Discover Tanzania’s Iconic Wildlife on a 5-Day Safari
This 5-day safari promises an adventure packed with breathtaking wildlife encounters, from the legendary Big Five to the incredible wildebeest migration. While we haven’t personally joined this tour, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a well-organized, authentic experience—perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and those eager to see the best of Tanzania’s wilderness.
What we love most about this safari is the opportunity to explore multiple iconic parks — Serengeti, Tarangire, and Ngorongoro — in a relatively short period, maximizing wildlife sightings. The chance to witness the wildebeest migration is a significant draw for many, as it’s one of Africa’s most spectacular natural events. Plus, the variety of accommodation options, from luxury tents to budget camping, makes it adaptable for different travel styles.
One aspect to consider is the pace; with early mornings and long days of game drives, this tour requires energy and patience. But if you’re after immersive wildlife viewing with professional guides, this is an experience that offers great value for the price.
This safari suits travelers who love authentic encounters, are comfortable with a busy schedule, and want to see some of Africa’s most famous landscapes within a manageable timeframe.
Key Points
Stunning wildlife sightings: The tour covers all the Big Five and the wildebeest migration, giving a comprehensive view of Tanzania’s most iconic animals.
Expert guides: Reviewers consistently praise their guides, especially for their wildlife knowledge and ability to adapt the itinerary to guests’ wishes.
Flexible accommodation options: From luxury tents at Serengeti to budget camping, there’s a choice to suit different comfort levels and budgets.
Efficient itinerary: The 5-day plan covers three major parks, maximizing wildlife viewing opportunities without feeling rushed.
Value for money: At $1,860 per person, this tour offers a balanced mix of guided expertise, transportation, and park entrance fees, making it a solid investment for wildlife lovers.
Well-reviewed reliability: With an average rating of 5.0 from eight reviews, this tour has proven to satisfy travelers looking for a memorable safari experience.
Exploring the Itinerary in Detail
Looking for more options in Moshi? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Day 1: Tarangire National Park – The Wildlife Gateway
Starting from Arusha, the journey to Tarangire is a highlight in itself. Known for its dense animal populations, especially during the dry season, Tarangire has a reputation as a prime spot for game viewing. As one reviewer mentioned, “Tarangire is famous for its dense wildlife population, which is most spectacular between June and September.”
Expect to see wildebeest, buffalo, and Oryx migrating towards the Tarangire River, where water sources attract huge herds. Predators like lions and leopards often follow these herds, adding drama to your game drives. Birdwatchers will appreciate over 500 bird species, making it a birding paradise.
After a day of wildlife spotting, you’ll settle in at Octagon Lodge. The relaxed late afternoon game drive is the perfect way to get your first taste of the African wild.
Day 2 & 3: The Heart of the Safari – Serengeti National Park
A pre-breakfast start takes you from Manyara to the legendary Serengeti, a highlight for many travelers. En route, the landscape begins to change, and the sense of being in a vast wilderness grows stronger. The drive itself is part of the adventure, with chances of spotting animals crossing or resting along the way.
The first afternoon game drive in Serengeti is exciting; from lions lounging in the grass to cheetahs stalking prey, the park’s diversity is staggering. As one reviewer put it, “We saw them all,” emphasizing the richness of wildlife encounters here.
During Day 3, you’ll enjoy an early morning game drive—an ideal time to see predators on the prowl—and an optional picnic or hot lunch. As the day progresses, the landscape shifts, offering constantly changing scenery and wildlife activity. The guided commentary helps you understand animal behavior and park ecology, adding depth to your experience.
The luxury tented Serengeti Heritage Camp provides comfortable respite after long days, with many reviewers noting the high standards and attentive staff.
Day 4: Ngorongoro Conservation Area – The Crater Experience
Leaving Serengeti, you’ll head to the Ngorongoro Crater Rim, where the landscape dramatically drops into the world’s largest inactive volcanic caldera. The early morning game drive in Serengeti gives you a final chance for wildlife sightings before heading to Ngorongoro.
Descending into the crater, you’ll be in one of Africa’s most concentrated wildlife zones. As one guest described, “All of the Big Five live in this caldera,” making it an incredible place for close-up sightings. Expect to see rhinos, lions, elephants, buffalo, and leopards, plus flamingos and other waterbirds around Soda Lake.
Lunch at Ngoitoktok Swamp offers a relaxing break with views of hippos and wading birds, making it an ideal picnic spot. The night at Ngorongoro Wildlife Lodge puts you close to the action for another game drive the next morning.
Day 5: The Final Game Drive and Return
Your last day begins early with a descent into Ngorongoro’s crater floor. Here, wildlife viewing reaches a peak, with the chance to see the Big Five in one place. One reviewer fondly recalled the experience as “an amazing safari,” highlighting the thrill of spotting rhinos and lions in such a dense wildlife setting.
After lunch at the crater, the tour winds down with a scenic drive back to Arusha, ending your safari with plenty of memories—and hopefully a camera full of incredible shots.
Practical Details and Value
Transportation & Guides
The tour provides private transportation, which ensures a comfortable and personalized experience. The guides are praised for their extensive knowledge and ability to adapt the daily plans, making wildlife sightings more predictable and enjoyable. The mention of guides like Ramadhan Chambuso and Jackson in reviews highlights the importance of experienced, attentive drivers who know exactly where to look and how to get close to the animals.
Accommodation & Comfort
With options ranging from luxury tented camps to budget camping, this tour caters to different preferences. Reviewers appreciated the high standards at Serengeti Heritage Camp, citing friendly staff and comfortable setups, which add a layer of relaxation after long days of game drives.
Value & Cost
At $1,860 per person, the package includes all fees, taxes, and meals, offering solid value—especially considering the inclusion of park entrance fees and private transport. When you consider the cost of separate park tours, guides, and accommodations, it’s a convenient package for serious wildlife watchers.
Duration & Pacing
The 5-day schedule is well-paced, balancing early mornings with ample wildlife viewing and some downtime. Expect long days, with some reviews mentioning 10-hour game drives, but most agree that the experience is worth every second.
Why This Safari Works Well
Travelers who love wildlife photography, big game, and witnessing iconic African landscapes will find this tour a perfect fit. The focus on the Big Five and the wildebeest migration means you’re likely to go home with spectacular photos and stories.
The flexibility in accommodation allows for a more comfortable or budget-friendly experience, making it accessible to different traveler preferences. The guides’ reputation for adaptability and wildlife expertise ensures you’ll get the most out of your encounters, which is key to truly memorable safaris.
Who Should Consider This Safari?
This safari suits adventure-minded travelers eager to see Africa’s most famous parks in a compact timeframe. If you’re comfortable with early starts and long days of game drives, you’ll appreciate the immersive wildlife experience.
It’s also ideal for those who want a dependable, well-reviewed operator like Kili Slope Tours, known for knowledgeable guides and reliable service. If you’re after a trip that balances guided expertise, scenic landscapes, and authentic animal encounters, this tour hits the mark.
FAQ
Is pickup offered?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel or specified location in Moshi or Arusha.
Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian meals are available if advised at booking.
What’s included in the price?
All fees and taxes, private transportation, meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), and accommodation during the safari are included.
Are park entrance fees covered?
Yes, all park fees are included in the tour cost.
What accommodation options are available?
You can choose from luxury tented camps or budget camping options, depending on your preference.
How long are the game drives?
Expect daily game drives from early morning until sunset, with some days reaching 10 hours of wildlife viewing.
Is this a private tour?
Yes, only your group participates, ensuring a personalized experience.
What’s the best time for this safari?
While not explicitly stated, the best wildlife viewing tends to be during June to September, especially for the wildebeest migration.
In summary, this 5-day safari offers a well-rounded and authentic glimpse into Tanzania’s wildlife. With expert guides, flexible accommodation options, and the chance to see the Big Five and wildebeest migration, it’s a compelling choice for adventurous travelers wanting a deep dive into Africa’s wilderness. While the days are long and the pace lively, the wealth of animals, stunning landscapes, and expert guidance make it clear this trip delivers real value for wildlife lovers eager for an unforgettable adventure.
More 1-Day Tours in Moshi
More Tour Reviews in Moshi
Still browsing? Here are more Moshi experiences we've covered recently
- 10-Day Predators Tanzania Safari Luxury Package
- 1 Day Tour to Materuni Waterfalls and Coffee Tour
- 3 Days Lodge Safari
- 3 days Luxury Safari Tour in Tanzania
- 4 Days, 3 Nights Group budget Safari, Lake Manyara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro
- 5 Days Camping Tarangire, Serengeti & Ngorongoro crater & Visiting Maasai
- 5 Days African Safaris
- 5 Days Lodge Safari – Lake Manyara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire.
- 5 Days (4 Night) Marangu Route
- 5 Days Special Safari to see migration
- 5 days Safari to Tarangire, Ngorongoro, Serengeti and Lake Manyara
- Affordable 6 Days Kilimanjaro Climbing tour via Marangu Route