5 Day Safari Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro & Manyara Join

Introduction

This 5-day Tanzania safari offers a comprehensive journey through some of the country’s most iconic national parks, from the lush landscapes of Lake Manyara to the legendary plains of the Serengeti. While we haven’t personally been on this exact tour, the detailed itinerary and reviews suggest it’s a well-structured, authentic experience that balances wildlife viewing with comfortable camping.

What we really like about this safari is how it covers major highlights in just a short time, giving you a real taste of Tanzania’s incredible biodiversity. Plus, the inclusion of full-board camping, expert guides, and transport in group 4×4 jeeps means you’ll have a smooth, immersive adventure. However, one thing to consider is that the tour is not suitable for pregnant women or babies under 1 year, which might be a limitation for some families. Overall, it seems like an excellent choice for adventurous travelers, wildlife enthusiasts, and families wanting a balanced mix of exploration and comfort.

If you’re looking for a value-packed, authentic safari experience that hits all the classic Tanzanian parks, this tour might just be your perfect match.

• Diverse Parks: Visit Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Lake Manyara—each offering unique landscapes and wildlife.
• Expert Guides & Group Travel: Led by professional safari guides, with a group size that promotes a friendly atmosphere.
• Full-Day Game Drives: Significant time allocated for wildlife viewing, including a full day in the Ngorongoro Crater.
• Camping Experience: Stay in budget-friendly tents at public campsites, offering a true safari feel.
• Transport & Comfort: Safari vehicles are equipped with pop-up roofs for optimal game viewing and ice chests with mineral water.
• Limited for Some Visitors: Not suitable for pregnant women or children under one year old.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Day 1: Arusha to Tarangire National Park

The safari kicks off with pick-up from your Arusha hotel, setting the stage for what’s to come. Tarangire is often called “the elephant park” for good reason—large herds of elephants are a common sight here, especially around the Tarangire River, which is the park’s centerpiece. The river’s seasonal flow attracts a wide variety of wildlife, making game-viewing particularly rewarding.

Traveling through the park, you’ll be on a group 4×4 safari jeep with a pop-up roof, ideal for spotting animals up close. The guide’s insight into animal behavior and park ecology can turn a simple game drive into a fascinating lesson. After an entire day of wildlife spotting, you’ll head to Mto wa Mbu campsite—a simple but authentic spot for showers, dinner, and an overnight stay.

This first day is a great introduction to Tanzania’s wilderness, with enough time to see elephants, giraffes, and maybe even lions lounging near the riverbanks.

Day 2: Tarangire to Serengeti via Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Morning game drives in Tarangire continue until breakfast, then it’s time to hit the road toward Serengeti National Park via the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The drive, lasting roughly 4 to 5 hours, offers spectacular views of Tanzania’s highlands and plains. Travelers can opt to stop at Olduvai Gorge, famous for its archaeological significance—though this is at an extra cost.

The Serengeti is the crown jewel of Tanzanian safaris—vast, endless plains punctuated by kopjes and lakes. The park’s size (over 14,763 km²) means you’ll likely never tire of the scenery. The game drives here are particularly exciting, with the chance to spot the Big Five—lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino—along with cheetahs and hyenas.

Your evening will be spent at the Seronera Public Campsite, where you’ll get a taste of authentic safari camping under the stars, with the opportunity to share stories with fellow travelers about the day’s wildlife encounters.

Day 3: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Early morning game drives in the Serengeti are ideal for catching predators on the prowl or lions resting after a night hunt. After breakfast, you’ll continue your journey to Ngorongoro, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its massive volcanic crater.

The Ngorongoro Crater is a wildlife haven—home to elephants, rhinos, lions, cheetahs, leopards, and a multitude of bird species. It’s known for its concentrated wildlife, given the crater’s limited size, making it one of the best spots for spotting the “big five” in a single day.

Arrival at Simba Public Campsite marks another authentic camping experience, with the chance to enjoy stunning sunset views over the crater.

