Zanzibar: 5-Day Serengeti and Ngorongoro Safari with Flights

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Zanzibar: 5-Day Serengeti and Ngorongoro Safari with Flights – A Complete Review

Planning a safari that combines the thrill of witnessing Africa’s largest mammal migration with the chance to spot the Big Five sounds like a dream come true—and this 5-day tour from Zanzibar definitely makes that a reality. Offered by Serengeti African Tours, this adventure promises a mix of iconic wildlife encounters, breathtaking scenery, and convenient flights that save you travel time.

What truly stands out is the opportunity to see the Great Migration in action, explore the remote corners of the Serengeti, and visit the Ngorongoro Crater for a packed but balanced itinerary. We love that this tour is designed for those who want a full safari experience without the hassle of organizing internal transport or worrying about logistics.

However, it’s worth noting that the price tag of over $4,200 per person might seem steep for some, especially considering this covers flights but not personal extras or additional nights. The tour caters best to travelers with a love for wildlife, comfortable travel expectations, and a desire for a curated, guided experience.

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Key Points

Wildlife Encounters: Focused on the Great Migration and the Big Five in their natural habitat.
Expert Guides: Led by knowledgeable guides who provide insights into wildlife behavior and park history.
All-Inclusive Convenience: Flights, full-day game drives, accommodations, and meals included.
Remote & Unique Locations: Fewer crowds in Northern Serengeti, offering authentic safari encounters.
Scenic Landscapes: From the plains of Serengeti to the volcanic formations of Ngorongoro.
Value for Wildlife Lovers: A comprehensive package that combines iconic sights with rich scenery.

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An Overview of the 5-Day Safari Experience

This tour is designed to give travelers an immersive Tanzanian wildlife adventure with a logical flow from arrival in the Serengeti to the crater’s wildlife teeming grounds. Starting from Zanzibar, it efficiently uses flights to streamline travel time, allowing you to maximize your time in the parks.

The core focus is on witnessing the Great Migration — the largest mammal movement on Earth — and spotting the Big Five in their natural environment. The itinerary balances high-energy game drives with moments of awe at iconic landscapes, making for an engaging and varied safari.

Day 1: From Zanzibar to Kogatende Airstrip

Your safari begins with a flight from Zanzibar directly into Kogatende Airstrip, located in the Northern Serengeti. Upon arrival, your guide greets you warmly—usually a professional with extensive knowledge about the parks and wildlife.

The first day involves full-day game drives around Kogatende and Bologonja. Reviewers mention that the guides often know exactly where the migration is happening, making these drives truly rewarding. One traveler noted, “Our guide, David, was incredible—he knew where the action was and kept us in the loop about the migration’s movement.”

The Northern Serengeti is noted for its fewer visitors, giving you a more intimate experience. Here, the wildebeest herd is actively preparing for the crossing over the Masai River, which is a spectacle you’ll want to watch closely. The landscape, with its mix of open plains and rocky outcrops, provides excellent vantage points for wildlife viewing.

Day 2: Exploring the Remote Northern Serengeti

Early breakfast kicks off a full day of exploring. This part of the park, often less crowded, offers a chance to see pristine scenery and more elusive wildlife. The landscape might remind you of a classic African postcard—and you’ll find that the sense of space and quiet makes every sighting feel more special.

The main focus today is tracking the migration as they move across the plains in search of fresh grass. Two reviewers highlight that the timing of the migration aligns with the greening of grasses during the wet season, and the guides are experienced at spotting the herds’ movements. They also mention that predators, including lions and cheetahs, tend to be more active here, making for exciting sightings.

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Day 3: Witnessing the Mara River Crossing

This is one of the most iconic moments of the safari. After breakfast, you head out for a full-day game drive targeting the migration crossing the Mara River. The sight of wildebeest and zebras risking the currents and crocodiles is a highlight that many guests say is unforgettable.

The guides often position you at prime viewing spots, and some reviews mention how the experience is enhanced by guides like Isaac, who is described as “super knowledgeable and passionate about the migration.” With sightings of predators stalking the herds, this day offers a perfect blend of drama and wildlife drama.

Expect to see a wide array of animals: elephants, lions, leopards, and rhinos are all common sightings in this area. The park’s diversity means you won’t be bored, even if the migration isn’t crossing at that exact moment.

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Day 4: From Central Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater

Today, the journey takes a slight turn towards the more diverse landscapes of Central Serengeti, where the migration might be moving through or in the vicinity. The drive is scenic, transitioning from open plains to the volcanic kopjes—rocky outcrops that provide shelter and vantage points for predators and prey alike.

