Leave the safari vehicle behind and explore the Ngorongoro Highlands on foot, where ancient volcanic landscapes, lush forests, open grasslands, and Maasai communities create an extraordinary setting for adventure. The experience can take you to Empakaai Crater and Olmoti Crater, two beautiful volcanic landscapes that offer a completely different perspective of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
At Empakaai Crater, trek along the dramatic crater rim before descending through lush forest towards the crater floor, where a beautiful soda lake rests among the surrounding vegetation. The views from the rim are spectacular, stretching across the highlands and, on clear days, towards the distant Great Rift Valley and Ol Doinyo Lengai. At Olmoti Crater, a shorter but rewarding hike leads through montane forest and open highland scenery to the crater rim, where you can look down into the peaceful volcanic depression and discover the Munge Waterfall flowing into the surrounding landscape.
Together, Empakaai and Olmoti offer an unforgettable way to experience the Ngorongoro Highlands beyond the traditional safari. Walking through these ancient volcanic landscapes allows you to slow down, breathe in the highland air, discover hidden scenery, and connect more closely with the land and communities that call this extraordinary region home.
The trekking experience can be tailored around Olmoti Crater, Empakaai Crater, or both, depending on your available time, fitness level, and safari itinerary. The treks are guided and can be incorporated into a private safari through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Olmoti is generally the gentler of the two hikes, while Empakaai involves a more demanding descent and ascent into the crater. Good hiking shoes, drinking water, sun protection, and layered clothing are recommended, as temperatures and weather can change quickly in the highlands.









Across Tanzania and Africa, every destination brings its own character to an experience. Discover the places where this journey can unfold, from open savannahs and forests to wetlands and remote wilderness, each offering a unique landscape, atmosphere, and way to experience Africa.
Every experience is unique, and we know you may have questions before your journey begins. From the best time to visit and what to bring, to what to expect along the way, our frequently asked questions provide the essential details you need to feel prepared and confident. Explore the answers below and discover how we make every experience with Back to Eden Adventure seamless, comfortable, and memorable.
Olmoti offers a shorter hike through forest and highland scenery, with views of the crater and Munge Waterfall. Empakaai is larger and involves a longer, more challenging trek into the crater.
Yes. Both can be included in a private trekking experience, depending on your fitness level, available time, and overall safari itinerary.
You can experience volcanic landscapes, montane forests, crater lakes, waterfalls, birds, wildlife, spectacular highland views, and Maasai communities.
The dry months from June to October are generally ideal for trekking, offering more comfortable walking conditions and clearer views. The green season can also be beautiful, with lush vegetation and vibrant landscapes.
Olmoti is generally moderate, while Empakaai is more challenging, particularly because of the steep descent into and climb out of the crater. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended for both.
Your journey is designed to inspire discovery, adventure, and unforgettable moments. Explore our carefully crafted itineraries or let us create a personalized experience that matches your travel style, interests, and dreams of Tanzania.
There is always more to discover beyond one experience. Explore other ways to experience Tanzania and Africa, from wildlife encounters and nature to culture, adventure, and peaceful moments in the wilderness. Each experience brings a different perspective and another opportunity to make your journey truly memorable.
Rise before the world begins to stir and discover Africa from an extraordinary new perspective. As your hot air balloon gently lifts into the early morning sky, the first light of day begins to reveal the landscape below—golden savannahs, winding rivers, ancient trees, forests, and wildlife moving quietly through the wilderness. From above, the vastness of Africa takes on a whole new beauty, creating a peaceful and unforgettable way to experience the wild. As the balloon drifts naturally with the morning breeze, there are no roads to follow and no engine to disturb the silence. Far below, you may watch elephants moving across the plains, herds gathering in open grasslands, giraffes weaving between trees, or other wildlife beginning their day. With Back to Eden Adventure, the experience is carefully arranged to let you appreciate these moments at a gentle pace, combining breathtaking views with the tranquillity of floating above the wilderness as Africa awakens beneath you. There is something magical about watching the sunrise from the sky, surrounded by open horizons and the sounds of nature far below. Whether you are sharing the experience with someone special, discovering Africa as a solo traveller, or creating a memorable moment with family and friends, a hot air balloon safari can become one of the defining memories of your journey. It is not simply a flight above the landscape—it is a chance to see Africa from a perspective few experiences can offer and to carry that feeling with you long after you return to the ground.
Set in the beautiful foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro, the Serval Wildlife Experience offers a different way to connect with Tanzania’s wildlife. Instead of travelling through vast wilderness in search of animals, here you have the opportunity to encounter some of Africa’s most beautiful species in a more intimate and carefully designed natural setting. Giraffes move gracefully through the landscape, zebras create striking scenes against the greenery, and lions offer an unforgettable glimpse into the character of one of Africa’s most iconic predators. What makes Serval special is the feeling of being close to nature. You can take your time watching the animals, appreciating their individual personalities, and learning more about them while surrounded by beautiful gardens, trees, and views toward the Kilimanjaro landscape. It is an experience that works particularly well for travellers who want to combine wildlife with a slower, more relaxed day, while also creating wonderful opportunities for photography and meaningful memories. Serval can also become part of your stay rather than simply a daytime visit. The property offers villas where guests can stay overnight, allowing you to extend the experience and enjoy the peaceful surroundings for longer. Wake up close to nature, spend time with the wildlife, and combine your stay with other northern Tanzania experiences such as a safari, Kilimanjaro adventure, Materuni, or Chemka Hot Springs. Whether visiting for the day or staying overnight, Serval offers a more personal way to experience Tanzania’s wildlife.
Suspended high above the forest floor, the Tree-Top Canopy Walkway offers a unique way to experience the natural beauty of Lake Manyara National Park. A series of wooden walkways and suspension bridges takes you through the forest canopy, offering a completely different perspective of the landscape and its wildlife. As you move between the trees, the forest comes alive around you. Look for monkeys moving through the branches, colourful birds calling from the canopy, and butterflies drifting through the forest. The elevated walkways also create moments of quiet observation, allowing you to appreciate the sounds, textures, and atmosphere of the forest from above. The canopy walkway is a wonderful addition to a safari in Lake Manyara, especially for travellers looking to experience more than traditional game drives. It brings a sense of adventure to the journey while offering an intimate connection with one of Tanzania's beautiful forest environments.
There are few moments in the African wilderness as powerful as watching thousands of wildebeest gather at the edge of a river, waiting for the moment to move. Each year, the Great Migration carries vast herds of wildebeest, accompanied by zebras and gazelles, across the Serengeti ecosystem in search of fresh grazing and water. In northern Tanzania, the Mara River becomes one of the most dramatic stages of this journey, creating an extraordinary wildlife experience shaped entirely by nature. The anticipation is part of the experience. Herds may gather along the riverbank, hesitate, move away, and return before eventually making the decision to cross. When they do, the scene can transform in seconds as hundreds or thousands of animals descend into the water and make their way to the opposite bank. Dust rises from the surrounding plains, the river comes alive with movement, and predators and crocodiles can add another dimension to the natural drama. From your safari vehicle, your experienced guide helps you understand what is unfolding while ensuring the animals are given the space required by park regulations. A migration crossing is not something that can be scheduled like an ordinary activity. It is a moment you patiently wait for and one that may happen when nature decides the time is right. With Back to Eden Adventure, your private safari can be planned around the northern Serengeti during the migration season, giving you the opportunity to spend time in the right areas and follow the movement of the herds. The experience is as much about the anticipation, landscape, and atmosphere as it is about the crossing itself.
Rising dramatically from the Great Rift Valley, Ol Doinyo Lengai is one of Tanzania’s most extraordinary mountains. Known as the “Mountain of God” by the Maasai, this active volcano stands at 2,962 metres and offers a challenging ascent unlike any other mountain experience in northern Tanzania. The climb begins in the darkness, usually in the early hours of the morning, as you make your way up the steep volcanic slopes beneath a sky filled with stars. As the first light appears, the surrounding Rift Valley slowly comes into view, revealing vast landscapes stretching towards Lake Natron, the Ngorongoro Highlands, and distant volcanic peaks. Reaching the summit at sunrise creates a powerful sense of achievement and one of the most unforgettable views in Tanzania. Ol Doinyo Lengai is more than a mountain climb. It is an opportunity to experience the raw power of an active volcano and connect with a landscape that holds deep cultural significance for the Maasai people. For adventurous travellers, the experience offers a rare combination of physical challenge, dramatic scenery, volcanic geology, and cultural meaning.
