LUXURY SAFARI IN TANZANIA
Discover Africa's Beauty.
Be Part of Tennis History.
With Tennis Legends John and Patrick McEnroe
DECEMBER 1 – DECEMBER 8, 2023
SEEING IS BELIEVING
Take a moment to watch this short video from Tanzania Tourism bringing this epic tennis experience to life.
A Historic Moment in Tennis History
This trip provides unprecedented access to two of the most iconic individuals in US sports history, John and Patrick McEnroe. Imagine hearing about their experiences on tour, driving through the safari with them, or even playing tennis with them. This once-in-a-lifetime experience culminates when the McEnroe brothers will play the world’s first tennis match in the heart of the Serengeti, one of Africa’s most iconic safari destinations, where horizons know no end and endless chapters of the Great Migration play out.
Tanzania is the birthplace of the Safari (Swahili for a journey). Famous names such as Hemingway, Finch Hatton, Roosevelt and many more have experienced this land and left spellbound having seen its wonders. Big game, local cultures and stunning landscapes combine to produce what is often described as the holiday of a lifetime and coupled with celebrity tennis professionals as your hosts, this is a truly extraordinary experience.
Hosted by Legendary Tennis Players
John McEnroe
John McEnroe was ranked #1 in the world four times during his singles career. He holds several Open Era records and won a total of seven Grand Slam singles titles. In doubles, he won nine Grand Slam titles and was ranked #1 for 270 weeks with Peter Fleming. He is also an Emmy-nominated sports analyst. John is a philanthropist and founded the Johnny Mac Tennis Project to remove barriers to success through tennis for kids in New York City, and continues to promote the sport globally.
Patrick McEnroe
Patrick McEnroe is a former tennis player who found success in doubles, winning 16 titles including the French Open and Paris Indoors. He was also a Davis Cup team member for the USA three times. After retiring, he became a tennis commentator for ESPN and coached the 2004 U.S. Olympic men’s tennis team. In 2000, he became the U.S. Davis Cup captain, leading the team to their first victory since 1995 in 2007, and he later served as General Manager, Player Development for the USTA.
Highlights
HISTORIC TENNIS MATCH
Feel the excitement as two of the greatest tennis players of all time step onto the world’s first tennis court in the Serengeti – set to the backdrop of vast, pristine nature. You’ll be right there in the middle of it all, witnessing an event that will go down in in history.
thrilling excursions
Experience the breathtaking beauty of a hot air balloon ride over the savannah, the exhilarating thrill of a game drive at sunrise or sunset, and the awe-inspiring wonder of the Ngorongoro Crater, the largest unbroken caldera in the world.
WORLD-CLASS HOSPITALITY
Relax and indulge in luxury accommodations and amenities at some of the most unique and distinctive resorts and lodges in the world, including the Four Seasons Serengeti Lodge. The perfect fusion of adventure and luxury.
PREMIER
WILDLIFE SIGHTINGS
WILDLIFE SIGHTINGS
Witness exotic and captivating wildlife as you traverse the savannah. See majestic lions on the hunt; feel the ground shake as elephants shuffle past you; hear giraffes gracefully moving through the trees. Tanzania is one of the most biodiverse regions in the world.
authentic
cultural experiences
cultural experiences
Immerse yourself in the rich and fascinating culture of the Maasai African tribe, one of the oldest and most unique cultures in the world. Tour their village, dine with them, and discover the traditions and customs that they have preserved for centuries.
RECEPTION WITH
THE PRESIDENT
THE PRESIDENT
Attend an exclusive welcome reception with Her Excellency Samia Suluhu Hassan, the first female president of Tanzania, and other dignitaries. This is an exclusive opportunity to engage with some of the most influential leaders in Africa.
Itinerary
1
Dec
Arusha, Tanzania
Indulge in a memorable dinner reception attended by esteemed guests, including the first female President of Tanzania, Samia Suluhu Hassan, and other distinguished Tanzanian dignitaries. Engage in enlightening conversations and forge connections with individuals who shape the destiny of this remarkable nation.
2
Dec
Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Transfer to the Kilimanjaro Golf & Wildlife Estate (Kiligolf) area, nestled between Mt. Kilimanjaro and Mt Meru, for morning tennis. Depart for a 30-minute charter flight to the Seronera Airstrip, the gateway to the Serengeti. Check into the Serengeti Four Seasons Lodge, a world-famous park known for its abundant wildlife, particularly the “big five.” Embark on a scenic game drive through the park.