The highlight here is the chance to see the kopjes, which many reviewers say are their favorite part of the Serengeti. They add a rugged, textured backdrop to your game drive and are often teeming with wildlife. It’s a quieter, more contemplative experience compared to the migration crossings but equally impressive.

After the game drive, you’re transferred to the Farm of Dream Lodge in Karatu for the night, offering a change of scenery and some rest before the final day.

Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater and Return to Arusha

The last morning begins with a game drive in the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its high density of wildlife. The crater’s steep walls act as a natural barrier, creating a wildlife haven in the middle of the highlands. Expect to see elephants, lions, rhinos, buffalo, and leopards—though giraffes are absent due to the crater’s topography.

Many travelers note that the crater’s terrain provides excellent opportunities for photography, with plenty of wildlife activity and scenic views. After the game drive, you’ll be transferred to Arusha Airport for your flight back to Zanzibar, wrapping up a well-rounded safari experience.

The Practical Aspects and What You Should Know

The tour includes full-day game drives, accommodations, meals, and flights from Zanzibar to Kogatende and from Arusha back to Zanzibar, which adds significant convenience. The guides are described as knowledgeable, and the group size makes for a more personalized experience. Water and drinks are provided, but travelers should bring essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, comfortable shoes, and a sun hat.

Some reviews mention that this experience is particularly suitable for wildlife enthusiasts who appreciate guided tours with expert insights. It’s also good to prepare for early mornings, as game drives often start at sunrise.

Price-wise, the $4,287 fee covers quite a bit—flights, accommodations, guiding, and meals—but doesn’t include extras like tips or personal purchases. For those who want a hassle-free, curated safari with a focus on the migration and Big Five, this tour offers excellent value considering the scope and convenience.

The Value of This Safari

This tour is a thoughtfully designed package that balances adventure, comfort, and wildlife viewing. The inclusion of flights means you spend less time traveling internally and more time in the parks—something many travelers appreciate after long flights to Africa. The opportunity to see the Great Migration unfold in its natural habitat is rare and worth the investment.

The guides, often praised for their knowledge and passion, enhance the experience by sharing insights that bring sightings to life. The landscape diversity—from the plains of Serengeti to the peaks of Ngorongoro—adds layers of visual and emotional richness.

For those who love wildlife, photography, or simply want to experience Tanzania’s most iconic parks with minimal planning, this safari delivers in spades. It’s a comprehensive adventure that offers an authentic taste of the Serengeti’s grandeur and the crater’s wildlife density.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for an immersive, guided safari that covers the highlights of Tanzania’s wildlife scene, this is a solid choice. It suits travelers who value expert guides, scenic landscapes, and the chance to witness the epic Great Migration.

It’s ideal for those comfortable with early mornings and full days on the go, and who are prepared for the price point considering flights and comprehensive logistics.

Travelers who prefer a more independent or budget-focused experience might find this package a bit pricy, but for convenience and expert guidance, it’s hard to beat.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, solo travelers can join, but it’s advisable to check the group size to ensure a comfortable experience.

Are flights from Zanzibar included?
Yes, the tour covers flights from Zanzibar to Kogatende and from Arusha back to Zanzibar.

What should I bring on the safari?
Comfortable shoes, a sun hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent are recommended for the game drives.

Can I expect to see the Great Migration?
Yes, according to recent updates, the migration has arrived in the Northern Serengeti, and the guides are well-informed about its movements.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is not suitable for babies under 1 year, pregnant women, or guests with back problems, mainly due to the early starts and full days.

Are the guides bilingual?
Languages available include French, Spanish, German, Italian, and Chinese, ensuring a diverse range of languages for travelers.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

Does the price include accommodation?
Yes, accommodation as specified in the itinerary is included, with stays in lodges like Farm of Dream in Karatu.

Final Thoughts

This 5-day safari from Zanzibar offers a compelling way to experience Tanzania’s most celebrated wildlife spectacles. Combining flights with expertly guided game drives, it provides a seamless and luxurious adventure that’s particularly appealing for wildlife lovers and photographers. You’ll come away with incredible stories, stunning images, and a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

While the price may seem high, the convenience, expert guides, and the chance to witness the iconic Great Migration make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking an authentic, immersive safari experience. If your goal is to see the Big Five, follow the migration, and enjoy breathtaking landscapes with minimal fuss, this tour is a fantastic choice.

Ultimately, this safari is best for travelers who want a guided, all-inclusive adventure with a focus on seeing Africa’s most famous wildlife and landscapes in comfort and style. It’s a busy, wildlife-packed experience that delivers on its promises and leaves you with memories of some of the most incredible sights the continent has to offer.