From Zanzibar:5-Day All-Inclusive North safari National Park

Planning a safari that combines the stunning beaches of Zanzibar with the wild beauty of northern Tanzania? This 5-day all-inclusive tour offers a seamless blend of flight, adventure, and relaxation that’s perfect for those who want to experience the best of both worlds without the hassle of organizing logistics. Our review dives into what makes this trip special, what to expect at each stop, and who will find the most value.

What we love about this safari: the chance to see the Big 5 in Ngorongoro, the unique experience of tree-climbing lions at Lake Manyara, and the breathtaking landscapes of Lake Natron. The convenience of flights, inclusive meals, and accommodations means you can focus on the adventure.

A possible consideration: the schedule is quite packed, so if you prefer slow-paced trips with lots of downtime, this might feel a bit intense.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free Tanzanian safari with opportunities for incredible wildlife encounters and stunning scenery. It’s perfect for those with limited time but big wildlife ambitions.

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Key Points

All-inclusive convenience – flights, park fees, meals, and accommodation are covered.
Big five sightings – especially in the Ngorongoro Crater, often called the eighth wonder of the world.
Unique experiences – including the famous tree climbing lions and a Flamingo Walk at Lake Natron.
Comfortable lodges in scenic locations – staying in accommodations right next to key parks and lakes.
Expert-guided game drives – personalized safaris led by knowledgeable guides.
Short but immersive – a condensed trip packed with highlights, ideal for a quick but rich experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction: Why This Safari Stands Out

Imagine waking up in Zanzibar, only to fly directly into the wilds of northern Tanzania, ready to see some of Africa’s most iconic landscapes and animals. This tour offers a smooth combination of tropical relaxation and exhilarating safari adventure.

What makes this trip appealing? First, the inclusion of flights means no need to worry about complicated travel arrangements between Zanzibar and Tanzania’s parks. Second, the well-chosen destinations—Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro, and Lake Natron—cover diverse ecosystems that showcase Tanzania’s incredible biodiversity. Third, the all-inclusive nature ensures your focus stays on the experience, not the logistics or bills.

One thing to keep in mind is the tight schedule. With only five days, you’ll spend quite a bit of time traveling and in game drives, so it’s best suited for travelers eager for a thorough overview rather than a leisurely pace.

If you’re after a well-rounded introduction to Tanzanian wildlife with the convenience of an organized package, this safari is a solid choice. It’s especially appealing for first-timers or those short on time but big on wildlife dreams.

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Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Zanzibar to Tarangire National Park

Your adventure begins with an early morning transfer from your Zanzibar hotel to the airport. From there, a quick flight to Arusha sets the stage for your safari. Upon arrival, your guide will take you to Tarangire National Park, renowned for its massive elephant herds and iconic baobab trees that add a surreal, almost prehistoric feel to the landscape.

Expect a full day of game drives, where your guide will help you spot elephants, giraffes, zebras, and perhaps even predators stalking their prey. The landscape here is striking—yellow grasslands dotted with towering trees—making for fantastic photo opportunities.

Your accommodation at Africa Safari Lake Manyara sits right next to the lake, giving you a chance to unwind amid beautiful surroundings. Guests often mention how the proximity to the wildlife makes it feel like you’re sleeping in the wild.

Day 2: Lake Manyara and Its Famous Tree Climbing Lions

After breakfast, another game drive takes you into Lake Manyara National Park, where the universe seems to come alive. One of the park’s most unique features is its tree-climbing lions—a sight that surprises many visitors. You might catch these majestic predators lounging on branches, blending seamlessly into the leafy canopy.

The park’s varied habitats—groundwater forest, acacia woodland, and wetlands—mean a broad array of animals are often visible. Flamingos are sometimes seen wading in the lakes, adding to the vibrant birdlife.

Guests have shared that “the environment is so beautiful and the wildlife so accessible,” making it an ideal stop for nature lovers. You’ll stay overnight again at Africa Safari Lake Manyara, giving you a second chance to soak in the scenery and spot more wildlife.

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Day 3: Ngorongoro Crater, the 8th Wonder

Day three is dedicated to the Ngorongoro Crater, considered one of the world’s most spectacular wildlife calderas. The drive here takes you through diverse landscapes, and as you descend into the crater, the views are breathtaking.

Inside, the density of animals is astonishing. Lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalo, and leopards—these are the Big Five—frequently spotted in this natural amphitheater. The crater’s lush grasses and water sources attract a huge variety of species, making it a wildlife haven.

Travelers often describe Ngorongoro as “the perfect snapshot of Africa’s wildlife diversity,” and it’s easy to see why. You’ll spend the day on game drives and perhaps catch a glimpse of elusive predators or herds of elephants. Your overnight stay remains at Africa Safari Lake Manyara, so you can reflect on the day’s adventures.

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Day 4: Lake Natron and Its Unique Landscape

After a hearty breakfast, the journey continues with a drive to Lake Natron, a location that looks like a scene from another planet. The landscape here is volcanic, moon-like—stark, rugged, and stunning.

