7 Days Mid-Range Lodge Safari To Lake Manyara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro & Tarangire

Travelers eager to explore Tanzania’s iconic wildlife and landscapes will find this 7-day mid-range lodge safari a compelling choice. From the dramatic shores of Lake Manyara to the endless plains of Serengeti, then into the heart of Ngorongoro’s crater and the lush waters of Tarangire, this tour promises a well-rounded adventure of Africa’s most famous national parks. With comfortable lodges, expert guides, and a thoughtful itinerary, it’s designed for those seeking a balance of quality and value.

What I particularly like about this safari is its focus on authentic game-viewing in diverse habitats, the convenience of lodge stays, and the chance to see some of Tanzania’s most renowned animals, including tree-climbing lions and dense predator populations. The itinerary also includes unique experiences like a hot air balloon ride (at an extra cost), which adds an unforgettable perspective to the scenery. A possible consideration is the pace—seven days packed with travel and game drives might feel tight for some, especially those sensitive to long days in the vehicle.

This tour suits travelers who crave a comprehensive wildlife experience without the luxury price tag, and who enjoy the comfort of lodge accommodations combined with the thrill of seeing Africa’s big game.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Route: Covers the must-see parks of Lake Manyara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Tarangire.
• Authentic Wildlife Encounters: Focus on game drives that showcase varied ecosystems and dense animal populations.
• Comfortable Lodging: Mid-range lodges offer a practical balance of comfort and local charm.
• Extra Experiences: Optional hot air balloon safaris add a magical touch to the adventure.
• Insightful Stops: Visits to places like Olduvai Gorge deepen the tour’s connection to Africa’s human history.
• Value for Money: All-inclusive park fees and accommodation make the $5,385 price point quite reasonable considering the scope.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Lake Manyara – The Tree-Climbing Lions and Flamingos

The safari kicks off with a transfer from Moshi to Lake Manyara, a park instantly recognizable for its towering soda lake flanked by lush forests and acacia woodlands. The highlight here? The famous tree-climbing lions, a rare sight that leaves a lasting impression. You’ll arrive in time for lunch at your lodge, then venture on an afternoon game drive.

Expect to see large herds of elephants, a spectacle given the park’s reputation for dense elephant populations. Flamingos often grace the lake’s shallow waters, attracted by algae, creating one of the most photogenic scenes in Tanzania. The varied habitat means you’ll likely encounter buffalo, giraffes, and perhaps even some shy baboons. The experience is a perfect introduction to the parks of Tanzania—compact but teeming with wildlife.

Day 2 & 3: Serengeti – The Icon of Africa’s Wilderness

After breakfast, the journey continues into the legendary Serengeti. The drive from Moshi takes you through the highlands of Karatu and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, with breathtaking views of farmland and the escarpment. Descending into the plains of Serengeti, you’ll understand why it’s called the “endless plains”—an expansive wilderness where each turn offers new views and wildlife surprises.

You’ll stay in the Seronera area, known for its plentiful wildlife and the Seronera River. Here, the landscape is characterized by open grasslands dotted with acacia trees, attracting a wide range of animals. Expect to see herds of wildebeest, zebras, and predators like lions and hyenas, especially around the river—perfect for a classic safari experience.

A highlight is the optional hot air balloon ride (at extra cost), giving travelers a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of the plains and possibly spotting herds from above. The silence and panoramic views make it a once-in-a-lifetime experience, though it’s not included in the base price.

Day 4 & 5: Ngorongoro Crater – Wildlife Concentration and Ancient History

The drive from Serengeti to Ngorongoro offers the chance to visit Olduvai Gorge, where famous paleoanthropologists uncovered human ancestors. It’s a fascinating stop that adds a touch of history to your adventure.

Descending into the Ngorongoro Crater, you’ll find yourself in a natural amphitheater teeming with wildlife. This is one of the densest game areas in Africa, with an estimated 30,000 animals including elephants, buffalo, hippos, and the rare black rhinoceros. The crater’s water sources and lush fodder sustain this bustling ecosystem year-round, making every game drive here lively and rewarding.

Expect a full-day game drive, where the concentration of predators and prey is high. The landscape’s stunning scenery—crater walls rising dramatically around you—makes every photo a keeper. “It’s one of the most densely crowded African wildlife areas,” as travelers have noted, making it a highlight for animal sightings.

