6 Days Enchanting Tanzania Safaris – Mid Range Safari

Planning a safari in Tanzania is no small feat, especially with so many options available. This particular 6-day tour promises an unforgettable journey through some of the country’s most iconic parks, offering a blend of wildlife encounters, stunning landscapes, and cultural moments—all at a reasonable price point of around $2,888 per person. Our review pulls from genuine traveler feedback and detailed itinerary breakdowns to give you an authentic look at what to expect.

What we love about this safari is the variety of parks covered—each with its own distinctive charm—the knowledgeable guides who share fascinating insights, and the value for money that this package offers. On the flip side, one consideration is that the tour is quite packed, with long days of game drives, which might feel tiring for some. Still, if you’re after a comprehensive experience that hits all the major highlights in Tanzania, this tour is hard to beat.

This safari is best suited for travelers who enjoy organized, well-structured trips that balance wildlife viewing with some comfort. If you’re after a deeper wilderness experience or prefer a more leisurely pace, you might look for a more exclusive or longer safari. However, for those eager to see a broad array of animals and landscapes within a manageable timeframe, this tour fits the bill.

Key Points

• Diverse parks: Covers Lake Manyara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Tarangire, offering an extensive wildlife showcase.
• Expert guides: Well-reviewed guides like James are praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor.
• Authentic experiences: Opportunities like hot air balloon rides (at extra cost) and game drives provide memorable moments.
• Value for money: All park fees, accommodations, and most meals included make this a cost-effective way to explore Tanzania.
• Pace: Long days and full schedules might be tiring, but keep in mind you’re covering a lot in a short period.
• Traveler reviews: Consistently high ratings (5/5) highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the team, adding reassurance for prospective travelers.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Lake Manyara and Tree-Climbing Lions

Starting from Moshi or Arusha, your adventure kicks off with a transfer to Lake Manyara National Park. The early arrival allows for a full day of game viewing, with your first glimpse of the park’s iconic tree-climbing lions—a rare sight that many travelers rave about. The park’s shallow soda lake, fringed with lush greenery, attracts massive flocks of flamingos and elephants, making it a photographer’s paradise. The reviewer notes that “Lake Manyara’s varied home ground attracts a large variety of animals,” setting the tone for days to come.

Day 2: Serengeti’s Endless Plains

Getting an early start, you’ll head through the scenic highlands of Karatu and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area before descending into the Serengeti, arguably Africa’s most famous wilderness. The drive itself is a highlight, with striking views of the Great Rift Valley. The focus on the Seronera region is strategic—this area is renowned for its abundance of wildlife, thanks to the Seronera River providing a reliable water source. Expect to see everything from lions to gazelles. Travelers have described the Serengeti as “a vast expanse that feels like stepping into a wildlife documentary.”

Day 3: Optional Hot Air Balloon Experience & More Serengeti

For those extra special moments, the option to soar over the plains in a hot air balloon (additional cost) is available—an experience that promises breathtaking views and a sense of flying in harmony with the landscape. The morning game drive on the Sogore Stream Circuit is productive, with sightings of lions, topi, and cheetahs. Many reviewers highlight guides like James, who “provided so much information about all the animals,” making each sighting more meaningful.

Day 4: Ngorongoro Crater — The Animal Wonderland

The day begins with a visit to Odupai Gorge, a site notable for its archaeological significance. After a hearty lunch, you’ll descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its high density of game. The crater’s self-contained ecosystem is perfect for spotting the Big Five and observing predators and prey cohabiting in a natural setting. A traveler describes it as “a massive bowl teeming with wildlife,” and the chance to see large herds of buffalo, elephants, and lions is unmatched.

Day 5: Tarangire’s Elephant Herds & Scenic Landscapes

The journey continues to Tarangire National Park, famous for its massive elephant herds and ancient baobab trees. The park’s landscape, with low-lying hills and wide swamp areas, offers a different vibe from Serengeti’s open plains. A highlight for many is the opportunity to spot rare species like kudu and fringed-eared oryx. Travelers appreciated the “immense swamp areas that act as magnets for wildlife,” making it a fulfilling end to the safari days.

Day 6: Return to Arusha

The final morning features an early game drive in Tarangire, giving one last chance to see wildlife in action. After breakfast, you’ll transfer back to Moshi or the airport, ending your safari adventure. The reviews reflect satisfaction, noting that the trip was “well-organized” and “saw way more than expected,” even during COVID-19 season restrictions.

Practical Aspects and What You Should Know

Transportation & Group Size

The tour uses private transfers and game drive vehicles, which ensures a comfortable experience. While the reviews don’t specify group size, the private nature of the tour suggests a more personalized experience compared to large group safaris. Long days (up to 6 hours of game drives each day) are typical, so bringing snacks and staying hydrated is advised.

Accommodation & Meals

Accommodation is included, and most meals are covered—five dinners, six lunches, and six breakfasts. The reviews mention the lodges as comfortable for the overall price point, allowing travelers to relax after full days of game viewing. Being a mid-range package, it strikes a good balance between comfort and affordability.

Costs & What’s Included

All park fees and taxes are included, which means no hidden surprises when you arrive at the gates. The tour also provides a professional guide, pick-up and drop-off at the airport, and most meals—making it straightforward for first-time safari-goers. Extra costs to watch out for include optional activities like hot air balloon rides or tips.

Best for Who?

This safari suits travelers who want a rundown of Tanzania’s top parks without the fuss of planning each detail. It appeals to those who enjoy guided tours with knowledgeable guides (many of whom are praised for their friendliness and expertise). It’s also great for travelers who value good value for money—the package includes most essentials, making it easier to budget.

Authentic Traveler Insights

Reviewers consistently mention guides like James and Rafael as highlights—“the best guide you can imagine,” or “very professional and friendly,” which adds a personal touch to the whole experience. One review said, “They informed us about all the plants and gave us so much information about the animals,” which shows how guides enhance the safari beyond just spotting wildlife.

The reviews also reveal that travelers appreciated seeing a variety of animals, from lions and elephants to flamingos and antelopes. One traveler described the Serengeti as “a vast expanse that feels like stepping into a wildlife documentary,” capturing the essence of the experience. Even during challenging times like the COVID season, the tour maintained a high standard, with guests noting the organization and safety protocols.

The Sum Up: Is This Safari Right for You?

This 6-day Tanzania safari offers an excellent mix of adventure, comfort, and value. It’s perfect for those eager to tick off multiple parks in one trip, especially if you’re new to safaris or prefer guided tours that handle logistics. The knowledgeable guides and well-organized itinerary ensure you get the most out of your time in Tanzania’s wilderness.

Travelers who want to maximize wildlife sightings without sacrificing comfort will find this tour appealing. It provides a solid balance of adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural insights, making it a great choice for first-timers and seasoned safari enthusiasts alike.

However, if you prefer a very slow-paced or more exclusive experience, or if you’re on a very tight schedule, you might want to explore longer or smaller-group options. Still, for a well-priced, comprehensive taste of Tanzania’s top parks, this safari is a trustworthy, rewarding option.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
All park fees, taxes, accommodation, most meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), and transfers are included, making it a convenient all-in-one package.

Are there optional activities available?
Yes, hot air balloon rides over the Serengeti can be arranged at extra cost. Reviewers mention this as a memorable highlight if you’re looking to splurge.

How long are the game drives each day?
Expect around 6 hours per day, which allows for seeing plenty of wildlife but also means long hours in the vehicle. Packing snacks and staying hydrated is recommended.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, since it’s a private tour with your group, solo travelers can enjoy a personalized experience. The guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?
You’ll see elephants, lions, cheetahs, flamingos, giraffes, buffalo, and many more. The itinerary covers the parks best known for their dense populations of game.

How physically demanding is this safari?
While the days are full, the tour is designed to be manageable for most travelers. Long game drives are common, so comfort and mobility are helpful, but it’s suitable for most ages with normal fitness.

This safari package offers a balanced, authentic taste of Tanzania’s wild heart. If you’re looking to experience iconic landscapes and abundant wildlife with expert guides at a fair price, it’s worth serious consideration.