Discover the Top Most Popular 6-Days Tanzania safari

If you’re dreaming of spotting elephants in vast savannahs, witnessing the dramatic sights of Ngorongoro Crater, or catching the incredible spectacle of the Serengeti migration, this 6-day Tanzania safari promises a comprehensive glimpse into some of Africa’s most iconic landscapes. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, detailed reviews and the itinerary provide a clear picture of what travelers can expect.

What immediately stands out are the diverse ecosystems visited—each offering unique encounters with wildlife and scenic beauty. We love how this safari combines wildlife viewing with stunning landscapes, all with expert guides to enhance the experience. The value for the price seems solid, especially considering park fees and included amenities. However, potential travelers should keep in mind that transportation involves multiple early mornings and long drives across sometimes bumpy roads. This tour is best suited for those who appreciate nature, are comfortable with some travel time, and seek a well-rounded safari adventure.

Key Points

• All-encompassing itinerary covers Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater in just 6 days.
• Expert guides with good knowledge enhance wildlife spotting and park understanding.
• Comfortable transport in open-roof 4×4 Land Cruisers allows for optimal viewing.
• Includes park and crater fees, making logistical planning easier.
• Value for money considering accommodation, guided tours, and all entrance fees.
• Not suitable for those with mobility issues or requiring specialized accessibility accommodations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction to the Experience

This 6-day Tanzania safari is designed to pack a lot into a week, taking you through some of the most celebrated national parks. From the moment you start in Tarangire, known for its towering baobab trees and large herds of elephants, the experience promises to be immersive and exciting. The itinerary offers a good balance of safari travel and scenic stops, making it perfect for those wanting a taste of Tanzania’s wildlife without overextending their trip.

What we appreciate most is the broad coverage of ecosystems—each park has its own personality, from the bird-rich Lake Manyara to the sprawling plains of Serengeti. The inclusion of Ngorongoro Crater at the end provides a fitting climax—an extraordinary natural amphitheater packed with wildlife. Plus, with the tour running from Arusha, the logistics are streamlined, with transportation included and park entrance fees covered, avoiding surprises along the way.

A key aspect reported in reviews is the guides’ expertise. Travelers mention guides like “John” or “Peter” as being incredibly knowledgeable, providing insights about animal behavior and park history that make the experience far richer than just spotting animals. The open-roof Land Cruisers also get special praise for allowing unimpeded views, essential when trying to photograph elusive wildlife.

One potential consideration: this tour involves quite a bit of moving around, so if long drives and early mornings aren’t your thing, this might be a bit intense. But for those wanting a comprehensive, exciting safari without the hassle of planning each park visit, this package offers excellent value.

The Itinerary: What Makes Each Stop Special

Tarangire National Park: The Elephant’s Playground

Your safari begins here, and it’s an excellent introduction to Tanzania’s wildlife. Known for its large elephant herds and iconic baobab trees, Tarangire offers a landscape that feels more like a classic safari scene. Expect to see elephants, giraffes, and maybe even lions lounging under acacia trees. The park’s favorable setting for wildlife makes it a prime spot for spotting big mammals early in your trip.

Reviewers highlight the large herds of elephants – “We saw herds of over 50 elephants, and the guides knew exactly where to find them,” one said. The scenery is also stunning, especially with the ancient baobabs creating dramatic backdrops for photos.

Lake Manyara National Park: The Birdwatcher’s Paradise

Next on the list is Lake Manyara, often described as a hidden gem. It’s smaller than some other parks but packed with vibrant birdlife, including flamingos that flock to its shores. The lake’s alkaline waters support a variety of bird species—ideal if you enjoy birdwatching or want iconic shots of flamingos and pelicans.

Guests frequently praise the scenic beauty here, noting how the lush surroundings and the lake’s reflective surface make for memorable views. One reviewer shared, “The flamingos dancing on the water was a sight I’ll never forget.” This park offers a more relaxed pace and a chance to spot animals like baboons and troops of olive baboons that are often seen along the trail.

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The Serengeti: The Iconic Landscape and the Great Migration

No safari is complete without a visit to the Serengeti, and this tour doesn’t disappoint. Known worldwide for its vast plains and incredible wildlife density, the Serengeti is where you’ll witness the Great Migration if you’re lucky with timing. Even outside migration seasons, the park teems with lions, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, and more.

The reviews repeatedly mention how guides help you navigate the expansive landscape to find the elusive big cats or herds of wildebeest. “The guides have an eagle eye for spotting animals from miles away,” a traveler shared. The scenery here is breathtaking—endless yellow grasses, acacia trees, and distant hills.

Ngorongoro Crater: The Natural Wonder

Closing out the safari is a visit to the Ngorongoro Crater, a world heritage site and arguably one of the most spectacular natural settings for wildlife viewing. The crater’s volcanic walls create a natural enclosure, making it a concentrated hotspot for animals. It’s common to see lions, rhinos, elephants, and hippos all within a small area.

