7 Days Tour Northern Tanzania Safari:

Exploring the 7 Days Tour Northern Tanzania Safari: An Authentic Wildlife Adventure

If you’re dreaming of spotting lions lounging in the grass, elephants marching past ancient baobabs, and witnessing the awe-inspiring Great Migration, this 7-day Northern Tanzania Safari offers a compelling way to tick those boxes. While we haven’t personally been on this exact tour, reviews highlight its reliability, knowledgeable guides, and incredible wildlife encounters that make it stand out.

What makes this safari particularly appealing? First, the expert guides like Eli, who know exactly where and when to find the animals. Second, the chance to witness large herds of elephants and lions in their natural habitat. Third, the well-structured itinerary that combines iconic parks like Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Lake Manyara for a comprehensive experience.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that public campsites like Simba at Ngorongoro may not meet everyone’s comfort level, with some guests suggesting an upgrade to more luxurious tented camps.

This tour is perfect for wildlife lovers, first-time visitors to Tanzania, and those eager to see the Big Five and the Great Migration without breaking the bank. It offers a solid balance of adventure, comfort, and value.

Key Points

• Incredible wildlife viewing including the Big Five, wildebeest, zebras, and flamingos.
• Expert guides like Eli who are skilled at locating animals and sharing insights.
• Well-paced itinerary covering major parks such as Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Lake Manyara.
• Affordable price point for a 7-day safari with all major highlights included.
• Varied accommodation options with a mix of campsites, some of which are recommended for upgrades.
• Authentic experience with knowledgeable guides, good food, and spectacular scenery.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Day 1: From Arusha to Tarangire National Park

Starting from Arusha, you’ll spend about two hours driving to Tarangire, the third largest park in Tanzania. Renowned for its massive herds of elephants and iconic Baobab trees, this park is a vivid picture of African wilderness. The Tarangire River, flowing year-round, attracts a multitude of animals, making game viewing particularly rewarding here.

The highlight? Watching elephants gather around the river, often in large herds, while predators like lions and leopards patrol nearby. The accommodation at Panorama campsite offers a rustic yet authentic camping experience, perfect for those who love being close to nature.

Day 2: Serengeti via Ngorongoro Crater Rim

After a morning breakfast, you’ll head towards the world-famous Serengeti, with a picnic lunch packed. Your drive takes you along the Ngorongoro Crater rim, providing breathtaking views and a chance to spot animals en route. This park is home to an astonishing diversity of wildlife, from lions and cheetahs to herds of zebras and wildebeest.

Serengeti’s true fame comes from its Great Migration, where over a million wildebeest and hundreds of thousands of zebras follow the rains. Even if you miss the migration, the landscape alone — vast plains dotted with acacia trees and roaming predators — is worth the trip. You’ll stay at Seronera campsite, where evenings often bring the sounds of Africa.

Day 3: Serengeti Game Drives & Migration Watching

The third day revolves around morning and afternoon game drives, giving you multiple chances to spot wildlife. Guides are adept at tracking herds based on migration patterns, which shift depending on the rains.

Guests mention that even without the migration, Serengeti’s sheer size and wildlife density make every drive worthwhile. The sightings of lions, cheetahs, and wild dogs often leave visitors in awe. The vastness of the park makes chasing herds an exciting challenge, and guides are well-versed at finding them.

Day 4: Ngorongoro Crater Exploration

Early morning game drive and lunch set the stage for a journey into Ngorongoro Crater — a natural amphitheater teeming with wildlife. The crater walls, soaring 2,000 feet above the floor, contain a unique ecosystem where lions, elephants, rhinos, flamingos, and more coexist.

Guests have appreciated the skill of guides in locating animals, some describing their guides as “very good at finding the hidden animals.” The crater’s dense concentration of wildlife offers some of the best chances for observing the Big Five in one place.

Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater & Transfer to Fanaka Campsite

A full-day game drive inside the crater with a picnic lunch provides ample time to see lions lounging near the hippos or flamingos wading in the soda lakes. The high walls of the crater keep animals contained, and your guide’s local knowledge means no opportunity for wildlife sighting is missed.

Afterwards, you’ll head to Fanaka campsite for the night, with some reviews suggesting that upgrading to more comfortable tents could enhance the experience for those seeking a bit more luxury.

Day 6: Lake Manyara & Return to Arusha

The next morning, game drives in Lake Manyara National Park introduce you to tree-climbing lions, flamingos, and troops of baboons. The park’s diverse habitats—water, forest, and plains—support a broad array of animals and birds.

You’ll enjoy lunch with a view of the lake and then continue your game drive, soaking in the scenery and wildlife. Many guests lauded the park for its birdlife and the chance to see animals like hippos and giraffes in a relatively compact area.

