dependent economy that prioritises visitor safety. Petty theft can occur in Arusha and Dar es Salaam — use hotel safes and avoid displaying valuables. Inside parks and lodges you are completely safe. Your driver-guide is professionally trained in wildlife behaviour and emergency procedures.
Can children come on safari?
Yes — Tanzania safaris are wonderful for families. Most lodges welcome children from age 6+; some luxury lodges require minimum age 8 or 12. Children pay reduced rates (often 50–75% of adult price). Game drives are long, so factor in attention spans. We can adjust the itinerary with shorter drives, child-friendly lodges with pools, and cultural activities to balance the wildlife focus.
How do I pay and what is the deposit?
A 30% non-refundable deposit is required to confirm your booking. The balance is due 60 days before arrival. We accept bank transfer (SWIFT), credit card (3% surcharge applies), and PayPal. All prices are quoted in US Dollars. A receipt and confirmation voucher are issued immediately on deposit.
What is your cancellation policy?
Cancellations more than 60 days before arrival: 30% deposit retained. 30–60 days: 50% of total trip cost. Less than 30 days: 100% of total trip cost. We strongly recommend travel insurance covering trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and emergency evacuation. We can recommend insurance providers if needed.
Will I have phone signal and internet?
Most lodges in the northern circuit (Tarangire, Manyara, Ngorongoro, Serengeti) have Wi-Fi in the main areas — often slow but enough for messages and emails. Mobile signal (Vodacom, Airtel) covers much of Tarangire and Lake Manyara, parts of central Serengeti, and Ngorongoro rim. Deep in the Serengeti you may have limited or no signal — embrace the digital detox.
How much should I tip my guide?
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Industry guidelines: US$20–30 per day for your driver-guide (from the whole group, not per person), US$10–15 per day for camp/lodge staff (placed in the communal tip box), US$5–10 for porters at airports. Tips are best in US dollars in clean, undamaged notes.