Many reviewers describe it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience: “The density of wildlife was astonishing. We saw so many animals in such a small space.” The crater’s breathtaking views also offer a perfect backdrop for photography. Because of its unique ecosystem, Ngorongoro offers an unmatched safari experience—an awe-inspiring finale.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour package covers the essentials—transportation in a comfortable open-roof 4×4 Land Cruiser, park and crater entrance fees, and guiding services from knowledgeable professionals. You’ll also get all meals, water, tea, and coffee, plus a safari certificate to remember your adventure.

On the other hand, things like airfare, airport transfers, travel insurance, and personal items are not included. Optional extras—such as balloon safaris over the Serengeti or visits to Maasai villages—are available at additional costs.

Guests frequently mention the value for money, considering that nearly 55% of the total cost covers fees and taxes. The inclusion of Wi-Fi can be a nice touch, especially for sharing your photos or checking in with loved ones.

What to Bring & What to Avoid

Travelers should pack passport, sunglasses, sun hat, camera, sunscreen, and binoculars—essentials for comfort and capturing moments. It’s vital to avoid plastic bags, alcohol, drugs, or feeding animals, as these are prohibited and vital for the safety and preservation of wildlife and the environment.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

Throughout the six days, expect to start early—most safaris begin at dawn when animals are most active. Long drives are part of the adventure, but the guides are skilled at making the journey engaging with stories about the parks’ ecology and history.

Wildlife sightings are frequent, but the guides’ ability to spot animals makes a big difference. As one reviewer put it, “Our guide, Peter, was exceptional at spotting cheetahs in the tall grass and explaining their behavior.” The open-roof vehicles are perfect for photos, giving unobstructed views of lions lazing in the sun, elephants crossing the plains, or a leopard perched in a tree.

The parks’ landscapes vary from the lush lakeshores and woodlands of Lake Manyara to the endless savannahs of Serengeti and the dramatic caldera walls of Ngorongoro. Each stop offers something different—whether it’s birdwatching, big cat sightings, or just soaking in the scenery.

The Guides and Service

Reviewers often highlight the guides’ friendliness and knowledge. They are not just about spotting animals but also about sharing stories, answering questions, and making the journey educational. The guides’ expertise is one of the key factors elevating the safari experience.

The Downside

The main concern expressed by some travelers relates to long hours of driving. While the scenery is spectacular and part of the adventure, the early starts and extended time in vehicles might be tiring for some. Plus, the cost—$2,200 per person—might seem steep, but considering all inclusions, park fees, and the quality of guides, many find it offers good value.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Safari Best For?

This 6-day Tanzania safari is an ideal choice for those who want a comprehensive and well-organized safari experience. It suits travelers who are comfortable with some travel time, eager to see the “Big Five” and other iconic wildlife, and appreciate guided expertise in spotting and understanding animals.

It’s a solid pick for first-timers wanting an overview of Tanzania’s best parks, as well as repeat visitors looking to revisit familiar landscapes with new insights. While not tailored for travelers with mobility challenges or those seeking luxury accommodation, it strikes a good balance of comfort, adventure, and value.

For the wildlife enthusiast or nature lover wanting a balanced, authentic safari experience filled with scenic views and expert guidance, this tour offers plenty of bang for your buck.

FAQ: Practical Questions About the Safari

Is transportation provided during the tour? Yes, the tour includes transportation in a 4×4 Land Cruiser with an open roof, perfect for wildlife viewing and photography.

Are park and crater entry fees included? Yes, both park fees and crater fees are covered in the price, simplifying the planning process.

What’s the typical group size? While not explicitly stated, reviews suggest a small-group experience with knowledgeable guides, enhancing personalized attention.

Is food included? All meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—are included, along with 1.5 bottles of water daily and tea/coffee with meals.

Can I book the tour now and pay later? Yes, the booking option allows you to reserve your spot and pay later, offering flexibility.

Are optional activities available? Yes, activities like balloon safaris and Maasai village visits are available at additional costs.

Is this tour suitable for children or non-swimmers? The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, non-swimmers, or divers without certification, and is primarily designed for adults.

What should I pack? Remember to bring your passport, sunglasses, sun hat, camera, sunscreen, and binoculars. Avoid plastic bags, alcohol, drugs, and feeding animals.

To sum it up, this 6-day Tanzania safari offers a thoughtfully curated tour that balances wildlife encounters with scenic beauty, guided by experts who make the experience engaging and informative. While it involves some travel time and early mornings, the chance to see the Big Five, witness the Great Migration (season permitting), and explore iconic parks makes it a worthwhile adventure for anyone passionate about Africa’s wilderness. Perfect for first-timers and seasoned safari lovers alike, this tour promises a memorable journey through some of Tanzania’s most breathtaking landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here: