Private Group Serengeti Safari, Crater & Tarangire National Park

Introduction

Planning a safari in Tanzania can feel overwhelming, but this Private Group Serengeti Safari, Crater & Tarangire National Park offers a carefully curated, authentic experience that promises stunning wildlife encounters and breathtaking landscapes. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews highlight its professionalism, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to see Africa’s iconic animals up close.

What we love about this safari? First, the expert guides like Victor and Reggie who are praised for their keen eyes and vast knowledge. Second, the chance to visit three incredible parks—Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Tarangire—each offering unique scenery and wildlife. Third, the well-structured itinerary packed with game drives, cultural visits, and scenic stops that maximize your time in the wild. A possible downside? The price point of $2,020 per person might seem steep, but the value of private, personalized experiences often outweighs the cost.

This tour is perfect for those who want a comprehensive, authentic safari with a focus on wildlife and scenery, paired with the comfort of private guides. If you’re looking for a well-organized adventure that balances iconic sights with cultural insights, this will likely suit you well.

Key Points

• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, attentive, and passionate guides enhance every moment.
• Iconic Parks: Visits include Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire—each with distinct landscapes and wildlife.
• Immersive Experience: Multiple game drives with chances to see the Big Five and other wildlife.
• Comfort & Convenience: Private tours with pickup from Arusha, flexible logistics, and overnight stays at nearby lodges.
• Value for Price: While $2,020 might seem high, the inclusions and personalized service make it worthwhile.
• Authentic Encounters: Opportunities to visit Maasai villages or Olduvai Gorge (additional costs apply) add cultural depth.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Serengeti National Park

Your adventure kicks off with a drive to Serengeti, Africa’s most famous wildlife sanctuary. This park’s vast, rolling plains are home to an unbelievable concentration of animals—the “Big Five” (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhinoceros) are commonly spotted here, along with hundreds of thousands of wildebeest, zebra, gazelle, and more.

Reviewers mention the sheer richness of wildlife—with estimates of two million wildebeest and half a million zebra—making game drives here particularly exciting. The park’s expansive landscape is perfect for spotting predators stalking their prey or watching herds move across the plains. Expect early morning safaris when animals are most active.

Typically, you’ll enjoy a game drive with your guide, who’s praised for their eagle eyes and stories that bring the scenery alive. After a full day of wildlife spotting, you’ll retire to a nearby lodge where dinner and restful sleep await.

Day 2: Ngorongoro Conservation Area

After breakfast, the safari continues into the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, transitioning from the open plains to lush highlands. The highlight here is the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site and part of the tour’s ‘must-see’ list.

The crater itself is a stunning natural amphitheater—about 12 miles across, with walls towering nearly 1900 meters—serving as a wildlife haven. The flat, nutrient-rich crater floor supports large herds of zebra, wildebeest, and gazelle, along with a healthy population of predators such as lions and hyenas. Reviewers rave about the close animal sightings on the crater floor, with some describing feeling like they could reach out and touch the lions.

Optional visits include Olduvai Gorge, known for its archaeological significance, and a Maasai Village—though these incur extra costs. The guides are praised for their local knowledge and ability to spot wildlife hidden in the terrain.

Day 3: Tarangire National Park

The final day takes you to Tarangire, renowned for its massive elephant herds and iconic baobab trees. After breakfast, you’ll descend into the crater for a full day of game drives, with a picnic lunch amid the wild landscape.

Tarangire is less crowded than Serengeti and Ngorongoro, offering a more tranquil safari experience. Reviewers highlight the spectacular elephant sightings and the chance to see lions lounging in the trees or stalking prey. The park’s woodlands and riverine habitats attract a diversity of wildlife, making it a perfect conclusion to your safari.

Throughout the day, your guide will help you spot animals and interpret their behaviors, making each sighting a learning experience. The trip ends back in Arusha, where you can reflect on your adventure.

Transportation, Guides, and Logistics

This tour’s private nature means you’ll travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle with your own group, offering flexibility and an intimate experience. Guides like Victor, Reggie, and Emanuel are praised for their expertise and patience, often producing close sightings and sharing fascinating insights.

The tour includes pickup and drop-off in Arusha, simplifying logistics. The itinerary is designed to maximize wildlife viewing hours, with early morning and late afternoon game drives—prime times for animal activity. The duration of approximately 3 days strikes a good balance between seeing multiple parks and avoiding safari fatigue.

Accommodation and Meals

While specific lodges aren’t detailed in the overview, reviewers mention staying at lodges near the parks, with some highlighting the Wall Tent Camp experience—an immersive tented stay that many found memorable. Dinner and overnight stays are included, ensuring comfort after long days of exploring.

Price & Value

At $2,020 per person, this safari is on the higher end, but it offers personalized service, expert guides, and the chance to visit multiple top parks in a short span. Reviews suggest that the organization and care from the team elevate the experience, making it worth the investment for those seeking a seamless, authentic adventure.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

Beyond the wildlife, this tour provides opportunities for cultural exchange, such as visits to Maasai villages (extra cost), giving you a glimpse into local traditions. Reviewers mention the guides’ ability to spot wildlife others might miss and their storytelling skills, adding depth to each stop.

You’ll appreciate the timing of game drives—early mornings and late afternoons—when animals are most active and the light is perfect for photos. The chance to see lions roaring at night or herds moving under the sunset adds magic to the journey.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Safari?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, personalized safari experience with knowledgeable guides leading the way. It suits those who value high-quality wildlife sightings, comfortable accommodations, and a well-organized itinerary that covers Tanzania’s most iconic parks.

If you’re comfortable with spending a bit more for the convenience of private guides and tailored experiences, this safari offers a rare chance to witness Africa’s wildlife at its finest. It’s perfect for first-timers eager for the classic Big Five experience, as well as seasoned safari lovers looking to tick off the Ngorongoro Crater from their bucket list.

However, if you prefer a very budget-friendly option, this might stretch your travel funds. But for those who want a balanced blend of adventure, comfort, and authentic encounters, this safari promises an unforgettable journey.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from Arusha, making logistics straightforward.

What parks are included in this safari?
You will visit Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area (including the crater), and Tarangire National Park.

How long does the entire experience last?
The safari lasts approximately 3 days, with most of the time spent on game drives and travel between parks.

Are meals included?
While the overview mentions dinner and overnight stays, meals are generally included during the stay, with picnic lunches provided during game drives.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this is a private experience, meaning only your group participates, enhancing privacy and flexibility.

What is the price per person?
The cost is $2,020 per person, which covers transportation, guiding, and park entry fees.

Are additional costs possible?
Yes, visits to places like Olduvai Gorge or Maasai villages are optional and may incur extra charges.

Can travelers expect to see the Big Five?
Absolutely—reviewers frequently mention sightings of lions, elephants, buffalo, rhinos, and leopards, along with countless other species.

The Sum Up

This Private Group Serengeti Safari, Crater & Tarangire National Park offers a well-rounded, immersive experience into Tanzania’s wildlife and landscapes. From the vast plains of Serengeti to the wildlife-rich Ngorongoro Crater and the elephant-filled landscapes of Tarangire, every day is filled with opportunities for unforgettable sightings.

Guides like Victor and Reggie are lauded for their attentiveness and knowledge, turning each game drive into more than just wildlife spotting—they’re educational and engaging. The tour’s organization, comfort, and focus on authentic encounters make it an excellent choice for travelers seeking a premium safari experience.

While the price reflects a higher-end, private service, many reviewers agree that the quality of the experience and the memories created make it worth every dollar. It’s especially suited for those who want a seamless, personalized adventure without sacrificing the thrill of seeing Africa’s most iconic animals in their natural habitat.

If you’re prepared for early mornings, long days in the vehicle, and a truly immersive wildlife adventure, this safari could be the highlight of your trip to Tanzania. It’s a chance to witness nature’s grandeur in a way you’ll never forget, all while enjoying the comfort and expertise of seasoned guides.