6 Days Adventure Towards Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Tarangire

Traveling to Tanzania for a safari is a dream for many, and from what we’ve seen, this 6-day tour offers a well-balanced mix of wildlife encounters, scenic landscapes, and cultural insights. It’s a package designed for those who want to experience the best of Tanzania’s iconic national parks without sacrificing comfort or paying a fortune.

What truly stands out about this adventure? First, the expert guides like Edward, Silas, and Joshua seem to elevate the experience with their local knowledge and attentive service. Second, the stunning landscapes—from the rolling plains of Serengeti to the dramatic Ngorongoro Crater—are truly breathtaking. Third, the value for money is impressive when you consider the inclusions like park fees, accommodations, and optional hot air balloon safaris.

A potential consideration? The tour’s duration and schedule mean early mornings and long days, which might be tiring for some travelers. It’s best suited for those with moderate physical fitness and a real enthusiasm for wildlife and outdoor adventure. This tour is perfect for wildlife lovers, photography buffs, and anyone eager for an authentic Tanzanian experience.

Key Points

• Expert guides enhance the experience with personalized service and deep knowledge of wildlife and landscapes
• All-inclusive pricing covers park fees, accommodations, meals, and optional activities like balloon safaris
• Stunning scenery and wildlife encounters, especially in Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro
• Eco-conscious practices support local communities and conservation efforts
• Well-paced itinerary balances game drives, cultural stops, and relaxation
• Suitable for travelers with moderate fitness who appreciate early mornings and full days outdoors

What Makes This Safari Stand Out?

This 6-day adventure highlights some of Tanzania’s most famous parks with a thoughtfully designed itinerary. From the start in Arusha, you’re whisked away into the heart of wildlife-rich environments, with access to expert guides and comfortable accommodations that make the experience smooth and enjoyable.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: Tarangire National Park

The first stop is Tarangire, renowned for its large herds of elephants and iconic baobab trees. We loved the way guides like Edward handle game drives—slow enough to spot wildlife but efficient enough to maximize your day. Expect to see lions, leopards, zebras, giraffes, buffalo, wildebeests, and even rarer species like gerenuks and fringe-eared oryx.

Bird lovers will be especially pleased—over 500 species call Tarangire home, including the colorful yellow-collared lovebird and the imposing Kori bustard. The Tarangire River acts as a lifeline for animals during the dry season, drawing wildlife in close.

Day 2 & 3: Serengeti

After breakfast, you’ll set out on a roughly 5-hour drive to the Serengeti, with plenty of scenic stops along the Rift Valley. The iconic Serengeti plains stretch as far as the eye can see, dotted with wildlife and acacia trees.

In the afternoon, expect a game drive that showcases the vast savannahs and the chance to spot the Big Five—lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, and rhinos. The full day on Day 3 offers the best opportunities for wildlife sightings, with the option to add a hot air balloon safari (pre-booking required, additional cost). Several reviewers praised the guides’ ability to spot animals early and share fascinating facts, making each drive both informative and thrilling.

Day 4: Transition to Ngorongoro

Morning game drives in Serengeti are often highlights—silence, anticipation, and the chance to see animals going about their day. After lunch, you’ll drive to Ngorongoro, possibly stopping at Olduvai Gorge, a site famous for its archaeological significance.

Your lodge overlooks the Ngorongoro Crater, offering spectacular views and an authentic African ambiance. The journey itself is scenic, with plenty of photo opportunities, and the guides’ local insights enrich your understanding of the landscape.

Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater

Descent into the crater early morning is a must-do. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, the crater’s caldera is a natural wildlife sanctuary—home to lions, rhinos, hippos, and more. Many reviews highlighted how the guides’ expertise made game viewing both productive and safe, with some guests noting close-up encounters, especially with elephants and lions.

A picnic lunch inside the crater makes the most of this unique environment, and the afternoon offers relaxation at your lodge before heading to Karatu for overnight.

Day 6: Return to Arusha

The journey back to Arusha is about 3-4 hours, with a final opportunity for souvenir shopping and last-minute photos. The transfer is smooth, thanks to well-organized logistics, and the tour ends conveniently at the meeting point.

What Travelers Say

Reviews underscore the professionalism and warmth of guides like Edward, Silas, and Joshua. One reviewer said, “Edward is the best guide in the WORLD,” noting how he went above and beyond to make their honeymoon unforgettable. Guests often mention the attention to detail, from communication to the care taken during game drives.

Many appreciate that the tour is private, allowing for personalized experiences and flexible schedules. The inclusion of park fees and accommodations within the price is a plus, reducing the hassle of hidden costs. The optional hot air balloon ride, although additional, is highly recommended for those looking to see the vast plains from above—a truly unforgettable perspective (note that children must be at least 8 years old).

In terms of value, reviewers agree that $3,789 per person offers a comprehensive safari experience, especially given the high-quality guides and accommodations. The tours are praised for their eco-conscious approach, supporting local communities and conservation efforts, which adds a feel-good factor to the adventure.

How the Experience Feels for Travelers

Expect early mornings (sometimes starting around 6 am) and full days of game drives. The vehicle is private, comfortable, and equipped with WiFi, making it easier to share your sightings or send photos to friends.

The landscape changes dramatically from park to park: Tarangire’s riverine forests and massive baobabs, Serengeti’s endless grasslands teeming with predators and prey, and the Ngorongoro Crater’s volcanic caldera—each setting offers unique photographic opportunities. Wildlife sightings are frequent, and guides are skilled at finding elusive animals like leopards and rhinos.

Accommodations throughout the tour are described as luxurious, with some lodges overlooking scenic vistas, providing restful retreats after long days of exploration. The food is generally praised as hearty and local-inspired, fueling you for the next day’s adventures.

Practical Details and Tips

• The tour is designed for travelers with moderate physical fitness—expect some early mornings, uneven terrain, and full days outdoors.
• All park fees, accommodations, and most meals are included, so you won’t need additional planning.
• The optional hot air balloon safari is a highlight but comes at an extra cost. Booking in advance is advisable.
• The tour begins at 8:00 am from the Clocktower Roundabout in Arusha, and transfers are organized smoothly.
• Travelers should coordinate their flights to arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, as this is where the tour starts and ends.
• While alcohol is permitted, it’s only for guests 18 and above, and should be consumed responsibly in the designated areas.
• Children as young as 8 can participate in the balloon ride, making it family-friendly if desired.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Safari Best For?

This 6-day adventure offers a perfect balance of wildlife encounters, scenic views, and cultural insights, making it ideal for anyone looking for an authentic Tanzanian safari experience without sacrificing comfort. The knowledgeable guides, like Edward, notably elevate the trip, providing both education and entertainment.

Travelers who value eco-friendly practices and want to support local communities will find this tour aligns with their values. The included park fees and accommodations give excellent value for a comprehensive experience, especially for first-timers or those with a limited time frame.

It’s particularly well-suited for wildlife enthusiasts, photography lovers, and adventurous families ready for early mornings and full days of exploration. If you’re seeking a safari that combines stunning scenery, expert guiding, and responsible tourism, this tour could be your ideal Tanzanian adventure.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The $3,789 fee covers park fees, accommodations, private safari vehicle, professional guides, meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), WiFi on board, and optional hot air balloon safari if selected.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the hot air balloon safari is optional and at an extra cost. International flights, travel insurance, and alcoholic beverages are not included.

How physically demanding is the tour?
It requires moderate physical fitness. Expect early mornings, full days outdoors, and some walking or getting in and out of vehicles on uneven terrain.

What should I pack?
Light layers for daytime, a warm jacket for early mornings, sun protection, binoculars, camera, and sturdy walking shoes.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children 8 years and older can participate, especially in activities like the balloon safari.

Will I have WiFi during the tour?
Yes, WiFi is available on the private vehicle, which helps stay connected and share moments in real-time.

How do guides enhance the experience?
Guides like Edward, Silas, and Joshua are praised for their attentiveness, deep knowledge, and ability to spot wildlife quickly, making each game drive engaging and educational.

This safari delivers a memorable, well-organized, and enriching experience, perfect for travelers eager to enjoy Tanzania’s wild beauty while enjoying top-notch service.