Day 6 & 7: Tarangire – The Elephant Sanctuary

Your journey concludes with a move to Tarangire National Park, renowned for its large elephant herds and iconic baobab trees. The park’s landscape is primarily low-lying woodland and wetlands, with the Tarangire River drawing animals during the dry season.

The morning game drive offers a last round of wildlife sightings—look out for the unique species like the Greater Kudu and the Fringed-eared Oryx. The park’s reputation for large elephant populations is well deserved; many travelers have described the experience as “seeing elephants in their natural element,” which adds a special touch to your safari.

After a picnic lunch, you’ll head back to Moshi, with plenty of time to reflect on the week of adventures. The final game drive caps off a well-rounded exploration of Tanzania’s wildlife treasures.

What Travelers Are Saying

The one review available praises the tour organizer, Oscar and the team at Exceed Expectations Tours, for their professionalism and quick planning, especially on short notice. The reviewer mentions how everything was “prepared and supervised” smoothly, highlighting the reliability of the service.

The detailed feedback from another traveler emphasizes the “superb Tanzanian safari experience,” noting the care taken to ensure an affordable yet memorable adventure. While some specifics like guide names aren’t provided, the overall tone suggests a well-organized trip, with a good balance of wildlife viewing, cultural stops, and comfortable lodges.

Unique Aspects and Extras

One major perk is the possibility of a hot air balloon ride over Serengeti, which many find an unforgettable addition—though it does come at an extra cost. The tour’s inclusion of sites like Olduvai Gorge offers a blend of natural wonder and human history, enriching the safari experience beyond just animals.

Practical Details and Value

At around $5,385 per person, this safari offers solid value considering the inclusions: park fees, lodging, most meals, and multiple game drives. The lodges are described as mid-range, meaning you can expect comfort without the luxury price tag. The small group size—max 15 travelers—ensures a more personalized experience, with ample opportunities for close-up wildlife viewing.

Transportation is likely via a comfortable safari vehicle, with timely transfers between parks. The itinerary is quite full, with most days running around 4-6 hours of game drives, giving you a good balance between spotting animals and downtime at the lodges.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This safari appeals most to travelers seeking an immersive wildlife experience coupled with comfortable lodging. It’s great for those who want to see the highlights of Tanzania’s parks without the high costs of luxury safaris. It’s also suitable for first-timers and wildlife enthusiasts who appreciate a well-structured, reliable tour operated by experienced guides.

Final Thoughts

This 7-day Tanzania safari offers a balanced combination of adventure, comfort, and educational stops. It’s ideal for those looking to tick the big five off their list while soaking in some of Africa’s most beautiful landscapes. The inclusion of iconic parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro guarantees awe-inspiring sights, while the lodges provide a cozy base after long days of exploring.

The chance to see elephants, lions, rhinos, and predators in their natural environment is the core appeal, and the optional hot air balloon promises a magical perspective. Whether you’re a wildlife newbie or a seasoned safari lover, this tour provides a comprehensive taste of Tanzania’s incredible diversity.

For travelers who prioritize reliable service, authentic encounters, and a sensible price point, this safari is certainly worth considering. Just prepare for some long travel days—every moment is packed with stunning views and unforgettable animals.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers park entrance fees, accommodation at mid-range lodges, most meals, and transfers during the safari. Extras like hot air balloon rides are optional and at an additional cost.

How many people will be in the group?
The tour operates with a maximum of 15 travelers, offering a more intimate safari experience and better chances for close animal encounters.

Are there optional activities available?
Yes, a hot air balloon ride over Serengeti can be arranged beforehand at supplementary cost, providing a breathtaking aerial view of the plains.

What is the accommodation like?
The lodges are mid-range, balancing comfort and practicality. They are designed to enhance the safari experience without the luxury price tag.

How long are the game drives?
Most days feature 4 to 6 hours of game drives, ensuring ample time to spot wildlife and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the transfers are made in a safari vehicle suited for wildlife viewing, with reliable scheduling between parks and accommodations.

Can I expect to see the Big Five?
While wildlife sightings depend on luck, the parks included—especially Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Tarangire—are known for their high chances to spot lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalo, and leopards.

What’s the best time of year to go?
Though not specified in the data, generally, the dry seasons (June to October) are ideal for wildlife viewing, as animals gather around water sources and vegetation is less dense.

This safari combines the thrill of Africa’s iconic wildlife with practical comfort and thoughtful stops. It’s a wonderful choice for travelers wanting a rich, authentic adventure that captures the essence of Tanzania’s wilderness.