6-Day Private Wildlife and Cultural Tourism Safari

Planning a safari to Tanzania? This 6-day private tour offers a well-rounded experience combining game drives in iconic parks with authentic cultural encounters. While it’s not a budget trip, it promises a comprehensive adventure through some of Africa’s most famous wildlife habitats, along with genuine immersion into local traditions.

What we love about this tour is the opportunity to see the Big Five and other animals in their natural environment, plus the chance to explore Mto wa Mbu’s vibrant community and agricultural landscapes. The diversity of activities—from game drives to cultural walks—adds a layer of authenticity you won’t find with a typical safari. The stay at a budget lodge in Mto wa Mbu makes this experience accessible compared to luxury lodges, without sacrificing the thrill of being close to nature.

One aspect to consider is the long driving hours, especially on the way to Serengeti, which can be tiring but are part of the adventure’s charm. Also, it’s important to note that the tour is designed for travelers aged 4 and above, with some restrictions on pregnant women, those with back problems, or young children under 5. For those who thrive on adventure, wildlife, and cultural insights, this safari offers excellent value and a chance to see Tanzania’s highlights in just a week.

This tour suits families, adventurous couples, and group travelers eager for a complete wildlife and cultural experience without the need for luxury accommodations. If you’re after a genuine, action-packed safari that balances wildlife viewing with local life, this tour hits the mark.

Key Points

• Diverse Wildlife Encounters: Experience the Big Five and hundreds of bird species across Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro.
• Cultural Engagement: Interact with local tribes, visit banana farms, rice plantations, and waterfalls of Mto wa Mbu.
• All-Inclusive Value: Price covers park fees, meals, activities, accommodation, transport, and guides.
• Authentic Local Experience: Stay at a budget lodge in Mto wa Mbu and choose between walking or biking tours.
• Full-Day Serengeti Exploration: Capture the vast plains and abundant wildlife during a dedicated game drive.
• Memorable Ngorongoro Crater Visit: Descend into this unique volcanic caldera for a wildlife spectacle.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Full Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: From Arusha to Tarangire National Park

The adventure kicks off with a pick-up from your hotel in Arusha, followed by a scenic drive to Tarangire National Park. Famous for large herds of elephants and towering baobab trees, Tarangire offers a striking landscape that’s unlike most parks.

As you sit on the open roof of your vehicle—an experience that really heightens the connection to your surroundings—you’ll witness seasonal swamps teeming with wildlife. Expect to see giraffes, zebras, impalas, lions, and perhaps a lurking leopard. The park’s diverse ecosystems mean you’ll encounter a variety of birds and mammals, making it a fantastic introduction to Tanzania’s wildlife.

Day 2: Cultural Tour and Game Drive in Tarangire

Early morning game drives are the best for catching animals when they’re most active, and we loved the way the sunrise adds drama to the landscape. After breakfast, you’ll continue exploring Tarangire, but the highlight is later in the day when you head to Mto wa Mbu.

Here, you’ll get a firsthand look at local life—visiting banana farms, rice paddies, and waterfalls. You can opt to do a walking or biking tour, giving you a chance to interact more intimately with the community. The Fig Tree Lodge then offers a cozy base for the night, blending comfort with the rustic charm of the area.

Reviews mention that this part of the trip offers a refreshing pause from wildlife viewing, giving you insight into local traditions and livelihoods. It’s a contrast that enriches your understanding of Tanzanian culture beyond the safari parks.

Day 3: Journey to Serengeti

After breakfast, you’ll set out for the Serengeti, with a scenic, albeit bumpy, 4-5 hour drive. Along the way, you’ll stop at Naabi Hill Gate for a picnic lunch, enjoying the stunning vistas of the plains stretching as far as the eye can see.

The Serengeti’s vastness is awe-inspiring, and the game viewing en route often includes sightings of giraffes, elephants, and perhaps cheetahs lounging in the grass. Upon arrival, you’ll head out for an afternoon game drive and later set camp at Seronera, a prime area known for frequent wildlife sightings.

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Day 4: Full Day in Serengeti

This is the heart of the safari—spending a full day exploring the Serengeti’s endless plains. Early mornings are best for spotting predators and chasing the lions, cheetahs, and hyenas that call this place home.

The park also boasts over 500 bird species, so birdwatchers will be in heaven. Expect to see oversized ostriches, secretary birds, and soaring eagles. We appreciated the flexibility of packing your own lunch for extended game drives, which allowed us to stay immersed in the scenery without rushing.

Day 5: From Serengeti to Ngorongoro Highlands

Another early start with a sunrise game drive means catching animals during their most active hours. You’ll enjoy a bush breakfast before heading toward Ngorongoro, stopping for a second game drive along the way.

The scenic drive offers panoramic views of volcanic landscapes, setting the scene for your visit to the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll stay at Simba Campsite, where basic but comfortable facilities provide a good base for exploring the crater the next day.

Day 6: Ngorongoro Crater

The day’s highlight is descending into the crater early in the morning. The crater’s rich biodiversity includes rare black rhinos, elephants, lions, and flamingos on the soda lakes. You’ll pack a breakfast to enjoy amid the incredible scenery and wildlife.

The crater’s unique environment means the concentration of animals is higher than elsewhere, giving you the chance to see almost every species native to East Africa. After the game drive, you’ll return to Arusha, completing your safari.

The Practical Side: What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour’s price of $4,685 per person covers most essentials: park fees, activities, all accommodation, camping gear, transportation, guides, and meals. Drinks and personal items are extra, and you’ll need to arrange your international flights separately.

The tour’s inclusions mean you won’t have surprises or hidden costs, and the fact that you get a dedicated driver/guide adds a personal touch. Reviews highlight that guides like Alex and Samuel are knowledgeable and attentive, making the game drives more engaging.

Transportation & Accommodation

Expect comfortable, well-maintained vehicles with open roofs suited for wildlife viewing. Camping at the parks is a key feature, adding an authentic feel, though you also have options for more basic lodge stays. The budget lodge in Mto wa Mbu offers a good balance of affordability and comfort, making this trip accessible without skimping on adventure.

Timing & Group Size

This is a private tour, which means your experience is tailored and flexible. The schedule is timed to maximize wildlife sightings and avoid midday heat. The tour isn’t suitable for solo travelers and is designed for groups of families or friends, with children aged 4 and above.

What to Bring and Practical Tips

Pack comfortable shoes, a wide-brimmed hat, camera, sunscreen, water, and snacks. The tour provides a sleeping bag, but bringing your own might be preferable if you’re particular. Remember, smoking isn’t allowed during game drives or cultural visits, and wearing neutral-colored clothing helps avoid startling wildlife.

The tour is flexible with payments—you can reserve your spot now and pay later—making planning easier. Keep in mind that the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, or those with back problems, given the bumpy roads and outdoor camping.

Final Thoughts: Is This Safari Right for You?

This tour offers a solid, all-around experience of Tanzania’s wildlife and culture. It’s ideal for those seeking a balance of game viewing, culture, and authentic camping experiences. The inclusion of a visit to Mto wa Mbu means you’ll return home not just with photos, but with a richer understanding of local life.

While the driving can be long and tiring, the scenery and wildlife sightings more than compensate. The value of including park fees, accommodations, meals, and guides in one price makes it straightforward to budget for. The tour’s focus on family-friendly activities and cultural exchange broadens its appeal, especially for travelers wanting more than just a typical safari.

If you’re after a well-organized, comprehensive adventure with authentic touches, this Tanzania safari deserves serious consideration. It combines the thrill of Africa’s wildlife with cultural insights and the simplicity of camping in some of the continent’s most famous parks.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 4 and older are welcome. However, children under 5 are free, and the tour is not suitable for very young kids or pregnant women due to long drives and outdoor activities.

What is included in the price?
The price covers park fees, all activities, accommodation, camping equipment, transportation, guides, and meals. Drinks and personal expenses are extra.

Can I pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot and pay later, offering flexibility in planning your trip.

Are accommodations comfortable?
The stay in Mto wa Mbu is at a budget lodge, which balances affordability with comfort. Camping is also included in the parks, enhancing the authentic experience.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, hat, camera, sunscreen, water, snacks, and clothes suitable for outdoor conditions. A sleeping bag is provided, but you can bring your own if preferred.

Is this a group or private tour?
It’s a private tour, offering personalized experiences and schedules tailored to your preferences.

What is the best time of year for this safari?
While not explicitly stated, game drives in the early mornings and late afternoons are best for wildlife sightings. Generally, Tanzania’s dry season (June to October) offers excellent game viewing.

This 6-day safari from Active Planet Safaris combines the thrill of spotting Africa’s iconic animals with meaningful cultural interactions, all within a manageable schedule and budget. Perfect for travelers craving adventure, authentic experiences, and memories that will last a lifetime.

You can check availability for your dates here: