5 days Living Among Lions with Kojuu Safaris – Mid range Lodge

When it comes to heading on an African safari, the allure of spotting the Big Five and witnessing breathtaking landscapes makes Tanzania a top destination. This 5-day tour with Kojuu Safaris promises an adventure filled with game drives across some of the most iconic parks, designed for travelers seeking mid-range comfort without sacrificing authenticity. From the lush forests of Lake Manyara to the endless plains of Serengeti and the crater floor of Ngorongoro, this itinerary is packed with opportunities to see wildlife in their natural habitats.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the mix of carefully curated parks, the knowledgeable guides, and the focus on authentic, immersive moments. Plus, the tour’s flexibility—like optional first and last-night stays in Arusha—adds a layer of convenience. However, it’s worth noting that the trip involves substantial driving, so those prone to motion sickness or seeking a more leisurely pace might want to consider this aspect.

This safari is a fantastic fit for wildlife enthusiasts, families with children (ages 3-17), and anyone looking for a balanced blend of adventure and comfort. If you’re dreaming of Africa’s iconic landscapes with a touch of luxury, this tour could be just what you need.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Visits to Lake Manyara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Tarangire offer a well-rounded wildlife experience.
• Mid-range Comfort: Accommodation in comfortable lodges and vehicles designed for optimal game viewing.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides and drivers, often praised for their insights and friendliness.
• Flexible Options: Customizable start and end points, including optional nights in Arusha for added convenience.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for children aged 3-17 with discounts for younger travelers.
• Value for Money: The price reflects a carefully curated experience including all park fees, meals, and in-vehicle amenities.

An In-Depth Look at the 5-Day Tanzanian Safari

Starting Point: Arusha and Day 1 at Lake Manyara

Your journey kicks off in Arusha, the gateway city to many Tanzanian safaris. After a briefing, your first game drive takes you to Lake Manyara National Park. Here, the landscape is quite different from other parks—more forested and lush—and offers a refreshing change from open plains.

Lake Manyara’s highlight is undoubtedly its birdlife, with hundreds of species around the alkaline lake. Reviewers mention that although the park doesn’t boast the same mammal numbers as others, it provides a diverse scenery—from Rift Valley views to dense woodland areas. One traveler noted that the park’s unique wilderness experience makes it worth the early start, especially for birders and nature lovers.

Accommodation in Karatu offers a chance to relax after a long day of driving and game viewing. The lodge setting provides a cozy base to unwind, with some reviewers mentioning a good balance of comfort and rustic charm.

Days 2-3: Serengeti, the Land of Endless Plains

From Karatu, the safari heads to the famous Serengeti. The drive takes you through Ngorongoro Conservation Area, which itself is a wildlife-rich corridor and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Travelers often find the Serengeti breathtaking, with its sweeping landscapes and high wildlife density.

Serengeti’s reputation as “the endless plains” rings true, and you’ll likely encounter herds of wildebeest, zebras, and plenty of predators. The park is home to the Big Five, including lions, leopards, and elephants, and is especially renowned for its annual migration, although that’s not specifically part of the itinerary.

One reviewer mentioned that Serengeti is a “home of lions”, with around 3,000 lions roaming the ecosystem. It’s common to see lions lounging under acacia trees for hours—an iconic image of Africa. The chances of spotting other predators like cheetahs and hyenas are high too, making each game drive exciting.

Days 4-5: Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire

The highlight of Day 4 is the trip to Ngorongoro Crater—often called “Africa’s Garden of Eden.” It’s a volcanic caldera, filled with dense wildlife populations and stunning scenery. Here, you’ll see a concentration of animals, including black rhinos, elephants, lions, and numerous herbivores, all in a compact, accessible area.

Reviewers frequently mention the spectacular views from the crater’s edge and the thrill of spotting predators and prey in such an intimate setting. The crater’s permanent water sources support over 25,000 large mammals, making it a must-see.

On Day 5, the safari moves to Tarangire National Park, known for its majestic baobab trees and large elephant herds. Despite being less famous than Serengeti or Ngorongoro, it’s appreciated for its authentic African atmosphere and excellent birdwatching opportunities. Visitors often comment on the variety of wildlife and the chance to see smaller creatures and unique landscape features.

The Logistics: Comfort and Convenience

The tour uses a custom-built, open-roof 4WD Land Cruiser, ideal for game viewing. The vehicle’s design allows for 360-degree views, essential for wildlife photography and spotting animals at a distance. Wi-Fi in the vehicle is a nice touch, helping travelers share moments in real-time.

Meals, drinks, and snacks are included, with the vehicle stocked to cater to different tastes—whether you’re craving soft drinks, wine, or fresh fruits. The tour also provides snack packs and refreshing beverages, which come in handy during long drives.

Transport is private, with a dedicated guide and driver who are praised for their knowledge and friendly attitude. One review specifically mentioned how guides were familiar with the parks’ wildlife, making it easier for travelers to understand animal behaviors and spotting tips.

What’s Included & What’s Extra

The tour’s all-inclusive price covers park fees, meals, transfers, and insurance, making it straightforward without hidden costs. The flying doctor insurance offers peace of mind in case of medical emergencies.

Extras like international flights, visas, and optional nights in Arusha are not included, which is common for safaris. If you want to customize your start or end points, additional arrangements are available for an extra fee.

Authenticity and Value

Based on reviews, travelers consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and the well-organized nature of the tour. One reviewer highlighted that their guide was “familiar with the parks’ wildlife,” which enhanced the experience significantly. The comfort level of the lodges and vehicles also garners positive feedback—especially important for multi-day trips.

Pricing at $2,700 per person may seem high, but considering all included park fees, meals, and private transport, it’s competitive for a 5-day safari in Tanzania. For those seeking a balanced experience—not overly luxurious but comfortably authentic—this tour offers great value.

Who is This Tour Best Suited For?

This safari is ideal for families with children (ages 3-17), as it offers discounts for younger travelers and is designed to be engaging and educational. It’s also perfect for those who want a comprehensive tour that hits the major parks without sacrificing comfort. Wildlife lovers keen to see lions, rhinos, elephants, and the iconic landscapes will find this tour exceptionally rewarding.

Final Thoughts

This 5-day safari with Kojuu Safaris offers a well-rounded, authentic experience of Tanzania’s most famous parks. From the bird-filled waters of Lake Manyara to the endless plains of Serengeti and the wildlife-packed Ngorongoro Crater, every day promises new sights and memorable moments.

The tour’s emphasis on knowledgeable guides, comfortable vehicles, and inclusive pricing makes it a strong choice for travelers who want both value and genuine adventure. While the long drives are unavoidable, they are a small price to pay for such a comprehensive look at Tanzania’s wild heart.

If you’re after a safari that balances comfort, adventure, and authentic wildlife encounters, this tour stands out as a thoughtful, well-organized option.

FAQ

What is included in the price?
All park and national park fees, airport transfers, meals, drinks, and insurance are included. The tour also provides safari swag like Bush hats and duffels, adding to the overall value.

Can I customize the start and end of the tour?
Yes, you can request to have the first and last nights in Arusha for an extra cost, offering flexibility depending on your travel plans.

Is this safari suitable for families?
Absolutely. The tour accepts children aged 3-17, with discounts for ages 3-15, making it family-friendly and educational.

What type of vehicle is used?
A custom-built, open-roof 4WD safari Land Cruiser, perfect for game viewing and photography, with Wi-Fi for convenience.

Are tips included?
Tips are not explicitly mentioned but are generally at travelers’ discretion, typically appreciated for guides and drivers.

What should I pack for this safari?
Bring layers for varying temperatures, comfortable clothing, binoculars, a camera, and sun protection. The tour provides bush hats and swag, but personal essentials are recommended.

This tour offers a solid, authentic Tanzanian safari experience with the comfort and flexibility many travelers seek. It’s especially suited for wildlife lovers, families, and those wanting to see some of Africa’s most iconic landscapes in style.