Arusha: 6-Day Northern Tanzania Safari

Planning a safari in Tanzania? This 6-day adventure promises a chance to witness some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife and landscapes, all while staying in comfortable camps and lodges. Whether you’re fascinated by big cats, awe-inspired by the Ngorongoro Crater, or eager to see the Great Migration in Serengeti, this tour offers a balanced mix of wildlife encounters and authentic cultural experiences.

Our review is based on detailed information from Serengeti One Safaris, who have crafted an itinerary that’s rich in variety and packed with highlights. We’ll cover everything from the itinerary nitty-gritty to practical details, helping you decide if this safari is right for you.

What we love about this tour:

The chance to see the Big Five (lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, buffalo) in their natural habitat
Visiting the UNESCO-listed Ngorongoro Crater, a wildlife wonderland
Exploring the vast plains of Serengeti during a full-day game drive
Staying in accessible, comfortable camps and lodges that balance adventure with comfort

Potential consideration: The tour involves early mornings and rough terrain, which might not suit travelers seeking a purely relaxed experience or those with mobility issues.

This safari suits those with a sense of adventure, wildlife enthusiasts, and travelers wanting an immersive experience in Tanzania’s wilderness.

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Key Points

Wildlife Highlights: See the Big Five, cheetahs, hyenas, and countless bird species
Iconic Locations: Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti, and Lake Manyara
Comfort & Practicality: Well-organized camps, 4WD vehicles, included park fees
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance spotting and understanding of wildlife
Balanced Itinerary: Mix of game drives, cultural visits, and scenic views
Value for Money: A full package that covers transport, accommodation, and most meals

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction: Why This 6-Day Tanzania Safari Stands Out

If you’re dreaming of a safari that combines wildlife viewing with authentic African landscapes, this tour from Serengeti One Safaris offers a compelling package. It’s not just about ticking off the Big Five, but also about experiencing Tanzania’s wilderness in a way that feels natural and well-organized.

What makes this stand out? For starters, the itinerary covers the top parks — Tarangire, Ngorongoro, Serengeti, and Lake Manyara — giving you a comprehensive snapshot of northern Tanzania’s biodiversity and scenery. Plus, with guided game drives in well-equipped 4WD vehicles and stays in camps that are both practical and comfortable, it balances adventure with ease.

From reviews, we know guides like Sam and Charles are praised for their knowledge and patience—crucial when you’re trying to spot elusive leopards or flamingos in Lake Makat. The ability to see the Big Five and the Great Migration, depending on the time of year, offers a bucket-list-worthy experience.

However, be prepared for early mornings and potentially rough terrain, particularly during game drives. This tour is best suited for travelers who love wildlife, are physically capable of long drives, and appreciate a well-rounded outdoor adventure.

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Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect Each Day

Day 1: Arrival in Arusha

Your adventure begins with a pickup at Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha Airport. After settling in at your accommodation, you’ll meet your guide — a key figure in your safari experience. The guide will do a briefing and check your gear, which you can rent if needed. This day is about settling in, exchanging expectations, and preparing for the journey ahead.

Tip: Use this time to ask your guide about the best camera settings for wildlife photography — guides often have great tips.

Day 2: Arusha to Tarangire National Park

The drive to Tarangire is scenic, with the landscape gradually transforming into more open savanna. Tarangire is famous for its massive elephants and iconic baobab trees. The game drive around the Tarangire River promises sightings of lions, cheetahs, leopards, and the park’s diverse antelope species.

Authentic experience alert: You’ll stop for a picnic lunch in the wilderness, often with herds of elephants nearby. Many reviewers comment on how close you can get to wildlife here, thanks to the park’s water sources attracting animals.

Insight: The park’s large elephant populations are a highlight, and guides like Sam often point out interesting behaviors of the herds.

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Day 3: Lake Manyara to Ngorongoro Crater

Early breakfast and departure to Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a true wildlife spectacle. The crater’s caldera is a natural amphitheater, teeming with animals like black rhinos and flamingos in Lake Makat.

Game drive highlights: Expect dramatic scenes at the crater floor — lions lounging in the grass, elephants crossing rivers, and hippos in the lakes. The views from the rim are spectacular, offering vistas of the caldera below.

Cultural note: On the way, you can visit the Maasai tribe near the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, adding a cultural layer to your trip.

