5 days serengeti, ngorongoro, tarangire & manyara lodge tour

Traveling to Tanzania for a safari is like stepping into a wildlife documentary — only better, because you’re right there in the action. This 5-day tour by Safari Soles Tours promises an authentic adventure through some of the most renowned parks in the northern circuit. From the sweeping plains of Serengeti to the dramatic crater of Ngorongoro, and the lush landscapes of Tarangire and Manyara, you’ll get a taste of Tanzania’s incredible biodiversity.

What makes this safari stand out? First, the expert guides—reviewers consistently praise Innocence and Elias for their deep knowledge and friendly approach. Second, the comfortable camping and lodge accommodations mean you won’t feel like you’re roughing it. Third, the all-inclusive approach—everything from entrance fees to meals—is designed to keep stress away so you can fully enjoy the wildlife spectacle. The only potential consideration? The tour has a maximum group size of 6, so it’s intimate but might feel crowded if you prefer total solitude.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience with personalized touches. If you’re eager to explore Tanzania’s top parks with knowledgeable guides and in a small group, this safari could be just what you’re looking for. It balances adventure with comfort—and the reviews suggest it offers excellent value for the price.

Key Points

• All-inclusive package covers park fees, meals, and camping equipment, making planning easier.
• Expert guides like Innocence and Elias are highly praised for their knowledge and friendliness.
• Small group size (max 6 travelers) ensures personalized attention and flexibility.
• Diverse parks—Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, and Manyara—offer varied landscapes and wildlife.
• Comfortable accommodations include a mix of camping and lodge stays, with opportunities for stargazing.
• Flexible cancellation policy allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: From Arusha to Tarangire National Park

Your adventure begins in Arusha, with an early pickup around 7:30 am. The drive to Tarangire is approximately a few hours, but you’ll want to soak in the changing scenery—dry acacia woodlands interspersed with lush riverbanks. Tarangire is famous for its large herds of elephants and iconic baobab trees, which look like they’ve been plucked straight from a fairy tale. Expect to spend the day spotting animals such as zebras, giraffes, and maybe even a lion or two lurking in the tall grasses.

Reviewers highlight the use of binoculars included in the tour, which is a significant plus for wildlife viewing. One reviewer shared, “We saw more than 40 types of animals, including lions and cheetahs, all thanks to our guide Elias who knew exactly where to find them.” The day ends with setting up camp or checking into lodge accommodations—whichever your tour itinerary prefers—where you can unwind from the bumpy but exciting ride.

Day 2-4: The Heart of the Safari – Serengeti and Ngorongoro

These days are dedicated to exploring Tanzania’s most iconic parks. The Serengeti needs no introduction — endless plains dotted with acacia trees and teeming with wildlife. With three days allocated here, you’ll have plenty of chances to witness the Big Five and other spectacular animals like cheetahs, hyenas, and herds of wildebeest. Reviewers describe the Serengeti as “mind-blowingly vast,” with some noting it’s best experienced with a guide who can help spot elusive predators.

One reviewer fondly remembers, “Our guide Innocence was a wizard at finding animals. We saw lions, leopards, and even a cheetah with a freshly caught gazelle — an unforgettable moment.” Nighttime in the camp provides opportunities for stargazing, and many reviewers appreciate the peaceful, almost magical, ambiance under the African night sky.

Ngorongoro Crater is often called the “Garden of Eden” for its lush vegetation and high density of wildlife. The crater’s unique geography traps animals within its walls, making game viewing exceptionally rewarding. Expect to see large herds of buffalo, elephants, and possibly even rhinos. Just be prepared for early mornings — the whole experience is tailored to maximize wildlife sightings.

Day 5: Lake Manyara and Return to Arusha

The final day typically includes a morning game drive in Lake Manyara, a park known for its diverse habitats—salty lakes, jungle, and groundwater forests. It’s a good place to spot flamingos and tree-climbing lions, which are quite a spectacle. Afterward, the drive back to Arusha wraps up the tour, usually by late afternoon or early evening.

What We Loved About This Tour

Personalized Guides and Small Group Experience

Reviewers consistently praise Innocence and Elias for their professionalism, deep knowledge, and patience. One reviewer said, “Innocence was amazing — he always found animals for us and shared interesting facts in perfect English.” The small group size means more direct interaction, quicker stops, and a more tailored experience.

Comfortable, Inclusive Accommodation

The tour includes a mix of camping equipment and lodge stays, with many guests mentioning the quality of the food and cleanliness. One reviewer shared, “The food was excellent — fresh, tasty, and plentiful. We especially loved the camp setup, with good facilities and a chance to stargaze.”

Value for Money

For $2,232.70 per person, this tour covers pretty much everything — park fees, all meals, binoculars, and camping gear. Add in the expert guides and small group size, and it’s clear this isn’t just a cheap safari, but a well-thought-out, comprehensive package.

Authentic Wildlife Encounters

From lions lounging in the grass to elusive leopards in trees, reviewers repeatedly mention how close they got to the animals. Several noted that the guides’ experience made a real difference, with one saying, “We saw over 40 different animals, including all the big five, in just five days!”

A Few Things to Keep in Mind

While most reviews are glowing, some consider that the shared restroom facilities on the vehicle could be more comfortable. Also, the group size is limited to six travelers, which is great for personalization but might not suit those who prefer solo or larger group tours.

Timing-wise, early mornings and long drives are typical, so travelers should be prepared for some early starts and bumpy rides. However, the trade-off is more time spent spotting animals rather than in transit.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

This safari is especially suited for adventure-loving travelers who appreciate the company of knowledgeable guides. It offers a balance of comfort and authenticity, with small-group intimacy and expert interpretation of wildlife behavior.

The inclusion of meals, park fees, and binoculars ensures you won’t be caught off guard by hidden costs. Plus, the opportunity to stay in a mix of camps and lodges makes the experience more comfortable than pure camping but still adventurous enough to feel authentic.

If you’re after a well-organized, authentic safari experience with potential for incredible wildlife sightings and insightful guides, this tour delivers on all counts.

FAQs

What is included in the cost of the tour?
All fees and taxes, camping equipment, binoculars, four breakfasts, five lunches, and four dinners are included. This setup provides a hassle-free experience, covering most essentials for a safari.

Is transportation provided from Arusha?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from Arusha at 7:30 am. The entire transportation within the parks is covered, making the journey smooth and efficient.

How many people are in the group?
The maximum group size is 6 travelers, giving a more personal and flexible experience. Smaller groups mean better wildlife viewing and more attention from guides.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy allowing you to cancel up to 24 hours before the tour start for a full refund.

What about restroom facilities during the safari?
The tour notes that restroom on board is not included, which is typical for safari vehicles. Expect to use designated facilities at parks and camps.

Is this suitable for children or solo travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and the small group setting is ideal for families or friends. Solo travelers should check with the provider, but the tour’s flexible, friendly approach suits most.

Final Thoughts

This 5-day safari tour from Arusha packs the highlights of Tanzania’s northern parks into a manageable, enjoyable adventure. The combination of expert guides, comfortable accommodations, and well-planned itinerary makes it ideal for travelers seeking an authentic, wildlife-rich experience without unnecessary hassle.

The price reflects quality, and reviews confirm the value, especially considering all the inclusions. It’s perfect for those who love wildlife photography, nature, and small-group adventures, and who want to maximize their time in this stunning part of Africa.

Whether it’s your first safari or your tenth, this tour offers enough variety, scenery, and animal encounters to leave you with memories that last a lifetime.