5 Days Camping Tarangire, Serengeti & Ngorongoro crater & Visiting Maasai

Exploring Tanzania’s Wildlife on a 5-Day Camping Safari: An Honest Review

If you’re dreaming of seeing Africa’s iconic landscapes and animals up close, this 5-day camping safari covering Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Maasai villages might be just what you’re looking for. While we haven’t personally survived this adventure (yet!), we’ve gathered plenty of feedback from real travelers and detailed tour descriptions to give you a comprehensive picture.

What we love most? The opportunity to witness the spectacle of the wildebeest migration, enjoy sunrise and sunset views inside the parks, and experience authentic local culture through visits to Maasai villages. The well-structured itinerary promises a blend of game drives, culture, and spectacular scenery—all at a reasonable price of $1,280 per person.

However, a potential consideration is the rough camping experience, which may not suit everyone’s comfort level. The tour suits travelers eager for adventure, wildlife enthusiasts, and those wanting a deeper connection with nature beyond luxury lodges. If you’re looking for comfort over authenticity or prefer private accommodations, this plan might need some adjustments.

Key Points:

• Authentic camping experience with a focus on wildlife and local culture
• Expert guides and well-organized itinerary ensuring extensive animal sightings
• Stunning vistas including sunrise and sunset in some of Africa’s most famous parks
• Value for money considering the comprehensive 5-day trip, including all fees, meals, and rescue coverage
• Group size limited to 6 travelers, offering a more personalized experience
• Cultural visit to Maasai community, adding a meaningful local touch

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

Day 1: Tarangire National Park – First Impressions of Tanzania’s Wildlife

Starting from Moshi with a pickup around 8:00 AM, you’ll head to Tarangire National Park, about 115 km from Arusha. The drive takes roughly three hours, giving you time to settle into the adventure ahead.

Tarangire is famous for its large elephant herds and towering baobab trees, often called the “Tree of Life” because of their impressive water-storing capacity—up to 1,000 liters! As your game drive unfolds, expect to see lions, leopards, pythons climbing trees, and perhaps even some of the elusive big cats.

Reviewers praise the park’s diversity, with one mentioning, “The wild animals drink water from Tarangire river where the name comes from,” and another highlighting the large number of elephants. After a full day of spotting wildlife, you’ll head to Jambo Lodge for dinner and your first night camping under the stars.

Day 2: Transition to the Serengeti – From Highlands to Endless Plains

On day two, after breakfast, you’ll leave behind the highlands of Karatu and descend into the Serengeti’s vast plains. Traveling through Ngorongoro Conservation Area, you’ll enjoy incredible vistas and the chance to see the diverse ecosystems that make Serengeti so special.

Arriving in the Seronera area — renowned for its abundant wildlife thanks to the Seronera River — allows for a rich afternoon game drive. This region offers a real taste of classic African landscapes, and according to reviews, the Serengeti’s wide-open spaces are just as breathtaking as you’ve imagined.

Day 3: The Heart of the Migration and Wildlife Spectacle

The third day is all about maximizing wildlife sightings. Starting early, you’ll have breakfast before embarking on a full-day game drive, with a focus on tracking the wildebeest migration—the highlight of many visitors’ trips.

From June to September, the migration crosses the Mara River in the northern Serengeti, and your driver will aim to take you there if the season aligns. During the other months, you’ll still witness vast herds of wildebeest, zebra, gazelles, and predators hunting or resting nearby.

One reviewer shared, “We followed the wildebeest migration and saw the spectacular river crossings,” emphasizing how this day can be truly unforgettable. Don’t forget your camera because the scenery and animal encounters are often described as breathtaking.

Day 4: Ngorongoro Crater – Nature’s Natural Aquarium

Day four kicks off with an early breakfast as you witness the Sunrise over Serengeti, a moment many find magical. After the game drive, you’ll head towards the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site and often called the “Garden of Eden” for its lush surroundings and high density of wildlife.

The descent into the crater, about 610 meters deep, reveals a self-contained ecosystem teeming with animals—wildebeest, zebras, elephants, lions, and more. With over 25,000 animals in the crater, game viewing here is often described as the best in Tanzania.

One reviewer notes, “The Ngorongoro Crater offers some of the best game viewing in all of Tanzania,” highlighting how accessible and impressive this ecosystem is. You’ll spend the afternoon exploring and then camp at Simba campsite nearby for dinner and rest.

