Tanzania Experience Safari and Tours

Planning a safari in Tanzania can feel overwhelming with so many options—so when we came across the Tanzania Experience Safari offered by Hazzes Adventure Ltd, we knew it deserved a closer look. This 5-day adventure promises a blend of iconic wildlife encounters, stunning landscapes, and immersive local culture, all wrapped into a well-balanced, reasonably priced package.

What immediately caught our eye was the promise of spotting the Big Five in Serengeti and Ngorongoro, combined with a chance to see the ancient fossils at Olduvai Gorge. Plus, the itinerary’s inclusion of luxury tented lodges and private guided tours suggests a comfortable, personalized experience.

One potential consideration is the duration—five days is just enough to scratch the surface and enjoy the highlights, but expect packed days and early mornings. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a rundown of northern Tanzania’s wildlife and landscapes without sacrificing quality or authenticity. If you’re after a trip that balances adventure with comfort and expert guidance, this might be your perfect match.

Key Points

• Full package including park fees, guides, and accommodations offers excellent value for a 5-day safari
• Expert guides and well-maintained vehicles ensure quality wildlife viewing and safety
• Diverse itinerary covers Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Olduvai Gorge—each with unique highlights
• Luxury tented lodges provide an authentic yet comfortable safari experience
• Small group/private tours enhance personalized service and flexibility
• Reviews highlight guides Vincent and others for their knowledge and friendly approach

What Makes This Safari Stand Out?

This tour isn’t just about ticking boxes; it’s designed to give you a taste of northern Tanzania’s most iconic sights with a focus on comfort, expert guidance, and authentic wildlife encounters. The use of extended Toyota Land Cruisers with roof hatches means you get unobstructed views—crucial for those perfect wildlife photographs. The guides are well-versed, with reviews often praising Vincent’s knowledge and friendly manner, making every game drive both educational and fun.

The Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Tarangire National Park – Elephant Paradise and Baobabs

We start in Tarangire, renowned as East Africa’s premier elephant habitat. The guide will likely take you to the Tarangire River, where elephants gather in large herds, especially during the dry season. You’ll also see zebras, buffalo, gazelles, and wildebeest, with predator sightings like lions not far behind. The park’s massive Baobab trees, some over 300 years old, are a highlight—these ancient giants create a surreal landscape.

A picnic lunch amidst wildlife provides a real safari feel, and the day ends with a scenic drive to Karatu for the night. The eight-to-nine-hour day is filled with stops for photography and wildlife watching, making it an enriching start.

Day 2: Olduvai Gorge and Serengeti Arrival – Tracing Human Origins and Big Game

Leaving early, your journey takes you through the famous Olduvai Gorge—often called the “Cradle of Mankind”—where fossils of early humans dating back nearly two million years have been found. Visiting this site offers a fascinating glimpse into our shared history, adding a cultural and archaeological layer to your safari.

Post-lunch, you’ll continue to the Serengeti, Africa’s iconic wilderness, where the vast plains stretch as far as the eye can see. The accommodation here is in tented camps—a perfect way to feel immersed in the environment without sacrificing comfort.

Day 3: Full-Day Serengeti Game Drive – Tracking the Wild

A full day dedicated to Serengeti means you’ll be out from dawn to dusk, maximizing your chances to see wildlife. With a packed lunch, you’ll explore different parts of the park, hunting for the Big Five and other species like cheetahs, hyenas, and giraffes.

Reviewers describe guides like Vincent as exceptionally knowledgeable, often pointing out subtle animal behaviors and sharing insights that bring the experience to life. It’s a day of constant wildlife spotting, scenic landscapes, and unforgettable moments at every turn.

Day 4: Ngorongoro Conservation Area and Crater – The Wildlife Bowl

After a morning game drive, you’ll head to the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and often called the “Garden of Eden”. The route offers a chance to see Maasai villages, adding a cultural dimension.

Descending into the crater around 6 am, you’ll spend the day exploring its 2000-foot-high walls, which confine a thriving ecosystem. Expect to see lions, elephants, rhinos, flamingos, hippos, and many bird species. The crater’s unique ecosystem means sightings are abundant and diverse, and the guides’ expertise really shines here, with reviews praising their skill at locating elusive animals.

Day 5: Return and Departure – An Early Morning Wrap-up

The final day begins with an early breakfast before a last game drive in the crater. It’s a chance to revisit favorite spots and soak in the last views of wildlife. Afterward, a scenic drive back to Arusha wraps up the tour.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

The tour offers all park fees, government taxes, and a private safari vehicle—these are significant expenses that are well-covered in the price. The guides are experienced professionals, and meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) are included for most days, ensuring you stay well-nourished during long days in the wild.

Not included are tipping (suggested $10/day), personal expenses, visas, and flights. The tour’s cost of $3,150 per person offers good value considering the luxury accommodations, expert guides, and extensive itinerary. For travelers seeking a comprehensive Tanzanian safari experience that balances comfort with adventure, this tour hits the mark.

Transportation & Guides

Traveling in well-maintained Toyota Land Cruisers with roof hatches provides optimal wildlife viewing and comfort. The private guide makes all the difference—reviews highlight guides like Vincent for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to spot wildlife others might overlook.

Accommodation & Comfort

Staying in luxury tented camps and permanent wilderness lodges means you get the authentic safari experience without roughing it. Reviewers appreciated the cleanliness, quality of food, and the personal touch guides added, making each night relaxing after a day of adventure.

Timing and Physical Demand

The days are long, often starting before dawn and ending after sunset, so moderate physical fitness is recommended. Early mornings are cooler and better for wildlife activity, which guides emphasize for optimal sightings.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Guests commonly praise Vincent’s guiding skills, noting his keen eye and insider knowledge. One reviewer mentioned that Vincent made them feel safe and comfortable, which is crucial in remote wildlife areas. Another shared that the views and animals encountered exceeded expectations, particularly highlighting the variety of animals and the striking scenery.

Travelers also appreciated the organization and professionalism of Hazzes Adventure, with one reviewer calling the company “professional, well-organized, and exceptional,” citing their attention to detail and excellent communication.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Safari?

This tour is perfect for adventure seekers who appreciate comfort and expert guidance. If you’re after a balanced safari experience with authentic wildlife encounters, stunning scenery, and cultural insights, this package delivers. It’s especially suited for those who want a focused, high-quality tour without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Travelers who value small-group or private experiences will find this itinerary flexible and personalized. The inclusion of iconic parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro, along with cultural stops like Olduvai Gorge, offers a well-rounded introduction to Tanzania’s natural and historical treasures.

For first-timers or seasoned safari lovers alike, this safari provides a comprehensive, memorable journey through some of Africa’s most famous landscapes. The mix of wildlife, landscapes, and history ensures you’ll leave with lifelong memories and incredible stories to tell.

FAQ

What is the duration of the safari?
This 5-day tour runs approximately from early morning on Day 1 to late afternoon on Day 5, with most days packed with game drives, cultural stops, and scenic drives.

Are park fees included?
Yes, all park fees are included in the price, along with government taxes, so there are no surprises on-site.

What type of vehicle is used?
The safari is conducted in extended Toyota Land Cruisers equipped with roof hatches for unobstructed wildlife viewing.

Are meals included?
Most days include breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the lodges or camps, offering a good balance of convenience and local cuisine.

Can I customize the tour?
Since this is a private tour, there’s room for some customization—discuss your preferences with the provider beforehand.

What’s the recommended physical fitness level?
Moderate fitness is advisable, as early mornings and long game drives are part of the experience.

Is tipping necessary?
A tip of about $10 per person per day is suggested to appreciate guide and staff service.

How do I book or cancel this tour?
Booking is straightforward with confirmation upon reservation, and cancellation is free if done 24 hours in advance.

Final Word

The Tanzania Experience Safari by Hazzes Adventure offers a well-rounded, authentic, and luxurious way to explore northern Tanzania’s wildlife and landscapes. Guided by knowledgeable professionals, you’ll witness some of Africa’s most iconic animals, visit historic sites, and stay in comfortable lodges—all within a thoughtfully curated itinerary.

This tour is best suited for those who want a comprehensive safari that balances adventure, comfort, and cultural insights. It’s ideal for first-timers seeking a classic Tanzanian experience or seasoned wildlife enthusiasts eager to revisit the magic of the Serengeti and Ngorongoro.

If you’re looking for a high-value, professionally organized safari that delivers unforgettable moments, this package is worth serious consideration. Just pack your camera and an adventurous spirit—you’re about to create some incredible memories.