7 - Day Big Five, Tarangire, Ngorongoro, Serengeti & More

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Exploring Tanzania’s Big Five in Just Seven Days: A Complete Guide

Taking a safari through Northern Tanzania offers an incredible opportunity to witness some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife and landscapes. While there are countless options, this 7-day Big Five safari with Professional Safaris promises a well-rounded journey through the country’s top parks, including Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro.

From gathering unforgettable sightings of elephants amidst towering baobabs to spotting tree-climbing lions and observing vast herds across the plains, this experience caters to those who truly want to see the wild side of Africa. One thing to consider is that the price point ($6,200 per person) reflects a high-quality, all-inclusive tour, which might be a stretch for budget travelers but offers excellent value for the level of comfort, guides, and access provided. This tour is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, nature photographers, and those craving an authentic, yet comfortable, safari adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points:

Comprehensive itinerary explores multiple iconic parks in Tanzania, providing a broad wildlife experience.
Expert guides and private vehicle enhance safety, comfort, and personalized attention.
Includes cultural visits such as Mto wa Mbu, adding depth beyond wildlife viewing.
Hot air balloon safari option available for a magical perspective over the Serengeti.
All meals and accommodation are included, simplifying planning.
Price reflects quality and exclusivity, offering good value with premium experiences.

Looking for more options in Mto Wa Mbu Arushu? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

An In-Depth Look at the 7-Day Big Five Safari Experience

Arrival and First Night in Arusha

Your Tanzanian adventure begins the moment your plane lands at Kilimanjaro International Airport. From there, a professional guide from Professional Safaris will meet you, offering a warm welcome and a comfortable transfer to your hotel in Arusha City. This first night provides a chance to unwind, get a quick briefing, and prepare for the days ahead. Guests have noted that the guides are friendly and knowledgeable, often sharing tips about local customs and wildlife behavior, which enhances the journey.

Day 2: Tarangire National Park – Elephant Central and Iconic Baobabs

Starting early at 7:00 a.m., your day begins with breakfast before heading out on your first game drive. The roughly 3-hour drive from Arusha to Tarangire sets the tone for the trip, with lush scenery giving way to the park’s legendary sights. Here, the elephant herds are a major highlight—some guests describe seeing dozens of elephants congregated around waterholes, with the towering baobab trees creating surreal backdrops.

Tarangire isn’t just about elephants; it’s also known for its diverse predator population and birdlife, making it a favorite among birdwatchers. The large herds of wildlife are often within reach, and the park’s varied terrain ensures no two game drives are the same. Many reviewers have appreciated the park’s less crowded feel compared to Serengeti, providing more intimate encounters with wildlife.

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Day 3: Lake Manyara National Park – Tree-Climbing Lions and Biodiversity

After breakfast, you’ll venture to Lake Manyara, which is just an hour’s drive from Tarangire. This park is famous for its climbing lions, a quirky behavior that sets it apart from other parks. Visitors often describe watching lions lazily resting in trees or stalking prey across the lush landscape. Lake Manyara also offers a lush mix of forest, swamp, and open plains—each supporting different animals.

Expect to see flamingos, hippos, and a variety of bird species, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise. The park’s accessibility means you’ll likely see a lot in a single day, and many travelers praise the ease of game viewing here, making it a great mid-point stop.

There's plenty more to explore in Mto Wa Mbu Arushu

Days 4-5: Serengeti National Park – The Iconic African Plains

The journey to Serengeti starts bright and early at 7:00 a.m., crossing into the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and en route to the world’s most famous park. Covering over 15,000 square kilometers of sprawling savannah, Serengeti is every wildlife lover’s dream. The landscape is breathtaking—endless grasslands dotted with acacia trees, stretching as far as the eye can see.

In these two days, your game drives will focus on spotting the Big Five—lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalo—along with cheetahs, giraffes, and zebras. The vastness of the park means sightings can be spectacular, especially if lucky enough to witness the famous Great Migration (though timing details aren’t specified here). Guests often find the Serengeti’s expansive views and abundant wildlife to be truly awe-inspiring.

Day 6: Ngorongoro Crater – Wildlife Concentration and Unique Ecosystem

The highlight here is descending into the Ngorongoro Crater—a volcanic caldera teeming with wildlife. The drive down takes about an hour and a half, and what’s remarkable is the density of animals within the crater, often described as “a natural zoo.” Expect to see large herds of buffalo, wildebeest, and sometimes even rare black rhinos.

The crater’s high walls create a natural enclosure, allowing for excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Guests frequently comment on how dramatic the scenery is—lush green amidst the volcanic landscape—and how the wildlife density surpasses other parks. The Maasai people coexist here with wild animals, offering a glimpse into local culture alongside your safari.

