Arusha: 6-Day Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Safari

Planning a safari in Tanzania? This 6-day adventure from Arusha promises a chance to see Africa’s iconic wildlife—from elephants in Tarangire to the Big Five in Ngorongoro. While it’s a well-rounded trip full of game drives, natural wonders, and cultural moments, it’s also worth noting that the price point reflects a comprehensive experience that balances comfort, expert guiding, and authentic wildlife encounters.

What we love about this safari is how it hits all the key highlights—the vast plains of Serengeti, the dense wildlife of Ngorongoro, and the unique ecosystems of Lake Manyara. The inclusion of a picnic lunch inside Ngorongoro adds a special touch, allowing you to soak in the scenery while enjoying a meal. The chance to potentially add a hot air balloon ride over Serengeti is an exciting optional bonus that many travelers find memorable.

One point to consider is the group size and timing—while most reviews mention smooth logistics, a few note that early mornings and long drives are part of the package. If you’re someone who needs a lot of personal space or prefers a more relaxed pace, this tour might feel a little packed, but for wildlife enthusiasts, it’s a solid value.

This tour is best suited for those eager to tick off the Big Five, lovers of natural landscapes, and anyone looking for an all-inclusive package that covers multiple parks with expert guides. If you’re ready for an adventure that combines comfort, wildlife, and authentic scenery, this safari could be your ideal choice.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering four major parks in Tanzania, perfect for first-time safari-goers.
• Expert guides with local knowledge and good reviews for their professionalism and friendliness.
• Inclusion of all park fees and activities, ensuring no hidden costs during the trip.
• Unique experiences like game drives, a picnic lunch in Ngorongoro, and optional hot air balloon safaris.
• Good value at $2,800, considering the number of parks visited, included meals, and transportation.
• Potential long days and early mornings—something to prepare for if you’re not used to wildlife safaris.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the 6-Day Safari

Arrival in Arusha

Your safari begins in Arusha, Tanzania’s gateway to the northern parks. While arrival times vary, most travelers find they’ll have some time to rest or explore Arusha if arriving early. The tour includes roundtrip airport transfers, which helps ease the logistics of entering this remote region. Some reviews mention guides are welcoming and ready to answer questions about the upcoming adventure, setting a friendly tone from the start.

Day 2: From Arusha to Tarangire National Park

The journey kicks off with a drive to Tarangire National Park, famous for its large herds of elephants and iconic baobab trees. Most guests love the scene where herds of elephants gather around waterholes—it’s a classic safari moment that feels straight out of a wildlife documentary.

You’ll go on a game drive, with most reviews highlighting the impressive wildlife diversity. Guides are praised for their local knowledge, often pointing out interesting behaviors or lesser-known species. The terrain is a mix of grassy plains and acacia woodland, offering varied scenery that makes every drive feel fresh.

Day 3: Exploring Lake Manyara

Next, you’ll travel to Lake Manyara National Park, known for its birdlife and the unique phenomenon of tree-climbing lions. Travelers frequently mention how special it is to see these lions lounging high in acacia trees—an unusual behavior that surprises many first-timers.

The park’s varied ecosystems mean you might see flamingos wading through the lake, elephants in the forest, or hippos cooling off in waterholes. The guides tend to be enthusiastic about spotting different species, and the birdwatching here is excellent. If you’re into photography, the reflections on the lake and the lush greenery provide fantastic photo opportunities.

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Day 4: Transition to Serengeti

A scenic drive takes you from Lake Manyara to Serengeti National Park, passing through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area—an area rich with Maasai villages and volcanic landscapes. Arriving in the central Serengeti, the vast plains stretch endlessly, and the feeling of open space is palpable.

Most reviews mention the thrill of seeing herds of wildebeest, zebras, and predators. Afternoon game drives here tend to be lively, with guides eager to share their insights about the ecosystem’s delicate balance. If you opt for the hot air balloon experience (if available), you’ll get a breathtaking aerial view of the plains—an unforgettable perspective.

Day 5: Full Day in Serengeti

This is a highlight—spending a full day exploring the Serengeti’s iconic landscape. The broad plains are home to some of Africa’s most spectacular wildlife scenes. Early mornings are recommended—many reviews emphasize the beauty of sunrise safaris, with animals stirring in the cool dawn.

The optional hot air balloon safari is a big draw for many, offering a peaceful, bird’s-eye view of the herd movements and predator stalking below. If you prefer ground safaris, guides will take you to known hotspots for predators or large herds, making every drive exciting.

Day 6: Ngorongoro Crater and Return

The final day involves descending into the Ngorongoro Crater, a conservation area that’s a photographer’s dream. The crater’s high walls confine a dense wildlife population, making sightings more concentrated and often easier than in the expansive plains.

Most travelers love the picnic lunch inside the crater—it’s a chance to relax while surrounded by wildlife—often including elephants, lions, and rhinos. Guides are attentive and knowledgeable, often sharing interesting facts about the crater’s geology and ecology.

After exploring, you’ll ascend from the crater and head back to Arusha. The return journey can be long, but the scenery and wildlife sightings make it worthwhile.

What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind

Included

This tour covers park entry fees, all activities, accommodations, transportation, and meals (as per the itinerary). The professional guides are experienced, often praised for their friendliness and knowledge. The package also includes airport transfers and all taxes, streamlining your planning.

Not Included

Travelers should budget for international flights, personal expenses, visas, and optional extras like hot air balloon safaris. Some reviews suggest arriving a day early or extending stays to explore Arusha or nearby attractions.

Practical Tips

• Remember to bring comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, insect repellent, and binoculars—they’ll all enhance your wildlife viewing.
• The tour schedule involves long drives and early mornings, so pack accordingly.
• Smoking and alcohol in the vehicle are not allowed, respecting park regulations and maintaining a good atmosphere during drives.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Insights

Guides often share local stories and insights, adding cultural context to the wildlife encounters. One reviewer mentioned that their guide, Peter, was “knowledgeable and attentive,” making every game drive engaging. Many appreciate how guides help with photography tips—crucial for capturing those elusive moments.

The inclusion of a picnic lunch in Ngorongoro is a real highlight, giving travelers a chance to relax amid the wildlife spectacle. The optional hot air balloon ride, if available, is a big draw for those looking for a unique adventure—most reviews indicate it’s worth the extra cost.

Travelers have also noted that the total price of $2,800 offers good value for such a comprehensive experience, considering the transportation, guiding, park fees, and accommodations. The tour feels well-organized, with most guests noting the punctuality and professionalism of the team.

Who Should Consider This Safari?

This tour is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts eager to see Africa’s Big Five and the iconic landscapes of Tanzania. It’s ideal for those who want a full, immersive experience in just six days, without sacrificing comfort or wildlife variety.

It suits travelers prepared for early mornings and long game drives, who appreciate guided expertise and all-inclusive pricing. First-timers and seasoned safari lovers alike will find this itinerary offers an excellent balance of adventure, scenery, and value.

The Sum Up

The 6-Day Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Safari from Arusha offers a well-rounded, authentic experience of Tanzania’s most famous wildlife areas. With expert guides, all-inclusive pricing, and a diverse itinerary, it’s a fantastic choice for those wanting to witness Africa’s wildlife spectacle firsthand.

While the days can be long, the stunning landscapes and close encounters with elephants, lions, and cheetahs make every moment worthwhile. The optional hot air balloon adds a magical touch, often cited as a highlight by travelers.

This safari is a smart pick for adventure seekers, wildlife lovers, and those wanting a deep dive into Tanzania’s natural beauty—all in just a week.

FAQs

Is the price of $2,800 per person all-inclusive?
Yes, this price covers park fees, all activities, accommodations, transportation, meals, drinks (as specified), and airport transfers, making it straightforward to budget.

What is the minimum age or physical requirement?
While not explicitly stated, the tour involves early mornings, long drives, and game viewing that can be physically demanding. It’s suited for travelers able to handle these aspects.

Can I add activities like hot air balloon safaris?
Yes, hot air balloon safaris are optional and can be considered for an additional cost, offering a different perspective of the Serengeti.

Are accommodations comfortable?
Most reviews suggest comfortable lodges or tents, with guides often praised for their friendliness and attentiveness, enhancing the overall experience.

Do I need to bring my own drinks and snacks?
Drinks are included as specified, but travelers often bring personal items or snacks, especially for early mornings or long drives.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, many solo travelers join group safaris. The tour is organized for small groups, fostering camaraderie and shared experiences.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, insect repellent, water, binoculars, and a sense of adventure.

How flexible is the itinerary?
The schedule is fairly structured but guides are usually flexible with game drives depending on wildlife activity and weather conditions.

What is the best time to do this safari?
While not specified, most wildlife safaris in Tanzania are popular during the dry seasons (June to October), when animals congregate around water and visibility is good.

Is there an option to extend the trip?
Yes, travelers often extend their stay in Arusha or explore additional attractions like Maasai villages or Lake Victoria.

This 6-day safari from Arusha offers a balanced mix of wildlife encounters, scenic landscapes, and cultural insights—perfect for those eager to experience Tanzania’s natural riches, with the convenience of an organized, guided tour.

You can check availability for your dates here: