6-Day Northern Safari

Planning a safari that hits all the highlights of Tanzania’s Northern Circuit? This 6-day tour offers a balanced mix of wildlife, stunning scenery, and comfortable stops, making it a popular choice for travelers craving authentic African wildlife encounters. With a perfect 5.0 rating based on 18 reviews, it’s clear that many adventurers find this trip both memorable and well worth the investment.

What we really love about this safari is how it combines iconic parks like the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater with the slightly less crowded but equally spectacular Tarangire National Park. The flexibility to visit anytime of year is a big plus, and the inclusion of well-rated lodges and camps ensures you’re comfortable after a day of game viewing. The tour’s price of $2,600 per person reflects a comprehensive experience, with nearly all fees included, which simplifies budgeting. One potential consideration? The tour is quite structured, so it might feel a bit rushed for those wanting a more leisurely pace—but for most, the highlights outweigh that.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a classic, well-organized African safari with knowledgeable guides, stunning wildlife viewing, and the convenience of all logistics managed. If you’re eager to see the Big Five and experience Tanzania’s diverse landscapes without the hassle of planning every detail, this could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Covers Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater in just 6 days.
• Expert Guides & Friendly Service: Many reviews highlight guides like Aruna and Chabana for their professionalism and local knowledge.
• Year-Round Flexibility: Suitable to visit any time, with different experiences in green or dry seasons.
• Value for Money: All fees, taxes, most meals, and accommodations are included, which adds to the tour’s appeal.
• Authentic Wildlife Encounters: Expect close views of elephants, lions, cheetahs, and possibly the Great Migration.
• Comfort & Convenience: Lodges like Eileens Tree Inn and Tanzania Bush Camp provide comfort after days in the bush.

The Entire 6-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Arusha

Your journey begins in Arusha, the gateway to Tanzania’s wilderness. A friendly representative will meet you at Kilimanjaro International Airport and escort you to the Pazuri Inn. Perched on Mount Meru’s slopes, it’s a calm and cozy base for your first night. The lodge’s cottage-style suites set a relaxed tone for what’s ahead. Reviewers appreciate the attentive service, with one noting that the staff made every effort to ensure a smooth start.

Day 2: Exploring Tarangire National Park

The second day kicks off with a two-hour drive west to Tarangire, often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors but loved for its spectacular baobabs and massive herds of elephants. Depending on the season, you’ll see different wildlife: during the green season, the park’s lush foliage makes it a stunning backdrop for photos, while the dry season offers incredible herds of buffalo, wildebeest, and zebras, often in the thousands.

The highlight here is Tarangire’s resident elephants—a sight that will stick with many travelers. The park’s landscape feels both vast and intimate, with close encounters guaranteed. After a full day of game drives and a picnic lunch, you’ll settle at Eileens Tree Inn in Karatu, a cozy spot praised for its friendly atmosphere and simple comforts.

Day 3: Into the Heart of Serengeti

A three-hour journey takes you across the Ngorongoro Conservation Area into the legendary Serengeti. The size of this ecosystem is staggering—covering 1.5 million hectares of plains, rivers, and acacia woodlands. Many reviewers mention how the drive itself makes the scale clear; you realize you’re in one of the world’s most important wildlife habitats.

Your lodge, Tanzania Bush Camp, offers tented accommodations with views that make you feel truly immersed in nature. The tents are described as spacious, with comfy beds and amenities like running water, providing a safari experience that balances adventure and comfort. The central location near Seronera means easy access to the park’s prime game-viewing spots.

Day 4: Full-Day Serengeti Safari

This is the day many travelers look forward to—the all-day game drive across the plains of Serengeti. Expect to see a vast array of animals: lions lounging on rocks, cheetahs in pursuit, giraffes browsing, and hyenas lurking. The chance to see the Great Migration—if your timing aligns—is often cited by reviewers as a once-in-a-lifetime sight. Over 500 bird species also make it a birdwatcher’s paradise.

Visitors note that the guide’s local knowledge—like spotting a cheetah camouflaged in the tall grass or explaining animal behaviors—adds a lot to the experience. The day is long, but many say it’s worth every minute for the diversity and density of wildlife.

Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater & Highs

Early morning, you’ll enjoy sunrise over the Serengeti before heading to the Ngorongoro Crater. This volcanic caldera, formed over 2 million years ago, is a wildlife haven. It’s especially known for its black rhinoceros and cheetahs, which many reviewers say are easier to spot here because of the crater’s natural enclosure.

The crater’s steep walls create a natural amphitheater, so game viewing is often close and spectacular. You’ll spend most of the day exploring this UNESCO World Heritage site, with many noting that the density of animals here makes every minute a highlight.

Day 6: Return to Arusha

On the final day, a relaxed morning with a light breakfast by the pool is a nice way to unwind. The two-hour drive back to Arusha takes you through scenic landscapes, with some reviewers mentioning how the last glimpses of the wild evoke a mix of satisfaction and longing.

You’ll be transferred to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your departure, leaving with unforgettable memories and plenty of stories to tell.

What Makes This Safari Stand Out?

Guides and Service: Multiple reviews mention guides like Aruna and Chabana, who are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and attentiveness. Guests appreciated guides who could spot animals quickly and share insightful stories, making wildlife encounters both exciting and educational.

Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see elephants, lions, cheetahs, giraffes, and hyenas, with some travelers remarking on how close and frequent these sightings are—even during a relatively short trip. The possibility of witnessing the Great Migration adds a layer of excitement, especially if timed right.

Value for Money: At $2,600 per person, the tour covers all fees and taxes, plus most meals, and accommodations, which saves travelers from unexpected costs. Reviewers often highlight the comfort of lodges, the quality of food, and the professionalism of the staff, all adding value beyond just the wildlife.

Flexibility & Year-Round Appeal: Whether you visit during the lush green season or in the dry months, the parks come alive, and you’ll have opportunities to see a diverse range of animals. The itinerary is well-structured to maximize wildlife sightings.

Practical Details

Transportation & Timing: The tour begins early at 7:30 am from Kilimanjaro Airport, with most days spent in safari vehicles capable of navigating rough terrain comfortably. The days are long, often 8-10 hours of game viewing, but reviews unanimously mention that guides keep the experience engaging.

Group Size & Private Tour: This is a private tour, meaning it is customized for your group, providing flexibility and intimacy. This is especially appreciated by travelers who prefer a more personalized experience or are traveling with family or friends.

Accommodation: Lodges like Pazuri Inn and Eileens Tree Inn vary from cottage-style suites to cozy tents—reviewers love the authenticity and comfort, emphasizing the friendly staff and good amenities.

Pricing & Inclusions: The cost includes all fees and taxes, with meals provided in most cases. Extra costs like visas or personal insurance are not included, so plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This 6-day Northern Safari offers a well-rounded, high-quality experience in Tanzania’s most famous parks. Its combination of expert guides, iconic landscapes, and good value makes it popular among travelers looking for a comprehensive wildlife adventure. Whether you’re a first-timer or returning for more, this tour balances highlights with comfort, ensuring you see the best without feeling overwhelmed.

It’s especially ideal for those who want an organized, worry-free safari that doesn’t skimp on authentic wildlife encounters. If your goal is to tick off the Big Five, witness the vastness of the Serengeti, and enjoy the natural beauty of Ngorongoro, this trip delivers on all fronts.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for first-time safari-goers?
Absolutely. The itinerary is well-structured and provides a great introduction to Tanzania’s wildlife and landscapes, with guides helpful in making the experience accessible.

What is included in the tour price?
All fees and taxes, five dinners, five lunches, and six breakfasts are included. Lodges and camp accommodations are also part of the package.

Can I visit during any time of the year?
Yes, the tour can be enjoyed year-round. The green season from March to May offers lush scenery, while June to October features drier conditions and more visible game.

What kind of accommodations will I stay in?
Expect lodge-style suites like Pazuri Inn and cozy tents at Tanzania Bush Camp, praised for their comfort, views, and friendly staff.

How long are the game drives each day?
Typically around 8 hours, especially on full days like the Serengeti day. The mornings start early, and days are filled with wildlife viewing.

Are there any optional activities?
The tour is designed as a focused safari, so additional activities aren’t specified, but guides are knowledgeable and can enhance your experience with local insights.

What animals can I expect to see?
Lions, elephants, cheetahs, giraffes, hyenas, and possibly the Great Migration if timing aligns. Bird enthusiasts will enjoy over 500 species.

How do guides enhance the experience?
Many reviews mention guides’ local expertise, excellent animal spotting skills, and engaging storytelling, making every sighting informative and exciting.

What should I pack for this safari?
Light, breathable clothing, a hat, sunglasses, binoculars, camera, and some warm layers for early mornings or evenings. Good footwear is recommended for game drives and walking.

In all, this Tanzania safari offers an impressive, well-reviewed package that balances wildlife viewing, comfort, and professional guidance. It’s a trustworthy choice for travelers seeking a memorable African adventure without the fuss—just pure, unfiltered wildlife magic.