6 Days Mid – Range Lodge Safari To Lake Manyara Serengeti Ngorongoro & Tarangire

Introducing the 6 Days Mid-Range Lodge Safari to Lake Manyara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro & Tarangire

If you’re dreaming of an unforgettable Tanzanian adventure, this 6-day lodge safari offers a fantastic blend of wildlife sightings, scenic vistas, and comfortable accommodations. Though we haven’t personally been on this exact tour, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews suggest it’s an excellent choice for those seeking a balanced, authentic safari experience without the luxury price tag.

What we love about it? First, the variety of parks is impressive—each with its unique appeal. Second, the inclusion of a knowledgeable guide (like Baraka, who earned praise for his friendliness and expertise) makes a world of difference. Third, the accommodation seems well-chosen for comfort and convenience, making longer game drives enjoyable rather than exhausting.

A possible consideration? The tour’s pace is quite packed, which means long days are likely, especially for those who prefer a more relaxed trip. Still, for travelers eager to maximize their wildlife encounters in a short time, this is a big plus.

This tour fits best for adventurous travelers who want a comprehensive Tanzanian safari that combines iconic parks, wildlife, and cultural stops while sticking to a mid-range budget.

Key Points

• Diverse destinations ensure a comprehensive wildlife experience across Tanzania’s top parks.
• Expert guides like Baraka add value through their local knowledge and friendly approach.
• Comfortable lodges and campsites provide a restful retreat after long game drives.
• Time-efficient itinerary packs in key sights but requires energetic days.
• Includes a hot air balloon option (for an extra fee), offering a breathtaking view of the Serengeti plains.
• Fair price point considering the variety of parks visited and the included game drives.

An In-Depth Look at the 6-Day Tanzania Safari Experience

Starting Strong at Lake Manyara

Your adventure kicks off with a 130km drive from Moshi to Lake Manyara National Park, known for its picturesque soda lake and lush forests. The early departure at 8:30 am means you’ll arrive with plenty of daylight left for game viewing. Lake Manyara is famous for its tree-climbing lions—rarely seen elsewhere—making it a highlight, especially for wildlife enthusiasts eager for unique sights.

Expect to see buffalo, giraffes, hippos, troops of baboons, flamingos, ostriches, Egyptian geese, and more. The park’s varied terrain, from waterlogged lakes to dense forests, guarantees a diverse array of animals and birds. The included packed lunch allows for a picnic amidst nature, a favorite for many past travelers.

The late afternoon drive to the campsite signals a shift to more relaxed wildlife spotting and prepares you for the next day’s adventures. Staying in a well-located campsite ensures easy access to the park’s main features without the commute.

The Magnificent Serengeti—The Heart of the Safari

Day 2 takes you into the legendary Serengeti, a sprawling 14,763 square kilometers of endless plains. Here, you’ll get a taste of what many describe as “one of the last great wildlife refuges,” with an estimated three million large animals, including the famous migration.

The first stop offers a quick yet impactful visit. The Serengeti’s vastness and the chance to spot predators like lions, cheetahs, and vultures are what make this park look like a postcard. The views are stunning, and you’ll understand why it’s considered Africa’s wildlife crown jewel.

For those who opt for the hot air balloon ride (at an extra $500), this is where you’ll get a bird’s-eye perspective of the migration and landscape—an unforgettable experience. The aerial view reveals the scale and beauty of the plains, with animals dotting the horizon.

Exploring the Seronera and Kopjes Circuits

Day 3’s early morning game drive along the Sogore River circuit is praised for its high chance of spotting lions, gazelles, and cheetahs. The proximity of wildlife in these areas makes for excellent photo opportunities. The Serengeti Visitor Center, nearby Seronera Lodge, offers educational displays and souvenirs—perfect for a quick learning break.

In the afternoon, the Kopjes circuit introduces you to the iconic granite rock formations that serve as lion hideouts. The reviewers mention seeing large lions, and even large cobras—highlighting the park’s predator diversity. The guide’s local knowledge enhances the experience, helping you understand animal behaviors and the landscape.

The optional balloon ride adds a luxurious touch, but even without it, the game drives are highly rewarding, with viewers describing the landscape as wild and unspoiled, yet accessible.

Descending into the Ngorongoro Crater

Day 4 takes you to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, with a stop at Olduvai Gorge, often called the “Cradle of Humanity.” Here, you’ll see important archaeological sites linked to early human ancestors—an intriguing cultural and historical stop.

Descending over 600 meters into the crater, you’ll enter a self-contained wildlife sanctuary teeming with animals. The crater floor supports more than 25,000 large mammals, including rhinos, elephants, lions, and buffalos. The reviewers describe it as a “real-life Eden” where animals often come close enough for spectacular photos.

This day’s safari offers perhaps the most concentrated wildlife viewing, and the experience of being in a natural amphitheater makes it feel like stepping into a live wildlife documentary.

The Wilderness of Tarangire

Day 5 begins with a drive to Tarangire National Park, known for its ancient baobab trees and the year-round water sources that attract large herds during dry seasons. The park’s relatively lesser crowds compared to the Serengeti and Ngorongoro make it a more peaceful experience, according to past visitors.

You’ll find unique species here, such as the greater kudu, fringed eared oryx, and the striking ashy starlings. The landscape, with its combination of woodlands, wetlands, and expansive plains, offers fantastic photo opportunities.

An afternoon game drive reveals the park’s rich biodiversity. The park’s natural beauty and fewer visitors mean you’ll often feel like you have the wilderness to yourself.

Wrapping Up With a Return to the Crater Floor

On the final day, you revisit the Ngorongoro Crater for a second game drive, exploring the lush crater floor as animals roam freely. The crater’s dense population of wildlife, including elephants, lions, zebras, and rhinos, makes for a fitting finale.

Post-safari, you’ll head back to Moshi, ending the trip with memories of exceptional landscapes and wildlife encounters.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While the price point of around $4,615 per person might seem steep at first glance, you’re paying for a well-rounded experience that combines major parks, expert guiding, and comfortable lodges. The inclusion of multiple parks ensures you get a broad overview of Tanzanian wildlife and landscapes, making every moment worth it.

The park entries are included, and the tour’s organized structure minimizes hassle, letting you focus on spotting animals and soaking in the scenery. The optional hot air balloon ride adds a layer of adventure without the stress of planning or extra logistics.

Travelers praise the guides, especially their knowledge and friendly demeanor, which significantly enhances the experience. The reviews mention how guides like Baraka are attentive, informative, and capable of spotting animals others might miss—crucial in a game drive.

The accommodation quality appears to balance comfort and immersion, offering restful nights after long days of exploration. The tour’s group size, capped at 15 travelers, keeps the experience intimate and personalized.

Who Would Benefit Most?

This tour is perfect for those who want an intensive, authentic safari experience without the luxury price tag. It’s ideal for travelers eager to see big game, iconic landscapes, and unique wildlife behaviors in a relatively short timeframe.

It’s especially suited for adventure-minded visitors willing to keep a lively pace and appreciate expert guides and well-chosen lodges. If you’re keen on capturing the classic Tanzanian safari, this trip delivers on that front.

FAQ about the 6-Day Tanzanian Safari

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers park entries, game drives, accommodation at lodges and campsites, and transportation from Moshi. It’s a comprehensive package for a well-rounded safari experience.

Are meals provided during the tour?
Yes, packed lunches are included for the game drives, and dinners are part of the lodge stay each night.

Can I do the hot air balloon ride?
Yes, for an extra cost of $500 per person, you can enjoy a hot air balloon over the Serengeti, which many reviews highlight as a memorable highlight.

What kind of vehicle is used for game drives?
Though not explicitly detailed, safaris like this typically use comfortable, open-sided 4×4 vehicles, suitable for wildlife viewing and photography.

How long are the game drives each day?
Expect to spend around 4 hours on game drives each day, with early mornings and late afternoons being the best times for wildlife activity.

Is this suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but the days are long and active, so it’s best for those in good health and comfortable with outdoor activities.

What is the group size?
The tour usually accommodates up to 15 travelers, balancing group camaraderie with personalized attention.

What are the accommodation standards?
The lodges and campsites are mid-range, offering comfortable beds and facilities, but not luxury amenities. They are praised for their convenience and nice locations.

What are the main highlights of this safari?
Main highlights include the tree-climbing lions at Lake Manyara, the vast plains of the Serengeti, the dense wildlife of Ngorongoro Crater, and the unspoiled beauty of Tarangire.

To sum it up, this 6-day lodge safari combines the best of Tanzania’s wildlife parks with expert guiding, comfortable accommodations, and a well-organized itinerary. It’s a compelling choice for those wanting to see iconic animals and landscapes in a relatively short amount of time, all while keeping costs reasonable for a safari of this scope. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned safari-goer, this tour offers authentic adventures and unforgettable views that will stay with you long after you return home.