Day 5: Cultural Connection and Farewell

Your last day begins with an early morning game drive into Ngorongoro before breakfast, allowing you to catch the crater’s sunrise. Afterward, you’ll descend into Mto wa Mbu village, where a knowledgeable local guide will introduce you to the community’s banana plantations and local lifestyle.

This cultural stop offers insight into local social and economic life, with reviewers mentioning the community’s diverse banana species and vibrant local markets. It’s a great way to reflect on your safari experience before heading back to Arusha.

The Practical Side: What You Need to Know

Transportation and Group Size

Transportation is in a private safari vehicle, which is essential for comfort and flexibility during game drives. Keeping group size to a maximum of 6 travelers ensures a more intimate experience, with plenty of space and personalized attention from guides.

Timing and Duration

Starting at 7:30 AM from Kilimanjaro Airport or hotel, the tour spans five full days of adventure. Days are filled with game drives, travel, and cultural visits, with some days clocking in around 8-10 hours. Early starts are common — expect 5:45 AM wake-up calls for sunrise views, which many reviewers say are worth the early mornings.

Meals and Accommodation

All meals are included—breakfasts, lunches, and dinners—with camp-style accommodations that some reviewers have described as authentic and comfortable, while others might find the camping setup a bit rustic. The focus is on providing hearty, satisfying meals after long days of wildlife viewing.

Price and Value

At $1,280 per person, this safari offers a good bang for your buck considering it covers all fees, taxes, meals, transportation, and emergency rescue. Many travelers note the excellent guides, delicious food, and well-organized itinerary as adding significant value.

Additional Considerations

• Booking in advance (average 18 days ahead) is recommended to secure a spot.
• The campsites are basic but well-equipped; bringing personal comforts like a pillow or small blanket could enhance your experience.
• Tips and extras aren’t included, so budget accordingly for gratuities or additional activities.

Authentic Experiences and What Reviewers Say

Multiple reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guides like Jacob, Saleh, and Lobulu, who go out of their way to find animals and share insights. One reviewer appreciated their guide’s great effort to ensure sightings, saying, “Our guide went above and beyond to show us all the animals,” which really underscores the value of a passionate guide.

The cultural visit to Mto wa Mbu also receives high praise, with travelers enjoying the chance to see over 30 banana species and learn about local life. Many mention the delicious, filling meals and the authenticity of the camping experience as noteworthy.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

• The comprehensive itinerary covering key parks and the Ngorongoro Crater in just five days
• The chance to see the wildebeest migration, a bucket-list event for many
• The personalized group size that enhances interaction and flexibility
• The balanced mix of wildlife and cultural experiences that enrich the trip
• The professional organization and communication from the tour provider

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This safari suits adventurous travelers eager for an authentic camping experience, wildlife photography enthusiasts, and those interested in interacting with local Maasai communities. If you prefer luxury lodges, this might not be your best fit, but for real wildlife encounters and culture, it’s hard to beat.

It’s also ideal for groups or couples who want a well-organized, value-packed safari with a mix of game drives, community visits, and stunning scenery. The small group size guarantees more personalized attention from guides, making it suitable for travelers seeking a more intimate adventure.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for first-time safari-goers?
Absolutely. The itinerary is designed to showcase Tanzania’s highlights, and many reviewers mention how guides were knowledgeable and helpful, making the experience accessible for beginners.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers all park fees, taxes, private transportation, emergency rescue coverage, unlimited water, WIFI in the vehicle, and all meals during the trip. Tips and flights are not included.

Can I upgrade from camping to lodge accommodation?
Yes, some travelers have made that request. The tour operator can accommodate such changes at an additional cost.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable clothing suitable for early mornings and warm days, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera. Personal items like toiletries and a small pillow for camping are also recommended.

How many animals can I expect to see?
While wildlife sightings depend on the season and luck, reviewers consistently mention seeing elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, and often the Big Five. The guides are praised for their effort in finding animals.

What is the group size?
The maximum is 6 travelers, which helps ensure a more personal and flexible experience.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
The tour involves early mornings and long game drives, so it’s best for those comfortable with outdoor camping and physical activity. Elderly travelers or families with young children should consider their comfort levels.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 18 days ahead, so early planning ensures availability, especially during peak seasons.

To sum it up, this 5-day camping safari in Tanzania offers a compelling mix of wildlife, scenery, and cultural experiences at a reasonable price point. It’s ideal for those seeking authentic adventures, willing to embrace the rustic charm of camping, and eager to explore some of Africa’s most iconic parks with knowledgeable guides. While it’s not for the faint-hearted or those craving luxury, it rewards travelers with unforgettable moments, stunning vistas, and a genuine connection to nature and local life.