5-Days Private Midrange Safari: Serengeti, Ngorongoro & Manyara

A close-up look at a 5-day private safari exploring Tanzania’s legendary parks, including Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Ngorongoro, and Manyara.
This tour promises unforgettable wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes, and a chance to see the Big 5 in their natural habitat. We love how it combines a well-balanced mix of game drives, cultural insights, and comfortable midrange lodges. The itinerary is packed with highlights, from the Serengeti’s endless plains to the dramatic Ngorongoro Crater.

One thing to consider is that this trip involves some early starts, especially for the Ngorongoro crater, which might be tiring for those not used to long mornings. But if you’re a wildlife enthusiast who wants a comprehensive experience with knowledgeable guides and authentic scenery, this safari is a fantastic pick.

This tour suits travelers looking for a detailed, well-organized safari that balances adventure and comfort. It’s perfect for those wanting to see the Big 5, enjoy iconic landscapes, and appreciate local culture without roughing it.

Key Points

• Comprehensive 5-day itinerary covering four of Tanzania’s top parks, including Serengeti and Ngorongoro.
• Expert guides and well-organized schedule ensuring you see the best wildlife spots and scenic views.
• Midrange lodges provide comfort without luxury prices, adding good value to the experience.
• In-depth wildlife encounters, including the Big 5 and unique sights like tree-climbing lions and wildebeest migrations.
• Authentic cultural options like Maasai Boma visits (optional), offering a local perspective.
• Good balance of game drives and downtime, with meals and accommodations included for a seamless experience.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Setting the Stage at Tarangire National Park

Your adventure kicks off early, with a pickup around 7:00 am from your Arusha accommodation. A short two-hour drive takes you to Tarangire National Park, often called “the land of giants” thanks to its large herds of elephants and impressive baobab trees.

The morning game drive here is perfect for spotting large elephants, giraffes, and a variety of antelope species. The park’s quieter atmosphere means sightings are easier, and you get a chance to soak in the landscape’s tranquility. After a picnic lunch overlooking the Tarangire River—where animals frequently gather—you’ll head out for another game drive.

Reviewers often mention how Tarangire’s less crowded nature makes for more intimate wildlife viewing, with a good chance of spotting some less common animals along with the typical big game. The day is about setting a relaxed yet thrilling tone for the rest of your safari.

Day 2: Into the Heart of the Serengeti

After breakfast, your journey continues towards the Serengeti, with a stop at the Ngorongoro Crater viewpoint. Here, you can take in one of Africa’s most iconic landscapes—a vast volcanic caldera teeming with wildlife. This quick stop is appreciated by travelers for the awe-inspiring views that set the scene for the day ahead.

Once at the Serengeti, you’ll have lunch at the Nabi gate and stretch your legs before diving into your first game drive. The Serengeti’s sprawling plains are a wildlife magnet, and you’ll be on the lookout for everything from cheetahs to giraffes and the endless herds of wildebeest.

The evening sunset game drive offers a chance to see animals settling in for the night—including predators like lions and leopards. Staying inside the park—at a midrange lodge—means you’re close to the action, and many reviewers have commented on how the scenery and wildlife here are simply unmatched.

Optional Maasai Boma visits offer cultural insight, which some travelers find a rewarding addition to their safari for a taste of local traditions.

Day 3: Sunrise and Transit Through the Plains

Your day starts early with a sunrise game drive, which is often highlighted as a highlight by guests. The quiet morning hours are when predators are most active, and the lighting makes for fabulous photos. After breakfast, you’ll return to the lodge and then head towards Ngorongoro via Naabi Gate for lunch.

The transit game drive en route offers more chances of wildlife sightings and gives you a taste of the constantly changing scenery. Arriving in Ngorongoro in the late afternoon, you’ll settle into your lodge for dinner and a sunset view of the crater—an iconic sight that many reviewers have described as breathtaking.

Day 4: The Magnificent Ngorongoro Crater

Getting up early (around 6:30-7:00 am) is well worth it for the Ngorongoro Crater. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is often called a “natural zoo,” and with good reason. The chance of spotting black rhinos early in the day is higher, and the open-roof land cruisers make wildlife viewing a smooth experience.

Descending into the crater takes you into a lush, enclosed world where lions, elephants, hippos, and flamingos are common sights. The crater’s varied terrain and abundant water sources make it a sanctuary for many species.

Lunch by the hippo pool is a favorite among travelers, who find the setting both beautiful and lively. The afternoon offers more game viewing, with some travelers noting the special thrill of seeing these animals in their natural habitat while enjoying the comfort of your vehicle.

Day 5: Lake Manyara and Return to Arusha

Your final day features a visit to Lake Manyara National Park, known for its tree-climbing lions and diverse birdlife. The park’s lush environment and flamingo flocks make it a photographer’s paradise, and the chance to see the lions up in the trees is a unique highlight.

After a morning game drive and brunch, you’ll head back to Arusha, bringing your adventure to a close. Reviewers often note how Lake Manyara offers a different landscape and birding experience, providing a nice wrap-up to your safari.

The Value of This Safari Experience

Guided Expertise and Well-Organized Tours

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides like Elley and Muddy, who are known for their ability to spot animals and share fascinating details about their behavior and habitat. A great guide can turn a good safari into an unforgettable one, and reviewers highlight the guides’ attentiveness and passion.

Comfortable Midrange Accommodation

Staying in midrange lodges strikes a good balance between comfort and cost. Many reviewers mention the quality of the lodges, describing them as cozy with excellent views, especially at Ngorongoro. The included meals and transportation ease the logistics, making your trip smooth and enjoyable.

Authentic Wildlife Encounters

From lions finishing their night hunts to herds of elephants crossing the plains, the wildlife sightings seem to meet or surpass expectations. Many guests appreciated seeing Big 5 animals and lesser-known species like hyenas and cheetahs. The early morning drives often yield the best sightings, something seasoned travelers emphasize.

Scenic Diversity and Cultural Touches

Beyond wildlife, the landscape changes dramatically—from the acacia-dotted plains of Serengeti to the lush crater floor of Ngorongoro and the bird-filled lakes of Manyara. Optional visits to Maasai villages add a cultural dimension that some travelers find enriching.

Cost and Overall Value

At $2,586.49 per person, this safari offers a comprehensive experience that includes all park fees, accommodations, meals, and transportation. Considering the length, scope, and quality of guides and lodges, many believe this is a fair price for such a richly packed adventure.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Timing: Early mornings are when wildlife is most active, but expect some early starts—around 6:30 am for Ngorongoro.
• Physical fitness: Moderate. The game drives involve some sitting and walking, but the vehicles are comfortable and open-roof for better viewing.
• Packing: Bring layers, as temperatures can vary, and binoculars for better wildlife viewing.
• Cultural options: Maasai Boma visits are optional but offer valuable insight into local traditions.

Who This Tour Is Best For

If you’re eager to see Tanzania’s iconic wildlife and landscapes with experienced guides and in comfortable midrange lodges, this safari fits the bill. It’s ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and culture without the hassle of planning every detail.

Wildlife lovers, photographers, and those wanting a comprehensive northern circuit experience will find this tour highly rewarding. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate good organization and want to avoid roughing it—yet still experience authentic, up-close encounters with nature.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed for travelers with moderate physical fitness, and the vehicles are comfortable for long game drives.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided on all days, making the experience hassle-free and allowing you to focus on the game viewing.

What is the duration of the game drives?
Most game drives last around 7-8 hours, offering plenty of time to explore each park and see diverse wildlife.

Can I customize or extend the trip?
Since this is a private tour, you may discuss optional activities like Maasai Boma visits or lodge upgrades with the operator.

Are park fees included?
Yes, all government-imposed park fees and taxes are included in the price.

What is the best time to go?
While not specified, the best wildlife viewing typically occurs during the dry season when animals congregate around water sources, but this tour’s flexible schedule helps optimize sightings year-round.

In essence, this 5-day safari from African polecat safaris offers a well-rounded, authentic, and comfortable way to experience Tanzania’s most famous parks.
Whether you’re a wildlife fanatic, a photographer chasing the perfect shot, or simply eager to witness the magic of African plains, this tour is a solid choice. With expert guides, scenic diversity, and thoughtful organization, it’s a journey that can truly stay with you forever.