6 Day: Epic Northern Safari

Planning a safari through Tanzania’s Northern Circuit is a dream for many wildlife enthusiasts, and this 6-day adventure promises to bring that dream to life. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, we’ve gathered plenty of insights from travelers who have, and from the detailed itinerary and reviews, it’s clear this experience packs a punch.

What we love about this safari? First, the chance to explore four diverse parks in just one trip, each with its own unique scenery and animal populations. Second, the flexibility offered on game drives, allowing you to tailor each day according to your interests. Lastly, the expert guides and comfortable 4×4 vehicles that promise smooth journeys and plenty of wildlife sightings.

One potential consideration is the long drives involved, especially on days heading into the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater—think patience and good snacks. This tour is best suited for those who love wildlife, don’t mind some hours on the road, and want a well-rounded Tanzanian safari experience with a private, intimate feel.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a comprehensive, well-organized safari that balances iconic parks with personalized attention, this tour is a great pick. Perfect for travelers who want to see the Big Five, witness the Great Migration, or simply soak in the stunning landscapes and diverse animal life of Tanzania. It’s also ideal for those who value guides with local knowledge and flexible schedules—and aren’t fussed about the price, as the cost reflects a well-curated experience.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering four of Tanzania’s top parks in six days
• Private, flexible game drives tailored to your interests
• Expert guides with local knowledge enhance the safari experience
• Comfortable 4×4 vehicles with pop-up rooftops for optimal wildlife viewing
• Includes all fees and taxes, with meals and water provided
• Not including international flights or tips, so budget accordingly

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Lake Manyara National Park — A Forest and Birdwatcher’s Paradise

The adventure kicks off with a drive from Arusha across the Great Rift Valley to Lake Manyara, a compact but beautifully lush park. You’ll spend the day on a game drive, exploring its acacia forests, giant fig and mahogany trees, and the famous Hippo Lake, where you’ll likely see large pods of hippos lounging.

One of the charms of Lake Manyara is its birdlife—over 400 species, including ground hornbills and crested eagles, make it a birdwatcher’s dream. The baboons and blue monkeys are also notable residents, and the scenery is undeniably picturesque.

As one reviewer noted, “the park is noted for its beauty and incredibly lush acacia forest,” making it a perfect first stop that offers both wildlife viewing and stunning landscapes. The full-day drive is approximately 7 hours, but the highlight is the diversity packed into such a small space.

Day 2: Tarangire National Park — The Elephant Heavyweight

Next, you’ll head to Tarangire, famed for its large elephant populations and iconic Baobab trees, which dwarf the animals beneath them. The park’s diverse landscape includes nine vegetation zones, creating a variety of habitats for different species.

The Tarangire River attracts a wide array of wildlife, including lions, leopards, zebras, giraffes, and antelopes. Many travelers mention the peaceful elephant herds that tend to linger around the river, offering incredible photo opportunities.

Based on reviews, guides are praised for their knowledge, often spotting animals in tricky locations. One traveler shared, “We loved the way the guides quietly observed and identified animals, making for some unforgettable moments.” Expect another full-day drive (around 7 hours), with the chance to see some of the largest elephant groups in Tanzania.

Day 3-4: The Serengeti — The Icon of African Wilderness

The journey into the Serengeti is long but spectacular. This vast plain, known as “endless plains,” stretches over 6,900 square miles of iconic African landscape. You’ll arrive in time for your first game drive, with the chance to see large herds of wildebeest, zebras, and possibly big cats stalking their prey.

The Serengeti is where the Great Migration unfolds, and although this depends on the time of year, it’s always a hotspot for predator sightings. The scenery of rolling grasslands and scattered acacia trees creates a feeling of vast openness that’s hard to match.

Day 4 offers flexibility. You can choose to do a morning, afternoon, or full-day drive, perhaps with a picnic lunch. Some travelers mention the possibility of a hot air balloon safari—though an extra cost, it’s a bucket-list experience for many.

Day 5-6: Ngorongoro Crater — Wildlife in a Natural Amphitheater

The highlight for many visitors is the Ngorongoro Crater, a collapsed volcano that hosts a dense concentration of wildlife—around 25,000 animals at any given time. The early morning drive into the crater offers the best chance to see predators active after the night.

Expect to spot lions, elephants, rhinos (possibly the endangered black rhino), and an impressive variety of bird species. A reviewer commented on the stunning sunrise views, adding that “the experience of descending into the crater was unforgettable.”

You’ll enjoy a picnic lunch by Hippo Lake, then finish with a short game drive before heading back to Arusha. The total time in the crater is about 7 hours, but it’s well worth it for the chance to witness such a high density of wildlife in one place.

What Sets This Safari Apart?

Guides with Local Expertise: Reviewers consistently praise guides like Anita for their “quiet observation skills” and “deep knowledge,” which significantly enhance the game viewing experience. You’re not just watching animals; you’re learning about their behaviors, habitats, and stories.

Flexible Scheduling: On days in the Serengeti, guides work with your preferences—whether you want early mornings, relaxed afternoons, or full-day drives. This flexibility is a real bonus for travelers who want a personalized experience.

Comfort and Safety: The safari vehicles are modern, with pop-up rooftops providing panoramic views and easy wildlife spotting. The private nature of the tour also means fewer crowds and more intimate encounters.

Inclusion of Meals and Fees: With all meals, water, and park fees covered, you won’t have to worry about hidden costs—just focus on the animals and scenery.

The Price: Evaluating Value

At $3,134 per person, this tour isn’t cheap, but it’s packed with value. You’re getting six days of private safaris across four top parks, guided by expert staff, with all park fees and most meals included.

Compared to other options that might offer similar parks but with less flexibility or comfort, this private tour offers a more intimate and customizable experience. The reviews reflect this, with travelers like Gordon and Jonell highlighting the outstanding organization and professional guides that made their trip seamless.

Additional Cost Considerations

Note that international flights, tips, personal items, and visas are not included. If you’re looking for a stress-free, all-inclusive experience, this package is a solid investment, especially for wildlife lovers keen to maximize their time and sightings.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Prepare for long drives: Days in the vehicle can be around 7 hours or more. Bring snacks, water, and entertainment.
• Dress in layers: The temperature can vary from cool mornings to warm afternoons.
• Bring binoculars and camera: To catch those distant animals and capture the scenery.
• Flexible planning: Communicate your preferences with guides—many reviews mention the day-to-day flexibility offered.
• Tipping: Guides and staff appreciate tips—plan for this, although it’s not included.

Final Thoughts

This 6-day safari offers a well-rounded, private experience covering Tanzania’s most famous parks, with knowledgeable guides and flexible itineraries that cater to your interests. The combination of stunning landscapes, incredible wildlife, and the comfort of a private Jeep makes it a fantastic choice for those wanting an authentic African adventure.

While the long days on the road might be tiring for some, the payoff is seeing wildlife in their natural habitat with the guidance of experts. The tours’ positive reviews underscore the quality and professionalism of Serengeti Camping Safari, making it a trustworthy choice for your Tanzanian journey.

If you’re after a balanced, immersive, and well-organized safari that prioritizes wildlife sightings and comfort, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s perfect for travelers who want to experience Tanzania’s highlights without the hassle of organizing every detail themselves.

FAQ

Is this safari private or a group tour?
This safari is a private experience, meaning only your group will participate, ensuring a more personalized and flexible itinerary.

What parks will I visit on this tour?
You will visit Lake Manyara, Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater, each offering unique landscapes and wildlife.

Are meals included?
Yes, six breakfasts, six lunches, and five dinners are included, along with water during the tour.

What vehicle type is used?
A 4×4 safari jeep with a pop-up rooftop and six window seats, designed for optimal wildlife viewing and comfort.

Is airport pickup included?
Yes, free pickup and drop-off at Arusha airport are provided as part of this private tour.

How flexible is the itinerary?
Guides will discuss the best timings for game drives to suit your preferences, and full-day drives can be adjusted accordingly.

Are there any extra costs I should be aware of?
Extras include international flights, tips, personal items, and visas. Optional activities like a balloon safari are at additional cost.

This detailed review aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect from the 6 Day: Epic Northern Safari. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned safari-goer, the combination of diverse parks, expert guidance, and flexible scheduling offers a truly memorable African adventure.