5 Days Camping Tarangire, Serengeti & Ngorongoro crater & Visiting Maasai

Exploring Tanzania’s Wildlife on a 5-Day Camping Safari: An Honest Review

If you’re dreaming of spotting lions lounging in the grass, elephants marching across vast plains, or the iconic wildebeest migration, a guided camping safari in Tanzania might just be your best bet. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a vivid picture of what you can expect from this adventure.

What we love about this safari? First, it offers unbeatable value for money for a five-day experience that hits the top wildlife spots. Second, the focus on personalized guidance—with private guides like Samuel and Douglas, you get expert insights and a flexible itinerary tailored to your interests. Third, the authentic camping experience provides a real sense of adventure that luxurious lodges simply can’t match.

One thing to consider? Since it’s a camping tour, comfort isn’t the priority—think tents, shared bathrooms, and early mornings—so it’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable with basic amenities and an active schedule. This trip is perfect for those seeking a true safari experience, wildlife enthusiasts, and travelers eager for an immersive journey into Tanzanian nature.

Key Points

• Cost-effective adventure that covers major parks and wildlife highlights
• Private guides ensure a personalized, flexible experience
• Camping over luxury provides an authentic, adventurous atmosphere
• Visit UNESCO sites Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti with a knowledgeable guide
• Detailed itinerary from Tarangire’s elephants to the wildebeest migration in Serengeti
• Comprehensive package including food, accommodation, and park fees

An In-Depth Look at the Safari Experience

Starting in Arusha and First Stop at Tarangire

Your journey begins with an early pickup from your Arusha hotel around 8 am, setting the stage for a full and exciting day. The drive to Tarangire National Park takes about three hours, giving you time to get excited about what’s ahead. The park, famous for its large herds of elephants, towering baobab trees, and the Tarangire River, offers a landscape that feels straight out of a wildlife documentary.

Travelers like Kim R. mention loving “the wild animals drinking water from the Tarangire River” and noting the park’s “major attractions” such as lions, leopards, and climbing pythons. The park covers 2,800 km², and your game drive will be focused on spotting the variety of animals that gather around the river, especially elephants. The full day here allows you to really soak in the scenery and get your first wildlife fix.

Serengeti: The Heart of Wildlife

Heading to the Serengeti after Tarangire is like stepping into the iconic African plains. Driving through the highlands of Karatu and Ngorongoro Conservation Area, the landscape transforms from lush farmland to expansive savannahs. Arriving in the Seronera area, you’re in the middle of one of the richest wildlife habitats—thanks to the Seronera River, which sustains the animals year-round.

Expect an afternoon game drive full of sightings of zebras, giraffes, lions, and perhaps even cheetahs. As Kim R. describes, this part of the tour provides “an experience better than we imagined,” thanks to the chance to see so many species in one place. You’ll have time to explore the plains, looking out for the elusive big cats or the graceful antelopes.

Following the Wildebeest Migration

Day three cranks up the excitement with a full day dedicated to tracking the wildebeest migration—a highlight for many travelers. The tour guides aim to follow the herds during their most active months, mainly June to September, when crossing the Mara River in the northern Serengeti can be dramatic.

Wivian R. shared, “Samuel, our guide, was great at taking us to key spots,” and he certainly knows how to track the migration. The day involves a lot of driving, but the reward is witnessing one of nature’s most spectacular spectacles: thousands of wildebeest and zebras moving across the plains, seeking greener pastures.

Ngorongoro Crater and Final Day

On day four, after an early morning game drive in Serengeti, your journey takes you to Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Waking up early to see Serengeti’s sunrise is a special moment, and the subsequent game drive into Ngorongoro Crater offers some of the best game viewing opportunities in Africa.

This UNESCO site is a natural amphitheater, formed by volcanic activity, and is home to approximately 25,000 animals. According to reviews, it’s an extraordinary ecosystem, where you can see elephants, gazelles, and possibly even the endangered black rhino. The dense animal population and open landscapes make it a favorite for wildlife lovers.

Later, a visit to Mto wa Mbu village provides a glimpse into local life, with banana plantations and community activities. This stops adds a cultural layer to the trip, appreciated by travelers like Kevin J., who describes the local guide as “knowledgeable about the community and its social and economic aspects.”

The final night is spent in Arusha, wrapping up your Tanzanian adventure.

What Makes This Safari Stand Out?

Guides and Personalization: Reviewers repeatedly praise guides like Samuel and Douglas for their knowledge, patience, and ability to find animals. Having a private guide means your game drives are flexible—you’re not just part of a large group but can tailor stops to your interests.

Authentic Camping Experience: For those craving real adventure, camping in tents allows you to be fully immersed in the wild. While amenities are basic, the experience of sleeping under the stars, listening to nocturnal sounds, and waking up next to the animals can’t be matched. Kim R. called it “incredible” and mentioned that her guide Saleem prepared excellent meals, turning camping into a comfortable adventure.

Value for Money: At around $1,254 per person, this tour offers access to major parks, expert guiding, all meals, park fees, and accommodations for the nights before and after the safari. Reviewers agree that it’s a fair price considering the comprehensive itinerary and inclusion of guiding, meals, and park entry.

Well-Structured Itinerary: The tour hits all the key highlights—Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro—and balances driving time with game viewing. Each day is packed but manageable, with early starts to maximize wildlife sightings.

Practical Details

Transport & Group Size: The tour operates with a small group—maximum of six travelers—which allows for a more intimate experience and easier communication with guides. Transportation is by comfortable safari jeep, equipped with free Wi-Fi as some reviewers appreciated.

Timing & Duration: Starting at 9 am, the itinerary is designed for full days of game drives, often lasting 9 to 10 hours, so pack accordingly. The tour is booked an average of 75 days in advance, reflecting its popularity.

Accommodation: The included overnight stays before and after the safari are in basic but comfortable accommodations, setting the tone for the adventure. During the safari, tents are provided, and reviews mention that while they are not luxurious, they are clean and well-maintained.

Food & Drinks: All meals are included—breakfasts, lunches, dinners—with unlimited water, and some reviews mention the quality of the food, especially considering the remote locations.

Who Would Love This Safari?

This safari is perfect for adventure lovers who don’t mind camping and want a genuine wildlife experience. It’s great for photographers eager to capture Africa’s iconic animals in their natural habitat, thanks to guides like Samuel who are experts at finding wildlife.

Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the price, especially given what’s included. If you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy a bit of adventure and don’t require luxury lodges, this is a fantastic option.

Wildlife enthusiasts will value the chance to see big five animals, the wildebeest migration, and the dense animal populations in Ngorongoro. Culture buffs will also enjoy the stop at Mto wa Mbu, giving a taste of local Tanzanian life.

Final Thoughts

This 5-day camping safari in Tanzania offers a vivid, immersive experience into Africa’s most famous parks. With a focus on authentic adventure, knowledgeable guides, and excellent value, it provides a comprehensive glimpse of the continent’s wildlife magic.

While the camping setup might not suit travelers seeking plush lodges, those looking for a true safari adventure will find the experience both exciting and rewarding. The small group size enhances the personal touch, and the detailed itinerary ensures no major highlight is missed.

Whether it’s your first safari or a repeat visit, this tour promises moments of awe, laughter, and a deeper connection to the wild. It’s ideal for explorers who want more than just a quick glimpse—ready to wake up with the lions and fall asleep under a blanket of stars.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners or only seasoned travelers?
It’s suitable for most travelers comfortable with camping and early mornings. The guides are experienced, and the tour is designed to be accessible for those new to safaris.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes all fees and taxes, unlimited drinking water, three meals a day, overnight accommodation before and after the safari, and park entry fees.

Can I expect luxury amenities during this tour?
No, as it’s a camping safari, you’ll sleep in tents with basic amenities. It’s about the experience, not luxury.

What is the group size?
A maximum of six travelers ensures a more personalized and flexible adventure.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian meals are available if requested at the time of booking.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking about 75 days ahead is recommended, as the tour is popular and fills up quickly.

This safari is the perfect pick for travelers eager to experience Africa’s wildlife in a genuine, budget-friendly way. With expert guides, a well-planned itinerary, and unforgettable scenery, it’s set to be a trip you’ll cherish for years to come.