Safari Serengeti And Ngorongoro

Traveling to Tanzania for a safari is often a bucket-list dream, and this 5-day tour with Savannah Explorers promises to bring that dream to life. Focused on the famed Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, it’s designed for those who want a comprehensive, well-organized experience that combines wildlife, culture, and breathtaking scenery.

What makes this tour stand out? We love the fact that it’s highly praised for knowledgeable guides, authentic wildlife sightings, and good value for the price of around $2,845 per person. We also appreciate the inclusion of all meals, which helps keep things simple, and the chance to meet local Maasai communities.

Of course, no adventure is perfect—some travelers might find the schedule quite packed, with long game drives and limited downtime. But for those seeking a full-immersion safari experience with expert support, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, first-timers, and travelers who value authentic, guided exploration.

Key Points

• Expert Guides: Guides like Maulidi and Uncle T are frequently praised for their animal-spotting skills and friendly demeanor.
• Wildlife Highlights: Expect to see the Big Five, along with cheetahs, giraffes, and countless other species in their natural habitat.
• Cultural Encounters: Stops at local markets and opportunities to meet Maasai communities add a cultural dimension.
• All-Inclusive Meals: Breakfasts, lunches, and dinners are included, catering to dietary needs.
• Stunning Landscapes: From the vast savannahs of Serengeti to the dramatic Ngorongoro Crater, scenery is unforgettable.
• Value for Money: The itinerary’s comprehensive nature, guided expertise, and inclusive meals provide strong value for the cost.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Karatu

Your adventure begins with a pickup from Kilimanjaro Airport—the logistical start that ensures your trip kicks off smoothly. The transfer to Karatu is straightforward, with optional stops at local markets for a taste of regional life. If you’re eager to relax, you can unwind at your lodge upon arrival, but if you’re feeling energetic, local markets offer a lively introduction to Tanzanian culture.

Day 2 & 3: Exploring Serengeti National Park

After breakfast on Day 2, your journey takes you across the Ngorongoro Highlands into the Serengeti, the crown jewel of African safaris. The drive itself is scenic, with rolling hills and open plains. Once inside the park, the game drives begin, lasting up to 10 hours per day, so pack snacks, water, and a sense of adventure.

Serengeti’s vastness (over 15,000 km²) means every drive is a new chance to spot lions, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, elephants, and herds of antelope. The guides’ skill at animal detection is evident—reviewers consistently mention guides like Maulidi and Semle, who seem to have a sixth sense for spotting wildlife even in dense bush or at a distance. One reviewer remarked, “Maulidi is very experienced and alert, and we were able to see the Big Five through his expertise.”

Day 4: Ngorongoro Crater

The highlight of many safaris, the Ngorongoro Crater offers the chance to view a high concentration of wildlife in one location. Descending into the crater with a picnic lunch, you’ll experience a natural amphitheater teeming with animals—lions lounging in the grass, elephants bathing in waterholes, and occasionally, a rhino grazing nearby.

According to reviews, the Ngorongoro area is a conservation success, with Maasai communities living alongside wild animals. The density of animals and the varied landscape—woodlands, lake, plains—make every game drive here a visual feast.

Day 5: Return and Departure

After a relaxed breakfast, there’s time to explore a bit more—perhaps shopping in Karatu or just soaking in the scenery—before heading back to Arusha or Kilimanjaro Airport. The transfer is estimated at around 2 hours, making it a comfortable end to an intense wildlife experience.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $2,845 per person, this safari isn’t a bargain-basement option, but it offers comprehensive inclusions—all meals, transport, park fees, and travel insurance (air medical evacuation with AMREF). Reviewers repeatedly mention the well-organized logistics and expert guides, which significantly elevate the experience.

One traveler recounted, “From seamless planning to breathtaking game drives, every detail was handled perfectly.” The inclusion of local market visits and cultural stops adds depth beyond just animal sightings, making the experience richer and more authentic.

Transportation & Group Size

The tour uses private transportation, ensuring comfort and flexibility. Although the group size isn’t explicitly mentioned, reviews suggest a personalized experience, with guides like Uncle T and Isaac praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge. This personalized touch means you’re not just a number, but a real part of the adventure.

Duration & Pace

Spanning five days, the tour balances intensive game drives with opportunities to relax and absorb the scenery. The long drives, sometimes up to 10 hours, are part of the safari experience—they’re tiring but also allow for extensive wildlife viewing and landscape photography.

Accommodation & Meals

All meals are included, with dietary requirements catered for, helping to streamline the trip. The lodges and camps are described as comfortable, with friendly staff, and the reviews highlight the quality of the accommodations.

Authentic Encounters & Guides: Making the Difference

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the guides’ expertise. From Maulidi to Uncle T and Thomas, the guides’ animal-spotting skills and friendly manner make a real difference. Reviewers note that guides like Samuel and Emmanuel go above and beyond to make sure guests see the Big Five and other incredible wildlife, often in close proximity.

It’s clear that these guides have a passion for their work, and their local knowledge enhances the experience. Their ability to spot elusive animals and share detailed insights creates a sense of trust and excitement among travelers.

Cultural Highlights

The opportunity to visit local markets and meet Maasai tribes adds an important cultural layer. These stops offer a glimpse into the traditional lifestyles of the region’s indigenous communities, which many reviewers found enriching and authentic.

What’s Not to Love?

While the experience is widely praised, some travelers might find the long hours in the vehicle physically demanding. The itinerary is packed, and game drives can extend from dawn to dusk, which requires stamina and patience. Also, since this is a non-refundable booking, it’s important to be confident about your plans beforehand.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This safari appeals most to wildlife lovers who want to see Africa’s iconic animals in their natural environment. It’s perfect for first-time safari-goers seeking a guided, all-inclusive experience with knowledgeable guides. It also suits those who value cultural insights and want a well-rounded trip combining wildlife and local culture.

Travelers looking for a luxurious experience at the lowest possible price might prefer more exclusive, boutique options, but for those wanting value, reliability, and rich wildlife encounters, this tour checks all boxes.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

Absolutely. This 5-day Serengeti and Ngorongoro safari offers a well-balanced mix of wildlife, landscapes, and cultural experiences, all delivered by guides who genuinely love what they do. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want a comprehensive, authentic safari with the reassurance of expert guidance and seamless logistics.

While the schedule is busy and the price reflects the high quality of inclusions, most reviewers agree that the memories made and animals seen make this a worthwhile investment. Expect to leave with a camera full of incredible photos, a notebook full of stories, and a heart full of adventure.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, the tour is designed for individual bookings, and since it’s a private group activity, solo travelers can join comfortably and meet like-minded adventurers.

Are meals included?
All breakfasts, lunches, and dinners are included, with options tailored to dietary needs, making it easy to focus on enjoying the experience.

What is the average group size?
While not specified, reviews suggest a personalized experience, often with guides like Uncle T and Samuel providing attentive service.

Can I visit local markets?
Yes, the itinerary includes stops at local markets in Karatu, offering a glimpse into regional life and a chance to buy souvenirs.

What are the main highlights?
Expect guaranteed wildlife sightings of the Big Five, game drives in Serengeti and Ngorongoro, and cultural interactions with Maasai communities.

How long are the game drives?
Each day’s game drive lasts approximately 10 hours, so be prepared for early mornings and late afternoons.

Is insurance included?
Yes, the package includes AMREF Flying Doctors insurance for air medical evacuation within a 500 km radius.

Are accommodations comfortable?
While not detailed, reviews mention excellent lodges with friendly staff, ensuring a comfortable stay during the trip.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable clothing for long drives, neutral colors for animal spotting, hats, sunscreen, and a good camera.

This safari with Savannah Explorers truly offers a full-value, authentic adventure into Tanzania’s iconic wilds. It’s perfect for those craving a guided, well-organized experience that showcases the best of African wildlife and culture in just five days.