Best 5 Days Tanzania Private Luxury Safari with luxury Lodges

Planning a safari in Tanzania usually involves a mix of adventure and luxury, and this 5-day private safari promises just that—an elegant journey through some of the country’s most iconic landscapes. While it caters to those seeking a touch of indulgence, it also offers authentic wildlife experiences and breathtaking scenery, all wrapped in the comfort of top-tier lodges.

What makes this safari particularly appealing? For starters, the expert guides seem to know their wildlife like the back of their hand, offering insights that elevate the experience beyond simple sightseeing. The stunning views at each stop—from the vast plains of Serengeti to the pink-hued Lake Natron—are genuinely captivating. Plus, the all-inclusive meals and bottled water mean you can relax without worrying about extra costs.

However, it’s worth noting that this is a private tour with a set schedule, which might not suit travelers looking for a flexible or spontaneous trip. Also, at over $3,000 per person, it’s an investment, but one that many reviews suggest delivers solid value considering the luxury accommodations and included activities. This tour is best suited for travelers craving an indulgent, well-organized African safari combined with unique cultural encounters and spectacular scenery.

Key Points

• Luxury Lodges: Enjoy three nights of high-end accommodations with all meals included.
• Authentic Wildlife: Experience game drives in Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro with expert guides.
• Unique Excursions: Hike Oldoinyo Lengai, visit Lake Natron, and explore the pink flamingo habitat.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Meals, bottled water, and transportation are covered, making logistics simpler.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance wildlife sightings with detailed insights.
• Ideal for: Those seeking a combination of adventure, comfort, and culture in Tanzania.

An Overview of the Safari Experience

This safari is designed as a comprehensive adventure that balances luxury comfort with authentic wilderness encounters. Over five days, travelers get to explore Tanzania’s iconic parks and lesser-known gems, with the bonus of staying in high-end lodges. It’s particularly appealing for those who want a guided experience that combines wildlife, nature, and some active pursuits like hiking.

The tour’s main selling points are the luxury lodges, which provide a peaceful retreat after long days of exploration. The included meals and bottled water remove the hassle of logistics, allowing you to focus on enjoying your surroundings. Plus, the transportation to and from Arusha or Moshi is arranged, meaning you won’t need to worry about transfers.

Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Day 1: Tarangire National Park

Your journey begins with a morning departure from Arusha, heading straight into Tarangire. Known for its large herds of elephants and iconic baobab trees, this park offers a classic start to your safari. Expect a full-day game drive where the guides’ expertise shines—many reviewers praised guides like Burigi Chato Safaris for their professionalism and detailed knowledge.

A picnic lunch amidst the wildlife adds a rustic charm, and as the sun begins to set, you’ll move to a luxurious lodge in Karatu or the Manyara region. The overnight stay here gives a chance to unwind and reflect on your first taste of Tanzanian wildlife.

Day 2: Serengeti National Park

After breakfast, the journey continues southward, with a stop at the Ngorongoro Conservation Area for panoramic views—“breathtaking,” as many reviews describe it. Arriving at the heart of the Serengeti, you’ll check into a high-end lodge in Central Seronera, the safari’s wildlife hub.

This area is famed for its expansive plains and incredible animal diversity. The quiet afternoon allows you to relax, get familiar with the surroundings, or enjoy optional activities like a sunset viewing.

Day 3: Serengeti Exploration & Optional Hot Air Balloon

This day is dedicated to exploring the vast Central Serengeti, where you’ll encounter resident animals and, depending on the season, witness the Great Migration. Many travelers appreciated the guides’ ability to spot wildlife, with some mentioning that guides like Burigi Chato Safaris “told us everything we could do and helped us choose the best options.”

For a truly memorable experience, consider the optional hot air balloon safari—the views over the plains at dawn are unforgettable. Afterward, a leisurely picnic lunch in the wild keeps the day relaxed.

Day 4: Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater

The morning game drive in the Serengeti offers more wildlife sightings before breakfast. Later, the journey takes you to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, with a stop at the crater rim. Here, you’ll check into a luxurious lodge overlooking the crater—a teeming ecosystem that’s often described as a “natural wildlife sanctuary.”

In reviews, guests mention the breathtaking scenery at Ngorongoro, and the expert guiding made each game drive educational and exciting. The afternoon allows for optional activities or just soaking in the views.

Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater & Return

On your final day, an early descent into the Ngorongoro Crater promises a full-day game drive, with chances to see lions, elephants, hippos, and more. Many reviews highlight the well-organized logistics and the delicious packed lunches that keep you energized in the wild.

As the day wraps up, you’ll head back to Arusha or Moshi, with arrival in the evening. Some travelers choose to stay overnight, extending their adventure, while others prefer immediate transfers.

Practical Details & Value

Transportation & Timing

The tour uses private transport, making the journey comfortable and efficient. The start time at 8:00 am ensures you beat the crowds and maximize wildlife viewing. The long drives (around 6 hours each day) are balanced by the comfort of the vehicle and scenic stops, like the Ngorongoro viewpoint.

Accommodation & Meals

Staying in luxury lodges means you’ll enjoy well-appointed rooms with stunning views, often on crater rims or near wildlife hotspots. The all-inclusive meals and bottled water are a great perk, especially in remote areas where dining options are limited.

Guides & Expertise

Guests consistently commend the guides, like those from Burigi Chato Safaris, for their professionalism, knowledge, and friendly attitude. Many mention the guides’ ability to spot animals quickly and explain wildlife behaviors, enriching the experience.

Cost & Value

At $3,174 per person, this safari isn’t cheap, but considering luxury lodging, all meals, private transport, and expert guiding, it offers good value. The reviews suggest that many travelers felt the quality of the experience justified the price, especially given the delicious food, excellent hospitality, and exclusive nature of the private tour.

Unique Experiences & Highlights from Reviews

• Hiking Ol Doinyo Lengai: Several reviews mention the thrill of hiking this active volcano, which is often included in extended tours. Travelers describe the ascent as “lovely” and the views from the top as “breathtaking,” with some noting the visit to the pink lake as a perfect warm-up activity.

• Lake Natron: Many reviewers highlight the spectacular scenery, with its pink flamingos and reflective waters. The excellent organization by Burigi Chato Safaris makes it a must-see, especially for bird lovers or those wanting to see less-visited sites.

• Wildlife & Nature: Guides are praised for their knowledgeable narration, turning game drives into engaging educational experiences. Many guests appreciated the good value for money, citing the delicious food and top-tier lodges as highlights.

• Special Activities: Some reviewers enjoyed swimming at Lake Natron or kayaking, describing these as unique and fun ways to connect with nature. Others loved the short walks from campsites to the lake, emphasizing the peaceful, natural atmosphere.

The Sum Up

This 5-day Tanzania safari offers a luxurious yet authentic wildlife adventure that balances engaging game drives with memorable excursions like hiking Oldoinyo Lengai and exploring Lake Natron. The expert guides and high-end lodges elevate the experience, making it ideal for travelers seeking comfort without sacrificing the thrill of Tanzania’s wilderness.

If you’re someone who appreciates delicious food, stunning scenery, and well-organized logistics, this tour will likely meet your expectations. It’s particularly suitable for those who want an all-inclusive, private experience with a focus on wildlife, cultural encounters, and spectacular landscapes.

While the price point might be high for some, the value delivered through luxury accommodations, expert guiding, and unique excursions makes it a worthwhile investment for an unforgettable Tanzanian adventure.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this safari?
Yes, transportation to and from Arusha or Moshi is included, and you’ll travel comfortably in private vehicles each day.

What’s the accommodation like?
You’ll stay in luxury lodges for three nights, which offer high-end rooms, scenic views, and all meals included.

Are meals provided during the trip?
Yes, all meals are included, along with bottled water, ensuring you’re well-fed after days of exploration.

Can I customize the tour?
This is a private tour, so while the itinerary is fixed, you can discuss optional activities, like hot air balloon rides or additional hikes.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Common sightings include elephants, lions, hippos, flamingos, and other resident animals, especially in Serengeti and Ngorongoro.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While most reviews emphasize adult travelers, the private nature and comfortable accommodation could suit families with older children.

How physically demanding are the activities?
Game drives involve some sitting and spotting wildlife; hiking Oldoinyo Lengai is more active and requires moderate fitness.

What is the best time to do this safari?
While not specified, many of the highlights, like the flamingos and migrations, are seasonal, so check the specific timing for optimal wildlife viewing.

This safari balances luxury and adventure in a way that promises both comfort and genuine encounters with Tanzania’s natural beauty. Whether you’re a wildlife fanatic, a culture enthusiast, or simply seeking a high-end escape, this tour offers a well-rounded, unforgettable experience.