Footsteps of Mankind Adventure

From Arusha to Ndutu

Tour Overview

Step into the birthplace of humanity on an extraordinary adventure through some of northern Tanzania's most remote and captivating landscapes.

Combining guided trekking, authentic Maasai culture and an unforgettable safari, the Footsteps of Mankind adventure follows ancient trails across the Great Rift Valley, from the shores of Lake Natron to the wildlife-rich plains of Ndutu.

Discover hidden waterfalls, dramatic gorges and sweeping volcanic landscapes as you walk through a region steeped in history. Along the way, visit the ancient hominid footprints near Lake Natron and Olduvai Gorge, one of the world's most important archaeological sites, offering a fascinating connection to our earliest ancestors.

Led by Maasai guides and staying in intimate wilderness camps, you'll experience Tanzania far from the crowds before finishing with a safari in Ndutu, home to abundant wildlife and, seasonally, the spectacular Great Migration. Blending adventure, history and wildlife, this is an unforgettable journey through the landscapes where the story of humankind began.

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Explore remote wilderness trails alongside enthusiastic Maasai guides, uncovering ancient routes, breathtaking landscapes, and the stories of a culture deeply connected to the land.

Stay at Lake Natron Camp, a unique 10-tented eco-camp set in one of the world’s most iconic landscapes, surrounded by flamingo-rich shores, Maasai culture, and diverse wildlife.

Discover the wildlife-rich Ndutu plains on an unforgettable game drive, tracking big cats, elephants, and abundant birdlife, with the chance to witness the Great Migration in season.

Tour Itinerary

Customisable ? This tour can be customised to suit your tastes and timing. Enquire here for more information.
Day 1
Arrival at Lake Natron Camp

Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Arusha to the remote shores of Lake Natron, one of Tanzania's most extraordinary landscapes.

Dominated by the imposing silhouette of Ol Doinyo Lengai, the sacred mountain of the Maasai, this striking region is renowned for its dramatic scenery, ancient geology and remarkable birdlife. On arrival at Lake Natron Camp, settle into your spacious Meru-style safari tent before spending the afternoon at your leisure.

Choose from a range of optional guided activities, including a walk along the lakeshore, a visit to the famous hominid footprints preserved in volcanic ash, or a spectacular hike through the Ngare Sero Gorge to hidden waterfalls. Alternatively, simply relax beside the camp's crystal-clear natural spring-fed pools before enjoying sundowners and dinner beneath a sky filled with stars.

Overnight at Lake Natron Camp including Full Board

Day 2
Explore the Wonders of Lake Natron

Wake to magnificent views of Ol Doinyo Lengai and spend another day discovering the unique landscapes surrounding Lake Natron. This remarkable region offers something for every traveller, whether you prefer adventure or relaxation. Explore the lake's shimmering shoreline, one of the world's most important breeding grounds for lesser flamingos, hike deeper into the spectacular Ngare Sero Gorge, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings of camp.

Before your trek begins tomorrow, soothe your feet in the camp's natural spring-fed pools, where tiny fish provide a surprisingly enjoyable natural pedicure. As evening falls, gather around the campfire and prepare for the exciting days of trekking that lie ahead.

Overnight at Lake Natron Camp including Full Board

Day 3
Trek the Great Rift Valley to Sanjan Camp

After breakfast, your trekking adventure begins. Descend to the floor of the Great Rift Valley before starting the climb along ancient Maasai migration trails, following routes still used today as herders move their cattle in search of fresh pasture. The ascent rewards you with ever-expanding views across the Rift Valley, revealing an immense landscape shaped over millions of years.

After meeting your vehicle, continue across the vast Salei Plains to Sanjan Gorge. Between December and May these plains often host the Great Migration, with thousands of wildebeest and zebra moving across the grasslands. Arrive at Sanjan Camp, tucked beside the spectacular gorge in a peaceful wilderness setting. Settle into your spacious dome tent, furnished with comfortable camp beds, thick mattresses and cosy bedding, while shared camp facilities include hot showers and toilets. Spend the afternoon exploring the dramatic gorge or simply unwind around the campfire with a well-earned drink as the sun sinks below the escarpment.