3
Dec
Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Early morning game drive followed by breakfast and tennis in the bush. Full day of tennis, spa and optional conservation activities at the Four Seasons Lodge, including a 90-minute walk through the bush guided by a Resident Lodge Naturalist and members of Africa’s indigenous Maasai tribe. Sunset game drive followed by an authentic Maasai dining experience.
4
Dec
Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Early morning game drive followed by breakfast in the bush. In the afternoon, witness legends John and Patrick McEnroe play the first tennis match in the heart of the Serengeti, surrounded by breathtaking wildlife – this is indeed the highlight of the week. In the evening, join the legends and other dignitaries for a special reception to commemorate the event.
5
Dec
Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Hour-long, sunrise, hot-air balloon flight over the savannah, followed by a champagne breakfast in the bush. In the afternoon, venture back to the tennis court for the opportunity to volley and take photographs with the legends (and perhaps a few of the Big Five guests). Early evening final game drive with sundowners and tennis, followed by dinner at the lodge.
6
Dec
Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania
Depart for the Ngorongoro Crater in Northern Tanzania. Nearly three million years old, the ancient caldera shelters one of the most beautiful wildlife havens on earth. Spend the full day touring the world-famous crater with a stop for lunch to enjoy sites and animals while dining on a four-course meal with wine. In the evening, check into a nearby lodge with awe-inspiring views for dinner.
7
Dec
Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania
Morning game drive on the Crater floor – see Black rhino, giant tusked elephants, big-maned lions stalking the grasslands, and bright pink flamingos crowding the soda lakes. In the afternoon, tour the Maasai Cultural Village. A special court will be built in the village in honor of our tennis legends, who will conduct a clinic for the Maasai children. Sunset game drive followed by a farewell dinner at the lodge.
8
Dec
Arusha, Tanzania
Enjoy a final game drive in the morning before our charter flight back to Arusha. Transfer to Kilimanjaro National Airport (KIA) and return home – or choose to continue your adventure with one of our trip extensions.
SEEING IS BELIEVING
Take a moment to watch this short video from Tanzania Tourism bringing this epic tennis experience to life.
Accommodations
Four Seasons Safari Lodge
Serengeti
Join us deep in the heart of the world’s most celebrated wildlife reserves, where the Big Five run free on the endless, untamed landscape. Perched on a series of elevated platforms and walkways, our Lodge sits next to an animal watering hole, where you can watch a family of elephants stop for their morning drink as you sip your own out on your room’s private balcony. Under the constant protection of local Maasai tribes, we’ll take you in the bush for an exhilarating game drive, or you can soar high in the sky on a hot-air balloon safari.
AndBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge
Ngorongoro Crater
Ngorongoro Crater Lodge has been called the game lodge at the top of the world. Between the natural riches of the Crater spread out at its feet and the incredible architecture, it’s easy to believe that you have entered a realm of pure fantasy. Divided into three camps, 30 suites with banana leaf ceilings and grass roofs provide an intimate and exclusive experience. Each camp has its own sitting and dining areas, with private butlers who provide warm, personal service.
Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge
Ngorongoro Crater
Nestled high above the plains into the Crater’s jagged rim, cloaked in river stone and indigenous vines, Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge is barely visible to the naked eye. Framed by arched stone passages and timbered decks, its torch-lit walls are adorned with stylized cave paintings. At the stone heart of the lodge burns a glowing fire, which is kept constantly alight. Rooms are looped around the Crater rim.
Gran Melia Arusha
Arusha
This spectacular hotel is located between the Serengeti and Kilimanjaro National Parks, opening out onto all of Tanzania’s majestic natural beauty. An oasis of five-star comfort and elegance, with extensive, unbeatable facilities, exclusive suites, and international cuisine, including the outstanding Yellow Chilli Indian restaurant. With a spa, heated pool, and gym. Perfect for a safari trip or luxurious business meeting.Packages
A variety of customizable packages are available, starting at $14,990 USD. Click the “Register Now” button to explore package options, or the “Book a Call” button to speak to a member of our team who can answer your questions, share more about this experience, and support you through the booking process.
