5-Day Tanzania Safari – Tarangire, Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater

Duration

5 days

Max People

Min Age

Tour Type

Add-On Safaris

Overview

This classic 5-day Tanzania safari offers an extraordinary journey through three of the country’s most iconic wildlife destinations—Tarangire National Park, Serengeti National Park, and the Ngorongoro Crater. From vast elephant herds and baobab trees to the predator-rich plains of Serengeti and the dramatic wildlife sanctuary of Ngorongoro, this itinerary provides a diverse and unforgettable safari experience.

Beginning in Arusha, you’ll travel first to Tarangire, known for its seasonal migration and impressive concentration of elephants. The adventure continues to Serengeti’s endless plains, where lions roam freely and the Great Migration unfolds during the right season. Finally, you’ll descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best places on earth to see the Big Five.

With handpicked lodges and tented camps offering comfort and excellent locations, private transportation, and an expert driver-guide, this safari ensures personal attention, immersive game drives, and authentic East African hospitality every step of the way.

Tour Highlights

Departure and Return Place: Start/end from any hotel in Arusha or Kilimanjaro International Airport (Google Map).
Departure Time: Be ready by 6:45 AM for departure at 7:15 AM.
Return Time: Approximately 4:30 PM on Day 5.
Dress Code: Casual, with comfortable safari clothing, a sunhat, closed shoes, and layers for early mornings and evenings.
Customizations: This itinerary can be tailored to match your interests, pace, and preferred accommodations.
Extensions: Add-ons to Zanzibar, Mount Kilimanjaro, or Lake Eyasi can be arranged upon request.
Season: The dry season (June–October) is best for wildlife and the Great Migration. Calving season (Jan–Feb) is also highly recommended.
Guide: A private, professional safari guide will accompany you, offering personalized wildlife tracking and expert knowledge.
Support: Receive 24/7 support from our team during planning, travel, and after your journey.

What to Expect on Tour

Expect thrilling wildlife encounters, beautiful landscapes, and expert-guided game drives in three of Tanzania’s most diverse national parks. You’ll travel in a private 4×4 Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof for photography and enjoy the comfort of well-located lodges and tented camps. From sunrise lion sightings in the Serengeti to breathtaking views from the Ngorongoro rim, each moment is designed to bring you closer to nature’s drama.

Includes/Excludes

2 days / 1 night Safari.
Transport and wildlife drives in modified 4 x 4 Land Cruiser with photographic roof hatch.
Services of a professional English speaking safari guide.
All meals per itinerary
1-night accommodation in lodge.
All wildlife reserve entry fees.
All game drives as mentioned in the itinerary.
Mineral water per person/day during game drives.
Value Added Tax by Tanzania Revenue Authority.
Complimentary wine and beer

International Flights.
Domestic flight.
All items of a personal nature.
Balloon Safari at Tarangire National Park.
Accommodation before and after Safari.
Airport Pick up or Drop off.
Gratuities (Tip) for safari guide.
Drinks and Beverage at Lodge during Safari
Travel insurance we are highly recommends.
Single Supplement (Single room) will be $150 per person.
Visa fee (50 US$ /100 US$ for American or Irish Passport holders – to be paid upon arrival).

📍 Day 1: Arusha – Tarangire National Park

After breakfast, depart Arusha and drive to Tarangire National Park, famous for its ancient baobabs, giant elephant herds, and the Tarangire River. Begin with a game drive upon arrival, searching for lions, giraffes, wildebeests, and countless birds. Enjoy a scenic picnic lunch inside the park and continue your afternoon drive along varied habitats. Later, drive to Karatu for your overnight stay.

Accommodation: Marera Valley Lodge or similar – Karatu

Meals Included: Lunch & Dinner

📍 Day 2: Karatu – Serengeti National Park

After breakfast, head toward Serengeti National Park via the Ngorongoro highlands. Enjoy stunning views as you descend onto the Serengeti plains. Arrive in the central Serengeti by early afternoon for a thrilling game drive. Explore the vast savannah, home to resident big cats, elephants, and antelope. Your guide will take you to prime wildlife areas before heading to camp for dinner.

Accommodation: – Central Serengeti

Meals Included: Lunch & Dinner

📍 Day 3: Full-Day Safari in Serengeti

Spend the full day exploring Serengeti’s rich ecosystems. Depending on the season, witness the Great Migration as wildebeests and zebras thunder across the plains. Your guide will help you track lion prides, cheetahs, leopards, and hyenas while stopping at scenic picnic sites for lunch. Take your time capturing unforgettable moments in the golden light of the savannah before returning to camp.