Arriving at Africa Safari Lake Natron offers the chance to relax at the lodge’s pool or, for the more adventurous, take an optional visit to Ngare Sero Waterfall, a refreshing hike that adds a bit of action to your day.

Lake Natron is famous as a breeding ground for hundreds of thousands of lesser flamingos, which you’ll get to see during your Flamingo Walk early the next morning. The flamingos are some of the most photogenic wildlife you’ll encounter, and their vibrant pink plumage contrasts beautifully with the mineral-rich lake.

Day 5: Flamingo Walk and Return to Zanzibar

Your final morning begins with the Flamingo Walk, a unique experience where you can observe these elegant birds up close in their natural habitat. The scenery around Lake Natron is otherworldly—craters, volcanic formations, and vast open skies.

After breakfast, your driver will take you back to Arusha Airport for your flight to Zanzibar. From there, a driver will be ready to transfer you back to your hotel, leaving you with memories of wild landscapes and incredible wildlife encounters.

The Practical Side: What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers excellent value for the cost of $2,683 per person. The all-inclusive package covers:

Flights between Zanzibar and Arusha (both ways)
Park entrance fees and land/tourism fees
Accommodation in carefully selected lodges
Meals on full-board basis
Transport in a private safari jeep with an experienced guide
Guided game drives and activities like the Flamingo Walk

However, it’s important to note that international flights to Zanzibar, visas, and travel insurance are not included. A small fee for tourism development and village taxes will be payable at check-in.

Guests have appreciated the well-organized logistics and the fact that everything from park fees to flights is handled smoothly, removing the stress of planning. One reviewer mentioned the guides’ knowledge and friendly attitude made safaris more engaging, with the bonus of spotting big game in stunning scenery.

Transportation & Timing

The flights are scheduled to maximize your safari time, but availability may mean occasional rescheduling. Transfers from your hotel to the airport are included, with guides arriving promptly—just be ready at reception 5 minutes early.

Accommodations

Staying at Africa Safari Lake Manyara is praised for its beautiful setting and proximity to wildlife. Alternatives like Rift Valley or Karatu are also available, giving options based on your preferences.

Activities & Experience

You’ll enjoy private guided game drives, ensuring personalized attention and better chances for wildlife sightings. The Flamingo Walk at Lake Natron is a highlight, offering a rare opportunity to get close to the pink flamingos in their natural environment.

Who Is This Safari Best For?

This trip is suited for adventurous travelers eager to see a broad spectrum of Tanzania’s wildlife within a short timeframe. The inclusion of flight transfers makes it ideal for those seeking convenience, while the focus on iconic parks appeals to wildlife enthusiasts.

Couples, small groups, or solo travelers looking for a comprehensive, all-inclusive experience will find this tour offers excellent value. Keep in mind that the schedule is quite active, so those seeking a very relaxed or slow-paced holiday might prefer a different type of safari.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Absolutely. For those wanting to experience a true safari adventure without the hassle of logistics, this tour delivers a well-planned route through Tanzania’s top parks with the added bonus of stunning scenery en route. The Big Five sightings in Ngorongoro, the unique tree-climbing lions, and the pink Flamingo Walk are highlights that make this trip memorable.

The value is also reflected in the inclusive nature—flights, park fees, meals, and accommodations—meaning you can focus on the wildlife and landscapes rather than constant planning. It’s a package that balances comfort, adventure, and incredible photo opportunities.

If your goal is to tick off major Tanzanian highlights in a short window and enjoy the convenience of a guided, all-inclusive tour, this safari is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

What is included in the price?
The package covers flights from Zanzibar to Arusha and back, park fees, accommodation, meals on full-board basis, private guided game drives, and transportation.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, you’ll need to pay for international flights to and from Zanzibar, visas, travel insurance, and a tourism development levy of $1.50 per person per night, plus a village tax of $1.00 per person per night at check-in.

Is this trip suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, solo travelers can join, though the experience is designed for small groups or couples. It’s a private-guided tour, so personal attention is guaranteed.

What about flight availability?
Flights are scheduled to coincide with safari days, but due to limited seat availability, departure dates might be rescheduled based on flight schedules.

How active are the game drives?
The game drives are full days, often starting early in the morning to maximize wildlife sightings. It’s quite a full schedule, so be prepared for a busy but rewarding trip.

Can I customize accommodations?
Alternatives like Africa Safari Rift Valley or Africa Safari Karatu are available if you prefer different lodges, depending on the tour operator’s options.

Does the tour include visits to any waterfalls?
Yes, optional visits to Ngare Sero Waterfall can be added for extra activity and scenic views.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID card, comfortable clothing, good binoculars, camera, and insect repellent, especially for Lake Natron.

This Tanzanian safari from Zanzibar offers a fantastic way to experience Africa’s wildlife in a compact, well-organized package. It’s a smart choice for those wanting a memorable adventure, scenic landscapes, and a hassle-free trip with all the essentials taken care of.