6 Days 5 Nights lodge safari Tarangire, Manyara, Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater

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6 Days 5 Nights Lodge Safari in Tanzania: An In-Depth Review

Taking a safari through Tanzania is often at the top of many travelers’ bucket lists—and for good reason. This 6-day, 5-night lodge safari offered by Migration Venture Africa promises to take you across some of the most iconic parks in the country, including Tarangire, Manyara, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater. While I haven’t experienced it firsthand, reviews from past travelers paint a picture of an adventure filled with extraordinary wildlife sightings, knowledgeable guides, and breathtaking landscapes.

What makes this safari stand out? First, the expert guides like Lameck and Anderson are consistently mentioned as key to transforming a good trip into a memorable one. Second, the diverse scenery across each park—from ancient baobabs to sprawling plains—keeps every day visually stunning. Third, the well-planned itinerary balances game drives with moments to truly appreciate the landscape and wildlife. However, a possible consideration is the price point—at over $3,000 per person, it’s an investment, but one that many feel is justified for the quality and scope.

This safari is best suited for travelers craving an authentic, well-organized experience with a focus on seeing wildlife in its natural habitat. If you’re comfortable with a busy schedule of early mornings and extensive game drives, you’ll likely find this trip offers excellent value for the unforgettable sights.

Key Points

Expert guides like Lameck and Anderson are praised for their spotting skills and knowledge.
Diverse parks offer a variety of landscapes, wildlife, and birdwatching opportunities.
Well-organized itinerary balances extensive game drives with time to enjoy each unique environment.
Luxury lodges and camps provide comfort amidst remote wilderness.
Price reflects quality—this is a premium safari experience, but the wildlife encounters are worth it.
Authentic experiences such as close elephant interactions and breathtaking sunrise views add to the trip’s value.

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Overview of the Safari Experience

This 6-day tour offers a comprehensive look at Tanzania’s most striking parks, guided by seasoned professionals dedicated to delivering an authentic adventure. The focus is on maximizing wildlife sightings, scenic vistas, and cultural insights—all wrapped in comfortable accommodations and seamless logistics.

Why Choose This Tour?

Travelers who love big game, birdwatching, and landscapes will find this itinerary particularly compelling. The inclusion of renowned parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater ensures you’ll witness some of the best wildlife Tanzania has to offer. Plus, the personalized, private nature of the tour means you get a tailored experience, with guides who are highly praised for their skills.

Day-by-Day Breakdown

Day 1: Tarangire National Park

The journey begins with a morning departure from Kilimanjaro, heading straight into Tarangire. Here, you’ll spend the entire day exploring this diverse landscape, famous for its large elephant populations and ancient Baobab trees that dwarf the animals feeding beneath them. The park’s varied vegetation—nine different zones—means you’ll encounter a rich mix of wildlife, from lions lounging beneath trees to zebras and giraffes grazing on open plains.

What makes Tarangire special? The Tarangire River draws in herds of elephants and other animals, creating a lively hub of activity. According to reviews, guides like Lameck are exceptional at quietly observing and explaining animal behaviors, making wildlife sightings more meaningful. Expect a full day of game drives, with plenty of opportunities for close-up animal encounters and birdwatching, especially for species like hornbills and kingfishers.

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Day 2: Lake Manyara National Park

Next, you’ll cross the Great Rift Valley to reach Lake Manyara—an area famed for its lush acacia forests and prolific birdlife. The park is compact but packs a punch with its scenery and wildlife. Expect to see troops of baboons and blue monkeys swinging through the trees, large herds of buffalo and elephants, as well as hippos gathered by the lake.

This park is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 400 bird species including the Ground Hornbill and the Crested Eagle. Reviewers have pointed out how stunning the scenery is, with “incredibly lush” forests and frequent sightings of giraffes and impalas. Bird enthusiasts will love spotting the varied species, and all travelers will appreciate the tranquil beauty of the area.

Day 3: Serengeti National Park (Highlands & Plains)

One of the trip’s highlights is heading into the Serengeti, the land of endless plains. The drive takes you through the crater highlands, where you’ll stop at the rim for a bird’s-eye view of the Ngorongoro Crater—a breathtaking sight as you descend into the vast plains.

In Serengeti, the landscape expands to 6,900 square miles, home to more than two million large animals. The famous Great Migration is often ongoing during the safari, with millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles on the move. It’s not just about the numbers, though—Serengeti’s predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas are always nearby, hunting and resting in the vast terrain.

Travelers mention the spectacular vistas and the chance to witness predator-prey interactions up close. The guides’ ability to locate elusive animals like cheetahs or leopards, especially in such expansive territories, is often praised. The landscape’s openness allows for stunning sunrise and sunset views, making every game drive a visual feast.

Day 4: Full Day in Serengeti

The second day in Serengeti allows for more extensive game drives, with options for morning and afternoon excursions. Some travelers opt for an early morning balloon safari (extra cost), offering an incredible aerial perspective of the plains and wildlife below.

This day is great for spotting the Big Five—lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros—and for witnessing animals in different behaviors, from resting to hunting. The guides’ reputation for spotting wildlife is echoed in reviews, where Anderson is highlighted as a professional and skilled observer who makes the most of every opportunity.

Day 5: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater

Starting very early for a morning game drive in Serengeti, you’ll witness the animals when they’re most active—especially stunning during sunrise, which reviews describe as “one of the most beautiful experiences.” After brunch, your journey takes you to the Ngorongoro Crater, often called the eighth wonder of the world.

The crater’s walls rise 2,000 feet, enclosing a lush, fertile floor teeming with wildlife. It’s a concentrated wildlife area, with almost every species native to East Africa, including the rare black rhino. The reviews mention how the density of animals in the crater makes for an extraordinary viewing experience, with some guests watching a lion pride hunt or observing a huge herd of elephants.

Day 6: Ngorongoro Crater and Departure

The tour wraps up with a descend into the crater floor for a full day of wildlife viewing, including a picnic near Hippo Lake. The area is so productive that you’ll likely see a variety of animals—hippos, lions, flamingos, and possibly black rhinos. After a final round of wildlife spotting and a leisurely lunch, you’ll ascend out of the crater and head back to Arusha for departure or onward travel.

Travelers mention how the guides’ knowledge made all the difference in finding and identifying animals, even in dense bush or distant plains.

What Makes This Safari a Good Investment?

While the price of roughly $3,142.86 per person might seem steep, reviews consistently highlight the value for money. The trip includes private transportation, all fees and taxes, and comfortable lodging—a major plus for travelers who want to focus on wildlife without worrying about logistics. The expert guides and well-organized itinerary help maximize wildlife sightings and scenic moments, making every dollar worth it.

This safari offers an authentic experience with a good balance of adventure and comfort, perfect for those who appreciate attention to detail and high-quality guiding. The inclusion of full-day game drives** and options like a balloon safari add unique elements that elevate the experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

Wildlife enthusiasts eager to see the Big Five and witness the Great Migration.
Photographers seeking stunning landscapes and animal encounters at optimal times.
Travelers who appreciate expert guides and seamless logistics.
Those looking for a luxury lodge experience amidst remote parks.
Adventurers comfortable with early mornings and long days in the vehicle.

If you’re looking for a comprehensive, well-structured safari that balances rich wildlife encounters with comfort, this tour probably suits you well.

Final Thoughts

This 6-day Tanzanian safari covers all the highlights—from elephant-filled Tarangire to the predator-rich plains of Serengeti and the concentrated wildlife of Ngorongoro. The tour’s success largely depends on the skill of guides like Lameck and Anderson, who are frequently praised for their animal-spotting abilities and deep knowledge.

Travelers consistently admire the views, wildlife diversity, and the authentic experience they get from this safari. While it’s a significant investment, most reviews agree that the quality of the experience justifies the price. It’s ideal for adventurous souls who crave a detailed wildlife adventure with comfort, expert guidance, and unforgettable scenery.

If you’re seeking a safari that offers both rich wildlife sightings and scenic beauty with a touch of luxury, this tour is a compelling choice. Just be prepared for early mornings, long game drives, and plenty of awe-inspiring moments.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes private transportation, all fees and taxes, and accommodations at lodges or camps. Breakfasts, lunches, and dinners are also included.

Are there any optional extras?
Yes, there’s an optional early morning balloon safari available at an extra cost.

How many days of game drives are scheduled?
There are game drives planned for all six days, including full days in Tarangire, Lake Manyara, and Serengeti, plus a day in Ngorongoro Crater.

What kind of transportation is used?
Private transportation is provided, ensuring comfort and flexibility throughout the safari.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s a private experience designed solely for your group.

What are the best parks to see wildlife?
All the parks are excellent, but Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti are particularly renowned for their wildlife densities and predator sightings.

Can I expect guided walks or only game drives?
The tour focuses on game drives; guided walking safaris aren’t mentioned and likely aren’t included.

What is the level of accommodation?
The tour features lodge and campsite stays, providing comfort amidst wilderness.

How early do the game drives start?
Early mornings are typical, especially for the sunrise in Serengeti, to maximize animal activity.

What should I pack for this safari?
Light clothing for daytime, warmer layers for early mornings and evenings, sun protection, binoculars, and camera equipment.

This detailed review should help you decide whether this Tanzanian safari aligns with your travel dreams. With knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and wildlife-packed parks, it promises an experience of a lifetime for passionate explorers.