5 Days Tanzania Safari with Serengeti

Exploring Tanzania in just five days might sound ambitious, but this safari tour packs a lot into a compact itinerary. It’s designed for those eager to witness Africa’s iconic wildlife and landscapes without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. We love how the tour combines diverse ecosystems like the expansive Serengeti, the unique Ngorongoro Crater, and the elephant-filled Tarangire. Plus, the small group size of just six travelers promises an intimate experience, and the knowledgeable guides make spotting animals and understanding their behaviors a highlight.

One thing to consider: this is a tent-based camping safari, which means you’ll be close to nature but need to be comfortable with basic accommodations. This tour suits adventure lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone looking to see the Big Five in their natural habitat while keeping a tight schedule. If you’re after luxury lodges or a more relaxed pace, this might not be the best fit. Otherwise, it offers excellent value for an immersive, authentic safari experience.

Key Points

• Small-group tour ensures personalized attention and better wildlife encounters.
• Diverse parks provide a well-rounded safari — from elephants in Tarangire to the Big Five in Ngorongoro.
• Camping accommodation immerses you in the wilderness, with tents, sleeping bags, and a local guide.
• Excellent value includes meals, park entry fees, and transport in a custom safari jeep with a pop-up roof.
• Expert guides and a dedicated chef elevate the experience with knowledgeable insights and fresh meals.
• Flexibility and spontaneity are built into the itinerary, allowing you to chase animal sightings at peak times.

First Impressions: What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This five-day safari is a well-balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and wildlife spotting. What really caught our attention was the small group size—max six travelers—making the game drives more intimate and flexible. The route covers some of Tanzania’s most famous parks: Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Lake Manyara. The tour is set up for those who crave authentic encounters with wild animals and breathtaking landscapes, all within a manageable timeframe and budget.

The price of $1,200 per person is quite competitive for a five-day safari that includes all park fees, meals, and camping equipment. Plus, the tour is run by Safari Journal Tanzania, a reputable provider with positive reviews for knowledgeable guides and excellent organization. Based on the single review available, a guest described it as a “wonderful 5 days safari,” highlighting the memorable sightings of the Big Five and the quality of the campsites and food.

Our favorite aspects include the expert guiding, diverse park visits, and the chance to camp under the stars—an experience most travelers will cherish. On the flip side, the camping setup might not appeal to everyone, especially those craving luxury lodges. Still, for those seeking an authentic, close-to-nature adventure, this tour hits the sweet spot.

Day-by-Day Breakdown: What to Expect

Day 1: Tarangire National Park — Elephants & Baobabs

Starting with Tarangire, known for its ancient Baobab trees and large herds of elephants, sets a marvelous tone. The two-hour drive from Arusha is gentle, giving time to get to know your fellow travelers and guides. Once inside, the game drive offers a chance to see giraffes, wildebeest, and zebras, but the star here is the elephants—Tarangire boasts the largest concentration in Tanzania.

The guide, Minja, apparently is very knowledgeable, and from reviews, we learn that spotting predators like lions, cheetahs, and leopards can be challenging but rewarding when seen. Visitors often mention the uniquely scenic landscape—vast open plains dotted with ancient trees—that makes for phenomenal photo opportunities.

Day 2: Serengeti via Ngorongoro Crater — The Iconic Migration

The journey from Mto wa Mbu to the Serengeti takes around six hours, passing through the Ngorongoro Crater, which provides a stunning viewpoint and a quick cultural detour to a Maasai village (optional). The crater is an exceptional wildlife habitat, and the view from the rim is breathtaking—vast, rolling plains stretching as far as the eye can see.

Most travelers skip the Maasai visit, as it’s optional, but it’s an interesting cultural insight if you choose to explore it. The drive into the Serengeti itself reveals the vast openness that makes this ecosystem so unique. With over a million wildebeest and 250,000 zebras, it’s a spectacle of life in motion, especially during migration season.

Day 3: Serengeti — Early Game Drive & Campsite Near Ngorongoro

Early mornings are when the Serengeti truly comes alive. You’ll be out before dawn, eager to see predators stalking prey and herds moving across the plains. The guide’s experience is key here; from reviews, Minja’s insights made spotting elusive animals more accessible.

A highlight is heading to Simba campsite, near Ngorongoro’s rim. This location offers the chance for animal sightings right from the camp, with the landscape providing a dramatic backdrop for resting after a morning of game viewing.

Day 4: Ngorongoro Crater — The “Garden of Eden”

This day revolves around descending into Ngorongoro Crater, often called one of the best spots for wildlife viewing. The crater floor is like a natural zoo—lions lounging, hippos wallowing, and rhinos grazing. Our reviewer specifically mentions the difficulty in spotting black rhinos, which are rare and shy, but the crater provides one of the best opportunities in Tanzania.

After lunch, the journey continues to Fig Lodge & Campsite near Lake Manyara, a scenic spot for overnight camping. This park is renowned for birds, flamingoes, and the possibility of spotting the elusive tree-climbing lions.

Day 5: Lake Manyara National Park — Bird Watching & Final Wildlife Encounters

The last day’s focus is Lake Manyara, famous for its large flamingo populations and tree-climbing lions, which are rare but possible to see. The game drive offers opportunities to spot hippos at the pool and observe a variety of birds, monkeys, and other animals. The hot springs provide a relaxing visual backdrop before concluding the safari.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included: All park entrance fees, taxes, airport transfers, tent accommodation, meals, bottled water, camping gear, and expert guides. This comprehensive package means you won’t have to worry about additional costs once on the tour.

Not included: Flights, tips, and visas. The absence of flights is typical, but it’s worth factoring this into your planning. Tips are customary in Tanzania, and bringing some cash for guides and staff is recommended.

The Experience: From Guides to Food

From the review, Minja, the guide, is highlighted as particularly knowledgeable, capable of enhancing sightings with interesting facts. The chef provides consistent, good-quality meals—something that’s often overlooked on camping safaris but makes a real difference during long days.

The tents, sleeping bags, and mattresses are provided, and most travelers find them comfortable enough for a camping experience that feels safe and authentic. The small group size enhances the sense of adventure and allows for flexible game drives—perfect for chasing rare sightings or lingering at a beautiful landscape.

Authenticity and Value

For approximately $1,200, this tour offers great value, considering it covers all entrance fees, meals, transportation, and camping gear. You’re paying for an intimate experience with expert guidance in some of Tanzania’s most iconic parks, plus the chance to see the Big Five and witness the Great Migration.

Given the positive feedback, especially about the safari guides and campsites, you’re likely to find this tour both enriching and enjoyable. The camping aspect adds an extra layer of adventure, and the scenery—ranging from the acacia-dotted plains of Serengeti to the crater’s stunning bowl—is unforgettable.

Who’s This Tour Best For?

This safari is ideal for adventure travelers who want to connect deeply with nature, are comfortable camping, and seek a more authentic experience. It’s perfect for wildlife lovers eager to see the Big Five and the migration in a relatively short time, and for those who value knowledgeable guides and a small group atmosphere.

If you prefer luxury lodges and spa-like amenities, this tour may feel a bit rustic, but for those open to camping and adventure, it’s a fantastic way to experience Tanzania’s wilderness.

This 5-day safari tour offers an immersive, well-rounded introduction to Tanzania’s wildlife and landscapes. From elephants in Tarangire to the thrill of Ngorongoro’s crater and the endless plains of Serengeti, every day promises memorable sights and stories. The combination of expert guides, authentic camping, and diverse parks makes it a great value, especially for those eager to get close to nature and avoid the crowds.

While it demands a bit of an adventurous spirit, the rewards—stunning vistas, incredible animals, and authentic experiences—are well worth it. Whether you’re a first-time safari-goer or a seasoned wildlife enthusiast, this tour provides a balanced, engaging way to see the best of Tanzania in just five days.

FAQ

Is transportation in a private vehicle?
Yes, the tour uses a custom safari jeep with a pop-up roof, designed for optimal animal viewing and small group comfort.

Are park entrance fees included?
All park entrance fees and taxes are included in the price.

What type of accommodation is provided?
Camping tents are provided, along with sleeping bags and mattresses, offering an authentic outdoor experience.

How many people are in each group?
The group is limited to a maximum of 6 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

Are meals included?
Yes, all meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, are provided along with bottled water.

Can I visit Maasai villages?
Visiting Maasai villages is optional and not included in the tour price, but it’s available if you choose.

What should I pack?
Lightweight clothing, a hat, sunglasses, insect repellent, and a camera are recommended. Also, bring some cash for tips.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but check with the provider for specific age restrictions or requirements.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.

Who is the tour operated by?
It’s operated by Safari Journal Tanzania, a reputable company known for well-organized safaris.

In sum, this safari provides a genuine and exciting peek into Tanzania’s wild heart. Perfect for travelers seeking adventure, stunning scenery, and unforgettable wildlife moments, it’s a journey that will surely leave a lasting impression.