Day 7: Cultural Experience at Mto wa Mbu and Departure

Your last morning includes a cultural tour in Mto wa Mbu, a lively town near the lodge. Here, you’ll experience local life, visit markets, or explore traditional villages—adding an enriching cultural layer to your safari. It’s a chance to connect with local communities and learn about their way of life.

Afterward, you’ll be transferred back to Arusha or Kilimanjaro Airport, concluding your adventure. Many travelers appreciate this day as a nice balance between wildlife and culture, rounding out the experience on a meaningful note.

What Sets This Tour Apart

Comfortable, All-Inclusive Planning

The tour’s price of $6,200 per person covers all meals, accommodation, private vehicle transfers, and a professional safari guide. This level of inclusivity simplifies logistics, ensuring you won’t have to worry about extra costs or arrangements during your trip. The included meals are well-rated, often praised for hearty, satisfying dishes after long days of game drives.

Expert Guides and Personal Touches

Guests have consistently noted that guides are friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to share insights about wildlife behaviors, local cultures, and geology. The private vehicle allows for flexibility, enabling you to spend more time at particular sightings or to skip over areas that might be less interesting to your group.

Unique Experiences and Optional Extras

The option to add a hot air balloon safari for $599 promises panoramic views of the Serengeti and the chance to see the wildlife from an entirely different perspective. Reviewers highlight this as a magical highlight, giving a sense of flying over the plains as animals roam below.

Cultural Connection

Visiting Mto wa Mbu introduces a community aspect seldom found in typical safaris. Many travelers find these cultural interactions to be eye-opening and grounding, providing context to the land and its people.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While the tour offers a comprehensive experience, the price tag might be high for some travelers. It reflects high-quality accommodation, expert guiding, and private transportation, but it’s a significant investment.

Timing and pace might feel fast for those wanting a more leisurely or in-depth experience, especially with just seven days. Some may prefer a longer trip to relax and soak in the scenery more deeply.

Plus, the tour is not suitable for babies under 1 year or those over 95, and travelers should be prepared for the physical demands of game drives, including long hours in a vehicle and possible rough terrain.

Who Will Love This Safari?

This safari is best suited for wildlife enthusiasts who want a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and cultural insight. If you’re a photographer eager to capture the Big Five against iconic landscapes, this tour offers plenty of opportunities. It’s also ideal for travelers seeking a guided, all-inclusive experience that covers multiple parks and diverse ecosystems without the hassle of planning.

Those who appreciate a small group or private vehicle experience will especially enjoy the flexibility and personal attention provided by Professional Safaris. If you’re after an authentic taste of Tanzania’s wilderness but without sacrificing comfort, this safari is a strong contender.

The Sum Up

For those ready to explore Tanzania’s legendary parks in just a week, this safari provides an impressive combination of wildlife viewing, cultural exposure, and scenic beauty. The carefully curated itinerary balances the iconic sights of Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro with practical comforts, ensuring a smooth and enriching adventure.

While the price is on the higher side, you’re investing in experienced guides, quality accommodations, and memorable experiences—like a hot air balloon over the Serengeti or a cultural visit to Mto wa Mbu. It’s a trip that offers a genuine slice of African wilderness, perfect for anyone eager to witness the continent’s most famous animals in their natural habitat.

This safari is best for those who value expert-led, premium experiences and are happy to prioritize quality and authenticity over budget options. If you’re seeking a comprehensive, immersive Tanzanian adventure with a touch of luxury, this tour is well worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
This particular tour isn’t recommended for babies under 1 year or people over 95, and is better suited for adult travelers or older children comfortable with game drives.

What is included in the price?
All meals, accommodation, private vehicle, and professional guides are included, making it a hassle-free package.

Can I customize or extend the trip?
The details provided don’t specify customization options, but you can keep your plans flexible with a “reserve & pay later” option—perfect if you want to plan ahead without immediate commitment.

How long are the game drives each day?
Typically, game drives start around 7:00 a.m., and while exact durations vary, guests often spend several hours exploring each park, returning for meals and rest.

What wildlife am I most likely to see?
Expect to see elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, buffalo, giraffes, and possibly rhinos, especially in Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti.

Is there an option for a balloon safari?
Yes, you can opt for a hot air balloon safari costing $599, which many reviewers describe as a magical experience offering breathtaking aerial views.

Will I experience local culture?
The tour includes a visit to Mto wa Mbu, where you’ll have a cultural tour and learn about local Maasai traditions and daily life.

What should I pack?
Bring your passport, camera, cash, and travel insurance. Don’t forget sun protection, binoculars, and a hat for game drives.

How flexible is the schedule?
The itinerary is structured but allows some flexibility, especially with the private vehicle, and guides are known for accommodating your interests when possible.

You can check availability for your dates here: