Tanzania Through The Rift Valley – 5 Days

Planning a safari in Tanzania can feel overwhelming, but with a company like Easy Travel, the experience promises to be seamless and deeply memorable. This 5-day adventure packs in three of Tanzania’s most captivating landscapes—Lake Manyara, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro—delivering a well-rounded taste of the country’s incredible wildlife and scenery.

What truly makes this trip stand out? For us, it’s the experienced guides who spot elusive animals with eagle eyes, the spectacular vistas that stretch endlessly across rolling plains, and the all-inclusive convenience—from meals to door-to-door transfers. One thing to keep in mind is that the roads are quite rough, so a sturdy vehicle and a good sense of adventure are a must.

This tour is perfect for those who want a well-organized, guided experience without the stress of planning every detail. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned safari enthusiast, this trip offers a balanced mix of comfort, wildlife action, and authentic safari charm.

Key Points

• Expert guides with impressive wildlife-spotting skills enhance the experience.
• All-inclusive package covers accommodation, meals, park entry, and transfers, offering peace of mind.
• Iconic landscapes like Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater are the highlights.
• Door-to-door pickup from Arusha airport simplifies logistics.
• Rough roads mean some drives can be bumpy—bring your patience.
• The tour offers great value for the comprehensive wildlife experience at around $2,841.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Arrival and Welcome to Arusha

Your adventure begins right at Arusha Airport, where a friendly guide from Easy Travel greets you with that warm Tanzanian hospitality. From here, you’re taken to your hotel in Arusha, giving you a chance to settle in and get a first glimpse of this lively city. The airport pickup is a big plus—it means no fuss, no fuss, just straight into your safari mood.

Day 2: First Safari at Lake Manyara

Early morning, after a hearty breakfast, you head west towards Lake Manyara National Park. This park is famous for its flamingos and tree-climbing lions, but it’s also a fantastic place to see diverse flora and fauna. The landscape varies from grassy plains and acacia woodlands to the shores of the shallow alkaline lake.

Expect to see animals on the plains, in the woods, and by the lake’s edge. Reviewers mention their driver-guide’s sharp eyes and ability to spot animals others miss, including elusive species and rare birds. You’ll get a picnic lunch and spend around two hours exploring before heading back to your lodge for some relaxation and a delicious dinner.

Day 3: Serengeti’s Endless Plains

After breakfast, you’ll leave Lake Manyara behind and set out for the Serengeti National Park—a drive of about five hours along the famous Rift Valley. As you approach, the landscape begins to unfold into the vast, rolling savannahs that define this iconic park.

Traveling through the Serengeti is a visual feast. You’ll see endless plains dotted with wildlife, a scene that’s hard to find words for. Reviewers describe the “sheer vastness” and how it leaves visitors with a sense of awe. The journey itself is part of the adventure, with your guide sharing insightful commentary along the way.

Day 4: Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater

The morning kicks off with a game drive in the Serengeti, where your guide’s eagle-eye skills come into play again. Expect to see a variety of wildlife, possibly including the Big Five, with many reviewers noting guides’ uncanny ability to anticipate animal movements and find animals that others might overlook.

Post-lunch, you’ll head east to Ngorongoro, known for its incredible crater. This UNESCO World Heritage site is often called a ‘natural zoo’ for its dense concentration of wildlife. You’ll settle into your lodge, ready for another day of exploration tomorrow.

Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater and Departure

Your final morning starts with a game drive inside the Ngorongoro Crater—a highlight for many. The crater’s bowl, filled with wildlife and stunning landscapes, is often described as a “wonder of the world.” Expect your guide to be on high alert, spotting animals at great distances and sharing fascinating insights into their behaviors.

After your game drive and picnic lunch in the crater, it’s time to head back to Arusha for your flight home. While it’s a bittersweet ending, you’ll leave with unforgettable memories of Tanzania’s wild wonders.

What Does the Price Cover and Is It Worth It?

At around $2,841, this tour is quite competitive considering it’s all-inclusive—covering accommodation, park fees, meals, transfers, and a private guide. Reviewers highlight the value of having everything arranged for them, cutting out logistical stress, and allowing full focus on wildlife and scenery.

The tour uses a comfortable 4×4 Toyota Cruiser equipped with soft drinks, coffee, tea, and water on game drives, which makes long drives more pleasant. The lodges and hotels are described as clean and well-maintained, with some reviewers mentioning the hot dinners and cozy lodges after a day of adventure.

Given the price, you’re getting a well-organized, guided experience that maximizes your chances of seeing iconic wildlife and landscapes without the hassle of planning. While some drives are long and bumpy, the comfort of the vehicle and the expertise of the guides make it worthwhile.

The Importance of Skilled Guides

Many reviewers praise guides like Freddy, Simon, and Adrian, noting their keen eyesight and wildlife knowledge. One reviewer mentioned that Freddy’s radio communication and anticipation made their game drives more successful, catching animals in action or in hidden spots.

Guides aren’t just animal spotters—they’re storytellers and educators. They explain animal behaviors, answer questions, and make sure everyone stays safe. Several reviews highlight guides’ patience, enthusiasm, and willingness to go the extra mile, which turns an ordinary safari into an extraordinary experience.

Sharing Local Insights

Guides often teach basic Swahili phrases, making interactions more authentic. For instance, one reviewer appreciated how their guide was helpful in learning some Swahili and was patient with questions about local culture.

Wildlife Spotting Skills

Reviewers repeatedly mention guides’ impressive ability to spot rare birds or elusive big cats, often from great distances. This skill adds enormous value, especially for first-time safari-goers eager to see the “Big Five.”

Logistics and Comfort

Door-to-door pickup is a major plus, especially for travelers arriving at Arusha. The transfer process is smooth, avoiding the stress of navigating local transport. Accommodation during the safari is on a full-board basis, with most lodges offering a cozy, welcoming atmosphere after long days outside.

The rough roads are worth mentioning—some drives, especially to the Ngorongoro Crater, can be bumpy. Bringing a neck pillow or some snacks can make these parts more comfortable. The vehicles are well-maintained, which is reassuring given the demanding terrain.

Timing and Duration

The 5-day schedule offers just enough time to experience Tanzania’s top parks without feeling rushed. The early start each day maximizes wildlife viewing, and the late afternoons are perfect for relaxing at your lodge or reviewing photos.

Authenticity and Review Highlights

Reviewers consistently describe their experiences as “unforgettable,” citing guides’ efforts, wildlife sightings, and scenery. Many mention that their guides told stories about the animals, making the trip feel educational and personal.

One reviewer even highlighted their guide’s helpfulness in spotting animals like lions, elephants, and even rare birds—showcasing the personalized attention from the guides. Another praised the organization, noting that everything from the airport pickup to the final game drive was handled flawlessly.

Who Is This Safari Best For?

This tour suits first-time safari visitors who want a comprehensive introduction to Tanzania’s wildlife and landscapes. It’s also ideal for travelers who prefer an all-inclusive, guided experience with minimal planning hassle.

If you love having knowledgeable guides, enjoy stunning vistas, and seek a well-organized trip that balances comfort with adventure, this safari will likely meet and exceed your expectations.

However, if you’re sensitive to rough roads or prefer ultra-luxurious accommodations, this may require some consideration. The focus here is on wildlife and scenery more than on luxury, but the vehicle comfort and guides’ expertise make up for the bumpy parts.

FAQs

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, the tour includes a personalized, door-to-door pickup and drop-off from Arusha Airport, making arrivals and departures straightforward.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast and dinner are provided during the safari, with four picnic lunches included for days out in the parks. Lodging includes full-board options, so you’re well-fed.

What is the vehicle like?
The safari uses a 4×4 Toyota Cruiser, well-maintained and equipped for rough terrain, with soft drinks, coffee, tea, and water on game drives.

Are park fees and accommodation included?
Yes, all park fees and accommodation during the safari are covered in the package, including one night in Arusha and four nights on safari.

How long are the drives?
Travel to Serengeti takes about five hours, and drives within the parks can vary from one to four hours depending on wildlife sightings and routes.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The tour is private and designed for your group, providing a safe, guided environment perfect for solo travelers or couples.

Final Thoughts

This 5-day Tanzania safari offers a well-rounded adventure through some of Africa’s most stunning landscapes. The combination of expert guides, iconic parks, and hassle-free logistics makes it a compelling choice for anyone eager to see Tanzania’s wildlife up close while enjoying comfortable accommodations.

While the roads can be bumpy, the experience of spotting lions, elephants, and thousands of other animals in their natural habitat makes every mile worth it. It’s a perfect trip for those who want a guided, all-inclusive experience that balances adventure, comfort, and authentic wildlife encounters.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving an unforgettable journey into the heart of Africa, this tour delivers a genuine, memorable safari with plenty of opportunities to marvel at nature’s wonders.

In summary, this tour is ideal for travelers who value experienced guides, seamless logistics, and iconic landscapes. It’s best suited for those looking for a comprehensive, guided experience that offers great value for money, especially for first-timers or wildlife enthusiasts eager for a genuine safari adventure in Tanzania.