Discover a different side of Tanzania in the beautiful Usambara Mountains, where rolling green hills, mist-covered forests, fertile valleys, and traditional villages create a refreshing escape into nature. Far from the busy safari routes, this mountain region invites you to slow down, explore on foot, and experience the landscapes and local communities that make Tanzania so diverse. With Back to Eden Adventure, follow scenic hiking trails through lush countryside, small farming communities, and forested slopes overlooking the surrounding valleys. Each walk brings a new perspective, from panoramic viewpoints and winding footpaths to colourful gardens and terraced fields shaped by generations of local farmers. The fresh mountain air, changing scenery, and peaceful atmosphere make every step an opportunity to reconnect with nature. The adventure is also about the people and traditions of the Usambara region. Along the way, you can visit local villages, meet residents, learn about traditional farming practices, and discover everyday life in the mountains. Depending on your chosen route, your hike may include forest walks, waterfalls, viewpoints, and visits to areas of rich biodiversity. Whether you are an enthusiastic hiker or simply looking for a meaningful outdoor experience, the Usambara Mountains offer a wonderful balance of exploration, scenery, and cultural discovery.
Our guests leave with more than memories—they leave with stories to share and moments they will never forget. With 5-star reviews from travellers around the world, we are proud to create journeys filled with genuine care, unforgettable experiences, and the beauty of Tanzania.
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Guide63644279770July 9, 2026Verified
Incredible Safari Back to Eden Aventures did an amazing job organizing an incredible 10 day safari for our family of four. Their communication was timely, clear and fully transparent which made planning effortless. The itinerary was flexible and they added activities based on our preferences without any hassle. Thanks to their thoughtful planning, we thoroughly enjoyed our safari vacation and had an unforgettable experience. We highly recommend Gift and his team.Posted on Tripadvisor![]()
hima aJune 25, 2025Verified
Incredible experience with Back to Eden Adventures As the Great Migration season kicks off in June, I'm excited to share my unforgettable Safari experience in Tanzania with Back to Eden Adventures. Their expert guide Hassan took us on thrilling game drives, bringing us face-to-face with incredible wildlife. We savored every moment, eagerly awaiting sightings of lions and cheetahs in action. The highlight of our trip was a luxurious 2-day glamping adventure deep in the middle of forest, with impeccable service from the staff. Special thanks to Laurent and Gift and for their exceptional customer service, which truly made our experience unforgettable. We highly recommend Back to Eden Adventures to anyone planning a Tanzanian adventure.Posted on Tripadvisor![]()
Fearless15898388495January 18, 2025Verified
7-Day Kilimanjaro Trek We recently completed the 7-day Machame trek with Back To Eden Adventures and it was an absolutely incredible experience. The entire team, from our guides to the porters, were exceptional. The itinerary was well-paced and allowed us to acclimatize properly. We enjoyed stunning views throughout the trek, and the campsites were well-chosen and offered incredible vistas.Posted on Tripadvisor![]()
adin43December 4, 2024Verified
Great safari experience! Planned a trip for my parents and another couple, and they had an amazing time! They mentioned Laurent specifically took very good care of them during the whole tour and to their particular needs whether it was the food, their medical conditions etc. I definitely recommend this tour for safari in Serengeti. Reach out to Laurent! He's so easy to get along with and communicate with so that you can plan in advance with him before your trip.Posted on Tripadvisor![]()
Beatrice BDecember 4, 2024Verified
Amazing Kilimanjaro Experience An amazing experience in the Kilimanjaro! We did the Marangu Route and Back to Eden helped us with every step of the way: prior, during and after. From the logistic team to the porters and guide team, our experience in the mountain was incredible! Totally recommend them for small or large groups.Posted on Tripadvisor![]()
Voyage61643334116December 4, 2024Verified
Magical African Safari We had an amazing trip with Back to Eden Adventures. Everything was well organised and we didnt face any difficulties during the trip. They understood are requirements and curated a customised itinerary based on our needs. Our tour guide was also great and very helpful. It was a wonderful trip and we had a good time. Thanks to Back to Eden Adventures.Posted on Tripadvisor![]()
garybrakaJuly 7, 2024Verified
Sérieux et disponible Organisation top en amont avec beaucoup de disponibilités et de réponses à toutes les questions. Le voyage est cher donc c’est important d’avoir un maximum de réponses pour s’organiser au mieux. La voiture était top et le chauffeur avait réponses à tout. Profitez
Curated Safari Journeys
Discover our collection of carefully crafted safari journeys, created to bring you closer to the beauty of Tanzania. From unforgettable wildlife encounters to peaceful nights in the wilderness, each itinerary combines exceptional experiences, handpicked stays, and the personal touch of Back to Eden Adventures. Let us create a journey that feels truly yours.
Discover our safari articles, travel stories, and helpful guides to inspire your journey through Tanzania. From wildlife and breathtaking destinations to local culture and travel tips, find everything you need to dream, plan, and make the most of your African adventure with Back to Eden Adventures.