6 Days Big Five Tanzania Safari

Planning a safari to Tanzania can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options available. From stunning landscapes to incredible wildlife encounters, this 6-day Big Five safari offers a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and authentic experiences. While we haven’t done the trip ourselves, reviews and detailed itineraries suggest it’s perfect for wildlife lovers who want to see the iconic animals in their natural habitat without sacrificing quality or time.

What we love about this safari is its comprehensive itinerary covering three of Tanzania’s top parks—Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Tarangire—each offering unique sights and experiences. We also appreciate the highly experienced guides who make all the difference in spotting elusive animals and sharing fascinating insights. The luxury lodges and well-organized logistics seem to enhance the experience without inflating the price. However, travelers should consider whether a six-day schedule fits their travel plans**, as it’s a fairly packed but rewarding itinerary suited for those with limited time.

This safari works best for those seeking first-class wildlife encounters combined with cultural insights, especially if they appreciate detailed planning, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to witness the Big Five in one trip. It’s ideal for couples, families, or wildlife enthusiasts eager to see Africa’s most famous animals in a relatively short period.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Price: At $2,858 per person, the tour offers solid value considering the luxury lodges and guided game drives.
• Expert Guides: The reviews highlight guides like Elikano and others for their extensive knowledge and friendly approach.
• Diverse Ecosystems: Visiting Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro provides a broad safari experience, from grasslands to crater ecosystems.
• Rich Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalo, giraffes, and other iconic species.
• Well-Organized Itinerary: The schedule balances game drives, scenic drives, and cultural visits, maximizing wildlife viewing opportunities.
• Luxury and Comfort: Accommodation reviews emphasize outstanding lodges, often with spectacular views and quality service.

Introduction: What’s the Big Deal About This Tour?

This 6-day Big Five safari is often praised for packing a lot of wildlife action into a short, well-paced trip. You’ll visit some of Tanzania’s most renowned parks, and all from the comfort of high-end lodges and experienced guides. From the moment you’re met at Kilimanjaro International Airport, the trip promises a seamless blend of adventure and ease.

Three things stand out immediately: the chance to see the Big Five in their natural environment, the expert guidance that helps you spot animals and understand their behaviors, and the luxurious accommodations that make the trip comfortable after long days of game viewing.

One thing to keep in mind is the short duration—while packed with highlights, it’s a busy schedule, so travelers should be comfortable with early mornings and long game drives. Still, if you’re short on time but want a genuine, immersive safari experience, this package could be just right.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Arusha

Your adventure begins at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where your driver guide greets you. The drive to Arusha is a good chance to get oriented, and many reviews mention how engaging this first stretch can be—your guide might point out local sights or talk about Tanzanian culture. The drive is also an opportunity to ask questions and get a feel for what’s ahead.

Tip: Keep your camera ready; the scenery along the way can be surprisingly picturesque.

Day 2: Tarangire National Park

After a hearty breakfast, you’ll head to Tarangire, known for its large herds of elephants and impressive baobab trees. The park is famous for its abundance of wildlife, including giraffes, buffalo, zebras, wildebeests, and lions. The water source at Tarangire River draws in most animals, making it a hotspot for game viewing.

Most reviews highlight the thrill of unexplored animal sightings here—the lions lounging under trees, elephants wallowing in waterholes, and elusive predators like leopards and cheetahs, though sightings of the latter are somewhat more chance-based.

Lunch is often a picnic at a scenic spot, offering a true safari experience. The afternoon game drive continues until sunset, with many guests noting that Tarangire offers some of the best first-day wildlife sightings.

Day 3: Serengeti National Park

Early morning departure takes you through Ngorongoro Conservation Area, where the landscape transitions into the iconic African savannah. Many travelers love the drive through lush rainforests en route, where you might spot baboons or warthogs.

Upon entering Serengeti, the vast openness of the plains immediately becomes apparent. The park’s immense size means you’ll see a diverse mix of animals and landscapes—from grassy plains to kopjes (large granite outcroppings). The park is famed for its large herds of ungulates and predators stalking them.

Tip: Many guests appreciate the flexibility of game drives, with some opting for optional activities like a balloon safari (if available).

Day 4: Full Day in Serengeti

This day is often described as the highlight for wildlife enthusiasts. The morning game drive offers chances to see predators, herbivores, and perhaps even the elusive cheetah.

Many reviews mention the opportunity for a balloon safari, which concludes with champagne breakfast—a surreal way to experience the landscape. The Serengeti Kopjes are a favorite spot for many, as their towering granite formations shelter various animals and provide stunning photo opportunities.

The afternoon drive continues, with some guests noting the feeling of being in a film set—endless grasslands and roaming animals as far as the eye can see.

Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater

Today, you descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This caldera, almost 600 meters deep, is often called “Africa’s Garden of Eden” for its density of wildlife.

The crater’s self-contained ecosystem hosts lion prides, black rhinos, elephants, hippos, flamingos, and more. Guests frequently mention how close and accessible the animals are within the crater floor, making it a true wildlife spectacle.

Many reviews highlight the unique experience of seeing many species in one place, often describing it as the highlight of their safari.

Day 6: Cultural and Farewell

On your way back to Arusha, you’ll visit a local school, providing a meaningful cultural perspective. The tour includes a visit to Shanga, a social enterprise employing people with disabilities, where you can buy handmade jewelry and crafts—an enriching end to your trip.

The drive back offers stunning views and a chance to reflect on the past days’ adventures, with many guests feeling they’ve truly experienced the essence of Tanzania.

What Makes This Safari Stand Out?

Guides: The reviews praise guides like Elikano for their extensive knowledge, patience, and friendly demeanor. Travelers appreciate guides who not only spot animals but share interesting facts and stories, enriching every sighting.

Wildlife Viewing: From elephants in Tarangire to the lions of Serengeti and the density of animals in Ngorongoro, this trip offers a comprehensive look at Africa’s most iconic animals. Many guests mention the thrill of getting close and safe to animals in open vehicles, often comparing it to a life-changing experience.

Accommodations: The lodges seem to impress guests with their quality, views, and service. Many reviews mention outstanding hotel experiences, adding a layer of comfort and luxury after days of adventure.

Value for Money: Considering the inclusion of all fees, private transfers, park entry, guided game drives, and quality lodges, the cost of $2,858 per person is seen as reasonable, especially given the highly praised guides and memorable experiences.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This safari is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts who want a comprehensive, guided experience without the hassle of planning every detail. If you’re traveling with family, a partner, or friends and want to combine adventure with comfort, this trip offers excellent value.

While it covers three major parks efficiently, it’s best suited for those comfortable with early mornings and long game drives. It’s also perfect if you prefer guided tours where expert knowledge enhances each sighting.

If your goal is to see the Big Five, explore diverse ecosystems, and enjoy luxury accommodations, this safari delivers all that and more. However, if you have more time or want to focus on specific parks or activities like balloon safaris, you might consider customizing your options.

FAQs

How many days does the safari last?
The tour is six days long, providing a well-rounded experience of Tanzania’s top parks within a manageable timeframe.

Are all park entrance fees included?
Yes, all fees and taxes are included in the price, simplifying the planning process.

What’s the accommodation like?
Guests report staying in outstanding lodges with spectacular views, good service, and a comfortable environment after long days of game viewing.

Can I expect to see the Big Five?
While wildlife sightings depend on luck, reviews consistently mention high chances of spotting lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalo, and leopards in the parks visited.

Is transportation comfortable?
Transport is by private vehicle, with experienced guides. Many reviews highlight the comfort and reliability of the vehicles used, especially given the early start times and long drives.

What is the best time to take this safari?
While the specific season isn’t mentioned, most safaris in Tanzania are popular during the dry season (June to October), when wildlife congregates around water sources and visibility is better.

Final Word

This 6-day Big Five safari offers a carefully curated mix of prime wildlife encounters, professional guides, and comfortable lodging—all at a reasonable price point. It’s perfect for travelers who crave an authentic, guided adventure that covers Tanzania’s most iconic parks in a manageable, exciting itinerary.

If you’re after a well-organized, memorable, and wildlife-rich trip, this safari ticks all the boxes. It’s especially suited for those with limited time but a desire to experience Africa’s legendary animals and landscapes in style.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to tick off your wildlife bucket list, this tour promises moments that will stay with you long after you leave Tanzania.