9 Days Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater & Manyara Camping Safari Tour

Exploring Tanzania’s Iconic Safari Circuit in 9 Days

Our review focuses on a highly-rated 9-day camping safari through Tanzania’s most celebrated parks—Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Manyara. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the detailed feedback, comprehensive itinerary, and glowing reviews paint a clear picture of what travelers can expect.

What makes this safari stand out? First, it offers ample time in each park, especially the three nights in Serengeti, which many feel is the ideal duration for serious game viewing. Second, it includes an authentic cultural experience with the Hadzabe tribe at Lake Eyasi—a rare chance to engage with one of Africa’s last hunter-gatherer communities. Lastly, the small group size (max 6 travelers) promises a more intimate, personalized adventure, guided by knowledgeable experts like Omary and Mtinangi.

A potential consideration is the cost—at around $3,462 per person, it’s an investment, but one that many find justified by the depth of experience, expert guides, and inclusive amenities. This tour suits adventurous travelers eager for authentic wildlife encounters, culture, and a balance of comfort and ruggedness.

Key Points

• All-inclusive package with park fees, meals, drinking water, and camping gear
• Expert guides who are praised for their knowledge and ability to find animals up close
• Cultural visits provide a meaningful connection to local tribes
• Small group size enhances personalized experiences
• Flexible meal options and dietary requirements can be accommodated
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance offers peace of mind

A Closer Look at the 9-Day Tanzanian Safari Itinerary

This safari is curated to maximize wildlife sightings and cultural experiences within a manageable timeframe. It’s designed for those who want a comprehensive adventure that balances game drives, camping, and genuine local interactions.

Day 1: Arrival and Pickup in Arusha

Your journey kicks off early morning with a pickup from Arusha, the safari hub. The tour includes airport pickups and drop-offs, which makes planning your arrival and departure smoother. The small group size means you’ll likely be greeted by a familiar, friendly face ready to start your adventure.

Days 2-4: Tarangire National Park

Tarangire is often called the “baobab capital of Tanzania,” famous for its towering trees and large herds of elephants. Expect to see abundant wildlife, including lions, leopards, and a variety of antelope species. Tour guides like Mtinangi are lauded for their skill in spotting animals and their extensive knowledge of the park’s ecosystems.

The inclusion of all park fees and taxes means no hidden costs here—just pure wildlife excitement. And, since the tour includes drinking water and wine, you can toast your wildlife encounters in style. While camping here allows for a raw safari feel, it’s also comfortable with essentials like bath towels and a sleeping bag.

Days 5-6: Serengeti National Park

The highlight for many is spending three nights in the Serengeti, which provides ample time for game viewing and possibly witnessing the migration if timing lines up. This vast plain is home to the Big Five and countless other species, all accessible via early morning and late afternoon game drives.

Reviewers mention how guides like Omary are exceptionally skilled at finding animals, with one noting, “Omary is awesome!” and “We saw so many animals up close.” The Serengeti’s expansive terrain means you’ll experience some of Africa’s most stunning landscapes, often with wide-open skies and rolling plains.

Day 7: Ngorongoro Crater

Descending into the Ngorongoro Crater, you’ll encounter an enclosed ecosystem teeming with wildlife. The crater’s dense concentration of animals—especially lions, rhinos, and hippos—makes it a wildlife photographer’s dream. The tour includes all fees, so you won’t need to worry about extra costs here.

Days 8-9: Lake Manyara and Cultural Experience

The final days bring a visit to Lake Manyara, renowned for its tree-climbing lions and flamingos. It’s a relaxed way to wrap up your safari, with opportunities for birdwatching and light game viewing.

An added bonus of this tour is the cultural experience at Lake Eyasi with the Hadzabe tribe. This is a genuine, immersive encounter, giving insight into a lifestyle that has persisted for thousands of years. It’s a highlight that many reviewers describe as fascinating and meaningful.

Highlights of the Experience

Expert Guides and Small Groups

Guests consistently praise guides like Mtinangi and Omary for their safety, professionalism, and deep knowledge. Their ability to find animals up close and answer questions makes the safari both educational and exciting. The small group size fosters a more personalized and flexible experience, allowing guides to adapt to your interests.

Authentic Wildlife Encounters

From elephants in Tarangire to lions in Serengeti and the dense animal populations in Ngorongoro, this safari offers up-close animal viewing in some of Africa’s most iconic parks. The reviews mention seeing a variety of species and even close encounters with predators.

Cultural Immersion

The visit to the Hadzabe tribe at Lake Eyasi adds a rare cultural perspective, blending wildlife with human stories. It’s often cited as a highlight, providing a contrast to the safari’s natural wonders.

Comfortable Camping and Meals

While camping might seem rugged, the tour includes amenities like bath towels, optional breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and drinking water, making it accessible for first-time campers or those wanting a true adventure without sacrificing comfort.

Pricing and Value

At $3,461.54, the tour is on the higher end for a 9-day camping safari, but the price reflects all fees, guided expertise, cultural experiences, and food. The inclusion of park fees and meals means fewer surprises and better planning.

Practical Aspects and Tips

Transportation

The safari uses a private, air-conditioned vehicle driven by experienced guides. The timing starts at 7:00 am, ensuring you catch the early morning light—prime for wildlife viewing.

Accommodation

Staying in tents in the parks offers an authentic camping experience, but with the amenities to keep it enjoyable. This setup is perfect for those wanting to connect with nature without going fully “roughing it.”

Booking and Cancellation

The tour allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if your plans change. Confirmation is received at booking, and most travelers can participate, even if it’s their first safari.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This safari is ideal for adventurous travelers who crave a deep wildlife experience combined with cultural interactions. It suits those who don’t mind camping and are looking for personalized guides and authentic encounters. It’s also perfect for travelers seeking a balanced mix of comfort, adventure, and culture, all within a manageable timeframe.

Final Thoughts

This 9-day Tanzanian safari offers a well-rounded, immersive experience at a price that reflects the quality of guides, inclusiveness of fees, and authentic encounters. The small group size ensures you won’t feel lost in the crowd, and the expert guides truly enhance the experience with their knowledge and ability to spot elusive wildlife.

For those passionate about wildlife, culture, and adventure, this tour provides a fantastic introduction to Tanzania’s most famous parks. Whether you’re on your honeymoon, a family trip, or a solo expedition, the combination of game drives, cultural visits, and camping makes for a memorable, enriching journey.

If you’re after a safari that balances the thrill of wildlife with genuine cultural insights and personalized service, this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

How many days does the safari last?
The entire experience runs for approximately 9 days, covering four major parks plus cultural visits.

Is camping included in the tour?
Yes, the tour features camping in tents in the parks, with amenities like bath towels and sleeping bags provided.

Are all park fees included?
All fees and taxes for the parks are included, so there are no hidden costs during game drives.

What meals are included?
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are optional but can be included if requested, along with drinking water and wine.

Can dietary requirements be accommodated?
Yes, the tour offers options for specific dietary needs upon request.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 6 travelers, ensuring a more intimate safari experience.

Are airport pickups and drop-offs included?
Yes, the tour includes airport pickup and drop-off, simplifying your arrival and departure.

What is the best time to book this safari?
While the specific timing isn’t mentioned, the flexibility with cancellation suggests you can plan well in advance, ideally during Tanzania’s dry season for optimal wildlife viewing.

Is this suitable for families?
Yes, it accommodates families, including children aged 12 and 16, and offers a safe, guided adventure.

What makes the guides special?
Guests praise guides like Omary and Mtinangi for their knowledge, safety, and ability to find animals efficiently, making every game drive unforgettable.

This detailed review underscores that this safari offers authentic, engaging, and well-organized experiences for those eager to explore Tanzania’s wildlife and culture in a compact, guided journey.