05 Days Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Lake Manyara

Planning a safari in Tanzania? This 5-day adventure through some of Africa’s most renowned national parks promises unforgettable wildlife sightings, scenic landscapes, and comfortable accommodations. While we haven’t personally taken this specific tour, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a well-organized, authentic experience that offers excellent value for money.

What we love about this safari? First, the carefully crafted itinerary hits all the top spots—Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Lake Manyara. Second, travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and friendly staff, who seem to make every game drive engaging and educational. Third, the balance of game drives, good food, and comfortable lodges makes it a practical choice for those wanting a comprehensive Tanzanian safari without sacrificing comfort.

However, one thing to consider is the cost. While $1,180 per person might seem steep, the reviews highlight that the experience’s quality and inclusions—meals, park fees, private transport—offer good value. This tour suits adventurers looking for a private, intimate safari with personalized service, especially if they want to maximize wildlife viewing and enjoy the iconic parks without the hassle of planning.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Visits four major parks, including Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti, providing diverse landscapes and wildlife.
• Expert Guides: Well-reviewed guides like Emmanuel, Charles, and Tuma enhance the safari with their local knowledge and friendly demeanor.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Meals, park fees, and private transport are included, reducing hidden costs and logistical worries.
• Authentic Safari Experience: Expect close encounters with wildlife, scenic drives, and the chance to see predators, big game, and birdlife.
• Good Value: Despite the price, reviewers emphasize the quality of food, accommodations, and the overall experience making it worth the investment.
• Flexible & Private: The tour is exclusive to your group, allowing for tailored experiences and a more relaxed pace.

A Detailed Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Tarangire National Park

The adventure kicks off early with pickup from your Arusha accommodation or Kilimanjaro Airport. The drive to Tarangire, renowned for its large elephant herds and majestic baobab trees, takes around 2 to 3 hours. The full game drive, lasting about 7 hours, is the centerpiece, with a picnic lunch to keep energy high as you search for lions, giraffes, and zebra.

Travelers describe Tarangire as a lush, wildlife-rich park, especially during the dry season when animals gather around water sources. After a long day in the wild, you’ll head to a campsite outside the park, about 30 minutes away, for dinner and overnight. The location outside the park means a quieter night and a good night’s sleep before the next day’s adventures.

Day 2: Serengeti via Ngorongoro Conservation Area

An early breakfast gets you ready for a scenic drive through Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a UNESCO World Heritage site. En route to Serengeti, you’ll enjoy game viewing, with chances to spot predators and prey during the drive. The route includes stopping at Naabi Hills Gate for lunch, giving you a chance to stretch and enjoy the views.

The Serengeti is the highlight for many travelers, and the tour spends the late afternoon game driving in the Seronera area. You might find yourself captivated by the endless plains, herds of wildebeest, and the possibility of seeing big cats stalking prey. The night is spent at Seronera campsite, close to prime wildlife spotting.

Day 3: Ngorongoro Crater & Serengeti

This day starts with an early morning game drive, where reviewers note the chance to see predators hunting at sunrise. The Ngorongoro Crater is famed for its high concentration of wildlife—lions, elephants, rhinos—and an exceptional chance to observe animals in a natural amphitheater.

After a picnic lunch in the crater, you’ll continue game drives in the Serengeti, exploring different parts of this vast ecosystem. The day ends with a return to Ngorongoro Simba campsite for dinner and rest.

Day 4: Ngorongoro Crater

Descending into Ngorongoro Crater for a 6-hour game drive, you’ll see a variety of animals in a stunning volcanic caldera. The crater is often called one of the best places for wildlife viewing in Africa. Tour guides mention that the landscape and animal sightings here are spectacular, with rare black rhinos often spotted.

A picnic lunch inside the crater makes for a relaxed day. Returning outside the park, you’ll stay at a campsite outside Ngorongoro, providing a peaceful environment after a full day of wildlife encounters.

Day 5: Lake Manyara & Return to Arusha

The final day begins with an early breakfast, then a drive to Lake Manyara National Park. This smaller park offers a different landscape—alkaline lake, lush forests, and a reputation for birdlife, especially flamingos. Expect a full day of game viewing, with opportunities to see tree-climbing lions and numerous bird species.

