5 Day Private Lodge & Camping Tour of Tarangire, Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater

Traveling to Tanzania for a safari is often a bucket-list dream for wildlife lovers, and this 5-day private adventure promises a blend of iconic landscapes, incredible wildlife sightings, and personalized service. While we haven’t personally tagged along, the consistently high ratings and glowing reviews suggest this is a well-curated and memorable experience for those seeking an authentic safari with a touch of luxury and adventure.

What we love about this tour? First, the small group size (up to 2 people) offers a more intimate experience. Second, the expert guides—notably Frank and Elias—are praised for their deep knowledge and friendly approach, making the wildlife come alive. Third, the variety of experiences, from game drives to optional hot air balloon rides, ensures there’s plenty to keep thrill-seekers and photography enthusiasts engaged.

One consideration to keep in mind is the cost — at $3,600 per group, the price reflects a premium, private experience with both lodge and camping options. This kind of safari targets travelers wanting personalized attention and flexibility, rather than large group tours. Overall, it’s best suited for couples, small families, or adventure travelers who value authentic encounters and expert guidance in Tanzania’s top parks.

Key Points

• Intimate Experience: Private tour for up to 2 travelers ensures personalized service.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Frank and Elias receive high praise for their knowledge and friendliness.
• Wildlife & Scenery: Expect to see elephants, lions, cheetahs, rhinos, and more amidst stunning savannah and crater landscapes.
• Flexible Activities: Options include traditional game drives and a hot air balloon safari with champagne.
• Comfort & Authenticity: Combines lodge stays with camping, catering to different comfort levels.
• Value for Money: Price reflects a premium, private experience with extensive access to key parks.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Tarangire National Park

Starting from Arusha, you’ll leave after breakfast for the roughly two-hour drive to Tarangire. Along the way, you’ll pass through vibrant Maasai villages and expansive plains—perfect scenery for your first glimpses of Africa’s wild heart. Once inside Tarangire, the game drives begin.

Expect to see the iconic Tarangire River, a lifeline for animals during the dry season. The river is lined with acacia and Baobab trees, and is a hotspot for elephants—large herds often gather here, especially during the dry months. Zebras and antelopes also frequent the area, making it a dynamic start to your safari.

The experience is straightforward but engaging, with a focus on spotting wildlife in lush landscapes. The included picnic lunch allows you to keep your energy high while immersed in nature. As one reviewer notes, the guide’s ability to find animals and share insightful facts really enhances the experience.

Day 2: Serengeti National Park

After an early breakfast, you’ll set out for the Serengeti, passing through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The drive itself is a scenic highlight—misty rainforests and rolling hills, where you might catch sight of buffalo, baboons, or even elephants and leopards in the dense undergrowth.

Arriving at Serengeti, you’ll have a delicious packed lunch before heading out for game drives. The Serengeti’s vast grassy plains are home to an incredible variety of wildlife. From herds of wildebeest and zebras to predators stalking their prey, this is classic African safari territory.

Guests often comment on the sheer scale and diversity of animals here. Some have described it as “the place where Africa’s wild heart beats strongest.” The landscape is a photographer’s dream, with endless horizons and animal herds that seem to stretch to the horizon.

Day 3: Sunrise Game Drive & Optional Balloon Safari

Waking before dawn for a sunrise game drive is an experience many cherish, especially as the cooler morning hours reveal predators like lions, cheetahs, and leopards on the prowl. The low light and early activity make it the best time to spot these elusive cats in action, according to reviews.

Alternatively, travelers can opt for an adventurous hot air balloon safari, which includes a champagne breakfast. This offers a bird’s-eye view of the plains and wildlife, adding a magical touch to your adventure.

Returning for a late breakfast, you’ll typically have the rest of the day free for relaxation or additional game drives, soaking in the scenery and wildlife activity.

Day 4: Ngorongoro Conservation Area & Camp Setup

After breakfast, you’ll venture into the Ngorongoro region for another game drive. The Ngorongoro Conservation Area offers a different perspective—more lush, with abundant wildlife, including some of Tanzania’s last remaining black rhinos.

By afternoon, you’ll head to Simba campsite near the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, where you’ll set up camp or settle into lodge accommodations depending on your choice. This is a key strategic point for the next day’s crater visit, offering stunning views and a real sense of adventure.

Reviewers praise the well-organized logistics and the chance to experience both the wilderness and a comfortable base near the crater.

Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater

Descending into the Ngorongoro Crater for a full day of game viewing is often the highlight of the trip. Known as “Africa’s Garden of Eden,” the crater floor supports around 30,000 animals, including elephants, buffalo, hippos, and rare black rhinos.

The crater’s unique environment, supported year-round by water and grass, means you’ll see a wide variety of wildlife congregating here. Lions lounge in the shade, while cheetahs hunt across the plains. The rich diversity makes it a true wildlife haven.

A picnic lunch on the crater floor adds to the experience, and many guests mention how impressive it is to see such a dense concentration of animals in one place. The drive back to Arusha in the late afternoon wraps up your safari with a sense of accomplishment.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Personalized Attention & Expert Guides

Guests consistently praise guides like Frank and Elias for their professionalism, extensive knowledge, and passion for wildlife. One reviewer describes Elias as “incredible, with knowledge and experience that are exceptional,” which speaks to the quality of guiding you can expect. The private nature of the tour allows for flexible scheduling, more tailored experiences, and the chance to ask all your burning questions about wildlife and local culture.

Authentic Safari Experiences

From game drives in iconic parks to optional hot air balloon rides, this tour balances adventure and comfort. The inclusion of both lodge stays and camping means you can choose your preferred level of comfort, making it appealing for different travel styles—whether you prefer a cozy lodge or the authentic thrill of camping under the stars.

Impressive Wildlife & Scenic Landscapes

Expect to see herds of elephants, lions, cheetahs, and rhinos in their natural habitat, often described by travelers as “beautiful all the wild life” and “impressive.” The scenery varies from the lush Ngorongoro crater to the vast Serengeti plains, providing countless opportunities for photography and quiet moments of awe.

High-Value Adventure

While at $3,600, this is a premium-priced tour, reviews confirm that the experience justifies the cost. The small group size, expert guides, and diverse activities ensure you’re getting a comprehensive, intimate safari experience that’s hard to match in larger, less personalized tours.

Practical Details & Logistics

Transportation & Duration

The tour begins with a pickup in Arusha at 7:00 pm, setting the tone for a well-organized journey. The drive times between parks are manageable, allowing for ample game viewing and rest. The entire trip lasts about five days, with an emphasis on quality over quantity.

Accommodation & Meals

Guests enjoy a mix of lodge stays and camping, depending on their preferences. The tour includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner, providing hearty, nourishing meals for busy days on safari. Drinking water, beer, and wine are all included, so you can unwind after a day of adventure.

Cost & Value

For the private, tailored experience offered, $3,600 can be seen as an investment in a memorable, high-quality safari. The tour covers key parks, professional guides, and meals, making it a comprehensive package. Remember, tips and travel insurance are not included, so budget accordingly.

The Sum Up

This 5-day private safari tour offers a well-balanced blend of luxury, adventure, and authentic wildlife encounters. It’s ideal for couples or small groups seeking personalized service, expert guides, and the chance to see Tanzania’s most famous parks in comfort and style.

Whether you’re keen on game drives across the endless Serengeti plains, spotting the big-five in Ngorongoro, or enjoying optional hot air balloon rides, this tour delivers a diverse and immersive experience. The high reviews highlight the guides’ knowledge, the stunning scenery, and the overall organization, making it a trustworthy choice for discerning travelers.

While the price is on the higher end, the level of service, intimate setting, and quality of wildlife viewing make it worth considering. If you’re after an authentic, expertly guided safari with flexible options, this tour could be just what you need to check Tanzania off your travel bucket list.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families?
The tour is designed for small groups and private experiences, making it suitable for couples or small families who appreciate personalized attention and a flexible schedule.

What is the maximum group size?
It’s a private tour for up to 2 people, ensuring a more intimate experience and less crowded game drives.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner throughout the five days, along with drinking water, beer, and wine.

Can I add activities like hot air balloon safaris?
Yes, the tour mentions the option to take a hot air balloon ride with champagne breakfast, so it’s worth discussing with your guide or booking in advance.

What kind of accommodation will I stay in?
Guests stay in a combination of lodges and camping, based on preferences. The campsites are near the crater rim, offering spectacular views.

How long are the drives between parks?
Travel times are manageable, with some drives around two hours, allowing plenty of time for wildlife viewing and rest.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Expect elephants, lions, cheetahs, leopards, rhinos, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and many other species in their natural habitats.

Is tipping expected?
Tipping for guides and cooks is not included, so travelers typically tip based on their satisfaction.

What is the best time of year for this safari?
While not specified, most Tanzania safaris are ideal during the dry season, from June to October, when wildlife congregates around water sources.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing, binoculars, camera gear, sun protection, and any personal essentials. The tour supplies binoculars for wildlife viewing.

This comprehensive tour combines the best of Tanzania’s wildlife, landscapes, and personalized service into a memorable 5-day adventure. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to experience Africa’s wild beauty up close, it promises to be a trip you won’t forget.