Overview
Step into the heart of Tanzania on an extraordinary retreat led by Kitty Holland, designed to blend adventure, culture, and refined comfort. From the flamingo-streaked shores of Lake Natron to the forests of Manyara, the vast plains of Tarangire, and the awe-inspiring Ngorongoro Crater, this journey offers breathtaking landscapes and wildlife framed through the lens of expert guidance. Kitty will lead you to the best locations at the ideal times of day, helping you capture the light, landscapes, and wildlife in unforgettable ways. Guests will move beyond the typical safari experience, engaging with local communities in Arusha, witnessing Tanzanian culture firsthand, and exploring the land with intention. Guided by Ali — who grew up in East Africa and speaks Swahili — the retreat combines deep cultural insight, intimate knowledge of the region, and thoughtful planning, ensuring every moment feels authentic and immersive. World-class accommodations, gourmet meals, and moments of rest and rejuvenation are seamlessly woven into the itinerary, balancing adventure with ease. This retreat promises not only to refine your photography skills but also to leave you inspired, connected, and transformed by the beauty and spirit of Tanzania.
Highlights
Expert Photography Guidance & Timing
With Kitty Holland leading the retreat, guests gain insider guidance on capturing Tanzania at its most photogenic moments. From sunrise balloon safaris over Tarangire to the otherworldly light of Lake Natron, every location and experience is timed for optimal photography, ensuring guests return with images that tell the story of the land, wildlife, and culture.
Iconic Wildlife & Dramatic Landscapes
Explore the breathtaking diversity of Tanzania, from the flamingo‑streaked shores of Lake Natron and the lush forests of Manyara, to the elephant-filled plains of Tarangire and the awe-inspiring Ngorongoro Crater. Every day offers the chance to witness wildlife in their natural habitat, framed by landscapes that are as dramatic as they are photogenic.
Immersive Cultural Connections
Engage meaningfully with local communities in Arusha and surrounding areas, visiting initiatives like the SASA Foundation and experiencing Maasai traditions firsthand. Guests not only observe but participate in storytelling, craft, and cultural exchange, creating memories and photographs that go beyond the ordinary safari experience.
Team
Meet the folks putting together your bucket list adventure.
Kitty Holland
Katherine (Kitty) Holland has been a photographer for over 15 years, driven by a deep love for connection, interaction, and storytelling. She believes in making the most of every opportunity, whether through a shared moment, a meaningful conversation, or a fleeting scene captured through her lens. A seasoned traveller with an insatiable appetite for adventure, Kitty is endlessly inspired by people, places, and cultures around the world. Grounded in curiosity and generosity, she brings a genuine desire to help wherever she can. She can’t wait to show you the world—beautiful, honest, and full of wonder.
Ali Sohani
Ali brings a lifelong connection to East Africa, blending local fluency, cultural insight, and an explorer’s spirit to create meaningful travel experiences. Having grown up in the region and speaking Swahili, he moves easily between cultures, helping guests engage with Tanzania in a way that feels natural, respectful, and immersive. Thoughtful and grounded, Ali balances curiosity, warmth, and intentional planning to shape journeys that connect adventure with place. Deeply familiar with landscapes like Natron, Manyara, Ngorongoro, and Tarangire, he guides with confidence, passion, and a belief that shared moments create the richest travel stories together.
Schedule
This luxury safari experience begins with your arrival in Tanzania, where you'll settle into world-class accommodations and enjoy a welcome dinner. Explore the Serengeti with exciting game drives, including an unforgettable hot air balloon safari. Throughout the journey, wellness and movement sessions are thoughtfully integrated to keep you relaxed and rejuvenated. This adventure offers the perfect blend of thrill and comfort, with every detail taken care of to ensure a truly unforgettable experience.
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Early Arrival: November 3rd
Early Arrival / 2-Night Add-On / Kilimanjaro Climb
For those arriving early, the adventure begins at your own pace. Whether you choose to rest and enjoy the comfort of your lodge or embark on the optional climb of Kilimanjaro, the rhythm of East Africa welcomes you. Gentle exploration, fresh air, and stunning scenery set the stage for the days to come.
Included
Airport Transfers
Breakfast
Not Included
Lunch
Dinner
Early Arrival: November 4th
Day in Arusha: Shanga & SASA Foundation
Day in Arusha: Shanga & SASA Foundation
Today offers a chance to connect with the heart of Arusha. Visit the Shanga workshop, where creativity and innovation meet, and the SASA Foundation, an inspiring local organization. Guests can capture meaningful moments, engage with the community, and even help create profile photographs for the charity - a blend of purpose, culture, and storytelling that grounds the journey in connection.
Included
Breakfast
Not Included
Lunch
Dinner
Day 1: Nov 5th
Arrival & Arusha Coffee Lodge
The rest of the group arrives today. Settle into the luxurious Arusha Coffee Lodge and enjoy a welcome dinner surrounded by lush gardens. This evening is about easing into the adventure ahead — sharing first stories, sipping local brews, and soaking in the warm East African atmosphere.
Included
Breakfast
Welcome Dinner
Not Included
Tips
Lunch
Day 2 – Nov 6th
Manyara & Ngorongoro
After a leisurely breakfast, the journey takes you to the forests and lakes of Manyara. Experience a sunset game drive through dramatic landscapes, spotting wildlife as the golden light shifts across the horizon. Then, travel to Karatu and check in at the retreat at Ngorongoro, where comfort and tranquility await after a day of exploration.
Included
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Beverages
All transportation
Not Included
Tips
Day 3: Nov 7th
Lake Natron & Masai Giraffe Eco Lodge
Journey toward the striking landscapes of Lake Natron, a place of otherworldly beauty. The lodge provides a serene base for exploration, and your eyes will be drawn to the brilliant pink and soda-ash hues of the lake. Evening is a quiet moment to reflect on the grandeur of the Rift Valley before tomorrow’s full day of discovery.
Included
Lunch
Dinner
Breakfast
Game Drive
Bush Breakfast
All Transportation
Not Included
Tips
Day 4: Nov 8th
Lake Natron Immersion
A full day to immerse in the extraordinary beauty of Lake Natron. Witness flamingos in their natural habitat, explore mineral formations, and for the adventurous, there’s the option to climb Ol Doinyo Lengai — a challenge rewarded with unforgettable views. Whether photographing or simply absorbing the landscape, this day is about awe, scale, and quiet connection to nature. African wilderness.
Included
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
All transportation
Not Included
Tips
Day 5: Nov 9th
Tarangire & Elephant Springs Lodge
Travel to Tarangire, home to winding rivers and thriving elephant herds. An evening game drive reveals animals at play, and the lodge offers unique opportunities to witness wildlife after dark. Gentle evenings by the water, observing elephants, create memories that linger long after the trip is over.
Included
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
All Transportation
Not Included
Tips
Day 6: Nov 10th
Balloon Safari & Ngorongoro
An early morning balloon safari over Tarangire introduces the magic of sunrise on the savanna — a quiet, ethereal moment. After breakfast and a leisurely lunch, the journey continues to Ngorongoro for an afternoon and evening game drive. The day balances adventure with rest, culminating in the comfort of the Melia Ngorongoro lodge.
Included
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Hot Air Balloon Ride
Not Included
Tips
Day 7: Nov 11th
Return to Arusha & Farewell Dinner
After a final breakfast at Melia, the group returns to Arusha Coffee Lodge. The afternoon offers relaxation, reflection, and indulgence — massages, last-minute photos, or simply taking in the gardens. The farewell dinner celebrates the week’s shared experiences, connections, and stories, closing the journey with warmth, gratitude, and a sense of transformation.
Included
Breakfast
Lunch
Farewell Dinner
Not Included
Tips
Day 8: Nov 12th
Departure
Guests depart at their own pace, carrying memories of landscapes, wildlife, and people. Whether heading home or continuing your travels, the spirit of Tanzania stays with you long after the journey ends.
Included
Breakfast
Airport transfer
Not Included
Tips
What's Included
What's Included
All Accomodation
Local Transportation
All meals on safari
All Park Fees & Taxes
Local Flights
Welcome dinner
Balloon Safari
Airport Transfers
Bed & Breakfast in Arusha
Select wines, spirits and beers at Melia and Arusha coffee lodge
What's Not Included
Visa
International Flight
Tips
Personal Travel Insurance
Gallery
Add Ons
Kilimanjaro - day hike (Nov 4, 2026 - Must arrive in JRO/Arusha by Nov 3rd)
Hike to Mandara camp. Departure from hotel at 6 am to Mandara hut. Includes all fees, guide + meal
PRICE$380.00/pp
ADD THIS
Two Extra Days single room (Nov 3 - 5, 2026)
Come Early to Acclimatize, Adjust and Explore Arusha. Stay at the Arusha Coffee Lodge.
PRICE$1,062.00/pp
ADD THIS
Two Extra Days double room (Nov 3 - 5, 2026)
Come Early to Acclimatize, Adjust and Explore Arusha. Stay at the Arusha Coffee Lodge.
PRICE$790.00/pp
ADD THIS
Balloon Safari
Soar above the wild—where adventure meets breathtaking serenity.
PRICEFree
ADD THIS
Zanzibar Extension (shared - double) - Nov 12-15
Unwind in Paradise at the Mora Zanzibar. All inclusive + flights
PRICE$1,250.60/pp
ADD THIS
Zanzibar Extension (single room) - Nov 12-15
Unwind in Paradise at the Mora Zanzibar. All inclusive + flights
PRICE$1,586.00/pp
ADD THISYou'll Be Staying Here
Arusha Coffee Lodge
Nestled in the heart of a working coffee plantation, Arusha Coffee Lodge offers a tranquil retreat surrounded by lush, green landscapes. This charming lodge combines rustic elegance with modern comforts, providing guests with a unique opportunity to experience Tanzania’s rich coffee culture. With spacious rooms and stunning views of Mount Meru, Arusha Coffee Lodge is the perfect base for relaxation before or after your safari adventures. Enjoy fresh, locally sourced coffee, serene surroundings, and warm hospitality as you unwind in this peaceful haven.
Melia Ngorongoro
Set high on the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, Meliá Ngorongoro offers a breathtaking blend of modern luxury and wild natural beauty. Overlooking one of Africa’s most iconic landscapes, the lodge delivers sweeping crater views and a front-row seat to extraordinary wildlife encounters. Elegant rooms combine contemporary comfort with warm local touches, creating a serene retreat after a day of exploration. Guests can enjoy refined dining, a relaxing spa, and inviting lounge spaces designed to showcase the dramatic scenery. Whether descending into the crater for a safari or unwinding above the clouds, Meliá Ngorongoro provides an immersive, elevated experience that balances adventure with indulgent comfort.
The Retreat at Ngorongoro
Set on over 60 acres of lush highlands overlooking the Ngorongoro Forest, The Retreat at Ngorongoro offers a luxurious sanctuary where nature meets serenity. Each spacious cottage features elegant décor, king or queen beds, a fireplace, and a private deck with sweeping forest views, blending comfort with an intimate connection to the landscape. Guests can enjoy world-class dining crafted from locally grown produce, unwind at the infinity pool, explore walking and jogging trails, or simply relax in the peaceful lounge spaces. With easy access to Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, and nearby coffee farms, the retreat provides an immersive experience that balances adventure, wildlife, and cultural connection — all while offering the ultimate in comfort, style, and tranquility.
Masaii Giraffe Eco Lodge
Set in the vast plains near Lake Natron at the foot of the sacred Ol Doinyo Lengai volcano, Maasai Giraffe Eco Lodge delivers an authentic and inspiring escape into the heart of northern Tanzania. Flamingos, giraffes, and zebras roam freely nearby, creating a living backdrop to your stay. The lodge embraces eco‑friendly design and sustainability, with solar‑powered facilities, a natural swimming pool, and farm‑to‑table dining that reflects local flavors and fresh ingredients. Guests can enjoy guided nature walks, cultural exchanges with the Maasai community, and the sense of being immersed in a timeless wilderness a place where the wild beauty of Africa and the warmth of local hospitality come together for a deeply memorable experience.
Elephant Springs Tarangire
The lodge combines modern design with traditional African aesthetics, blending elegant interiors with a deep connection to the landscape. Guests can enjoy gourmet meals in open‑air dining spaces, relax by an infinity pool overlooking the plains, or gather around lantern‑lit dinners under the stars. From guided game drives and walking safaris to sunset sundowners and night drives, Tarangire Elephant Springs offers an intimate and immersive safari experience that balances adventure with comfort and style.
FAQs
What is Included in the price?
See "What's Included" Section or detailed schedule for more information.
How much cash should I bring?
With most things included you should not need much cash. For souvenirs and tips for local guides you will need no more than a total of $500 - $700 USD
What do I need to travel to Tanzania
Once you book we will share a detailed package of everything you should bring on the trip. However, here are some things to consider:
1. Visa. For nationals of most countries, this can be obtained upon arrival for $50 USD ($100 for American citizens). So please arrive with the exact amount. You may also choose to get your visa in advance. This can be obtained on the Tanzania immigration website here. There are certain countries that do not require visas. The list of countries is found here. There is a small list of countries that require referral visas. These individuals cannot obtain visas on arrival. Here is a list of countries that require referral visas.
2. Vaccines & meds: The CDC website is a great resource for this. Please also consult with your family doctor or a tropical medicine clinic at least a month before the trip! Yellow fever vaccines is required ONLY IF you are coming from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. See if your country is on the list here. This also includes layover of more than 12 hours.
3. Passport. Of course don't forget your passport!
Do you cater to all dietary preferences?
Yes we cater to all dietary preferences including but not limited to Vegetarian, Vegan, Kosher, Halal, gluten-free and all allergies.
What are the accomodations like?
We believe that there is nothing more pleasant than resting in luxury after a tiring day to recharge for the adventure the next day. Ofcourse the Serengeti Explorer speaks for itself but all accommodation is in highest quality hotels. Please see accommodation section for more details
What payment terms are available?
You may pay the full amount upfront OR pay in equal- monthly instalment as laid out in the payment section. Full amount to be paid 90 days before trip.
What is the Cancellation policy?
See Cancellation policy section for details or email us for more information on cancellation policy for your trip.
What airport should I fly in and out off?
The base trip starts in Arusha on Nov 5th 2026 and ends Nov 12, 2026. We recommend purchasing return tickets to Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA) for these dates.If you purchase the Zanzibar add-on, we recommend purchasing flight into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and out of Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) on March 15th 2026. If you have purchased the early arrival, please plan to arrive in JRO on Nov 3rd, 2026.
What should I pack?
We recommend packing light to allow us to be agile as we move through the different safari destinations. We will share a full packing list closer to the trip!
I wish to extend the trip. Can you organize activities
Absolutely. Please let us know if this is something you wish to do. if you would like to stay on after the wellness retreat or arrive early, there is tons more to do in East Africa. Gorilla trekking in Rwanda, trip to Lake victoria, Lake Chala, Mombasa. These are just some examples of activities that can be arranged. Just ask us! Set up a call on Zahi Journeys home page to learn more.