6 Day – Manyara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro & Tarangire Safari

Planning a safari in Tanzania can be overwhelming, but this 6-day tour by Professional Safaris offers a well-rounded adventure through some of Africa’s most famous parks. While we haven’t personally joined this exact trip, based on detailed reviews and the itinerary, it promises a balanced mix of wildlife encounters, scenic vistas, and authentic experiences.

What stands out? We love the diversity of landscapes—from the lakes and lush forests of Manyara to the sweeping plains of Serengeti, and the unique volcanic crater of Ngorongoro. The chance to see elephants, lions, flamingos, and more in their natural habitat is a huge draw. Plus, the hotel stay at Mvuli Hotel in Arusha provides a comfortable start and finish.

One consideration? The long drives each day, especially the four-hour trip to the Serengeti, might be tiring for some. However, the scenery along the way and the wildlife sightings make it worthwhile. This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive Tanzanian safari experience without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Key Points

• Diverse National Parks: Experience Lake Manyara’s varied habitats, the Serengeti’s endless plains, Ngorongoro’s volcanic crater, and Tarangire’s iconic elephants and baobabs.
• Wildlife Viewing: Expect to see the Big Five, large herds of wildebeest, zebras, flamingos, and over 500 bird species.
• Comfortable Accommodation: Stay at the Mvuli Hotel in Arusha, offering a peaceful environment to unwind after travel days.
• Expert Guides & Private Transport: Led by professional guides with tailored itineraries, ensuring a smooth and insightful journey.
• Flexibility & Add-Ons: Optional experiences like hot air balloon safaris or cultural tours are available for extra fees.
• Value for Price: At $2,400 per person, it packs in significant value, covering all meals, accommodation, and park fees.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Itinerary

Arrival in Arusha: Starting Your Tanzanian Adventure

The trip kicks off with a welcome at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where you’ll be greeted by your driver-guide. The transfer to the Mvuli Hotel in Arusha provides a relaxed environment to shake off jet lag. The hotel’s peaceful setting and comfortable rooms make it an ideal base for your upcoming adventures and a restful first night.

Day 2: From Arusha to Lake Manyara National Park

The drive to Lake Manyara takes around two hours, and it’s an excellent first taste of Tanzanian wildlife. This park is known for its diversity—dense forests, grassy plains, and a soda lake that attracts flamingos and other waterbirds. Your guide will likely point out elephants roaming the acacia trees, hippos wallowing in the water, and troops of baboons. Expect a slower-paced start, allowing you to soak in the scenery and wildlife from your vehicle.

The reviews mention a variety of sightings including elephants and flamingos, with many visitors appreciating the opportunity to see such a variety of species in one park. The landscape here sets the tone for the trip—lush, teeming with life, and visually captivating.

Days 3-4: Into the Heart of the Serengeti

Leaving early after breakfast, you’ll head about four hours toward the iconic Serengeti. The journey itself is part of the experience—passing through Maasai villages and seeing local herds of cattle. The scenic drive offers plenty of chances for photos, and the guide will share insights into local culture and wildlife behaviors.

The Serengeti is a highlight for many. Expect to see wildebeests, zebras, lions, cheetahs, and hyenas. The landscape is vast, and the sense of space is awe-inspiring. One reviewer describes the Serengeti as “a never-ending sea of grass,” emphasizing the sense of freedom and wildlife density.

Over two days, game drives will maximize your chances of spotting predators and prey. The diverse birdlife, with over 500 species, adds a splash of color and movement to your sightings. Keep your camera ready for those dramatic moments—lions lounging under acacia trees or cheetahs racing across the plains.

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Day 5: The Magnificence of Ngorongoro Crater

After an early breakfast, you’ll descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This caldera is famous for its concentration of wildlife—it’s said to have the highest density of animals in Africa. The crater’s walls create a natural enclosure, making it one of the best places to see the Big Five.

Travelers often mention the “stunning scenery” as one of the highlights, with the expansive crater floor filled with herds of elephants, lions, rhinos, and more. You’ll marvel at the landscape—lush green areas contrasted with rocky outcrops—and the close proximity of animals makes for excellent photo opportunities.

This day offers a more relaxed game drive compared to the vast Serengeti, but the density of wildlife makes up for it. Visitors have often noted that descending into the crater feels like stepping into an animal universe where sightings are frequent.

Day 6: Wrapping up at Tarangire National Park

Your last morning starts early for a final game drive at Tarangire, just a two-hour drive from Arusha. This park is renowned for its large herds of elephants and the ancient baobab trees, which look like something from another planet. The landscape is particularly striking during the dry season, when animals gather around the Tarangire River.

Many reviews praise the park for its “underrated but spectacular” scenery and wildlife. Enjoy a picnic lunch amid stunning views, then continue game drives before heading back to Kilimanjaro Airport.

This day offers a more intimate experience with herds of elephants and the chance to appreciate the unique flora, especially the towering baobabs—perfect for those who love iconic African landscapes.

The Practicalities

Accommodation & Meals

Staying at Mvuli Hotel in Arusha provides a cozy, safe base at the beginning and end of your trip. During the safari, you’ll be in private vehicles, ensuring a tailored experience. All meals are included, giving you time to relax and enjoy Tanzanian cuisine without extra planning.

Transport & Guides

Private transportation ensures comfort and flexibility, with professional guides leading the way. Many travelers mention guides’ knowledge and friendly demeanor, which really enhances the experience. The early starts are necessary to maximize wildlife sightings and avoid the midday heat.

Optional Extras & Flexibility

For an extra fee, you can opt for a Hot Air Balloon Safari over the Serengeti—a bucket-list experience that offers breathtaking views and a different perspective on the landscape. A cultural tour in Mto wa Mbu is also available at a reasonable cost, providing insight into local life and traditions.

Cost & Value Analysis

At $2,400 per person, the price covers accommodation, all meals, park entry fees, private vehicle, and guiding services. Considering the high costs often associated with safaris, this package offers solid value, especially for those seeking a comprehensive, guided experience without hidden costs.

Travel Tips & Recommendations

• Pack layers—early mornings and evenings can be cool, especially in the crater.
• Bring a good camera and binoculars for wildlife viewing.
• Carry cash for tips, souvenirs, or optional activities.
• Be prepared for long drives but enjoy the scenery and animals along the way.

What Makes This Safari Special

The detailed itinerary and reviews highlight several stand-out features. The diversity of parks ensures a wide variety of landscapes and animals, making every day different. The professional guides and private vehicle create a personalized, insightful experience. The value packed into the price, especially including all meals and transport, makes it accessible for many travelers.

The stunning views from the crater, the endless plains of Serengeti, and the elephants in Tarangire are memories many visitors cherish. The chance to see the Big Five and countless bird species in just six days is quite remarkable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This safari suits travelers looking for an all-in-one Tanzanian adventure, combining wildlife, scenery, and cultural insights without the hassle of planning logistics. It’s ideal for first-timers eager to see iconic African landscapes and experienced safari lovers seeking a comprehensive experience.

While the long drives could be tiring for some, those who appreciate scenic routes and wildlife sightings will find it well worth it. It’s also perfect for travelers who want a guided experience, enabling them to focus on the sights rather than logistical details.

Final Thoughts

This 6-day safari offers a balanced mix of wildlife encounters, scenic landscapes, and comfortable accommodations, all at a reasonable price. It shines in its variety—covering four major parks in Tanzania—making it a great choice for anyone wanting a full taste of the country’s wildlife riches.

If you’re after iconic animals, stunning vistas, and an expertly guided journey, this trip is a solid pick. The optional add-ons, like hot air balloon safaris, add an extra layer of adventure for those interested in elevating their experience.

This safari provides a well-rounded, authentic Tanzanian adventure that will leave you with incredible memories and plenty of story-worthy photos.

FAQ

What is included in the price?
All meals as per the itinerary, accommodation, private vehicle, and a professional safari guide are included, making it a hassle-free experience.

Are airport transfers part of the package?
Yes, the tour starts with a transfer from Kilimanjaro International Airport upon arrival and ends back at the airport after the safari.

Can I book optional activities?
Yes, optional experiences like a hot air balloon safari in Serengeti cost an extra $599, and cultural tours in Mto wa Mbu are available for about $60.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport, camera, cash, and any personal items needed. A good pair of binoculars and layered clothing will enhance your experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for babies under 1 year or people over 95. The physical activity and long drives might not suit very young children or those with mobility issues.

How flexible is the booking?
You can reserve your spot and pay later, with cancellation possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, French, Spanish, Italian, and German, offering a comfortable experience for diverse travelers.

This safari is a fantastic way to experience some of Tanzania’s most awe-inspiring landscapes and animals in a manageable, well-organized package. Whether it’s your first safari or a repeat visit, the variety and depth of this tour promise memorable moments every day.

You can check availability for your dates here: