5 Days: Lake Manyara / Serengeti / Ngorongoro

Introduction

Our review focuses on a highly-rated 5-day Tanzania safari offered by Superb Tanzania Safaris, a trip that promises an adventurous glimpse into Africa’s most iconic wilderness areas. While we haven’t participated firsthand, the detailed feedback and itinerary highlight this experience as an excellent choice for wildlife lovers.

What we love about this tour: it offers ample time in the Serengeti, a chance to witness the famous wildebeest migration, visits to the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, and a uniquely dramatic stop at Lake Manyara. Plus, the mix of game drives, cultural stops, and the option to go hot air ballooning makes it a comprehensive package.

One potential consideration is the long travel days between parks — approximately 6 hours from Lake Manyara to Serengeti and just under 4 hours to Arusha on the last day — so patience and comfort are key.

This tour suits travelers wanting a balanced, authentic safari experience with knowledgeable guides, without the crowds of larger groups. It’s perfect for those who value seeing a wide variety of wildlife in diverse landscapes over luxury accommodations.

Key Points

• Extensive game viewing in top parks, especially the Serengeti and Ngorongoro.
• Expert guides known for their friendliness and knowledge, elevating the experience.
• Authentic wildlife encounters with animals like elephants, lions, flamingos, and more.
• Flexible options such as hot air ballooning (additional cost) for a panoramic view of the plains.
• Long driving days but with scenic routes through farmland, conservation areas, and iconic parks.
• Good value for a 5-day trip including all major highlights and transfers.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Arriving at Lake Manyara

Starting from Arusha, the drive to Lake Manyara takes about two and a half hours. This short journey rewards you with your first taste of Tanzanian wildlife. Arriving by lunchtime, you’ll settle into your lodge before heading out for an afternoon game drive in Lake Manyara National Park.

This park is famed for its dramatic setting — a vast soda lake at the foot of the Great Rift Valley. Expect to see large herds of elephants, flamingos attracted by algae, and perhaps the park’s unique tree-climbing lions. Reviewers highlight the varied habitats, making every game drive feel fresh.

Day 2: Serengeti Bound

After a filling breakfast, the journey continues across farmland and through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, descending into the Serengeti National Park. The drive takes about six hours but is filled with scenic views of highland farms, wildlife, and Maasai villages.

Arriving in the Seronera area, you’ll be in the heart of wildlife activity, thanks to the Seronera River, a vital water source. The afternoon game drive allows you to start spotting big cats, antelopes, elephants, and perhaps even a cheetah or two. This setup is ideal for capturing the essence of classic African bush landscapes.

Day 3: Serengeti Safari and Optional Ballooning

An early morning offers a chance to enjoy a game drive along the Sogore River Circuit, an area rich with predators and prey alike. Staying in the Serengeti means you’ll witness the plains’ vastness, with grasslands stretching to the horizon.

For those looking for something unforgettable, hot air balloon trips are available at extra cost. Imagine floating quietly above the plains at dawn, spotting wildlife from a bird’s-eye view — a highlight for many travelers, as one reviewer noted, “floating silently above the awakening bush.”

The afternoon continues with another game drive, possibly spotting lions lounging on rocks or gazelles grazing.

Day 4: Ngorongoro and Olduvai Gorge

Departing Serengeti after breakfast, you’ll stop at Olduvai Gorge, a site of significant paleoanthropological discoveries. Here, you can learn about early human ancestors and enjoy the scenic views.

Later, you descend into the Ngorongoro Crater — a UNESCO World Heritage Site and arguably the highlight of the trip. Over 600 meters deep, this volcanic caldera is teeming with wildlife, including wildebeest, zebra, buffalo, hippos, and elephants. The dense predator population makes it a wildlife photographer’s paradise.

Reviewers appreciate the “remarkable adventure” of observing animals supported by the crater’s year-round water and fodder supply. It’s a true concentration of African biodiversity.

Day 5: Return to Arusha

The last morning begins with breakfast before the drive back to Arusha. The four-hour trip offers last-minute scenic views and a chance to reflect on your safari highlights. You’ll arrive in time for lunch and be transferred to your hotel, with the option for a half-day additional game drive if your schedule permits.

Transportation, Accommodation, and Group Size

Travel during this tour is by comfortable safari vehicles, designed for game viewing, with a maximum group size of 15 travelers. This ensures a relaxed, less crowded experience and more personalized attention from your guides.

Accommodations range from mid-range lodges to tents, depending on your preference. Guides are praised for their friendly, knowledgeable service and their ability to spot wildlife, often making the difference between a good trip and a memorable one.

Price and Value

At $2,810 per person, this package offers excellent value considering the inclusions: all meals, transfers, game drives, and park fees. Reviewers mention the professional service and tailored itineraries that make the cost worthwhile, especially given the extensive time in prime wildlife areas.

Additional Experiences

The optional hot air balloon ride is a major perk but comes at an extra cost. Many travelers find it well worth the splurge for an incredible aerial perspective of the plains and wildlife.

Why This Tour Works Well

This safari is perfect for those wanting a comprehensive, well-organized trip through Tanzania’s top parks without sacrificing quality or authenticity. It balances wildlife viewing, scenic drives, and cultural stops like Olduvai Gorge, catering to travelers interested in both nature and history.

The guided aspect, with experienced guides, ensures you won’t miss key animal sightings and adds valuable insights into the parks’ ecology and conservation efforts.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

Travelers who love wildlife and photography, appreciate a balanced pace, and seek a trusted operator will find this tour ideal. It’s suited for those who want to maximize their time in the parks, enjoy comfortable accommodations, and have expert guidance.

If you’re dreaming of witnessing the Great Migration or simply want a reliable, enriching safari experience in Tanzania, this tour ticks all boxes.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The $2,810 fee covers all accommodation, meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), game drives, park fees, and transfers within the itinerary. It does not include international flights or airport taxes.

How long are the game drives each day?
Most days feature morning and afternoon game drives, typically lasting 3-4 hours each, allowing ample wildlife viewing without overexertion.

Is hot air ballooning part of the standard package?
No, the hot air balloon ride is available at an additional cost and must be pre-arranged. It offers a spectacular aerial view of the Serengeti plains.

What type of vehicles are used for transportation?
Safari vehicles are designed for comfort and excellent visibility, with a maximum group size of 15 travelers for a less crowded experience.

Can I customize this tour or extend my stay?
While the itinerary is fixed, it’s possible to add extra days or activities, such as a half-day game drive at Ngorongoro — but additional costs apply.

What kind of accommodations should I expect?
Accommodations vary based on your booking preferences but are generally mid-range lodges or tented camps that balance comfort with an authentic safari feel.

Final Thoughts

This 5-day tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of some of Tanzania’s most iconic landscapes and wildlife. The combination of expert guides, stunning vistas, and varied parks makes it a fantastic choice for travelers eager to experience Africa’s wilderness with confidence.

If you’re after authentic wildlife sightings, knowledgeable guides, and a thoughtfully curated itinerary, this safari delivers. It’s suitable for those who want to see the big five, enjoy scenic drives, and leave with unforgettable memories of the African plains.

For anyone ready to step into Africa’s most breathtaking national parks, this tour provides an excellent mix of adventure, comfort, and value.