Overnight at Sanjan Camp including Full Board

Day 4
Trek Through Sanjan Gorge to Piyaya Camp

Wake to a spectacular sunrise over the Gol Mountains as bush coffee is prepared over the morning fire. Today's trek follows the rugged trails that wind alongside Sanjan Gorge, where rocky paths, towering cliffs and sweeping viewpoints make for an unforgettable day's hiking. Led by your Maasai guides, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for this remote wilderness and the people who have called it home for generations.

Later, transfer to Piyaya Camp, nestled at the foot of the Gol Mountains. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings before another memorable evening beneath Africa's brilliant night sky and around the campfire.

Overnight at Piyaya Camp in comfortable Dome Tents including Full Board

Day 5
Journey to Ndutu via Olduvai Gorge

This morning, enjoy a final walk before meeting your driver at Nasera Rock. From here, continue your journey through one of the most historically significant landscapes in the world. En route, visit Olduvai Gorge, often referred to as the "Cradle of Mankind", where groundbreaking discoveries have provided extraordinary insights into human evolution dating back nearly two million years.

Continue to the Ndutu region, where the open plains of the southern Serengeti ecosystem offer exceptional wildlife viewing throughout the year. Settle into the welcoming surroundings of Ndutu Safari Lodge and enjoy dinner overlooking the surrounding wilderness.

Overnight at Ndutu Safari Lodge including Full Board

Day 6
Safari in the Ndutu Plains, Southern Serengeti

Swap your hiking boots for a safari vehicle as you spend the day exploring the wildlife-rich plains of Ndutu. This remarkable region is famed for its resident predators and, depending on the season, plays host to the Great Migration as vast herds of wildebeest and zebra gather on the nutrient-rich grasslands to calve.

With your experienced guide, search for lions, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, hyenas and an abundance of birdlife while enjoying a full day immersed in one of Africa's finest safari destinations.

Overnight at Ndutu Safari Lodge including Full Board

Day 7
Depart Ndutu

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before transferring to Ndutu Airstrip, where your adventure comes to an end. From here, you can connect onward by flight to Arusha or Zanzibar or continue your Tanzanian journey by road.  Speak to our team about arranging onward flights or extending your journey with another unforgettable African adventure.

As you depart, you'll take with you unforgettable memories of dramatic Rift Valley landscapes, authentic Maasai encounters, ancient archaeological wonders and some of Tanzania's most spectacular wildlife experiences.

What’s Included

Accommodation
  • Included Copy 20 6 nights Tented Lodge/Camp accommodation
  • Included Copy 31 Suite upgrade available
Food
  • Included Copy 20 All meals throughout the tour
  • Included Copy 7 Premium brand drinks
Fees & Services
  • Included Copy 20 Roundtrip road transfers as outlined in the itinerary
  • Included Copy 20 Guided trekking through the Great Rift Valley
  • Included Copy 20 Access to natural spring-fed pools at Lake Natron
  • Included Copy 20 Maasai-guided trek through Sanjan Gorge
  • Included Copy 20 Vehicle transfer across the Salei Plains
  • Included Copy 20 Olduvai Gorge visit
  • Included Copy 20 Full-day safari/game drive in the Ndutu Plains
  • Included Copy 20 Professional trekking and safari guides
  • Included Copy 20 Departure transfer to Ndutu Airstrip
  • Included Copy 7 International flights, Visa, Travel Insurance, Gratuities/Tips and other personal expenses
  • Included Copy 31 Optional activities not specified in the itinerary (additional cost)

Activities

  • Included Experience authentic Maasai-guided trekking through ancient trails and cultural landscapes
  • Included Track big cats, elephants, and diverse wildlife across the Serengeti plain
  • Included Hike the spectacular Ngare Sero Gorge to discover hidden waterfalls and volcanic landscapes
  • Included Thrilling game drives across the Ndutu Plains
  • Included Discover human history at Olduvai Gorge, the legendary "Cradle of Mankind"
  • Included Enjoy unique remote camping, campfire evenings & stargazing experience
  • Included Discover enriching Maasai cultural experience
  • Included Visit lake Natron’s dramatic landscapes and flamingo breeding grounds
Tap here for dates & prices
Duration

7 days

Price from

$5,039 USD

Per person, sharing

Daily on request