Join us for a stress-free travel experience! Our trip leaders will be with you from the airport on arrival day to ensuring a safe transfer on departure day. We’ve got you covered!
Embark on an educational adventure in Tanzania, featuring multiple safaris, school visits, and cultural immersion.
Start in Arusha, exploring local culture, history, and schools. Experience the stunning Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Manyara National Park on safaris, observing wildlife and conservation efforts. Stay overnight at Tarangire National Park for another safari, viewing iconic animals. Enjoy the beauty of Mount Kilimanjaro and Maasai culture at Simba Farms, a family-run resort. This adventure blends education, adventure, and culture for an unforgettable experience!
Note: Itinerary Subject to Change
School Visit: Yes
This trip offers immersive professional development through school visits, allowing educators to engage directly with local teachers and students, observe classrooms, and participate in meaningful dialogue about education systems around the world. These experiences foster fresh perspectives and practical ideas to bring back home.
Professional Development – Medium Level
This trip includes educator discussions, offering authentic opportunities for cultural exchange and professional growth. While you may not be matched with your exact grade level, you’ll gain meaningful insights to reflect on and bring back to your classroom. Participants will receive a certificate for 20+ professional development hours. The true magic of PD on this trip comes from the organic conversations and connections you make with fellow educators along the way.
Graduate Credits- In addition, we have partnered with an accredited university to allow participants to earn 1 graduate credit for an additional $100 or 3 graduate credits for an additional $300.
Terrain: Some hills, dust, uneven walking surfaces
Activity Level: Moderate to High due to climate conditions and walking
Additional Questions? Please visit our Bookbag Tours FAQ page.
*Reserve your spot with a nonrefundable deposit today!
Secure your spot on this unforgettable adventure with just a $300 nonrefundable deposit. From there, 40% of your trip cost will be due 6 months before your travel date, and the final payment will be due 3 months prior to departure. It’s a simple, flexible way to lock in your journey and start counting down to the experience of a lifetime!
Trip pricing can change at any time due to fluctuating travel costs. Book now to lock in your rate and secure your spot at the current price!
Welcome Reception
Welcome Reception in Arusha
PD Certificate
A certificate for 20+ hours of Professional Development
Airport Transfers
Our BBT staff and local guides will meet arrive and arrange transportation, as well as arrange transportation when you depart
Hotel/Lodges
See itinerary on accommodations.
Meals
Meals that are listed in itinerary
Group Activities
This is a very inclusive trip, and most group sightseeing and activities are included. See itinerary
Safari/Game Drives
Game Drives (Safaris)
Transportation
All in-country transportation to group activities included
School Visits
Multiple school visits/ educational organization visits
BBT T-Shirt
You will receive a BBT T-Shirt before your trip!
The BBT Team
Your amazing Trip Leaders, your Professional Development facilitators, our Trip Managers, and our On-Site and Off-Site Team members!
Airfare
Airfare is not included
Optional Side Trips
You will have a list of optional side trips for an additional fee at a later date
VISA
At the appropriate time, we will provide a link to the VISA application.
Vaccines
Any required Vaccines you may need. Reccomended Vaccines include: Typhoid, Cholera, Hep A, Polio, Yellow Fever, Chikungunya, Rabies, Hep B, Meningitis. As always, consult with your doctor.
Tips and Gratuities
For in-country guides and drivers
Early/Late Transfers
If you are arriving or departing earlier/later than the scheduled Group dates, you will be responsible for your own transfers. We are happy to advise, but we will not cover the cost.
Leaders will welcome you at the airport and will get you transferred to the hotel.
Lunch and Dinner.
Arriving early? Let us help you plan your early adventure!
Some suggestions:
See the markets, familiarize with the environment. Your lodge is located close to restaurants, shops, markets, so it's easy to move around from it.
Explore the Arusha Maasai Market, Cultural Heritage Centre, Meserani Snake Park
or take a day trip out of town to visit Arusha National Park. (All Optional Trips)
Arusha National Park
Description: Home to diverse wildlife, including colobus monkeys, zebras, giraffes, and bushbucks. The park also features Mount Meru, the Momella Lakes, and the Ngurdoto Crater.
Arusha Maasai Market, Cultural Heritage Centre: Experience the vibrant culture of Tanzania at the Arusha Maasai Market, where you can find colorful handicrafts, traditional jewelry, and unique crafts made by the local Maasai people. Stroll through the bustling stalls, engage with friendly artisans, and immerse yourself in the rich heritage of this iconic community.
Don't miss the Cultural Heritage Centre nearby, showcasing the diverse traditions and arts of Tanzania, offering a deeper understanding of the country's fascinating history and culture.
Meserani Snake Park
Home to various snakes, including some of the most venomous species in Africa, as well as crocodiles and monitor lizards.
Today we leave Arusha in the morning, and head to Lake Manyara National Park. As we travel, we will take in the scenic landscapes and observe the changes in the environment as you move from the bustling city to the tranquil park.
Upon arrival at Lake Manyara National Park, we will have a delightful picnic in the park, with a stunning view of the lake. This serene setting is perfect for enjoying your meal while being surrounded by nature.
After lunch, we will embark on an exciting safari (game drive) through Lake Manyara National Park. The park is known for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, hippos, and the famous tree-climbing lions. Keep your eyes peeled for flamingos and other waterfowl that inhabit the lake's shores.
In the late afternoon, we will continue your journey to your next accommodation in Karatu. This charming town serves as a gateway to the Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area and offers a peaceful retreat after a day of adventure.
Country Lodge in Karatu embodies simple country comforts, providing pleasant and affordable lodging in the heart of Tanzania’s rich and scenic northern highlands and coffee estates near Ngorongoro Crater. Garden paths lead to twelve double cottages surrounded by green lawns, hedged by brightly flowered bougainvillea, tropical plants, and trees. A pool offers the perfect way to relax after traveling.
In the early morning, we will depart from our accommodations to make our way to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The drive offers spectacular views as you ascend the outer rim of the crater, with lush highland forests providing a dramatic contrast to the savanna below.
Upon arrival at the crater, we will descend into the caldera, which is renowned for its stunning scenery and abundant wildlife. The Ngorongoro Crater is the world's largest inactive, intact, and unfilled volcanic caldera.
The unique ecosystem within the crater supports diverse species, including the Big Five: lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, and rhinos. We'll embark on a game drive, during which we'll have the chance to observe these magnificent animals in their natural habitat.
A picnic lunch will be provided at a scenic spot within the crater, allowing you to enjoy the breathtaking views while surrounded by wildlife.
Continue your game drive in the afternoon, exploring different areas of the crater. Keep an eye out for rare species such as the black rhino and marvel at the variety of birdlife, including flamingos on Lake Magadi.
Since 1985, family-owned Tarangire Safari Lodge has been known for its stunning location and views, catering to wildlife lovers and those seeking relaxation in Tanzania’s popular national park.
The open-air dining room offers a unique setting for home-style international cuisine. Enjoy signature buffets with fresh fruits, vegetables, and a variety of flavorful dishes. Requests for dinner under the stars on the terrace are welcome, featuring local wines and candlelight. Friendly staff are ready to assist with guests’ needs and dietary requirements.
After breakfast we will head to the scenic Tarangire National Park.
Upon arrival at Tarangire National Park. The park is renowned for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, and predators, as well as a variety of bird species. The iconic baobab trees and stunning landscapes add to the park's charm. The park is renowned for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, and predators, as well as a variety of bird species. The iconic baobab trees and stunning landscapes add to the park's charm.
Safari Drive:
Upon arrival at Tarangire National Park we will check in to our accommodations and head out for a safari (game drive) in the afternoon.
Since 1985, family-owned Tarangire Safari Lodge has been known for its stunning location and views, catering to wildlife lovers and those seeking relaxation in Tanzania’s popular national park.
The open-air dining room offers a unique setting for home-style international cuisine. Enjoy signature buffets with fresh fruits, vegetables, and a variety of flavorful dishes. Requests for dinner under the stars on the terrace are welcome, featuring local wines and candlelight. Friendly staff are ready to assist with guests’ needs and dietary requirements.
As a group, we will start our day safari deeper into Tarangire National Park. The park is renowned for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, and predators, as well as a variety of bird species. The iconic baobab trees and stunning landscapes add to the park's charm.
Since 1985, family-owned Tarangire Safari Lodge has been known for its stunning location and views, catering to wildlife lovers and those seeking relaxation in Tanzania’s popular national park.
The open-air dining room offers a unique setting for home-style international cuisine. Enjoy signature buffets with fresh fruits, vegetables, and a variety of flavorful dishes. Requests for dinner under the stars on the terrace are welcome, featuring local wines and candlelight. Friendly staff are ready to assist with guests’ needs and dietary requirements.
After breakfast and a final game drive in Tarangire National Park, we will make our way to the West Kilimanjaro region.
The drive will take approximately four hours, offering us ample time to reflect on our safari experiences and enjoy the changing landscapes.
We will have lunch in Arusha at Sable Square, where you can choose from a variety of options between Swahili and Western food.
(Please note that lunch is not included. This will be a great opportunity to taste the local cuisine and enjoy a relaxing break.
In the afternoon, we will head to the area near Kilimanjaro and stop at a local school. In the afternoon, we have the opportunity to visit a government primary school, Arise School. This visit will provide us with a perspective on Tanzanian education styles and allow us to meet with teachers and learn about their teaching methods and challenges.
We will then check into our lodging at Simba Farm Lodge. It is a family owned bed and breakfast. We will be renting out the whole resort during our time there.
Today, we will go together for a short morning hike with our tour guide.
This is a wonderful opportunity to relax and enjoy the serene surroundings or participate in some of the optional activities available to us. Since we will be at the base of Kilimanjaro, we will have the opportunity for optional excursions to explore Kilimanjaro further or the surrounding area.
Short Hikes in the Kilimanjaro Forest Explore the beautiful Kilimanjaro forest on foot. These short hikes offer the chance to immerse yourself in nature, observe the diverse flora and fauna, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the forest.
Hike Up on the Western Slopes of Kilimanjaro to Shira Plateau For those seeking a more challenging adventure, a hike up the western slopes of Kilimanjaro to the Shira Plateau is a great option. This trek offers stunning views and a sense of accomplishment as you reach the plateau.
Bike Rides in Enduimet Take a bike ride through the scenic Enduimet area, enjoying the fresh air and beautiful landscapes. This activity is perfect for those who love cycling and exploring new places on two wheels.
Farm Walks Take a leisurely walk around Simba Farm, exploring the fields and learning about the agricultural practices in the region. This is a great way to connect with nature and appreciate the work that goes into farming.
Birding For bird enthusiasts, birding at Simba Farm offers the chance to spot a variety of bird species in their natural habitat. Bring your binoculars and enjoy the sights and sounds of the avian world.
We will then check into our lodging at Simba Farm Lodge. It is a family owned bed and breakfast. We will be renting out the whole resort during our time there.
The BBT staff will assist with airport transfer.
If flight allows
If you are interested in extending your stay, let us know and we can assist with your travel plans.
Extending your stay? Let us help you plan your next adventure.
Fill in this form on the website OR choose your own activity.
Perfect for travelers looking to save and connect. Share a comfortable room with another traveler and enjoy all the same great experiences at a lower cost. If you’re traveling with a friend, let us know your roommate preference at checkout. Otherwise, we’ll thoughtfully pair you with someone of a similar age and teaching level.
If we cannot place you with a roommate the single room rate will apply, we hope you understand.
Ideal for those who prefer extra privacy. Relax in your own room after each day’s adventure while still enjoying all group activities and inclusions. A great option for travelers who want a little more personal space.
Heads-Up, Snoozers! If you snore like a bear, rock a CPAP machine, need white noise, or have any other quirky sleep habits, we totally understand — everyone has their bedtime vibe! But to keep things peaceful for your fellow travelers, please consider booking a private room.
Even better? Bring a friend you’ve already shared a room (and some laughs) with, and have them register too!
Let’s keep the Zzzs drama-free and the vibes just right. Thanks for being the considerate rockstar you are!
Get Vaccinated & Pack Meds – Make sure your routine vaccinations are up to date, and talk to your doctor about malaria prevention. Bring bug spray with DEET, just in case.
Respect Local Customs – Tanzania is culturally diverse, and many areas are conservative. Dress modestly, especially in villages or religious sites.
Pack Layers – Safaris can be chilly in the morning and hot by afternoon. Layers will keep you comfortable throughout the day.
Bring Cash – Credit cards aren’t widely accepted outside of major hotels. Bring U.S. dollars (newer bills preferred) and exchange for Tanzanian shillings when needed.
Embrace “Pole Pole” – Life in Tanzania moves slowly (“pole pole” means “slowly slowly” in Swahili). Be patient and go with the flow.
Stay Hydrated – The sun can be intense, so drink plenty of bottled or filtered water, especially on safari or hikes.
Learn Basic Swahili – A few words like “Jambo” (Hello) and “Asante” (Thank you) go a long way in connecting with locals and showing respect.
Here are a few useful Swahili phrases for your trip to Tanzania (with pronunciation help!):
Jambo! (JAHM-boh) – Hello!
Asante (ah-SAHN-teh) – Thank you
Karibu (kah-REE-boo) – You’re welcome / Welcome
Habari? (hah-BAH-ree?) – How are you?
Nzuri (n-ZOO-ree) – I’m good / Fine
Tafadhali (tah-fah-DHA-lee) – Please
Samahani (sah-mah-HAH-nee) – Excuse me / Sorry
Ndiyo (n-DEE-yoh) – Yes
Hapana (hah-PAH-nah) – No
Choo kiko wapi? (choh kee-koh WAH-pee?) – Where is the bathroom?
Bookbag Tours is dedicated to providing quality professional development through immersive travel experiences for educators and their family and friends. Our trips offer a truly global perspective, allowing participants to gain insights that enrich their classrooms and lives.
Our mission is to empower educators and their companions with hands-on global experiences, equipping them to inspire students both in and out of the classroom.
With Bookbag Tours, you’ll earn 20+ professional development hours while exploring incredible countries alongside fellow educators and their guests. We also offer specialized trips focused on Marine Conservation and Ancient Civilizations that provide excellent PD without school visits, ensuring valuable knowledge is brought back to every participant.
We’re committed to enhancing the lives of those who strive to make the world a better place through meaningful group trips, professional development conferences, and cultural engagement.
We're here to help you plan the perfect adventure! For any inquiries or assistance, feel free to reach out:
Phone or WhatsApp: +1 (864) 907- 9874
Email: [email protected]
DM us on Socials: @bookbagtours
Our team is available to assist with bookings, itinerary changes, and any questions you may have. Let us help you make your dream trip a reality!