Accommodation: – Central Serengeti

Meals Included: Lunch & Dinner

📍 Day 4: Serengeti – Ngorongoro Conservation Area

After breakfast, enjoy a final game drive in the Serengeti as you make your way toward the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Along the journey, enjoy wildlife sightings and beautiful views. Arrive at your lodge situated near the crater rim in time for sunset. Rest and prepare for your crater adventure the following day.

Accommodation: Near Crater Rim

Meals Included: Lunch & Dinner

📍 Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater – Arusha

Begin early with breakfast, then descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, one of Africa’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Explore this wildlife-rich volcanic caldera, where you may spot rhinos, lions, elephants, buffaloes, and countless flamingos near the soda lake. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the crater and continue your drive before ascending and returning to Arusha, arriving late afternoon.

Accommodation: Not included (drop-off in Arusha or Kilimanjaro Airport)

Meals Included: Lunch

Is this safari physically demanding?

This safari is moderately active. While most of the time is spent in a safari vehicle, there are early mornings, bumpy drives, and long distances between parks. However, the pace is relaxed, and accommodations offer comfort and rest. Anyone in good health can enjoy this trip, including families and older travelers. Special mobility arrangements can be made if required. Just let us know your needs during booking for a smooth experience.

Are accommodations private and comfortable?

Yes, accommodations are selected for comfort, location, and service. You’ll stay in private ensuite rooms or tents with beds, mosquito nets, hot showers, and delicious meals. Lodges offer Wi-Fi and electricity access, while tented camps provide an authentic wilderness feel with cozy interiors. All properties are safe and well-managed, and we can upgrade to luxury or private villas upon request depending on your style and budget.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?

Yes, solo travelers are welcome. You’ll have a private vehicle and guide for a tailored experience. While the price is slightly higher for one person, the benefits include flexibility, privacy, and a customized pace. Many solo travelers join safaris to reconnect with nature and enjoy the peace of the wilderness. If you prefer to join a group tour for social interaction or cost-sharing, we can help arrange that too.

What kind of food will be served?

Meals include a mix of international and local cuisines, served buffet-style or à la carte at lodges and camps. Lunch is usually packed for picnics inside the parks. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, halal, or allergy-specific meals can be prepared with advance notice. Most ingredients are fresh, with options like grilled meats, rice, vegetables, fruits, soups, and traditional Tanzanian dishes. Coffee, tea, and bottled water are available daily.

Can the itinerary be changed or extended?

Yes, this itinerary is flexible. It can be customized to include additional nights in Serengeti, cultural visits to Maasai villages or Hadzabe tribes, or relaxation at Lake Eyasi or Lake Natron. After your safari, you can also extend your trip to Zanzibar for beach time or to Kilimanjaro for trekking. We are happy to tailor the trip based on your timeline, interests, and travel goals. Just let us know.

Is the Great Migration visible during this safari?

The Great Migration is seasonal and moves throughout the Serengeti and Maasai Mara. From June to October, herds are often in northern Serengeti; from December to March, they gather in southern Serengeti for calving. We adjust routes to increase your chances of seeing it based on your travel dates. Even outside peak migration, Serengeti always offers exceptional wildlife, including lions, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, and more throughout the year.

How safe is the safari experience?

Your safety is our top priority. The safari is guided by experienced professionals trained in wildlife behavior, first aid, and emergency protocols. Lodges and camps are secure with 24/7 staff presence. Animals generally avoid humans, and you’ll receive a safety briefing before game drives and overnights. We recommend following guide instructions at all times. Travel insurance is strongly advised, and we offer support before and during your trip.

Pricing

Number of People	Cost Per Person
1 person	$2,100
2 people	$1,250
3 people	$1,060
4 people	$940
5 people	$890
6–10 people	$840

Accommodation

Tour Day	Budget Camping Package	Standard Package
Day 1	Outpost Lodge / Tulia Boutique Hotel / Green Mountain Hotel	Ilboru Safari Lodge / Arusha Planet Lodge / Airport Planet Lodge
Day 2	Lilac Campsite / Panorama Campsite	Eileen’s Tree Inn / Endoro Lodge / Karatu Simba Lodge

Price

From

$3700.00