In the afternoon, you’ll head back to Arusha, arriving around 5 pm, wrapping up a well-rounded safari experience. Reviewers mention the convenience of the timing and the chance to unwind after days of adventure.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Guides and Service: Reviewers repeatedly mention the guides’ professionalism and knowledge. Emmanuel, Charles, and Tuma are praised for their friendliness, humor, and in-depth understanding of wildlife behavior, making each game drive both fun and educational.

Food & Lodging: Food quality emerges as a highlight—reviewers rave about the delicious meals, often mentioning Emanuel’s cooking as a standout. Lodges and campsites are described as well-located with friendly staff, adding comfort to the rough-and-tumble adventure.

Wildlife & Landscape: From Tarangire’s massive herds to Serengeti’s sprawling plains and Ngorongoro’s crater floor, the scenery and wildlife are described as breathtaking. Many review snippets emphasize the rare animals and momentous sightings, like lions hunting or large elephant herds.

Value for Money: At $1,180 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package—meals, park fees, private transport, and guided game drives. Reviewers feel this is fair pricing given the quality, especially when compared to more expensive options that might not include as much.

Flexibility & Personalization: As a private tour, it allows your group to enjoy a more relaxed, tailored experience. The guides’ responsiveness and ability to answer questions in good English are also noted as adding to the trip’s smoothness.

Practical Details & Logistics

Transportation: Private vehicle transportation ensures comfort and flexibility. The timing is well-aligned with wildlife activity peaks—early mornings and late afternoons—maximizing your chances to see the animals.

Duration & Pace: The 5-day schedule is designed to balance travel time and game viewing. With roughly 6 to 7 hours of game drives daily, you’ll have ample opportunity for sightings without feeling rushed.

Inclusions & Exclusions: Meals are included (breakfast, lunch, dinner), alongside park fees and parking. The tour does not include international flights or visas, so those need to be arranged beforehand. Personal items and optional activities like balloon rides are also not included but could be added.

Booking & Cancellation: The tour is highly booked, typically 45 days in advance, and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, providing some flexibility.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This safari is perfect for travelers seeking an authentic, all-inclusive wildlife adventure, especially those who prioritize experienced guides and good food. It’s suitable for small groups or private families looking for a private experience rather than a crowded bus tour.

If you’re eager to see the Big Five and iconic landscapes like the Serengeti plains and Ngorongoro Crater in a manageable timeframe, this tour checks all the boxes. Those with a love for nature, photography, and wildlife will find this trip rewarding.

The Sum Up

This 5-day safari through Tanzania offers a wonderful mix of wildlife, scenery, and personalized service. The itinerary covers all the major parks, ensuring you experience the diversity of the Serengeti ecosystem, the majesty of Ngorongoro Crater, and the unique landscapes of Tarangire and Lake Manyara.

With knowledgeable guides, tasty meals, and comfortable campsites, it strikes a good balance between adventure and relaxation. The reviews highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the staff, especially the guides, making the experience both smooth and memorable.

While the price might be a consideration for some, the inclusions and quality of the experience suggest it’s a worthwhile investment for anyone wanting a genuine taste of Tanzania’s wildlife and landscapes. Perfect for those who want a private, guided tour that maximizes sightings and offers authentic encounters with Africa’s iconic animals.

FAQ

Is this safari suitable for first-time visitors?
Yes, the well-organized itinerary and experienced guides make it friendly for first-timers. The pace is manageable, and guides are keen to share their knowledge.

Are meals included during the trip?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included each day, with many reviewers praising Emanuel’s delicious cooking.

What parks will I visit on this tour?
You’ll visit Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Lake Manyara, each offering unique landscapes and wildlife.

Is transportation private or shared?
Transportation is private, ensuring comfort and flexibility throughout the trip.

How long are the game drives?
Game drives typically last around 6 to 7 hours each day, with some variation depending on the day’s schedule.

What are the accommodation arrangements?
You’ll stay at campsites outside the parks, close to wildlife hotspots, with reviews mentioning their good locations and friendly staff.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, providing some flexibility.

Does this tour include park entrance fees?
Yes, park fees are included in the price, so there are no hidden charges for entry.

Considering all these factors, this safari combines convenience, expert guidance, and authentic wildlife encounters—an excellent choice for travelers wanting a memorable Tanzanian adventure.