5-Day Private Camping Tour to Serengeti, Ngorongoro & Tarangire

Discover the 5-Day Private Camping Tour to Serengeti, Ngorongoro & Tarangire

If you’re dreaming of a classic Tanzanian safari filled with iconic wildlife, stunning landscapes, and authentic camping adventure, this 5-day private tour offers a compelling way to explore. From the towering baobabs of Tarangire to the vast plains of Serengeti and the dramatic crater of Ngorongoro, it’s a whirlwind of breathtaking sights and wildlife encounters.

What really sets this experience apart are the knowledgeable guides, the close-up wildlife viewing, and the chance to camp under the stars — a genuine taste of East Africa. That said, it’s not for everyone; expect long days of game drives, often in remote areas, and a bit of roughing it. Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, adventure seekers, or anyone craving an authentic safari experience.

Key Points

Expert Guides: Guides like Isac and Swahib are praised for their knowledge and animal spotting skills, making wildlife encounters more rewarding.
Authentic Camping: Staying in campsites like Migombani and Simba at the crater rim offers a true safari vibe, away from luxury lodges.
Diverse Ecosystems: The tour covers three major parks — Tarangire with its massive herds, Ngorongoro’s crater for Big Five sightings, and the Serengeti’s endless plains.
Wildlife Variety: Expect encounters with elephants, lions, rhinos, cheetahs, and over 500 bird species, along with tips from guides on animal behavior.
Great Migration: In season, you’ll witness the world’s most famous animal movement across the plains of Serengeti.
Good Value: The price of approximately $2,050 per person includes all fees, camping gear, and park entry, offering a comprehensive safari experience.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Authentic Experiences

Day 1: Tarangire National Park — Elephant Heaven and Ancient Baobabs

Starting from Arusha, the tour kicks off with a two-hour drive to Tarangire, famous for its colossal baobab trees and large herds of elephants. The journey itself is scenic, crossing grassland plains dotted with Maasai huts and livestock, giving a glimpse into local life.

Once inside the park, you’ll enjoy a game drive after a short safari briefing. Tarangire is known for its biggest concentration of elephants, which you’ll get plenty of opportunities to photograph. Reviewers highlight guides like Isac, who “was very knowledgeable and an excellent driver,” making it easy to spot animals and learn about their behaviors.

A midday picnic lunch provides a break before the afternoon game drive continues, with chances to see lions, leopards, and cheetahs. The day ends at Migombani Campsite, where camping gear is set up for an immersive experience. Expect to fall asleep to the sounds of nature — a true camping safari highlight.

Day 2: From Ngorongoro to Serengeti — The Journey and the Crater View

Driving from Migombani to Serengeti involves passing through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, offering a chance to marvel at the Ngorongoro Crater. This volcanic caldera is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and many travelers find its panoramic views breathtaking.

Once at Serengeti, you’ll encounter an abundance of wildlife, including the chance to see large herds of wildebeest, zebras, and predators. The Serengeti is often praised for its diversity of bird species, from ostriches to black eagles, which add another layer of interest to the landscape.

Day 3: Full-Day Serengeti Wildlife Drive — The Heart of the Action

A full day in Serengeti means early mornings and long, rewarding game drives. The morning starts with a light breakfast before heading out to catch the animals at their most active. Guides like Swahib are repeatedly praised for their sharp animal spotting skills and fatigue-inducing knowledge, making every sighting more memorable.

You’ll not only look for the Big Five but also enjoy a cooked lunch back at the campsite, which offers a much-needed recharge before the afternoon drive. Expect this to be a highlight for wildlife lovers, with the chance to see lions lounging, elephants crossing, and perhaps even a cheetah stalking.

Day 4: Serengeti to Ngorongoro — Last Day in the Park and Night at the Rim

This day is about soaking in Serengeti’s vastness one last time with a six-hour morning game drive. Guides will help you spot elusive animals and share insights on their behaviors. After lunch, you’ll leave Serengeti and head back to Ngorongoro Conservation Area, stopping along the way for more wildlife sightings.

You’ll spend the night at Simba campsite, perched on the crater’s rim, offering stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere after a day of adventure. Reviewers describe the experience as “wonderful and unforgettable,” with some noting how guides like Deo Robert ensure every moment is special.

Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater — The Final Wildlife Encounter

The last day begins early with a descent into the Ngorongoro Crater, often called the “Garden of Eden” for its lush landscape and concentration of wildlife. You’ll be able to spot almost every East African species, including the rare black rhino — a highlight if luck is on your side.

A picnic lunch by a hippo lake caps off your safari stats, with ample opportunities for last photos before heading back to Arusha. Reviewers mention how guides like Frank are attentive and knowledgeable, making the most of this final wildlife encounter.

Transportation, Camping, and Overall Value

The tour provides private transportation, ensuring comfort and flexibility in schedule. The drives are well-timed, with most days starting early to maximize wildlife viewing and finishing in the late afternoon. The camping experience adds authenticity, with all necessary equipment provided, so you can enjoy the adventure without worrying about gear.

At $2,051.29 per person, the cost includes park fees, all camping gear, and meals, offering a lot of value for those seeking an immersive safari. The price is especially reasonable considering the destinations covered and the expert guides who help you make the most of every moment.

Practical Considerations

While the camping element is part of the appeal, it requires a bit of adaptability — expect basic but comfortable setups and shared facilities. The long days mean you should be prepared for early mornings and late evenings, with plenty of time on the road. For travelers used to more luxurious lodges, this might feel more rustic, but that’s part of the charm.

Authenticity and Personalized Service

One of the strongest points of this tour is its private nature; only your group participates, ensuring tailored attention from your guides. Reviews highlight guides like Isac, Swahib, Deo Robert, and Frank for their professionalism, knowledge, and friendliness. They’re praised for their animal spotting abilities and willingness to share insights about flora, fauna, and local culture.

The reviewers’ accounts emphasize how these guides made their safari more engaging and educational — beyond just spotting animals, they added context and stories that made each sighting memorable.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for wildlife lovers eager to see the Big Five, birdwatchers craving over 500 bird species, or adventurers seeking an authentic camping safari. It suits those comfortable with basic camping and long days in vehicles, and who appreciate the value of guided expertise.

It’s perfect if you want a mix of iconic landscapes, wildlife, and the experience of sleeping under the stars rather than in luxury lodges. Budget-conscious travelers will find the all-inclusive price reasonable given the coverage and quality of the guides.

Final Thoughts

This 5-day private camping safari is a well-rounded way to experience Tanzania’s premier parks without breaking the bank. It offers authentic, immersive adventures that highlight the country’s incredible biodiversity and landscapes, with highly praised guides enhancing every part of the journey.

While it’s not a luxury experience, the value lies in the close-up wildlife encounters, expert guiding, and genuine camping ambiance. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want to see the Big Five, witness the Great Migration (season permitting), and truly connect with nature.

If you’re looking for an active, authentic safari that balances adventure with insightful guiding, this tour will serve you well. Just pack your sense of adventure, a camera, and a love for wildlife — Tanzania’s magnificent parks await.

FAQ

How long are the game drives each day?
Most days include early morning drives lasting around 6 to 8 hours, with some days ending later, especially in Serengeti, for maximum wildlife sightings.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the camping days, with picnic lunches on the go.

What’s the camping experience like?
Camping is done at designated sites like Migombani and Simba, with all necessary equipment provided. Expect basic but comfortable setups, with shared facilities.

Are park entrance fees included?
Yes, all fees for Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro are included in the tour price.

Can I see the Big Five?
Absolutely. Ngorongoro’s crater is famous for the Big Five, and Serengeti often provides sightings of lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalo.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Elephants, lions, cheetahs, rhinos (including the rare black rhino), zebras, wildebeest, and over 500 bird species are common sightings.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is best suited for travelers comfortable with long game drives and camping; check with the provider for age restrictions.

What should I pack?
Bring lightweight clothing, binoculars, a camera, sun protection, and layers for early mornings and evenings.

How do guides enhance the experience?
Guides like Isac and Swahib are praised for their animal spotting skills and ability to share insightful stories about wildlife and landscape, making each sighting more meaningful.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

This detailed review highlights the authentic, immersive nature of this safari, making it a compelling choice for adventurous travelers eager to explore Tanzania’s iconic parks and wildlife under expert guidance.