Private Multi-Day Tour in Tanzania Safari

Exploring Tanzania’s iconic wildlife is a dream for many safari lovers, and this 7-day private tour promises an immersive experience, packed with unforgettable moments. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed itinerary and reviews shed plenty of light on what you can expect, making it a solid choice for adventure seekers eager to see Africa’s Big Five and more.

What stands out here are the opportunity to visit famous parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro, the chance to spot various iconic animals, and the promise of expert guiding. The flexible private setup means your group will enjoy a tailored experience, away from crowded safaris. On the flip side, at this price point (around $6,950 per person), it’s an investment—so understanding the details of the itinerary and what’s included is key.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want an authentic, comprehensive safari experience with knowledgeable guides and carefully planned game drives. It’s perfect for first-timers or seasoned wildlife enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded journey through Tanzania’s most renowned parks. If you value comfort, expert insights, and a focus on seeing the Big Five, this could be a top pick.

Key Points

• Private, tailor-made experience: Solo groups or families will love the exclusivity.
• Comprehensive park visits: Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, and Lake Manyara provide diverse landscapes and animals.
• In-depth wildlife viewing: Expect to see lions, elephants, zebras, flamingoes, and possibly rhinos.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides like David enhance spotting and understanding of wildlife.
• Good value for a premium safari: Includes all major parks with meals and select activities.
• Potential budget considerations: Price is high, but given the inclusions, it offers significant value for a luxury safari.

Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour kicks off from Arusha, often considered the safari hub of Tanzania. You’re picked up from your hotel, airport, or residence — a thoughtful touch for convenience. The journey begins with a drive through Maasai country, which alone offers a glimpse into the local culture and changing scenery. Expect stunning views and a sense of anticipation for what’s ahead.

Lake Manyara National Park is your first stop, arriving around mid-morning. The park’s reputation as a birdwatcher’s paradise is well-deserved. Here, flamingoes line the lake in their signature pink, creating picture-perfect moments. We loved the opportunity to scan the treetops for the elusive tree-climbing lions, a unique feature of the park. The landscape is compact but spectacular, with a mix of forest, savannah, and water — perfect for spotting impalas, elephants, giraffes, and warthogs.

Day 2: Sunrise in Lake Manyara, then Serengeti

Early risers will enjoy the quiet of dawn in the park, where the morning light casts a magical glow over the landscape. After breakfast, the drive to Serengeti begins, offering scenic views and a chance for a picnic lunch en route.

The Serengeti’s vastness is breathtaking, and you’ll feel the sense of “endless plains” that the Maasai phrase siringet describes so well. The plains are dotted with wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles, set against a backdrop of acacia trees. The possibility of seeing large prides of lions, leopards, and herds of buffalo is high. Reviewers mention how “the drivers are nice and knowledgeable,” which makes spotting wildlife both easier and more interesting.

Day 3: Full Day on the Plains

A full day of game drives in the Serengeti promises to be a highlight, with a focus on predator sightings and birdlife—over 500 bird species call this area home. The tour is designed to give a comprehensive look at the diverse ecosystems. Expect to see monkeys, baboons, wild dogs, and even honey badgers, according to reviews.

The guides’ expertise shines here; one reviewer called David the “absolute best,” emphasizing how a knowledgeable guide enhances the experience. In addition, the breaks for breakfast and lunch are well-timed, giving you energy for long hours of wildlife spotting. You might also glimpse hippos and crocodiles along rivers—adding to the list of potential sightings.

Days 4 & 5: Ngorongoro Crater – A Natural Wonder

The journey from Serengeti to Ngorongoro offers a chance to visit Oldupai Gorge, an important archaeological site—perfect for history buffs and curious travelers alike. The crater itself is often described as a “self-contained world,” with a density of animals that rivals the plains but on a smaller, more accessible scale.

Descending into the crater, you’ll notice the lush vegetation and marshes, home to black rhinos, lions, hyenas, flamingoes, and more. A picnic lunch amidst this scene is a memorable experience, and reviews mention the high predator density and the chance to see flamingoes in the marshes.

On Day 5, you’ll get to explore the crater’s interior further, with an emphasis on spotting endangered black rhinos and other big cats. Many reviewers talk about the thrill of seeing all the Big Five during their safari, with some suggesting that this part of the tour offers some of the best wildlife encounters.

Day 6: From Ngorongoro to Tarangire

After a hearty breakfast, you’ll ascend from the crater and start the drive to Tarangire National Park. The drive itself offers a change of scenery, with landscapes shifting from volcanic to savannah. You’ll stop for lunch en route, possibly at a comfortable restaurant, then arrive at Tarangire—famous for its large elephant herds and iconic baobab trees.

The park’s reputation for the highest density of elephants in Africa means chances are high to see herds of over a hundred at a time. Lions are also often spotted here. Reviewers emphasize how the park’s distinctive trees and abundant wildlife make it a photographer’s dream.

Final Day: Wrap-Up and Return

On the last day, you’ll enjoy one more early breakfast before heading back towards Arusha, with a lunch stop along the way. It’s a good opportunity to reflect on the trip and share memorable sightings.

Practical Aspects and Value

At $6,950 per person, this safari offers a significant amount of value, considering it includes all major parks, meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), and private transfers. The exclusivity of a private tour means your group can customize the experience and avoid the crowds typical of larger group safaris.

The tour’s duration, approximately 7 days, strikes a balance between seeing multiple parks and avoiding safari fatigue. The inclusion of pickup from your hotel or airport adds convenience, especially after a long flight.

What Reviewers Are Saying

While most reviews praise the guides and wildlife sightings, some mention issues with the tour company’s financial management, noting that “the company had no money in mid-January 2025,” which affected some aspects of their trip. This highlights the importance of booking with reputable operators and verifying current operational status.

On the positive side, many travelers describe their guides, like David, as “the best,” and emphasize how good value the experience is for wildlife viewing and professional guiding. One reviewer shared that they saw all five of the Big Five, confirming how well the tour covers the key sights.

The Sum Up

This Tanzania safari tour is well-suited for those seeking a comprehensive, guided experience through some of Africa’s most famous parks. Its private nature offers flexibility and intimacy, while the detailed itinerary maximizes wildlife sightings and scenic moments. The inclusion of major parks like Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, and Lake Manyara ensures a diverse adventure, filled with iconic animals and breathtaking landscapes.

It’s best for travelers who appreciate expert guides, are comfortable with a higher price tag, and want a tailored, in-depth safari experience. While some reviews point to company issues, the overall focus on wildlife, scenery, and knowledgeable guiding makes this a solid choice for serious safari enthusiasts.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), private transportation in a 4 x 4 safari jeep, and guided game drives in all parks.

Are park entrance fees included?
Yes, the tour includes admission tickets for Lake Manyara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Tarangire.

What is the tour duration?
It lasts approximately 7 days, offering a balanced experience of multiple parks without feeling rushed.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and the private setup makes it adaptable. However, those with mobility issues should check with the provider.

Can I customize the experience?
As a private tour, there’s flexibility to tailor some aspects, especially with guides’ input.

Are vegetarian or special diets accommodated?
The itinerary includes all meals, and dietary preferences can likely be discussed when booking.

How do I get to the meeting point?
Pickup is offered from your hotel, the airport, or your residence in Arusha, making logistics straightforward.

What is the best time of year for this safari?
While not explicitly stated, Tanzania’s dry season (June to October) typically offers the best wildlife viewing.

Are wildlife sightings guaranteed?
While guides are knowledgeable, wildlife is unpredictable. However, the itinerary is designed to maximize your chances.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The experience is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll get a full refund or alternative dates.

This 7-day private safari offers a chance to step into Africa’s iconic landscapes and witness its incredible wildlife, all with the comfort and expertise needed for a memorable adventure. It’s a journey suited for those who want to see the Big Five, explore diverse habitats, and enjoy a personalized experience in Tanzania’s most famous parks.