6 Day Safari Tarangire , Manyara , Ngorongoro & Serengeti

Planning a safari in Tanzania can be overwhelming, but this 6-day private adventure offers a well-balanced mix of wildlife encounters, scenic landscapes, and cultural moments. While it’s marketed as a midrange experience, it delivers just enough luxury and comfort without losing the raw, authentic feel of Africa’s wild side.

What drew us in are the opportunities to see elephants in Tarangire, the breathtaking sunrise game drives in Serengeti, and the chance to stand on the edge of the spectacular Ngorongoro Crater — a true wildlife haven. We appreciate the focus on professional guides and all-inclusive entry fees, which means less stress and more time spotting wildlife.

However, the long drives between parks, especially from Karatu to Serengeti, can be taxing if you’re not a fan of bumpy roads. Still, seasoned travelers say it’s worth it for the unforgettable sights and sounds of the African plains. This tour suits those who want a comprehensive Tanzania adventure without the camping experience, appreciating a good balance of guided comfort and authentic encounters.

Key Points

• Wildlife Diversity: The tour covers major parks with chances to see elephants, lions, rhinos, and more.
• Expert Guides Included: Knowledgeable guides enhance game viewing and provide insightful commentary.
• All-Inclusive Fees: Entry fees and accommodations are covered, simplifying logistics.
• Long Drives, Stunning Views: Expect some lengthy travel times but rewarded with scenic vistas.
• Early Mornings for Best Sightings: Dawn game drives are prime times for animal activity.
• Authentic Tanzania Experience: Visits to local markets and cultural sites add depth beyond wildlife.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

Day 1: Arrival and Arusha City Tour

Your adventure begins with a warm greeting at Kilimanjaro or Arusha airport, where a professional team will transfer you to your hotel. If time allows, you can explore Arusha’s vibrant markets, art galleries, and the Maasai Market, giving you a taste of local life. This initial exploration sets a relaxed tone, allowing you to adjust before your safari kicks off.

Day 2: Tarangire National Park – Elephants and Ancient Trees

After breakfast, the journey to Tarangire starts—roughly a two-hour drive. Once inside the park, you’ll notice the iconic Baobab trees and herds of elephants near the Tarangire River. The landscape here feels timeless, with the park’s name synonymous with elephant sightings. Guests often comment on how close the animals come in this park, especially around water sources.

A highlight is the picnic lunch with panoramic views, where you can observe wildlife from a comfortable spot. In the late afternoon, you’ll head to Karatu for dinner and an overnight stay, with local lodges providing a cozy setting after a day of exploration.

Day 3: From Karatu to Serengeti – Long but Scenic

This day involves a longer drive—around 4 to 5 hours—over rough terrain through the Ngorongoro highlands towards the Serengeti. The journey itself is part of the adventure, with opportunities to spot animals and take photos of sweeping savanna views.

Stopping at Naabi Hill Gate for a picnic lunch allows you to transition into the Serengeti’s vast plains. Your afternoon includes a game drive upon park entry, where you might catch glimpses of predators stalking prey as the sun begins to set. The landscapes here are boundless, with golden grasses stretching as far as the eye can see.

More Great Tours Nearby

Day 4: Serengeti Sunrise and Big Game Watching

Early mornings are quite special in Serengeti, and the sunrise game drive is often a favorite experience. We loved the way the early light casts a golden hue over the plains, making wildlife sightings even more dramatic. Expect to see large herds of grazers, predators, and a variety of birdlife.

This day is dedicated to spotting the big 5 and other iconic species. The guides are skilled at finding the animals, and guests note that the timing and expertise make a difference. The afternoon offers more game viewing, sometimes at a slower pace, allowing you to soak in the scenery.

Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater – Wildlife Sanctuary

The early start continues with a descent into the Ngorongoro Crater—often called the “Garden of Eden” for its dense wildlife and lush surroundings. You’ll need a packed breakfast and lunch to maximize your time here, as the crater is a microcosm of East Africa’s wildlife.

Expect to see an incredible diversity of animals—including black rhinos, lions, flamingos, and perhaps even rare sightings of the elusive black rhino**. Guides often describe the crater as a “closed ecosystem,” which means you’ll be blown away by how many species are packed into this relatively small area.

Day 6: Departure from Tanzania

Your safari concludes with a transfer back to Kilimanjaro or Arusha airport, depending on your flight schedule. While sad to leave, you’ll take with you unforgettable moments and stunning photos from your trip.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Value and Inclusivity: For $6,000 per person, this tour covers accommodation, all entry fees, professional guides, and activities—meaning fewer surprises and more focus on the experience. Many travelers felt this was a fair price for the comprehensive nature of the trip and the included amenities.

Expert Guides: Multiple reviews highlight how guides like Moses and David brought the parks to life with their knowledge and storytelling, often noting that their spotting skills made a notable difference in wildlife sightings.

Authentic Encounters: Beyond game drives, some reviews mention visits to local markets and engagement with Maasai culture, providing a richer perspective on Tanzania’s people.

Scenic Diversity: From Tarangire’s iconic Baobabs to Serengeti’s endless plains and Ngorongoro’s lush crater floor, the diversity of landscapes means you’ll never feel bored. This variation keeps the journey exciting and visually stimulating.

Comfort and Convenience: Staying in midrange lodges and camps gives a comfortable base without veering into luxury pricing. Travelers appreciated the balance of good facilities while maintaining an authentic safari vibe.

Timing and Weather: The tour is scheduled to capitalize on animal activity, especially early mornings, which are considered the best times for sightings. Expect some chilly mornings, so packing warm layers is advised.

Practical Tips

Travel Time and Roads: Be prepared for long drives, especially from Karatu to Serengeti. Roads can be rough, but this is part of the adventure. A good-quality vehicle and professional driver make a difference.

Packing Essentials: Bring insect repellent, a camera, and a hat for sun protection. A change of clothes for cooler mornings and a pair of closed-toe shoes will make your days more comfortable.

Wildlife Viewing: Early mornings are your best bet for active animals, so plan to wake up early. Binoculars enhance the experience, and a zoom lens helps capture distant wildlife.

Additional Activities: If you’re interested in other experiences like hot springs or waterfalls, these can be arranged at extra cost—just ask ahead.

The Sum Up

This 6-day safari offers a richly immersive experience of Tanzania’s most iconic parks, blending wildlife encounters with cultural insights. It’s especially suited for travelers who value guided expertise, all-inclusive convenience, and a good variety of scenery. The focus on early morning game drives and scenic landscapes means you’ll come away with photos and memories that last.

While the drive times are lengthy, most travelers agree that the sights and sounds of Africa’s wilderness outweigh the discomfort. The guides’ local knowledge and ability to find animals in vast terrains truly elevate this experience. For those seeking a thoughtfully curated, authentic safari with a touch of comfort, this tour hits the right notes.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
All accommodation, all entry fees, professional guides, and activities listed in the itinerary are included, simplifying your planning and budgeting.

Do I need to arrange my own flights?
Yes, international flights to and from Tanzania are not included, so you’ll need to book those separately.

Are airport transfers included?
Yes, the tour begins with pick-up from Kilimanjaro or Arusha airport and ends with a drop-off there according to your flight schedule.

Can I extend my stay after the safari?
Accommodation after the tour is not included, but you can arrange additional nights with the tour operator or on your own.

What should I pack for this trip?
Bring your passport, insect repellent, camera, comfortable clothes, closed-toe shoes, and some cash for tips or personal expenses.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children over 95 years are not suitable for this experience, and you should consider their comfort with long drives and early mornings.

How physically demanding is the safari?
Most activities involve sitting in a vehicle and light walking around game viewing areas. Travelers should be comfortable with bumpy roads and early mornings.

Can special dietary needs be accommodated?
While not explicitly mentioned, most lodges and guides are flexible and can cater to common dietary restrictions if notified in advance.

This Tanzanian safari balances adventure, comfort, and authenticity—perfect for those wanting to see the best of East Africa without sacrificing convenience or quality.

You can check availability for your dates here: