Planning a safari to Tanzania is no small feat, and with so many options available, it’s important to find one that balances adventure, comfort, and authenticity. This 9-day tour, offered by Silver Sky Travel, promises a comprehensive exploration of the iconic Northern Circuit game parks with a focus on seeing the Big Five, witnessing the Great Migration, and experiencing the unique landscapes that make Tanzania a legendary safari destination.
What we love about this tour are three standout features: the carefully curated itinerary that hits all the top parks, the inclusion of private, open-roof 4×4 vehicles for optimal game viewing, and the variety of accommodation styles, from lodges to tented camps, that add both comfort and adventure. A potential consideration might be the pace—while packed with activities, some travelers might find it quite full, especially if they prefer a more relaxed approach.
This safari is ideal for those who want to see the highlights of Tanzania in a well-organized, immersive way. It’s perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, first-time visitors wanting a complete introduction, and those eager to combine comfort with authentic bush experiences.
Key Points
- Comprehensive itinerary covering Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro, Serengeti, and Ndutu.
- Private vehicle with open roof for better game viewing and flexibility.
- Variety of accommodations including lodges, tents, and tented camps with private bathrooms.
- All-inclusive pricing covering meals, park fees, and transfers, offering good value.
- Expert guides (notably Bariki) who provide knowledgeable and personalized insights.
- Perfect for travelers seeking a balance of adventure, comfort, and authentic wildlife encounters.
Arriving in Tanzania: First Impressions and Transfers
Your adventure begins with a warm welcome at Kilimanjaro International Airport. The tour includes a pickup by your dedicated driver-guide, who is typically experienced and friendly—reviewers mention guides like Bariki, known for their helpfulness and local expertise. You’ll be driven to Arusha, a vibrant town that acts as a hub for safaris. Expect a brief introduction to the area, setting the tone for the days ahead.
This initial transfer isn’t just about logistics—it’s your first taste of Tanzanian hospitality. It’s a smooth start, with comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles and WiFi onboard, helping you settle into the journey.
Looking for more options in Kilimanjaro? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Day 2: Tarangire National Park – Elephants and Birdlife Galore
Getting an early start, you’ll leave Arusha and head south to Tarangire National Park. This park is often called the ‘Elephant Playground’ because of its enormous herds. The drive itself is scenic, with lush landscapes giving way to the distinctive baobab trees and savannahs.
Arriving around noon at your lodge, you’ll enjoy a hearty lunch before heading out on your first game drive. Here’s where the real magic begins. Expect to see big cats like lions, cheetahs, and leopards, along with zebras, wildebeest, buffalo, and various antelopes. Birdwatchers will appreciate Tarangire’s diverse avian population—an excellent birding location.
Reviewers highlight how well-organized the game drives are, with knowledgeable guides pointing out interesting behaviors and bird species. The open-roof vehicle enhances the experience, offering panoramic views and photo opportunities. After an afternoon exploring, you’ll return to your lodge for dinner and rest.
Day 3: Lake Manyara – A Landscape of Shifting Views and Unique Wildlife
After breakfast, you’ll depart with a picnic lunch for Lake Manyara National Park. This park is famous for its stunning scenery—acidic lakes, lush woodlands, and the towering Great Rift Valley escarpment.
The landscape changes dramatically from Tarangire, offering a different kind of game-viewing experience. Expect to see elephants, giraffes, hippos, impalas, and perhaps the elusive tree-climbing lions, which are a highlight here. Lake Manyara itself is renowned for its flamingos and heron colonies.
Reviewers mention the park’s incredible beauty, with one calling it “the loveliest lake in Africa,” a quote from Ernest Hemingway. The variety of habitats means you’ll see a range of animals in a relatively small area, making this a rewarding day.
Day 4: Ngorongoro Crater – The Bathtub of Wildlife
Leaving early, your journey takes you to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, home to the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater. Descending 600 meters into the crater, you’ll experience a natural amphitheater teeming with wildlife.
This crater is often considered a microcosm of Africa’s wildlife, with over 30,000 animals. Expect to see lions, elephants, rhinos (including the rare black rhino), buffalos, zebras, hippos, flamingos, and a huge variety of birdlife. The terrain is lush, the scenery breathtaking, and the chance of spotting the Big Five is high here.
Reviews speak of the crater’s “wonder of the world” status and the thrill of seeing such diversity in one place. Your guide will be key in helping spot animals and sharing insights into their behaviors.
Day 5: Lake Ndutu – The Heart of Migration and Predator Action
Next, you’ll head to the Lake Ndutu area, part of the Ngorongoro conservation zone and the southern Serengeti ecosystem. Arriving around lunchtime, you’ll settle into your camp or lodge.
In the afternoon, a game drive in Ndutu offers the chance to see elephants, lions, cheetahs, and large herds of resident game. From December to April, this area is famous for the wildebeest calving season—an incredible sight of tiny, newly born calves vulnerable to predators.
Reviewers mention the area’s busy wildlife scene and its role as a breeding ground for the migration. The landscape features a mix of short-grass plains, woodlands, and soda lakes, giving different vantage points for wildlife spotting.
Days 6 & 7: Serengeti – The Iconic Plains and Wildebeest Migrations
Two full days are dedicated to exploring the Serengeti, especially the central Seronera region, which is rich in wildlife thanks to the permanent water source provided by the Seronera River. Here, you’ll encounter large prides of lions, cheetahs, elephants, and countless zebras and wildebeest.
In particular, July through October is the prime time to witness the Great Migration, when over two million animals move across these plains in search of greener pastures. Reviewers emphasize how witnessing this movement is awe-inspiring, describing it as “one of the greatest wonders of the natural world.”
The days are filled with game drives, and the open 4×4 vehicles with panoramic roofs make sure you’re immersed in the scenery. Expect long, exciting days with chances to photograph wildlife close-up.
Day 8: Serengeti Wagakuria – The Lion Capital
Your last big game drive in the Serengeti is in Wagakuria, famous for its large lion prides—some as big as 30 members, according to reviews. This area boasts high animal densities, making it a hotspot for wildlife sightings.
Many travelers find this day particularly memorable because of the sheer number of predators and herbivores coexisting in this part of the park. Expect to see predator hunting behaviors or resting lion prides, and perhaps even a glimpse of cheetahs or leopards.
Day 9: Morning Game Drive & Departure
On your final morning, a last game drive offers one last chance at wildlife sightings—best early in the morning when animals are most active. Returning to the lodge for breakfast, you’ll then be transferred to Seronera airstrip for your flight back to Kilimanjaro.
The logistics of this last day are straightforward, with quick transfers ensuring you’re on time for your flight home, and many reviewers appreciate the smoothness of the process.
Considering the $4,000 price per person, this safari covers nearly everything—meals, park entry fees, private transport, and varied accommodations—making it a strong value for a comprehensive Tanzanian experience. The private vehicle with an open roof is a significant plus, offering better wildlife views and more photo opportunities than group tours.
The accommodations, blending lodges and tented camps, strike a balance between comfort and authentic adventure, which many travelers find enhances the overall trip. The experienced guides, highlighted in reviews for their knowledge and friendly attitude, hugely contribute to the quality of the experience.
This tour is best suited for first-time safari goers or those wanting to see Tanzania’s top parks in one organized trip. It’s also ideal for travelers who value having all logistics handled, from transfers to park fees. Wildlife lovers, birdwatchers, and anyone eager to witness the Great Migration or the crater’s wildlife diversity will find this tour rewarding.
For those who want a relaxed experience with plenty of comfort, the variety of accommodations provides a good mix. However, if you prefer a slower pace or more time relaxing in one spot, this trip might feel somewhat busy.
This 9-day safari offers a rich, balanced taste of Tanzania’s most famous parks, packed with incredible wildlife encounters and scenic landscapes. The well-planned itinerary ensures you won’t miss key highlights, while the private vehicle and expert guides elevate the experience.
Travelers will appreciate the variety of landscapes—from the acacia woodlands of Lake Manyara to the endless plains of Serengeti—and the chance to see iconic species like lions, elephants, rhinos, and, when lucky, the Big Five.
If you’re after a comprehensive, organized, and authentic Tanzanian safari that provides excellent value, this tour is hard to beat. It’s perfect for adventurers eager to explore the wild heart of Africa while enjoying a comfortable, well-managed journey.
What is included in the tour price?
The price covers all fees and taxes, meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), accommodation in lodges and tents, park entry fees, private vehicle with open roof, bottled water, and WiFi onboard.
Are airport transfers included?
Yes, pickup at Kilimanjaro International Airport is included, and transfers to the airstrip at the end of the trip are also provided.
What types of accommodations will I stay in?
A mix of hotel, tented lodge, and tented camps, all with private bathroom facilities, offering a balance of comfort and adventure.
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the guided experience is designed to be accessible. Guides like Bariki are known for being friendly and helpful.
How many people will be in the vehicle?
While the exact group size isn’t specified, the tour emphasizes a private vehicle, meaning your party will have exclusive use of the vehicle during excursions.
What is the best time to see the Great Migration?
July to October is considered the most desirable months, especially for witnessing the migration in action across Serengeti’s plains.
Can I customize this safari?
Since it’s a private tour, there might be room for customization, but it’s best to check directly with the provider.
Are there any optional extra costs?
Alcoholic beverages, flights, visas, personal expenses, laundry, and phone calls are not included.
What should I pack for this safari?
Practical clothing for varying weather, binoculars, camera gear, sun protection, and a sense of adventure are recommended.
This 9-day Tanzania safari with Silver Sky Travel offers an outstanding combination of wildlife viewing, culture, and comfortable accommodations. The well-designed itinerary covers all major parks, with expert guides and private transport ensuring a smooth, personalized experience. Its value is especially evident considering the inclusive package covering all fees and meals, making it ideal for those seeking a comprehensive yet hassle-free adventure.
Travelers who prioritize seeing the Big Five, witnessing the Great Migration, and exploring diverse landscapes will find this trip perfectly suited to their desires. The tour balances authentic encounters with comfort, making it a fantastic choice for both first-time safari-goers and seasoned travelers.
If you’re ready to explore Tanzania’s wild heart and want a thoughtfully curated experience, this safari could very well be your next unforgettable adventure.