Optional Extensions
Arusha, Tanzania
3-Day Pre-Trip
November 28th
Arrive at Kilimanjaro Airport and transfer to the Gran Melia. Check in and enjoy the resort activities and tennis at the nearby Gymkhana Tennis Club. Welcome dinner and overnight.Accommodations: Gran Melia Arusha; Lunch, Dinner
November 29th
Full day of tennis at the Gymkhana Tennis Club with local professionals. Spend the late afternoon touring the Tanzania Cultural Heritage Center, dedicated to Africa’s cultural treasures or take a road trip though the history and culture of gemstones in Arusha at the House of Gems. Over 30 years of experience working with the best gems in East Africa and at the forefront of the legal gem industry in Tanzania. A museum where you can learn all about gemstones and geology and see the wide variety of gemstones found in Tanzania, such as tanzanite, tourmalines, rubies, sapphires, and garnets. Learn about the entire production process, from the complex work done in the mines until the point the stones are converted into precious jewels.Accommodations: Gran Melia Arusha; Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
November 30th
We will depart after an early breakfast for Tarangire National Park in our safari vehicles for a game drive in search of elands, oryxes, wildebeests, and zebras as well as the park’s large elephant population. Your local expert driver-guide draws on years of experience in the bush to locate the best wildlife viewing opportunities right as they happen. We will enjoy a picnic lunch in the park before returning back to Arusha for dinner.Accommodations: Gran Melia Arusha; Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Istanbul, Turkey
3-Day Pre-Trip
November 28th
Arrive at Istanbul airport. Meet with English speaking assistant and private transfer to your hotel. Overnight.Accommodations: Four Seasons Sultanahmet; Lunch, Dinner
November 29th
Breakfast at hotel followed by a visit to the Museum of Great Palace Mosaics. After a short walk, arrive to the Hippodrome which once stood as one of the purest examples of Constantinople’s classical Greek origins. Though the original structure dates back to pre-Roman times, the Hippodrome was enlarged and improved by Constantine the Great, and remained in use for nearly 800 years. It began to fall into disrepair after 1200, and never restored after the conquest by the Ottomans, since chariot-racing was not a Turkish hobby. Today, it is the home of famous Obelisk of Theodosius and the Serpentine Column. Next, visit the Hagia Sophia, unquestionably one of the most fantastic buildings of all time. Built by Constantine the Great and rebuilt by Justinian in the 6th century, its immense dome rises 55 meters above the ground, with a diameter of 31 meters. During the Ottoman Empire it was converted into a mosque and with time the minarets were added. At the end we will make a stop at a carpet and kilim workshop to watch artisans at their looms. Enjoy lunch at the Deraliye restaurant (or similar). Located in the heart of the old city and surrounded by all the major historical and cultural sights including the magnificent Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia Museum, Deraliye takes you deep into the soul of selective Ottoman and Turkish culture. After lunch, enjoy 3-4 hours of tennis at an indoor court. Transfer to your hotel for dinner and overnight.Accommodations: Four Seasons Sultanahmet; Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
November 30th
Breakfast at the hotel followed by a visit to the Spice Bazaar. Once the largest spice trading venue of medieval world, with its abundant stalls still featuring piles of edible exotics, the Bazaar is a definite highlight for anyone exploring Istanbul. Afterwards, board a private yacht and cruise on Bosphorus, a strait that separates two continents and joins the Black Sea with the Sea of Marmara. From the boat we can admire the Dolmabahce Palace, the Mosque, the Rumeli and Anatolian Fortresses, the Beylerbeyi Palace, and the typical “yali” wooden houses. Disembark the yacht and enjoy a walk through the former non-muslim districts of the Ottomans such as Balat and Fener. During this walk, you will be walking inside the amazing walls of Byzantines and along the Golden Horn. This walk will be one of the highlights of the day to give you a very different and special feeling of the city. Walk through narrow streets and see the oldest synagogues of Istanbul, the market of Balat, and extraordinary architecture. Transfer to the airport for an evening flight to Kilimanjaro (KIA) at 7:25PM (flight not included).Accommodations: Four Seasons Sultanahmet; Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Zanzibar, Tanzania
4-Day Post-Trip