Day 4: Ngorongoro Crater Tour

The highlight of this safari might be the descent into the Ngorongoro Crater—early in the morning, around 7:00 am, with a picnic lunch packed. Once inside, you’ll witness a game-filled landscape where animals gather in a relatively small area, making game viewing easier and more intimate.

Expect to see hippos in the lakes, flamingos on the shores, and lions lounging in the grass. The crater’s high walls create a natural fortress for wildlife, and your guide will help you explore its nooks and crannies, explaining animal behaviors and the ecological significance of this unique environment. The experience is truly like stepping into an open-air zoo, with a variety of species converging in one place.

Evening sees you return to Mto wa Mbu campsite, where dinner and rest await after a full day of wildlife encounters.

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Day 5: Lake Manyara and Return to Arusha

The final day begins early with a game drive in Lake Manyara National Park, renowned for its tree-climbing lions, diverse birdlife, and lush scenery. The park’s varied habitats—lake, forest, and grassland—offer a different perspective from the previous parks.

Expect to see hippos, baboons, and waterbirds, with plenty of opportunities for photos and wildlife spotting. A packed picnic lunch enhances the experience, giving you flexibility and comfort during the game drive.

In the late afternoon, you’ll be driven back to Arusha, where the safari concludes with a drop-off at your hotel.

This 5-day journey offers a great balance of wildlife, scenery, and authentic camping experiences. The inclusion of full-day game drives, particularly in the Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti, maximizes your chances to see iconic African animals. The group size keeps the experience intimate enough for personalized attention while remaining budget-friendly.

The accommodation in public campsites keeps costs reasonable and enhances the adventure—expect basic but comfortable tents with shared facilities. The guided tours ensure you get expert insights, turning wildlife sightings into educational moments.

The tour’s price includes all taxes, government fees, and emergency coverage, making it a transparent, straightforward package. However, note that flights, visas, personal expenses, and optional activities like Olduvai Gorge visits at extra cost are not included, so budget accordingly.

The safari’s schedule is designed for early mornings and long days, so it’s best suited for those who are physically capable and eager for a full immersion into Tanzanian wilderness.

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Tanzania’s top parks without the hassle of planning individual excursions. It’s perfect for wildlife enthusiasts eager to see the Big Five, as well as families (with older children) looking for an engaging, active holiday.

Given the camping component, it suits those who enjoy a true safari experience over luxury but still value guides and organized logistics. The tour’s pace and structure are best for people prepared for early mornings and long game drives—a rewarding experience for those willing to invest the time.

Is this safari suitable for children?
It’s suitable for families but not for children under 1 year old, and pregnant women should avoid it due to the active nature and camping conditions.

Are all meals included?
Yes, full-board accommodation with all meals is included during the safari days, with meals provided at campsites.

What is the transportation like?
The tour uses group 4×4 safari jeeps equipped with pop-up roofs for excellent game viewing and ice chests with mineral water, ensuring comfort and convenience.

Are optional visits available, such as Olduvai Gorge?
Yes, visitors can choose to visit Olduvai Gorge en route to Serengeti at their own extra cost.

What should I pack?
Comfortable clothing for early mornings, some warm layers for cooler evenings, sunglasses, sunblock, camera, and personal toiletries. A sense of adventure is a must.

Does the tour include airport transfers?
Pick-up from Arusha hotels is included, but airport transfers are at an extra cost of €50 one-way.

Final Thoughts

This safari tour offers a well-rounded experience of Tanzania’s most famous parks, blending wildlife encounters with authentic camping and expert guidance. It’s a fantastic choice for those seeking adventure, wildlife photography opportunities, and a taste of true African wilderness—all at a price that makes sense for budget-conscious travelers.

While it isn’t a luxury experience, the value, authenticity, and coverage of key parks make it especially appealing for first-timers or seasoned safari-goers alike who want to maximize their time and sightings in Tanzania. If you’re ready for long days of exploration and some nights under the stars, this tour could be your perfect gateway into the heart of Africa.

You can check availability for your dates here: