Signature: Tanzania’s Serengeti, Tarangire & Ngorongoro Crater - 8 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  This trip highlights include learning how experts empower communities to protect wildlife in the Tanzanian savanna, connecting with the KopeLion team helping Maasai herders and lions coexist on the crater rim, exploring Olduvai Gorge where groundbreaking historical discoveries were made, and witnessing the drama of the wild on drives through the Serengeti’s endless golden plains.

• Who will be leading the group?

  The group will be led by a National Geographic Expedition Leader and a National Geographic Expedition Expert throughout the tour.

• What is the maximum number of travellers on this tour?

  The maximum number of travellers on this tour is 18.

• What meals are included in this trip?

  The trip includes 7 breakfasts, 7 lunches, and 6 dinners.

• Where will we stay during the trip?

  Accommodation will be in a hotel for 1 night and lodges for 6 nights.

• Are international flights included in this trip?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. However, on some combo tours, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price. Please consult your National Geographic Signature Specialist for details.

• Are local flights included in the cost of the trip?

  Yes, local flights are included in this tour. For internal flights from Seronera Airstrip (Serengeti NP) to Arusha Airport (ARK), there's a total weight limit of 20 kg per passenger (15 kg checked + 5 kg hand luggage), and soft-sided bags are strongly recommended. For other internal flights, a 15 kg (33 lbs) limit applies, including hand luggage, cameras, and personal items, with soft-sided bags strongly recommended.

• What are the modes of transportation on my trip?

  Transportation will include private vehicles, 4x4 safari vehicles, planes (for internal flights), and walking.

• How will we travel between destinations?

  Travel between destinations will primarily be in custom-engineered, private 7-seat 4x4 safari vehicles. These vehicles feature expansive sliding windows and a large 360-degree pop-up roof for optimal wildlife viewing, with comfortable individual seats and charging facilities. Occupancy is capped at six explorers per vehicle for comfort, though a seventh passenger can be accommodated if the cooler/refrigerator is removed. Internal flights are also utilized for some segments.

• Is there an extra cost for travelling solo?

  Yes, for those travelling solo, there is a single supplement.

• What activities are optional on this trip?

  There are no optional activities specified for this trip; all listed activities are included.

• What is included in the tour?

  The tour includes an arrival transfer, Welcome Moment in Arusha, KopeLion Presentation & Field Work Visit in Ngorongoro, safari drives in Tarangire, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, and Central Serengeti, a morning safari drive to the Ngorongoro Crater floor with bush brunch, a visit to Olduvai Gorge and its museum, free time to enjoy lodge amenities, engaging discussions with the National Geographic Expert, an internal flight from Serengeti to Arusha, a departure transfer, porterage at hotels and vehicles, and tips for all included activities, meals, and porterage (excluding the Expedition Leader). All transport between destinations and to/from included activities is also included.

• What are the joining instructions?

  A seamless arrival transfer is included for guests landing on the first day of the itinerary, or up to three days prior if pre-trip accommodations were arranged directly through the tour operator at our starting property. Upon arriving at the starting property, please look for a dedicated notice from your National Geographic Expedition Leader at the reception desk, which will outline the details for our evening welcome reception and meeting, typically held between 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. on day 2. If you miss this initial gathering, your Expedition Leader will leave a comprehensive briefing note for you at reception. The arrival transfer is available from the JRO airport.

• What should I know about my departure day?

  You will be met at your hotel property and transferred to the airport for your onward travels at the end of your expedition.

• Are there any health considerations I should know before travelling?

  Health requirements and recommended inoculations vary by destination; it is your responsibility to consult with a specialized travel physician well before departure. We highly recommend carrying a personal first aid kit, hand sanitizer, and essential prescription medications. A valid Yellow Fever Certificate is compulsory for travel to Tanzania if you are arriving from a Yellow Fever endemic country or have transited for more than 12 hours through such an airport. Please review the itinerary and physical requirements to ensure your personal fitness aligns with the style of exploration.

• What are the mandatory travel insurance requirements for this trip?

  Comprehensive travel insurance is a mandatory prerequisite for participation, and your National Geographic Expedition Leader will verify your physical policy details. Your policy must include full medical protection with a minimum requirement of $200,000 USD for emergency rescue and medical repatriation. Comprehensive coverage for personal liability, trip cancellation or curtailment, and the loss of luggage and personal belongings is also strongly advised.

• What general safety tips and free-time guidelines should I follow?

  Consult your home government's international travel advisories. Use a concealed neck wallet or money belt for important documents and currency. It's suggested to leave exceptional jewelry at home and use safety deposit boxes at accommodations. Always secure your luggage with a lock. The Expedition Leader may modify the itinerary for safety. During unstructured free time, explore in small groups and utilize local taxis at night. Avoid public demonstrations and participate in water-based activities only when accompanied by professional guides.

• What should I know about currency, credit cards, and exchanging money while on this tour?

  The local currency in Tanzania is the Tanzanian Shilling (TSH). US Dollars (notes newer than 2006), British Pounds, and Euros can be exchanged locally. While ATMs are available in major centers, they can be unreliable or run out of cash. Credit cards are accepted in major cities (often with a 5-10% fee) but are not widely accepted elsewhere. It is best to bring a combination of foreign currency cash (especially USD for visas) and debit/credit cards for cash advances, as you should not rely on cards as your only source of money.

• Where can I do my laundry on this trip?

  Laundry services are available during your journey. Please consult your Expedition Leader for assistance with making these arrangements during your stay.

• What are the tipping guidelines for this trip?

  Gratuities have been fully taken care of for all included meals, activities, and luggage porterage. Tipping for the National Geographic Signature Expedition Leader is not included but appreciated; a guideline is $10-$15 per person per day. Tipping is neither required nor expected for your National Geographic Expedition Expert. For meals and activities not included in your itinerary, it is appropriate and expected to tip 10% in Africa.

• Who do I contact for arrival issues or in the event of an emergency?

  Should you require urgent assistance, your first point of contact should be our local representative or regional office. Emergency contact numbers for the local representative in Tanzania (+255 754 400 141) and the local office in Nairobi, Kenya (+254 727 208 832) are provided, along with international toll-free numbers. For airport transfer issues within 48 hours of arrival, contact the emergency number immediately to adjust your transfer.

• Do I need to pay a departure tax?

  A departure tax of USD30 is usually included in most international air tickets.

• What should LGBTQ+ travellers know about safety and travel considerations on this trip?

  The safety and well-being of all travelers, including those identifying as LGBTQ+, is a priority. Travelers are encouraged to visit the tour operator's LGBTQ+ page for useful resources and to utilize the Equaldex tool for specific country information to ensure they feel safe and comfortable throughout the trip.