Reviewer tip: Many travelers love the dense wildlife concentration here, describing it as “a photographer’s paradise.”

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Day 4: Full Day in Serengeti National Park

The vast plains of Serengeti are the heart of this safari. A full-day game drive means plenty of chances to see predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas hunting or resting. The central Seronera area is known for its high animal density, especially cats.

Wildlife moments: We loved the way guides expertly positioned the vehicle for optimal viewing, sometimes spotting a leopard resting on a kopje. You’ll enjoy your picnic lunch amidst the wild scenery, with the sounds of distant hyenas and lions creating an authentic soundtrack.

Tip: This park is vast—don’t expect to see everything, but do expect to see some of Africa’s most impressive wildlife.

Day 5: Serengeti to Lake Manyara via Ngorongoro & Maasai Visit

After breakfast, another game drive in Serengeti. Then, you’ll leave the park and pass through Ngorongoro Conservation Area again, with a chance to visit the Maasai and learn about their way of life.

Special touch: Some reviewers mention how engaging the Maasai cultural visit is, providing insight into traditional customs.

Overnight: At Mgombani Campsite, blending camping adventure with comfort. This is a good chance to reflect on the trip so far.

Day 6: Lake Manyara and Return to Arusha

Your final day begins with a game drive in Lake Manyara National Park, known for its birdlife, primates, and picturesque forested areas. Expect to see buffalos, warthogs, and impalas, with plenty of photo opportunities.

Afterward, it’s time to head back to Arusha, concluding your safari adventure.

Practical Details and What It Means for You

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses a 4WD safari vehicle, essential for navigating the sometimes rough terrain. Group sizes are generally small to medium, ensuring a more personalized experience. The vehicle design allows for excellent wildlife viewing and photography opportunities.

Reviewers mention that the guides are attentive, often moving the vehicle for the best angles, which makes a real difference when wildlife spotting.

Accommodation and Meals

Staying in comfortable campsites and lodges, the accommodation balances practicality with a touch of comfort. Most meals are included, giving you a chance to enjoy local flavors and connect with fellow travelers.

Note: The campsites provide basic amenities, so packing a good sleeping bag and insect repellent is advisable.

Cost & Value

At $1,980 per person, this safari offers a comprehensive experience for the price — including park fees, guided game drives, and accommodations. For wildlife lovers, this is a fair deal considering the many parks visited and the expert guiding involved.

Reviewers often say that the value is reflected in the quality of sightings and the professional guidance, making each dollar spent worthwhile.

Timing & Weather

Early mornings are standard, as animals are most active during dawn and dusk. Weather can be unpredictable—pack layers, sun protection, and rain gear. The best viewing tends to be during dry seasons when animals gather around water sources, but there’s always a chance of rain, which adds to the adventure.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Safari?

This 6-day safari is a smart choice for wildlife enthusiasts eager to tick off the Big Five and visit iconic parks in northern Tanzania. It’s perfect for those who enjoy guided tours, value well-organized logistics, and want a mix of game drives, cultural visits, and scenic overlooks.

The tour’s focus on experienced guides and comfortable camps makes it suitable for travelers seeking both adventure and a touch of comfort. Be prepared for early mornings and bumpy drives — this is authentic safari territory.

For travelers interested in a well-rounded, cost-effective way to experience Tanzania’s wilderness, this safari delivers on its promises.

FAQ

What parks are visited during this tour?
The tour visits Tarangire National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti National Park, and Lake Manyara National Park, offering diverse wildlife and scenery.

Are park entrance fees included?
Yes, the tour covers all park entrance fees, simplifying your planning and payment process.

What is the accommodation like?
You’ll stay in comfortable campsites and lodges, designed to balance practicality with a good level of comfort for a safari experience.

Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or those with back or heart problems, mainly due to the physical nature of game drives and terrain.

What should I bring?
Essential items include comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, water, insect repellent, and a daypack. Pack layers for unpredictable weather.

Can I cancel this tour easily?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers flexibility if your plans change.

In the end, this safari offers a well-rounded, immersive experience in Tanzania’s wild heart. It’s ideal for those craving authentic wildlife encounters, cultural insights, and scenic views, all wrapped in a practical package with knowledgeable guides guiding the way.