6-day Private Camping Safari Tour from Kilimanjaro Airport

Planning a safari in Tanzania can feel overwhelming—so many parks, wildlife, and options. This 6-day private camping safari from Suricata Safaris promises a well-rounded adventure through some of the best spots in the Northern Circuit, including Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Manyara. It’s the kind of trip that appeals to both wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers craving an authentic outdoor experience. And with the glowing reviews, it’s clear this tour delivers on adventure, comfort, and expert guidance.

What we love about this safari? First, the knowledgeable guides like Fredy and Jumbe, who go above and beyond to find wildlife and share fascinating facts. Second, the delicious, eco-friendly meals served during game drives—freshly prepared and packed with local flavors. Third, the stunning landscapes across endless plains, lush waterholes, and rugged crater floors. The one consideration? It’s a camping trip, so you’ll want to be comfortable sleeping outdoors and prepared for basic facilities. This trip suits travelers who love adventure, wildlife, and the outdoors, and are ready to embrace the simplicity of camping while seeing Africa’s wilderness.

Key Points

• Authentic wildlife encounters with expert guides and well-chosen parks
• Comfortable camping experience with good organization and tasty meals
• Variety of landscapes from water-rich parks to vast plains and crater floors
• Highly praised guides like Fredy, Jumbe, and Lewis, known for spotting animals and sharing insights
• Flexible, private tour tailored to your group, with pickup from Kilimanjaro Airport
• Great value for the price, considering the comprehensive itinerary and personalized service

An Introduction to the Safari Experience

This 6-day private camping safari offers a chance to see Tanzania’s wild side without the luxury hotel price tag. Instead of plush lodges, you’ll camp under the stars, which many reviewers say makes the experience more genuine and immersive. The tour includes all the highlights you’d hope for: game drives in Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Lake Manyara, with each park offering something unique.

What’s especially compelling about this tour is the balance between guided expertise and the freedom to explore at your own pace. With a dedicated guide—like Fredy, who’s praised for his animal spotting and humor—you’re in expert hands. And the itinerary is packed but not rushed, with plenty of time for game drives, photography, and simply soaking in the views.

While the cost of $2,400 per person might seem high initially, the value becomes clear when you consider the included meals, park entry fees (which are typically extra), camping gear, and the personalized attention. It’s a comprehensive package for those wanting a genuine safari experience without the cookie-cutter group tours.

Day-by-Day Breakdown: What to Expect

Day 1: Tarangire National Park

Your adventure kicks off with an early morning departure to Tarangire, famous for its massive herds of elephants—sometimes up to 300—scraping waterless riverbeds for moisture. As the reviewer noted, “herds of elephants and wildebeest, zebra, buffalo, impala, gazelle, hartebeest, and eland gather at the dwindling lagoons,” making it a wildlife photographer’s dream.

Expect a full day game drive with a picnic lunch, so you’ll be out in the wild from dawn till late afternoon. The park is also a migration spot during the dry season, so animals are often concentrated around remaining water sources, increasing chances of sightings. Dinner and overnight are at Lilac Campsite, which, based on reviews, is well-organized and comfortable enough to keep the camping experience enjoyable.

Day 2: Serengeti National Park

After breakfast, you’ll transfer to Serengeti, passing through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area—a scenic route that’s part of the adventure. Here, the landscape shifts from lush waterholes to the iconic endless plains. The morning game drive en-route offers opportunities to spot lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, and the elusive African wild dog.

The Serengeti is the highlight for many travelers, especially the central Serengeti’s Seronera region. The reviews emphasize the guide’s keen animal recognition skills, with one saying, “our guide Max was able to spot animals I never would have found on my own.” You’ll settle into Seronera Campsite for the night, with dinner under the stars and plenty of wildlife stories.

Day 3: Full Day in Serengeti

This day is dedicated to longer game drives, exploring different parts of the Serengeti. The guide will take you to areas rich in wildlife, especially around the Seronera River, which attracts animals because of its water supply. Expect to see lions lounging in the shade, herds of elephants crossing the plains, and perhaps even cheetahs hunting.

One reviewer mentions having “a full day game drive with a picnic lunch, then a late return to camp.” The safari’s pace allows for more wildlife viewing and photography, making it perfect for those who love spending time in nature. The camp remains your base, with a hearty meal prepared by the crew.

Day 4: Serengeti Central & Ngorongoro

You’ll explore the heart of the Serengeti—the Seronera area—before heading down into the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, with its volcanic crater that’s a marvel of ecosystems. Here, the terrain shifts from open plains to lush crater floors packed with wildlife.

The reviews highlight that the guides are excellent at spotting animals, and the scenery is stunning—from the vast, open plains to the unique crater environment. Staying in Ngorongoro offers the chance to see predators and herbivores coexisting in one of Africa’s most extraordinary landscapes.

Day 5: More Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater

Your last full day in Serengeti involves more game viewing, focusing on the central areas where wildlife congregates. After lunch, you’ll transfer to your Ngorongoro Lodge, preparing for the day’s highlight—Ngorongoro Crater.

The crater, often called “Africa’s Garden of Eden,” is famous for its density of wildlife. Expect close-up sightings of lions, rhinos, elephants, and perhaps even the elusive black leopard. Many reviewers mention that guides like Lewis are experts at finding animals, sometimes spotting them before they’re even visible.

Day 6: Lake Manyara National Park

The final day takes you to Lake Manyara, known for its birdlife, tree-climbing lions, and water-loving animals. You’ll do an extended game drive, soaking in the last moments of your safari in this compact but vibrant park.

Expect to see herds of zebras, buffalo, flamingos, and perhaps some unique bird species. The reviews note the guides’ ability to spot animals quickly and offer insights into their behaviors and habitats. After the game drive, your safari concludes, and you’ll head back to Arusha or the airport, filled with memories and countless photos.

The Real Value of This Tour

At $2,400 per person, this safari offers tremendous value, especially considering it is a private, fully guided experience. The cost includes park entry fees (which can be hefty if paid separately), all meals during the trip, camping gear, and expert guides. The reviews consistently praise the food—freshly prepared, ecological, and tasty—which adds a nice touch to the outdoor adventure.

The guides receive high marks for their animal spotting skills and knowledge, making the entire journey educational as well as exciting. Many guests mention guides like Fredy, Jumbe, and Lewis as the key to their memorable experience. The camping aspect, while not for everyone, gives a genuine feel of Africa’s wilderness, allowing you to connect more intimately with nature.

Another advantage is the flexible itinerary, allowing you to focus on your favorite parks or spend more time in places that excite you most. Plus, the private nature means you won’t be sharing game drives with strangers, adding to the sense of exclusivity and comfort.

Practical Considerations

While the camping experience is highly praised, it’s important to be prepared for outdoor sleeping—bring suitable gear if you’re not used to camping. The tour operates year-round, and the schedule is flexible, with pickup from Kilimanjaro Airport included, so logistical planning is simplified.

Travelers also mention the professionalism of the booking process and the responsiveness of the team, which makes organizing your trip much easier. The free cancellation policy adds a layer of reassurance, allowing for adjustments if needed.

Who Will Love This Safari?

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who want an authentic, close-to-nature experience without sacrificing guidance or professionalism. It’s perfect for wildlife photographers, families, and groups who enjoy camping and outdoor life. Also, those who appreciate delicious, freshly cooked meals in the bush and want to avoid the cookie-cutter lodges will find this safari a perfect match.

If you’re looking for a luxury lodge experience, this may not be the best fit. But if you’re after genuine wildlife encounters, expert guides, and outdoor adventure, this tour ticks every box.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While the reviews don’t specify age restrictions, the camping setup and outdoor focus suggest it’s more suited for mature travelers comfortable with outdoor sleeping arrangements and longer game drives.

Are park entry fees included in the price?
The tour mentions that park admission is free for guests, which indicates that the entrance fees are included (or at least covered in the package). It’s best to confirm with the provider before booking.

What is the accommodation like?
You’ll stay at designated campsites like Lilac and Seronera, which are well-organized and praised for their comfort considering the outdoor setting. Expect basic facilities with the focus on outdoor adventure.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a private tour, there’s potential for some flexibility, especially if you communicate your preferences early. The guides are experienced and adaptable.

What meals are included?
All breakfasts, lunches, and dinners are included, with reviewers describing the food as fresh, ecological, and tasty—prepared by professional cooks like Salim and James.

How physically demanding is this trip?
Expect long game drives (around 6 hours per day), outdoor camping, and walking to spot wildlife. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and are in good health.

Final Thoughts

This 6-day private camping safari from Kilimanjaro Airport offers a compelling blend of adventure, wildlife, and outdoor living in Tanzania. It’s especially suited for those wanting to go beyond the luxury lodges and experience Africa in its most raw and authentic form. With highly praised guides and well-organized logistics, it seems to deliver both value and genuine connection to nature.

While camping adds a rustic charm, it’s not for everyone—be prepared for basic facilities and outdoor sleeping. But if you’re up for the challenge, this safari provides some of the most iconic landscapes and incredible wildlife encounters Tanzania has to offer. It’s a trip that promises stories, stunning photos, and memories that will last a lifetime.

Disclaimer: Always confirm current details directly with the provider, Suricata Safaris, as offerings and prices can change.