5 Days Tanzania Safari | Tarangire, Serengeti & Ngorongoro
Customer Reviews
4.9
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Start Arusha
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End Arusha
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Age 12+
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Language English
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Cancel Free
Safari Description
The 5 days Tanzania safari is an immersive journey through Northern Tanzania's premier parks: Tarangire, Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. This safari offers extensive game drives, stunning landscapes, and comfortable accommodations, ideal for wildlife enthusiasts seeking a comprehensive adventure.
Trip Highlights
- Game drives in Tarangire National Park with large elephant populations and iconic baobab trees.
- Exploration of Serengeti National Park, renowned for the Great Migration and predators.
- Full-day game drive in Ngorongoro Crater, hosting the Big Five in a unique caldera.
- Two full days in Serengeti for optimal wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Professional guides and 4x4 safari vehicles for a seamless experience.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arusha – Tarangire National Park
8:00 AM: After breakfast at your Arusha hotel, your guide picks you up in a 4x4 safari vehicle for a 2-hour drive (120 km) to Tarangire National Park. Upon arrival, embark on a full-day game drive, spotting massive elephant herds, zebras, giraffes, and predators like lions and leopards among iconic baobab trees. The Tarangire River draws wildlife, offering prime viewing. Enjoy a picnic lunch at a scenic park spot, followed by more exploration for unique species like gerenuk and over 550 bird species, including the ashy starling. In the evening, transfer to a lodge or camp near Tarangire, where you'll have dinner and relax.
Accommodation at:
- Tarangire (e.g., Tarangire Safari Lodge or Tarangire Sopa Lodge)
Meals: Breakfast (hotel), Lunch (picnic), Dinner (lodge/camp)
Day 2: Tarangire – Serengeti National Park
7:00 AM: After breakfast, depart for Serengeti National Park, a 5–6-hour drive (280 km) with an en-route game drive through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Upon entering the Serengeti, begin a late afternoon game drive across its vast plains, home to the Great Migration, lions, cheetahs, and millions of wildebeests and zebras. Enjoy a picnic lunch en route, then continue spotting elephants, giraffes, and birds like the kori bustard. Arrive at your Serengeti lodge or camp for dinner and overnight.
Accommodation at:
- Serengeti (e.g., Serengeti Wild Camp or Serengeti Serena Lodge)
Meals: Breakfast (lodge/camp), Lunch (picnic), Dinner (lodge/camp)
Day 3: Full Day Serengeti National Park
6:00 AM: Start with a sunrise game drive in the Serengeti, catching active predators like lions and cheetahs, plus migratory herds in golden light. Return for breakfast, then continue a full-day game drive in the Seronera Valley, known for big cats and diverse ecosystems. Enjoy a picnic lunch near a kopje or the Seronera River, then explore different areas for elephants, giraffes, and over 500 bird species. Return to your lodge or camp for dinner and overnight, with opportunities to see nocturnal animals.
Accommodation at:
- Serengeti (e.g., Serengeti Wild Camp or Serengeti Serena Lodge)
Meals: Breakfast (lodge/camp), Lunch (picnic), Dinner (lodge/camp)
Day 4: Serengeti National Park – Ngorongoro
6:30 AM: Early morning game drive in Serengeti to catch the dawn chorus and active wildlife. Return for breakfast, then drive 3 hours (145 km) to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, with chances for en-route wildlife sightings. Check into a lodge or camp near the Ngorongoro Crater, enjoy lunch, and relax with spectacular highland views. In the afternoon, take a short acclimatization drive or visit a Maasai village. Dinner and overnight at your accommodation.
Accommodation at:
- Ngorongoro/Karatu (e.g., Ngorongoro Rhino Lodge or Karatu Acacia Lodge)
Meals: Breakfast (lodge/camp), Lunch (lodge/camp), Dinner (lodge/camp)
Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater – Arusha
6:00 AM: After breakfast, descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for a full-day game drive. Spot the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino), hippos, hyenas, and flamingos in the caldera's soda lakes. Enjoy a picnic lunch at Ngoitokitok Spring, surrounded by grazing animals. Continue exploring grasslands and wetlands for rare black rhinos and birds like crowned cranes. In the afternoon, ascend and drive 3 hours (180 km) back to Arusha for drop-off at your hotel or Kilimanjaro International Airport.
Accommodation: None
Meals: Breakfast (lodge/camp), Lunch (picnic), Dinner (not included)
Map
Gallery
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Safari Packages with Accommodations
These prices may vary depending on the number of travelers.
Budget Packages
| Accommodation Combo (4 Nights) | Included | Price per Person (Low Season) | Price per Person (High Season) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tarangire Campsite + Tumbili Campsite (Serengeti x2) + Ngorongoro Simba Campsite | Meals, park fees, game drives, transfers | $880 | $1,050 |
| Tarangire Campsite + Ngedere Campsite (Serengeti x2) + Ngorongoro Simba Campsite | Meals, park fees, guided drives, transfers | $920 | $1,100 |
Mid-Range Packages
| Accommodation Combo (4 Nights) | Included | Price per Person (Low Season) | Price per Person (High Season) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aardvark Safari Lodge + Serengeti Serena Lodge (x2) + Ngorongoro Rhino Lodge | Meals, park fees, game drives, transfers | $1,350 | $1,550 |
| Aardvark Safari Lodge + Serengeti Serena Lodge (x2) + Karatu Acacia Lodge | Meals, park fees, guided drives, transfers | $1,400 | $1,600 |
Luxury Packages
| Accommodation Combo (4 Nights) | Included | Price per Person (Low Season) | Price per Person (High Season) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Four Seasons Safari Lodge Tarangire + Serengeti Four Seasons Lodge (x2) + Ngorongoro Serena Lodge | All meals, park fees, private game drives, transfers, luxury services | $2,300 | $2,600 |
| Four Seasons Safari Lodge Tarangire + Serengeti Four Seasons Lodge (x2) + Ngorongoro Crater Lodge | All meals, park fees, private game drives, transfers, luxury services | $2,400 | $2,700 |
Included:
- Park fees and government taxes
- Accommodation and meals as specified
- Professional English-speaking guide
- All safari drives in a 4x4 vehicle
- Transfers from/to Arusha
- Comfortable lodges or camps with essential amenities
- Bottled water during activities
Not Included:
- International flights to/from Tanzania
- Visa and passport fees
- Travel and health insurance
- Tips and gratuities
- Optional activities not mentioned in itinerary
- Personal expenses (souvenirs, beverages)
Optional Add-ons
Enhance your 5 days Tanzania safari with these optional add-ons:
- Hot Air Balloon Safari: Float above the Serengeti plains at sunrise for spectacular aerial views. Price: $550–$650 per person, including champagne breakfast.
- Walking Safari: Guided walks in safe areas around Tarangire or Ngorongoro for a closer connection with nature. Price: $80–$120 per person for 2–3 hours.
- Maasai Village Visit: Experience Maasai culture and traditions. Price: $30–$50 per person, including local guide fees.
- Private Game Drives: Upgrade to a private vehicle for a personalized experience. Price: $150–$250 per vehicle per day.
Pre- and Post-Safari Hotel Stays
Stay in Arusha before or after your safari for added convenience:
- Budget: Arusha Backpackers or Mount Meru Hotel – clean and affordable.
- Mid-range: Arusha Coffee Lodge – boutique lodge with gardens and pool.
- Luxury: Arusha Serena Hotel – spacious rooms and fine dining.
Pre-safari stays allow for briefings and rest, while post-safari hotels provide a comfortable spot before departure.
Travel Logistics
Transfers
Transfers ensure a smooth and safe journey:
- Airport Pickup/Drop: Private transfers from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport. Price: $50 per way.
- Hotel to Safari Park Transfers: 4x4 safari vehicle transfers between Arusha/Moshi and parks. Price: $100 from Arusha to Moshi, $100 from Moshi to Arusha.
- Intercity Transfers: Comfortable road transfers in 4x4 jeeps, included in the safari package unless otherwise arranged.
Transfers are customizable based on arrival/departure times and comfort preferences.
Driving Hours
Expect 4–8 hours of driving per day, with early departures to maximize wildlife sightings.
Distance Covered Per Day
- Day 1: Arusha to Tarangire (~120 km).
- Day 2: Tarangire to Serengeti (~280 km).
- Day 3: Full day Serengeti (minimal driving).
- Day 4: Serengeti to Ngorongoro (~145 km).
- Day 5: Ngorongoro to Arusha (~180 km).
Meals
Meals are included based on the accommodation package:
- Breakfast at the lodge.
- Lunch as a picnic or at lodges.
- Dinner at the lodge after game drives.
- Special dietary needs accommodated with advance notice.
Tips
Tipping is customary:
- Driver/Guide: $10–15 per day per person
- Lodge staff: $5–10 per day per person
- Optional: Balloon safari or Maasai village guides $5–10 per person
Passport & Visa
A valid passport is required. Most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival (~$50) or via eVisa. Check requirements before travel.
Vaccination
Health recommendations:
- Yellow fever vaccination (mandatory for some countries).
- Malaria prophylaxis recommended.
- Routine vaccinations (tetanus, polio, hepatitis A/B).
Insurance
Travel insurance covering medical emergencies and safari activities is advised.
Clothing
Dress for safari conditions:
- Lightweight, neutral-colored clothing.
- Warm layers for early mornings in Ngorongoro.
- Closed-toe shoes or boots.
- Hat, sunglasses, and scarf for dust protection.
What to Bring
Essentials for your safari:
- Binoculars and camera with extra batteries.
- Sunscreen and insect repellent.
- Reusable water bottle and snacks.
- Travel documents and medications.
- Small daypack for game drives.
For Children
- Discounts for Kids: Free for children under 5 with two adults; discounts for ages 6-12.
- Activity Suitability: Family-friendly with some restrictions for add-ons.
- Supervision and Safety: Parental supervision required.
Other Terms
A deposit is required at booking, with the balance due 30 days before departure. Cancellations over 30 days incur a small fee; within 30 days, non-refundable. Travel insurance is recommended. Itineraries may adjust due to weather or park regulations. Luggage limit: one checked bag and one carry-on.
Reviews
Overall Rating
4.9
Review Summary
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Transportation:
4.9
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Value for Money:
4.8
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Support Services:
4.9
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Organization:
4.9
Recent Reviews
115 reviews
"This 5-day safari was incredible! Two full days in Serengeti gave us amazing migration views, Tarangire's elephants were spectacular, and Ngorongoro was the highlight with all Big Five!"
"Perfect itinerary! The extended time in Serengeti made all the difference. Guides were excellent, lodges comfortable. Highly recommend this Tarangire-Serengeti-Ngorongoro route!"
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