Introduction
Planning a safari in Tanzania can feel overwhelming, but this 6-day lodge and tented camp adventure offers an incredible taste of Africa’s most iconic wildlife spots. Based on rave reviews and a high rating of 5.0 from over 50 travelers, this tour delivers a blend of stunning scenery, skilled guides, and well-organized logistics that make for a memorable experience.
What we love about this safari? First, the expert guides like Eric and Nickson who seem to know every animal’s favorite hiding spot. Second, the diverse landscapes—from the lush forests to the vast plains—offer endless photographic opportunities. Third, the value for money—considering the included park fees, accommodations, and expert guiding, it’s hard to beat for a 6-day adventure.
One thing to keep in mind is the price point of $4,297 per person, which might seem high, but reviewers consistently mention the quality of the experience and the professional service that justify the cost. This safari suits travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience with a good mix of luxury and authentic adventure, especially those who prioritize wildlife viewing and stunning scenery over roughing it.
Key Points
- Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, personable guides like Eric and Nickson enhance the experience with their deep park knowledge.
- Unmatched Wildlife Viewing: From elephants in Tarangire to the Big Five in Serengeti and Ngorongoro, wildlife sightings are plentiful and well-coordinated.
- Stunning Landscapes: Expect breathtaking vistas—crater floors, savannahs, rivers—each offering unique photo opportunities.
- Well-Organized Itinerary: The itinerary balances game drives with time for relaxation, all with included park fees and meals.
- Authentic Tanzania: Visits to iconic parks give travelers a true taste of Tanzania’s natural beauty and diverse ecosystems.
- Good Value: For the price, included accommodations, park entry, and guided tours make this a competitive, hassle-free package.
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Detailed Review of the Safari Experience
Arrival and First Impressions
Your adventure kicks off at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where a Gilmag Safaris representative greets you, setting the tone for a smooth journey. From there, you’re driven to Arusha’s Elewana Arusha Coffee Lodge—a comfortable base with charming grounds, perfect for any jet-lagged traveler. The initial briefing here prepares you for what’s to come, with a sense of anticipation building.
Day 1: From Arusha to Tarangire National Park
On day two, your safari begins in Tarangire National Park, approximately 125 km from Arusha. The drive itself offers its own scenic views, but the real highlight is the game drive. The park is famous for its large elephant herds, which you’ll likely see congregated around the Tarangire River—especially during the dry season. The landscape is dotted with massive Baobab trees, adding to the surreal scenery.
Reviews emphasize the quality of this experience: “We saw all the animals we wished to see, not just the Big Five,” says a traveler. Leopards, lions, cheetahs, and zebras are common sightings here, with the possibility of spotting the endangered wild dog due to the park’s slightly offbeat location. The afternoon game drive offers ample opportunity for wildlife encounters, with plenty of time to photograph elephants and lions against the sprawling landscape.
Day 2: Ngorongoro Crater – The 8th Wonder of the World
On day three, an early start (around 6 AM) takes you into Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Descending 600 meters into the crater, you’ll feel like you’ve entered a natural wildlife arena. The crater’s floor is a breathtaking, enclosed ecosystem with a lake, grasslands, and dense forest patches.
Here, you’re likely to see black rhinos, flamingos in Lake Magadi, and a variety of herbivores—gazelles, waterbucks, hippos, zebras—and predators like lions and hyenas. Reviewers mention the presence of sleeping lions, shady spots where animals rest, and the opportunity to see flamingos in their natural habitat. The competitive mix of animals and the crater’s natural beauty make it a must-see. Travelers note that “the guide made sure we saw everything we hoped for,” adding that the experience felt both intimate and expansive.
Days 3 & 4: Serengeti National Park
The next stop is Serengeti, the world-famous plains known for their abundant wildlife and the Great Migration. The drive from Ngorongoro offers scenic views of the surrounding landscape, and once inside the park, the real adventure begins.
The Serengeti provides a massive arena for game viewing, with resident elephant, buffalo, lion, cheetah, and zebra populations. The terrain varies from short grass plains and woodlands to soda lakes and swampy areas, offering different habitats for a wide range of species.
Reviewers highlight the immense herds of wildebeest and zebra, especially around the Seronera region, which is accessible from various directions. The chance to see predators stalking prey in this iconic setting is high, with many guests mentioning how “everything went super smooth” and they saw animals they didn’t expect.
Day 5: Transition to Karatu and the Ngorongoro Highlands
After a morning game drive in Serengeti, you’ll exit the park for Karatu, passing through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area again. The drive offers picturesque views of the highlands and farmland, a stark contrast to the wide-open plains. You’ll stay at Kitela Lodge, which offers a cozy, authentic atmosphere after days spent in the wild.
Day 6: Lake Manyara National Park
Your final day takes you to Lake Manyara, famous for its pink-hued flamingos, large baboon troops, and the possibility of spotting tree-climbing lions—a rare sight that many travelers hope to catch. The park’s diverse birdlife, over 500 species, ensures a lively finish to your Tanzanian adventure.
Expect to see elephants, giraffes, hippos, and myriad bird species. The scenery here is breathtaking, with the soda lake reflecting the sky and the surrounding lush vegetation. Many travelers appreciate the park’s relaxed pace, giving everyone a chance to soak in the last moments of their safari.
Transportation & Logistics
Throughout the trip, transportation is managed by private, air-conditioned vehicles, ensuring comfort during long drives. The itinerary is carefully paced to maximize wildlife sightings during daylight hours, with most drives starting early in the morning and concluding around mid-afternoon. Reviewers frequently mention the professionalism and friendliness of guides like Gilbert, Nickson, and Eric, who are praised for their knowledge, patience, and ability to spot animals.
The inclusion of all park entry fees and meals adds significant value, simplifying the logistics of such a trip. The tour is private, so your group gets an intimate experience, free from the hassle of large group tours, which many travelers find preferable.
Accommodations & Meals
Staying at a mix of lodges and tented camps offers a balance of comfort and adventure. Reviewers love the choice of lodges like Elewana Arusha Coffee Lodge and Kubu Kubu Tented Lodge, noting their cleanliness and friendly staff. Meals are included, with plenty of fresh, local options—perfect for refueling after long days of game drives.
Guides & Customer Service
From reviews, guides like Eric, Gilbert, Nickson, and Abu shine brightly. Travelers consistently mention their deep park knowledge, friendly demeanor, and ability to spot elusive animals. Many note that guides went above and beyond, helping with luggage, navigating park routes, and ensuring sightings of everything from lions to rare birds.
Price & Value Analysis
At $4,297 per person, this safari is an investment. But considering it includes park fees, multiple days of guided game drives, luxury lodges, and all meals, many reviewers agree that the experience justifies the cost. The high ratings and repeat bookings suggest travelers feel they received good value, especially given the professionalism and personalized service.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This safari suits travelers who value expert guidance, a well-rounded itinerary, and comfort during their wildlife adventure. It’s perfect for those seeking to tick off Africa’s Big Five and experience the diverse landscapes of Tanzania in a relatively short period. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a reliable, high-quality safari will find this tour a great fit.
However, those on a tight budget or seeking a DIY approach might find it more cost-effective to assemble their own itinerary. But if hassle-free, expertly guided, and inclusive wildlife viewing are priorities, this safari hits the mark.
Final Thoughts
This 6-day Tanzania safari offers a rich combination of wildlife, landscapes, and professional guiding that’s hard to match. From the iconic Ngorongoro Crater to the sweeping plains of Serengeti and the bird-filled shores of Lake Manyara, it promises a comprehensive introduction to Tanzania’s natural beauty.
The included amenities, knowledgeable guides, and the ability to see a variety of animals in their natural habitats make it a solid value despite the higher price point. With glowing reviews praising both the organization and the guides, it’s clear that this safari delivers on its promises.
If you’re dreaming of a safari that balances comfort, authenticity, and adventure, this tour is worth considering. It’s best suited for those ready for a well-organized, wildlife-packed journey that leaves lasting memories.
FAQ
What is the duration of this safari?
It lasts approximately 6 days, covering key parks in Tanzania.
Are park entry fees included?
Yes, all park entry fees are included in the price.
What type of accommodations are used?
The tour features a mix of lodges and tented camps, offering comfort with an authentic safari feel.
Is transportation provided?
Yes, private air-conditioned vehicles are used for all transfers and game drives.
Do I need to be physically fit?
Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level, as game drives involve some walking and vehicle transfers.
Can I customize the itinerary?
This is a private tour, so adjustments can be made to suit your preferences (with prior notice).
Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included throughout the tour.
What animals are most likely to be seen?
Elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, zebras, giraffes, hippos, flamingos, and possibly wild dogs.
Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, many reviews mention family groups, and the organized itinerary makes it family-friendly.
How do guides enhance the experience?
Guides like Eric and Nickson are praised for their animal knowledge, spotting skills, and friendly approach, making the safari more engaging and rewarding.
In essence, if you’re after a well-paced, wildlife-focused safari with expert guides and stunning scenery, this 6-day Tanzania classic offers an unforgettable journey into Africa’s most iconic landscapes.