Unforgettable 6 Days Tanzania Private Big-5 Mid-range Safari

Planning a safari in Tanzania? This 6-day private adventure promises a close-up look at Africa’s most iconic wildlife in some of the continent’s most famed parks. With a carefully designed itinerary, experienced guides, and mid-range accommodations, this trip ticks many boxes for those seeking comfort, exclusivity, and memorable wildlife encounters.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its focus on diversity—visiting Tarangire for elephants and baobabs, the Serengeti for the Big Cats and the wildebeest migration, Ngorongoro for its dense wildlife population, and Lake Manyara for its tree-climbing lions and birdlife. Plus, the personalized nature of a private tour means more flexibility and tailored experiences.

That said, a potential consideration is the price point—at just over $5,200 per person, it’s an investment, but one that many reviewers feel offers great value given the inclusions and quality of experience. This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, well-organized safari with the chance to customize their adventure, guided by knowledgeable professionals.

Key Points

• Personalized private experience with expert guides ensures tailored wildlife encounters.
• Diverse parks offer a full spectrum of Tanzanian ecosystems and animals.
• Comfortable mid-range accommodations balance safety, comfort, and affordability.
• Strategic park visits maximize wildlife sightings, including “Big 5” animals and the wildebeest migration.
• Experienced guides are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and attentive service.
• Flexibility allows for optional stops, such as the Olduvai Gorge Museum, enriching your cultural understanding.

Why This Safari Stands Out

This tour provides a well-rounded adventure for anyone eager to see Tanzania’s wildlife without sacrificing comfort or exclusivity. The private nature of the trip means you won’t be part of large groups, and your itinerary can be slightly adjusted to fit your interests or pace.

The inclusion of key parks like Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Lake Manyara ensures that you witness a broad range of ecosystems—from lush forests and savannahs to volcanic craters—each teeming with life. We loved how the tour balances effort and relaxation: early game drives for the best animal sightings, coupled with leisurely lunches and comfortable lodges or camps at day’s end.

Whether you’re a first-time safari-goer or a seasoned wildlife enthusiast, the tour’s structure allows for the kind of immersive yet manageable experience that leaves travelers with a true sense of Africa’s wilderness.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Day 1: Tarangire National Park

Your safari kicks off with a drive from Arusha, heading into Tarangire, often called the “Elephant Playground” because herds exceeding 300 animals aren’t uncommon. The landscape here is marked by massive baobab trees and open plains, ideal for spotting elephants, giraffes, and lions.

Travelers appreciate the scenic drive through the Masai Steppe, with the option to stop for last-minute shopping at a supermarket in Arusha. The arrival at Tarangire, just around two hours from Arusha, allows for an afternoon game drive and a picnic lunch amidst the wildlife.

Our insights: Reviewers mention that Tarangire’s year-round wildlife makes it a reliable spot for sightings. The landscape’s visual drama—big trees, vast skies—lends itself to stunning photos and a sense of wilderness.

Day 2: Serengeti via Ngorongoro

Leaving Manyara early, you will ascend the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, enjoying breathtaking views of the Great Rift Valley. A highlight here is the optional visit to Olduvai Gorge, a site of human fossil discoveries, enriching your understanding of Africa’s ancient past.

Arriving in the Serengeti, you’ll settle in for your first game drive in one of the world’s most famous parks. Expect to see lions, cheetahs, elephants, and possibly even the elusive leopard. The Serengeti’s vast plains are a photographer’s dream, and the park’s name, meaning “endless plains,” couldn’t be more fitting.

Our insights: One reviewer pointed out that the drive through the Ngorongoro area offers stunning vistas, and the optional Olduvai Gorge visit adds a cultural dimension to the trip.

Day 3: Full Day in Serengeti

A full day in the Serengeti means plenty of time to chase the animals. The morning game drive takes you along the Sogore River Circuit, where lions, gazelles, and cheetahs are often spotted. The afternoon explores the Kopjes, rocky outcrops famous for lion sightings and scenic views.

Travelers note that spotting predators like lions and cheetahs in their natural habitat is often the highlight. The park’s size and diversity mean you’ll witness everything from predator stalking prey to herds of elephants crossing the plains.

Our insights: Many reviews describe the Serengeti as a “big cats’ paradise,” with plenty of opportunities for sightings, especially in the early mornings and late afternoons.

Day 4: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater

Continuing your Serengeti adventure with morning and afternoon game drives, you’ll then head toward the Ngorongoro Crater rim for the night. This UNESCO World Heritage site is often called a “garden of Eden” because of its density of wildlife.

The crater, formed by a collapsed volcano, is a concentrated wildlife spectacle. You might see herds of wildebeest, zebras, and buffalo, along with predators hunting or resting nearby.

Our insights: Reviewers mention that the Ngorongoro Crater’s natural barrier makes it one of the best places to see the Big 5 in a single day.

Day 5: Ngorongoro to Lake Manyara

After breakfast, the focus shifts to Lake Manyara National Park. This smaller park might surprise you with its birdlife, including flamingos and storks, and the chance to see tree-climbing lions—a rare sight that many travelers find fascinating.

This park’s lush groundwater forest and open lake areas are a contrast to the savannahs of Serengeti, offering a varied landscape in a day’s drive. Expect plenty of elephants, hippos, and buffalos, plus the chance to spot lions lounging in the trees.

Our insights: Reviewers highlight the park’s diversity and the unique opportunity to see lions in trees. The birdlife here is also a major highlight.

What Sets This Tour Apart

Personalized Attention and Expert Guides

All reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, like Amini and Mr. Norka, who go the extra mile to ensure safety and share insights about wildlife behavior. Knowing that this is a private tour means you get more tailored attention, with guides able to adapt the day’s plan based on animal movement and your interests.

Comfort and Convenience

Staying in mid-range accommodations means you enjoy a good night’s rest after long days of game drives, without the luxury price tag. Many reviewers mention that the food served during the trip, including delightful picnic lunches, was “delicious” and helped keep energy levels high.

Authentic Encounters

The tour’s schedule and route maximize wildlife sightings, especially in parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro, where the density of animals is remarkable. The optional cultural aspect, like visiting the Olduvai Gorge, enriches the experience by adding historical context.

Flexibility and Value

While the price might seem steep, the majority of reviewers agree that the value is justified given the personalized service, quality accommodations, and the chance to see all of Tanzania’s highlights in one trip.

Practical Details and Tips

• The tour begins at 7:30 AM in Arusha, giving you a full day of travel and wildlife viewing.
• The duration of approximately 6 days makes it a balanced option for those with limited vacation time but still seeking a comprehensive safari.
• All fees and taxes are included, so there are no surprise costs during the trip.
• While tipping your guide is not included, many travelers find it customary to tip guides, especially when they’ve provided exceptional service.
• The tour is most suitable for travelers with a moderate budget who value a private, well-organized experience, and are eager to see the “Big 5” and other wildlife.

The Sum Up

This 6-day Tanzania private safari offers a well-rounded, exciting, and comfortable way to explore some of Africa’s most famous parks. It’s particularly suited for wildlife enthusiasts who value personalized service, knowledgeable guides, and a carefully curated itinerary. The mix of adventure, scenery, and wildlife sightings promises a trip full of unforgettable moments.

The balance of premium wildlife experiences and mid-range accommodations makes it a strong choice for those seeking value without sacrificing comfort. If you’re looking for a private safari that covers Tanzania’s must-see parks—Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Lake Manyara—this tour provides a fantastic opportunity to connect with the African wilderness.

Whether it’s your first safari or a repeat visit, the chance to see lions, elephants, rhinos, and cheetahs in their natural habitat, guided by passionate experts, makes this a journey worth considering.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
All fees and taxes, hotel accommodation during the safari, meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), and the services of an experienced guide are included.

Are the accommodations comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses mid-range lodges or camps, balancing comfort with affordability, ensuring a good night’s rest after busy days.

Can I customize or change the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, your guide can adapt the schedule based on your interests or wildlife sightings, providing a more personalized experience.

What parks will we visit?
The itinerary includes Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Lake Manyara National Park.

Is this tour suitable for first-time safari travelers?
Absolutely. The itinerary covers all the major parks with plenty of wildlife sightings, making it an ideal introduction to Tanzanian safaris.

What is the best time to go?
While not specified, many reviewers mention witnessing the migration in May or early June, but the parks are generally good for wildlife viewing year-round.

What should I pack?
Light, breathable clothing, a hat, sunglasses, binoculars, camera, and sunscreen. Also, layers for early mornings and evenings are recommended.

Is tipping expected?
Tipping guides is customary but not included in the price. Many travelers tip when they receive exceptional service.

How do I get to Arusha?
Most travelers arrive by international flight into Kilimanjaro International Airport, from where the tour begins.

This safari offers an immersive, well-organized way to see Tanzania’s most iconic landscapes and animals, making every dollar spent truly worthwhile.