Best of Tanzania 5days 4nights safari

Traveling through Tanzania’s iconic national parks is often considered a bucket-list experience, and this 5-day safari offers a well-rounded glimpse into the country’s wildlife and landscapes. While we haven’t personally been on this exact tour, plenty of travelers rave about the professionalism, tailor-made experiences, and unforgettable scenery it delivers.

What we love about this safari? First, it covers four of Tanzania’s most famous parks—Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Lake Manyara—giving you a comprehensive taste of the country’s rich biodiversity. Second, the private nature of the tour means you get a personal, flexible experience, perfect for those wanting a more intimate adventure. Third, the inclusion of all meals, accommodation, and game drives simplifies planning, making it easier to relax and focus on the scenery and wildlife.

A potential consideration? The price point, at around $2,817 per person, is quite accessible compared to many longer safaris, but it’s worth noting that private tours tend to be pricier than group options. Still, the value comes from personalized attention, expert guides, and the ability to customize your experience.

This tour suits wildlife enthusiasts, first-time visitors who want a curated experience, or anyone looking for a hassle-free yet immersive adventure in Tanzania’s wild heart. If you’re after a balanced mix of iconic scenery, wildlife sightings, and cultural encounters, this safari might just be the perfect fit.

Key Points

• Private, personalized safari with flexible itinerary options
• Visit two UNESCO World Heritage sites in Tanzania
• Includes all meals, accommodation, and game drives for a stress-free experience
• Upgrade opportunity for hot air ballooning over Serengeti
• Visit four top parks: Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Lake Manyara
• Great reviews for guides, wildlife sightings, and value for money

An In-Depth Look at the Tanzania Safari Experience

The Value of a Private Tour

One of the biggest advantages of choosing this tour is that it’s private, meaning only your group participates. This allows for a more tailored experience—your guide can focus on your interests, whether that’s birdwatching, photographing big cats, or learning about local Maasai culture. Reviews highlight guides like Elisante, who is lauded for their knowledge and personable approach. As one reviewer shared, “Eilsante and his team know Tanzania,” which makes a difference when trying to spot elusive animals or understand the landscape.

Comfort and Convenience

The tour is designed to be straightforward for travelers. You’ll be picked up at Mount Meru Hotel in Arusha, with a driver-guide ready to take you on your adventure. All transportation and park entry fees are included, which simplifies budgeting and eliminates surprises. Accommodations are arranged at scenic lodges like Hhando Coffee Lodge, offering a comfortable base after long days of game viewing. The tour is structured for a mix of early mornings and late afternoons—prime wildlife viewing times—allowing you to maximize your chances of spotting lions, elephants, giraffes, and more.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: Tarangire National Park
Starting in Arusha, you’ll head to Tarangire, famous for its massive elephant herds and iconic baobab trees. The drive takes roughly two hours. Expect to see herds quenching at the river, where elephants gather, and possibly giraffes and zebras grazing nearby. The reviewer notes seeing herds of elephants drinking water in the river, a classic Tanzania wildlife scene.

Day 2: Serengeti Hippo Pool and Plains
Depart early for Serengeti, one of Africa’s most legendary parks. The drive is about four hours with a picnic lunch en route. Serengeti’s expansive plains mean game can be spotted almost anywhere—wildebeest migrations, predators stalking prey, and big cats lounging in the tall grass. The Hippo Pool is a favorite spot, with reviews mentioning it as a highlight. In the evening, you’ll settle into your camp, ready for more adventures.

Day 3: Full Day in Serengeti
A full day of game drives maximizes your wildlife encounters—think lions resting under acacia trees, cheetahs racing across the plains, and possibly the elusive leopard. For those interested, an optional hot air balloon ride can be booked, offering a breathtaking aerial view of the Serengeti’s vast landscapes. Many reviewers remark on how this experience elevates the safari, often paired with champagne breakfast in the bush.

Day 4: Ngorongoro Crater and Maasai Culture
In the morning, enjoy a game drive before heading to Ngorongoro. Descending into the crater—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—offers a concentrated wildlife viewing experience. The crater’s lush floor hosts elephants, lions, rhinos, and flamingos. The day also includes a visit to a Maasai Boma, giving insight into local Maasai traditions and lifestyle, often appreciated by travelers craving cultural connection.

Day 5: Lake Manyara National Park
Your adventure wraps up with a visit to Lake Manyara, renowned for its tree-climbing lions and flamingos. The park’s diverse habitats—forest, lake, and grassland—offer great photo opportunities. A walk in the village or even a tree walk is optional, adding a light cultural or adventurous touch to the day.

Wildlife and Scenery Highlights

Travelers consistently praise the diverse wildlife and beautiful landscapes. As one reviewer states, “We saw lion, cheetah, elephants, and giraffes, all in their natural habitat, with plenty of space to roam.” The parks’ varied ecosystems, from the acacia-dotted plains to the lush crater floor, make every day visually stimulating.

Guides, Food, and Local Insight

Guides like Elisante aren’t just knowledgeable—they genuinely seem to enjoy sharing their expertise. Reviewers mention their guides’ deep understanding of animal behavior and their ability to find wildlife even in dense bush. Food during the tour is well-rated, with all meals included, including picnic lunches that keep you energized during long game drives.

The Hot Air Balloon Option

While the hot air balloon ride is an upgrade, many travelers say it’s worth it. The view over Serengeti during sunrise, combined with a champagne breakfast, offers a perspective impossible from the ground. Although at an extra cost, this experience is often highlighted as a highlight of the trip.

Price and Value

At $2,817 per person, this safari provides a compelling balance of cost and quality. Comparing this with longer, group safaris, the private aspect ensures personalized attention and flexibility that many travelers value. All-inclusive meals, accommodations, and park fees mean fewer surprises and a more relaxed experience.

The Recurring Praise for the Tour

The consistent positive reviews underline professional guides, seamless logistics, and wildlife sightings that surpass expectations. Comments like “best safari ever” and “trip of a lifetime” reflect the quality of wildlife encounters and the ease of the process. Guests also love the flexibility to customize and the attentiveness of the team, especially in addressing individual interests.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This safari is ideal for travelers seeking an all-inclusive, intimate experience of Tanzania’s top parks without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s perfect for first-timers wanting a guided, rundown or seasoned wildlife lovers eager to revisit familiar landscapes with a fresh perspective.

The private nature and experienced guides add value for those who want to maximize time and wildlife encounters. If you’re after a trip that balances luxury, adventure, and cultural insights, this tour offers a well-rounded package at a reasonable price point.

FAQ

What parks will I visit on this safari?
You’ll visit Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Lake Manyara, covering Tanzania’s most iconic wildlife areas.

Is this a group or private tour?
This is a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, providing a more personalized experience.

Are meals included?
Yes, all meals are included—five lunches, four dinners, and four breakfasts—so you won’t need to worry about food during the trip.

Can I upgrade the experience?
Yes, there is an option to upgrade for a hot air balloon ride over Serengeti, which many consider a highlight.

What is the recommended physical fitness level?
Travelers should have moderate physical fitness, as game drives involve some walking and vehicle transfers in uneven terrain.

How long are the game drives each day?
Game drives typically last between 6 to 10 hours, allowing plenty of time for wildlife viewing and photography.

What is the best time to book this safari?
While not specified, Tanzania’s dry season (June to October) generally offers the best wildlife viewing, but check with the provider for specific timing details.

Final Thoughts

This 5-day, 4-night Tanzanian safari offers a thoughtful, well-organized way to experience some of Africa’s most famous parks. With private guides, all-inclusive amenities, and flexible options like hot air ballooning, it promises an adventure that’s both immersive and comfortable. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a wildlife-filled escape, this tour provides a fantastic platform to explore Tanzania’s wild side in style.

Ideal for those wanting a personal touch, expert guides, and value-packed luxury in the heart of Africa’s wilderness.