December 8th
Depart Arusha for a short flight to Zanzibar. Unlike anywhere else in Tanzania, Zanzibar Island is a fascinating place to explore. Beautiful beaches and scenery are part of the appeal here, but the architecture and atmosphere in Stone Town and elsewhere are highlights. Stunning buildings and markets that carry strong echoes of the spice trade make for a memorable stay. Arrive in Zanzibar and transfer to the Melia all-inclusive luxury resort where you will sleep in bright modern rooms which have a hint of traditional Zanzibari style on the sea. Facilities here include a tennis facility, numerous swimming pools, a long private beach, spa, excellent restaurants and bars and grounds that are filled with palm trees.Accommodations: Melia Zanzibar; All-Inclusive
December 9th
Early morning tennis and morning to relax at the resort. Afternoon transfer to Stone Town to enjoy the culture, architecture, spice smells, museums, Muslim call to prayer and powerful sense of history. The Stone Town of Zanzibar is a fine example of the Swahili coastal trading towns of East Africa. It retains its urban fabric and townscape virtually intact and contains many fine buildings that reflect its particular culture, which has brought together elements of the cultures of Africa, the Arab region, India, and Europe over more than a millennium. Dinner on the beach at the resort.Accommodations: Melia Zanzibar; All-Inclusive
December 10th
Morning tennis and full day to enjoy the resort activities before and evening Zanzibar Farewell Feast.Accommodations: Melia Zanzibar; All-Inclusive
December 11th
Breakfast at the resort and transfer to the airport.Meals: Breakfast
Istanbul, Turkey
3-Day Post-Trip
December 9th
Arrive at Istanbul airport. Meet with English speaking assistant and private transfer to your hotel. Enjoy a walk through the former non-muslim districts of the Ottomans such as Balat and Fener. During this walk, you will be walking inside the amazing walls of Byzantines and along the Golden Horn. This walk will be one of the highlights of the day to give you a very different and special feeling of the city. Walk through narrow streets and see the oldest synagogues of Istanbul, the market of Balat, and extraordinary architecture. Drive to Eyup quarter to make a visit to a 15th century Mosque Eyup and take the cable car up to Pierre Loti hill for a great view of the Golden Horn. Next, visit the Spice Bazaar. Once the largest spice trading venue of medieval world, with its abundant stalls still featuring piles of edible exotics, the Bazaar is a definite highlight for anyone exploring Istanbul. Afterwards, board a private yacht and cruise on Bosphorus, a strait that separates two continents and joins the Black Sea with the Sea of Marmara. From the boat we can admire the Dolmabahce Palace, the Mosque, the Rumeli and Anatolian Fortresses, the Beylerbeyi Palace, and the typical “yali” wooden houses. Overnight at your hotel.Accommodations: Four Seasons Sultanahmet; Lunch, Dinner
December 10th
Breakfast at hotel followed by a visit to the Museum of Great Palace Mosaics. After a short walk, arrive to the Hippodrome which once stood as one of the purest examples of Constantinople’s classical Greek origins. Though the original structure dates back to pre-Roman times, the Hippodrome was enlarged and improved by Constantine the Great, and remained in use for nearly 800 years. It began to fall into disrepair after 1200, and never restored after the conquest by the Ottomans, since chariot-racing was not a Turkish hobby. Today, it is the home of famous Obelisk of Theodosius and the Serpentine Column. Next, visit the Hagia Sophia, unquestionably one of the most fantastic buildings of all time. Built by Constantine the Great and rebuilt by Justinian in the 6th century, its immense dome rises 55 meters above the ground, with a diameter of 31 meters. During the Ottoman Empire it was converted into a mosque and with time the minarets were added. At the end we will make a stop at a carpet and kilim workshop to watch artisans at their looms. Enjoy lunch at the Deraliye restaurant (or similar). Located in the heart of the old city and surrounded by all the major historical and cultural sights including the magnificent Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia Museum, Deraliye takes you deep into the soul of selective Ottoman and Turkish culture. After lunch, enjoy 3-4 hours of tennis at an indoor court. Transfer to your hotel for dinner and overnight.Accommodations: Four Seasons Sultanahmet; Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
December 11th
Breakfast at the hotel followed by a private transfer to the airport.Accommodations: Four Seasons Sultanahmet; Breakfast