Day 7: Arusha National Park & Departure

On your last day, a short drive from Arusha city takes you to Arusha National Park. Known for its incredible variety of fauna and flora, the park is also the filming location for “Hartari,” adding a touch of Hollywood to your safari experience.

A visit to Ngurdoto Crater, often called “Little Ngorongoro,” offers a final chance to see buffaloes, waterbucks, and various bird species. The tour concludes with a transfer back to Arusha, with a drop-off at the airport.

What We Love About This Tour

Knowledgeable Guides: From reviews, guides like Eli are praised for their deep wildlife knowledge and ability to locate animals efficiently. This means more sightings and enriching explanations that bring the landscape alive.

Diverse Parks: Covering Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Lake Manyara, and Arusha National Park, the itinerary offers a well-rounded overview of Tanzania’s most iconic landscapes and ecosystems.

Wildlife Encounters: Whether it’s elephants at Tarangire, lions in Serengeti, or flamingos at Lake Manyara, the variety and density of animals make each day special. Guests mention seeing the Big Five and witnessing the Great Migration, which are bucket-list experiences.

Value for Money: For around $2,700 per person, this 7-day package includes vehicle, park fees, meals, and guiding, making it a very good deal considering the scope of sights covered.

Authentic Camping Experiences: Staying at campsites like Panorama and Seronera places you right in the heart of the action, with nights under the stars and early mornings filled with animal sounds.

Delicious Food & Friendly Service: Reviewers point out the quality of food prepared by the safari cooks, with some mentioning they used fresh ingredients, making the experience more comfortable and enjoyable.

Practical Details & Considerations

Transportation: The tour uses 4WD Land Cruisers equipped with viewing roofs, essential for wildlife spotting and comfortable travel over rugged terrain. The vehicles are designed for optimal visibility and safety.

Duration & Pacing: With approximately 7 days, the safari balances travel and game viewing, but keep in mind that the schedule involves early mornings and long drives — perfect for avid wildlife fans but possibly tiring for some.

Accommodation: While the campsites provide an authentic touch, some reviews suggest upgrading to tented camps for added comfort. It’s worth considering if you prefer a more luxurious overnight stay.

Pricing & Included Services: The $2,724.36 per person price covers park fees, all meals during the safari, parking, and guiding. Not included are tips, so budgeting a little extra for tips is advised.

Group Size & Private Tour: The tour is private, meaning only your group participates, allowing for a flexible schedule and personalized attention from guides.

Booking & Cancellation: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which provides some flexibility if plans change.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This safari appeals most to wildlife enthusiasts eager to see the Big Five and the Great Migration, travelers who value knowledgeable guides and authentic camping experiences, and those looking for a well-rounded introduction to Tanzania’s natural beauty. It’s suited to adventure lovers comfortable with early mornings and long drives, but also to first-timers seeking a reliable, guided experience with excellent reviews backing its quality.

FAQ: Practical Questions About the Tour

Is pickup offered for this safari? Yes, pickup is included, making it convenient to start your adventure without worry.

What is the typical group size? The tour is private, so only your group will participate, providing a personalized experience.

Are meals included? Yes, all breakfasts, lunches, and dinners are included for the 7 days, with fresh, quality food served on the campsite.

What kind of vehicle is used? The tour uses 4WD Land Cruisers with viewing roofs, ideal for wildlife safaris and rough terrain.

Can I expect luxury camping? The tour stays at campsites like Panorama and Seronera, which are authentic but may be upgraded if you prefer more comfort.

Are park fees included? Yes, park entrance fees are included in the price.

What is the best time to go? The itinerary suggests availability from April through June, October to November, aligning with migration patterns and weather.

How long are the game drives? Expect morning and afternoon game drives, often lasting several hours each, with opportunities to see various animals.

Is this suitable for children or families? While not explicitly stated, the tour’s pace and vehicle setup are generally family-friendly, but check with the provider for age restrictions.

What should I bring? Bring comfortable clothing, binoculars, camera, sun protection, and a sense of adventure.

Wrapping Up: Who Is This Safari Perfect For?

If your dream is to witness the majestic wildlife of Africa in a well-organized, affordable package, this 7-day Northern Tanzania Safari offers an excellent way to realize that dream. From the knowledgeable guides like Eli to the spectacular parks visited, this tour provides a comprehensive and memorable experience for wildlife lovers, first-timers, and adventure travelers alike.

While some might prefer more luxurious accommodations, the authentic camping experience, combined with expert guidance and diverse landscapes, ensures you’re truly immersed in the heart of Africa’s wilderness. It’s an adventure designed to leave you with stories to tell and a camera full of breathtaking photos.

To sum it up, this safari delivers a strong balance of value, adventure, and authentic wildlife encounters. It’s especially well-suited for those eager to explore Tanzania’s premier parks with guided expertise, making every day filled with potential surprises and awe-inspiring moments.