6-Day Tanzania Safari Landscapes & Wildlife Tour

Setting out on a safari in Tanzania is something many travelers dream of, and this 6-day tour from Jairos Adventure offers a balanced mix of iconic scenery, wildlife encounters, and culture. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve sifted through detailed reviews and information to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

What really caught my attention are the fantastic opportunities to see lion in trees, elephants strolling across open plains, and a diverse array of animals inside the Ngorongoro Crater. Add to that the chance to witness the Great Migration in Serengeti—an awe-inspiring spectacle—and you have a recipe for unforgettable moments.

A potential downside? The tour involves early mornings and long days on game drives, which can be tiring but definitely worth it for the wildlife sightings. This tour suits travelers who love nature, are eager to see the big game, and don’t mind the adventure of a well-paced, active holiday. It’s especially perfect for those seeking a comprehensive experience that covers key Tanzanian parks in just under a week.

Key Points

• Wildlife diversity: Covering Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Lake Manyara, the tour offers a broad scope of Tanzania’s best parks.
• Expert guidance: A knowledgeable driver-guide makes all the difference with insights and spotting tips.
• Value for the price: At $3,064, including park fees, meals, and private transport, it’s a competitive package for a comprehensive safari.
• Authentic experiences: Expect game drives, picnic lunches, and close encounters with iconic African animals.
• Accommodation: Staying in luxury tents in Serengeti and comfortable lodges offers a true safari feel without sacrificing comfort.
• Timing: Early starts and full days ensure maximum wildlife viewing, but require some stamina.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Arrival in Arusha

Your adventure begins with a warm welcome at the airport, where a friendly driver from Jairos Adventure will meet you outside with a sign bearing your name. The transfer to Mrimba Palm Hotel in Arusha offers a relaxed start, giving you a chance to settle in, freshen up, and mentally prepare for the safari ahead. This is an excellent chance to swap travel fatigue for the anticipation of wildlife encounters.

Day 2: Tarangire National Park

The journey to Tarangire starts early, with the drive through Tanzania’s rolling savannahs. Once inside the park, the focus is on the Tarangire River, which sustains a bustling concentration of animals during the dry season. This means you’re likely to see large herds of elephants, giraffes nibbling leaves from acacia trees, and a variety of antelope species like hartebeest and bushbuck.

What sets Tarangire apart are the ancient Baobab trees—their strange, thick trunks and sprawling branches make for striking photo ops. Keep your camera ready because the birdlife here surpasses many other parks, with plenty of breeding species to spot. After a picnic lunch inside the park, the tour continues to Lake Manyara, where you’ll stay overnight and enjoy the chance to see tree-climbing lions and flamingos (if the season permits).

Day 3: Karatu to Serengeti National Park

Today’s highlight is the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and the famous Ngorongoro Crater. The drive up into this cooler region is scenic, and once you reach the crater rim, the view is stunning. Descending into the crater, you enter a natural amphitheater teeming with wildlife—wildebeest, zebra, gazelle, and possibly even the endangered black rhino.

You’ll notice that this area offers some of the best opportunities to see predators like lions and leopards in their natural habitat. After exploring, the journey continues southward into the Serengeti, known for its endless grasslands that stretch for miles. You’ll stay in a luxury tented camp at the heart of the park, giving you the authentic safari night experience with comfort.

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Day 4: Full Day in Serengeti

A full day to explore Serengeti’s vast landscape. Early morning and late afternoon game drives are recommended because animals tend to be most active during these times. Expect to see iconic wildlife such as cheetahs, lions, buffalo, and crocodiles. The park’s size and open plains mean sightings are often spectacular, and your guides will help spot even the most elusive predators.

The possibility of seeing the Great Migration adds extra excitement—zebras and wildebeest moving en masse across the plains. Lunch can be enjoyed in the park with a picnic setup, allowing for more time on safari rather than returning to camp.

Day 5: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater

After breakfast, it’s time to revisit the Ngorongoro Crater. The drive down into this volcanic caldera is an adventure, and once inside, the concentration of wildlife is staggering. The crater floor hosts large herds of wildebeest, zebra, and giraffe, with opportunities to see black rhinos and numerous bird species.

The crater’s unique ecosystem means you’ll get a concentrated dose of wildlife in a relatively small space. After a few hours exploring this natural wonder, the tour heads back toward Lake Manyara, where you’ll stay overnight.

Day 6: Lake Manyara and Departure

Your last day features a visit to Lake Manyara National Park, famous for its pink flamingos, tree-climbing lions, and lush forests. It’s a birdwatcher’s paradise and a peaceful way to wrap up your Tanzanian safari. After a picnic lunch, you’ll be transferred back to Arusha or the airport, ending your adventure.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Expert guides are a recurring theme in reviews. The guides, like the one called Alex, are praised for their keen spotting skills and knowledgeable commentary. They help travelers understand animal behavior, park history, and conservation efforts, making the experience more meaningful.

The luxury tents in Serengeti and comfortable lodges outside the parks offer a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. The private 4×4 land cruiser with charging ports and air conditioning makes long days on the road more enjoyable.

Regarding value, at $3,064, this package covers all park entry fees, meals, and private transport, making it a straightforward, hassle-free way to see Tanzania’s top parks without hidden costs. The included picnic lunches are well-rated, providing convenient fuel for long game drives.

Travelers have appreciated the flexibility of unlimited game drives, meaning you can spend more time focused on animals or explore at your own pace. The tour also includes airport pickup and drop-off, smoothing the logistics of arrival and departure.

Timing is also a plus—early mornings and full days maximize wildlife sightings, though some might find the schedule demanding. The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those with back problems, given the long drives and early starts.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This safari suits adventurous travelers eager for a comprehensive Tanzanian experience in a short time frame. If you’re passionate about big game viewing, want to witness the Great Migration, or are looking for guided expertise in spotting elusive animals, you’ll find this tour rewarding.

It’s ideal for those who value comfortable accommodations but still crave the authentic safari experience. Families with older children (over 16) might also enjoy this, especially if they’re wildlife enthusiasts.

Because the tour covers multiple parks in one go, it’s perfect for travelers who want a broad overview rather than a focus on just one location.

Practical Considerations

The tour’s inclusion of all park fees and meals helps keep costs predictable, but travelers should budget for personal expenses, tips, and optional activities. Packing essentials like sun protection, insect repellent, and a good camera will enhance your safari experience.

The early start times and long days on the road demand stamina, but the payoff is some of the most incredible animals and scenery you’ll ever see. Remember, Tanzania’s weather varies, so dress in layers and be prepared for both sun and possible rain.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers all applicable park entry fees, government taxes, unlimited game drives, private transport in a 4×4 safari cruiser, meals (full board), all taxes, airport transfers, picnic or hot lunches, and unlimited drinking water and refreshments during safaris.

Are airport pickups and drop-offs provided?
Yes, they are included, making your arrival and departure hassle-free, with knowledgeable guides waiting outside the airport with signs.

What should I bring for the safari?
Comfortable shoes, a sun hat, camera, sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable clothing are recommended. Don’t forget a power bank or charger for your devices.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children aged 16 and above are typically suitable, especially if they’re wildlife enthusiasts. The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women or those with back problems due to long drives.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The package is set, but with the flexibility of unlimited game drives, you can spend more time in parks or opt for additional activities if available.

What if I want to extend my trip?
Extra accommodation before or after the tour can be arranged separately. It’s wise to plan your flights and extra nights in advance.

Final Thoughts

This 6-Day Tanzania Safari from Jairos Adventure offers a well-rounded immersion into some of Africa’s most renowned parks, with expert guides, comfortable lodgings, and unforgettable wildlife encounters. It balances the thrill of seeing the Big Five, the spectacle of the Great Migration, and the beauty of Tanzania’s landscapes in just under a week.

You’ll love the chance to witness lions lounging in trees, elephants moving majestically across plains, and the stunning views inside the Ngorongoro Crater. The inclusion of all essentials, from park fees to meals, means there’s no stress—just focus on the animals and the scenery.

While the schedule is packed, this tour provides a rich, authentic safari adventure that’s great for active travelers who want prime wildlife viewing without sacrificing comfort. If you’re ready for a memorable journey into Tanzania’s wilderness, this safari sets a high standard for value and experience.

In essence, this tour is especially suited for wildlife lovers, adventure seekers, and first-time safari-goers wanting a comprehensive, guided experience filled with iconic scenery and unforgettable moments.

You can check availability for your dates here: