5 Days Tanzania Group Joining Safari, Tarangire/Serengeti/Ngorongoro Crater

Travelers dreaming of their first African safari often envision vast plains teeming with wildlife, expert guides guiding them through this wilderness, and budget-friendly options that don’t skimp on experience. This 5-day Tanzania group safari offers just that—an immersive, authentic adventure designed for those seeking a well-rounded taste of Tanzania’s iconic parks without breaking the bank.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the expert-guided game drives led by seasoned guides like Bakari, Jonas, Nico, and Mike, who seem to know exactly where the animals gather. Second, the well-organized itinerary covers the highlights—Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro—each famous for unique wildlife spectacles and scenic vistas. Third, the camping experience, with its full-board accommodations at well-located campsites, offers a genuine feel of traditional safari life. One possible consideration? The group setting might not appeal to those looking for a private or luxury experience, but for many, the value and camaraderie outweigh this.

Designed for adventurous travelers on a budget, this safari is perfect for first-timers, wildlife enthusiasts, or anyone eager to witness Africa’s Big Five in a memorable, affordable way. If you’re after top-tier luxury, this might not suit you, but if you want authentic scenery, expert guides, and a lively group atmosphere, then keep reading.

Key Points

• Affordable price point offers great value for a comprehensive 5-day safari experience
• Experienced guides like Bakari and Mike enhance the hunt for wildlife
• Authentic camping stays bring you closer to nature in Tanzania’s top parks
• Full itinerary covering Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro offers diverse landscapes and animals
• Well-organized schedule with ample game drives and scenic stops
• Limited baggage restrictions to keep travel smooth and hassle-free

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect Each Day

Day 1: From Arusha to Tarangire National Park

Your safari kicks off with an early morning pickup in Arusha, followed by an 8-hour drive to Tarangire National Park. Known for its elephant migration and birdlife, Tarangire offers a quieter, less touristy vibe compared to other parks, which many reviewers appreciate.
Expect game drives with picnic lunch boxes, as the park’s tranquil atmosphere allows wildlife to thrive without the crowds. Travelers like one reviewer noted, “Tarangire is most famous for its elephants and authentic safari atmosphere,” often missed by many travelers who only spend hours here. The afternoon sees you departing Tarangire and heading to Manyara for dinner and overnight at Kizumba Campsite, a genuine camping experience on a full-board basis.

Day 2: Into the Heart of the Serengeti

After an early breakfast, you’ll set out for the Serengeti, crossing vast plains en route with picnic lunch in hand. The Serengeti is arguably the most famous safari park in Africa, renowned for its large predator populations and the spectacular Great Migration.
Game drives here are intense, with chances to see lions, cheetahs, and even the elusive leopards. One reviewer shared, “Our guides Jonas and Nico were incredibly experienced and took us to prime animal sightings, making this day unforgettable.”
You’ll spend the night at Seronera Campsite, right in the heart of the action, on a full-board basis.

Day 3: Full Day in Serengeti

This is your chance for a full day of game drives—a highlight for wildlife lovers. You’ll have the flexibility to stay out for a long day, with hot lunches at the camp or packed for a full-day adventure.
Travelers emphasize the expertise of the guides, with one saying, “Our driver Nico’s knowledge about animal behavior made each sighting exceptional.” Expect to see predators stalking prey, herds of wildebeest, zebras, and perhaps even a cheetah sprinting across the plains. The camp provides a restful evening after another day of wildlife discovery.

Day 4: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater Rim

After breakfast, game drives continue in Serengeti before heading towards the Ngorongoro Crater Rim for dinner and overnight at Simba Campsite.
This day is particularly scenic—driving past the endless plains, topped with a late afternoon ascent to the crater rim. As one reviewer pointed out, the views of the crater floor are “breathtaking,” and it’s a prime place to start searching for the elusive Big Five.

Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater and Return to Arusha

The final day begins with a descent into the Ngorongoro Crater, considered one of the best spots in Africa to see the Big Five. Expect game drives within the crater with picnic lunch in tow, as the crater’s ecosystem hosts a stunning array of wildlife—rhinos, elephants, lions, and more.
A reviewer described it as “a magical setting where wildlife is so accessible,” emphasizing how close-up encounters made the trip special. After a full day exploring the crater, you’ll ascend and head back to Arusha, ending your safari adventure.

Transportation & Guides: Moving in Comfort and Expertise

The safari employs 4WD land cruisers, which are ideal for navigating Tanzania’s sometimes rugged terrain. The vehicle size and quality ensure good visibility and comfort during long game drives.

Guides like Bakari, Jonas, Nico, and Mike receive consistently high praise. Their knowledge, friendly attitude, and ability to find animals make a tangible difference. One traveler shared, “Mike’s skills at locating wildlife and his patience with our endless photo stops were fantastic.” These guides often do more than just drive—they’re storytellers with a keen eye for animal behavior, making each sighting more engaging.

Group Size & Social Atmosphere

This is a group tour, typically accommodating small groups of 3 to 5 travelers, creating a warm, social environment. Guests often find the shared experience enhances the fun, as one review notes, “Our group was small, and the guides made sure everyone got great views and photos.”

The group dynamic can be lively, with many travelers forming friendships over shared meals and game drives. If you prefer solitude or private tours, this might not be ideal, but for those who love camaraderie, it’s a bonus.

Timing & Duration

Starting at 8:30 am in Arusha, the schedule is designed to maximize daylight hours for game viewing. The 6-8 hour drives each day give you ample time for wildlife spotting, while evenings at the campsite allow for relaxed star-gazing and campfire chats.

Food and Camping Experience: Keeping it Authentic and Tasty

Food is generally well-appreciated by travelers. The tour includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily, with many reviewers mentioning the delicious meals and snacks provided. One even called the food “delicious, especially the camping fare,” making the outdoor experience more enjoyable.

The camping accommodations are straightforward but comfortable enough, offering a genuine safari feel. Campsites like Kizumba and Simba are well-chosen for their proximity to wildlife and scenic views. The full-board setup means you’ll spend less time worrying about meals and more time enjoying the parks.

Baggage & Practical Tips

Baggage restrictions are strict—only 15kgs per person on domestic flights, including hand luggage—so pack light, bringing essentials and a sturdy duffle bag. Reviewers say that guides and staff are helpful and attentive, making sure luggage transport goes smoothly.

Authenticity and Value: What You Really Get

This safari’s value lies in its combination of experienced guides, well-planned itinerary, and camping experience. For a price of $1,120 per person, it’s a compelling offer when you consider the inclusions: all park fees, meals, transportation, and expert guiding. Several reviews highlight the quality of guiding, with some travelers calling guides like Bakari and Mike “the best,” owing to their patience, knowledge, and ability to find animals.

The tours also include snacks, bottled water, and hot drinks, making the long days more comfortable. The full itinerary ensures you see a mix of ecosystems—wetlands, plains, and craters—giving a well-rounded taste of Tanzania’s wildlife.

Comparing to Other Experiences

While the tour doesn’t include extras like cultural village visits or luxury lodges, many find the camping style and group setting excellent for bonding and authenticity. Reviewers often point out the good value for money, especially considering the chance to see the “Big Five” and the scenic beauty of the Ngorongoro Crater.

Who Is This Safari Best Suited For?

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to explore Tanzania’s top parks on a budget without sacrificing guides’ expertise. It’s perfect for those who love outdoor camping, are flexible with group travel, and want to experience Africa’s wildlife firsthand. It also suits first-time safari-goers looking for a comprehensive, guided experience that covers Tanzania’s most iconic sites.

If you’re after luxury lodges or private tours, you might find this experience a bit basic. However, if you’re comfortable with camping and enjoy the camaraderie of a group, the value and authenticity are hard to beat.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers accommodation at campsites, all park entry fees, transportation in a 4WD land cruiser, game drives as per the itinerary, guides, snacks, bottled water, tea/coffee, and all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner).

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Yes, personal expenses like souvenirs, drinks outside of bottled water, tips, and optional activities like cultural visits are not included. Also, you need to pay for visas and international flights.

What baggage restrictions should I keep in mind?
Baggage is limited to 15kg per person on domestic flights, including hand luggage. Pack light, using a duffle bag to stay within limits.

Will I be with a guide throughout the game drives?
Yes, experienced guides with high praise from previous travelers will accompany you on all game drives, providing expert insights and helping you spot wildlife.

What kind of accommodation will I stay in?
The tour features camping at designated campsites with full-board meal arrangements. It offers a more authentic, outdoor camping experience rather than luxury lodges.

What animals are most likely to be seen?
You can expect to see elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, rhinos, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, warthogs, flamingos, and of course, the Big Five. Many reviews highlight encounters with multiple Big Five animals in a single day.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While the reviews don’t specify age restrictions, the lengthy game drives and camping setup suggest it’s best for older children or families comfortable with outdoor camping and long days in vehicles.

This 5-day Tanzania safari offers a fantastic balance of affordability, adventure, and authentic wildlife encounters. With experienced guides, a thoughtfully designed itinerary, and the chance to camp in some of Africa’s most breathtaking landscapes, it’s a great choice for anyone eager to experience Tanzania without the high luxury price tag.

Travelers who prioritize knowledgeable guides, delicious inclusive meals, and stunning scenery will find this tour particularly rewarding. It’s perfect for those who want an active, engaging safari adventure packed into just a few days.

If you’re ready to witness the Big Five, marvel at the crater’s scenery, and enjoy the camaraderie of a group, this safari truly delivers. Remember to pack light, bring your camera, and prepare for an unforgettable journey through Tanzania’s wilderness.