5 Day Tarangire, Serengeti & Ngorongoro & Manyara safari
A perfectly balanced Northern Tanzania safari. Iconic wildlife, dramatic landscapes, and immersive game drives
- Tanzania
- 5 Days
- From $1850 Per Person
Overview
This 5-day Northern Circuit safari is designed for travelers who want to experience Tanzania’s most celebrated parks without rushing. From Tarangire’s ancient baobabs and elephant herds, through the endless plains of the Serengeti, down into the wildlife-rich Ngorongoro Crater, and finally the lush beauty of Lake Manyara—each day unfolds a new ecosystem and story.
At Safari Vibes Africa, we focus on unhurried game drives, knowledgeable local guides, and carefully selected lodges to ensure your safari feels authentic, comfortable, and deeply rewarding.
Highlights
- Explore four iconic national parks in one seamless journey
- Exceptional wildlife viewing including Big Five opportunities
- Scenic drive across the Great Rift Valley
- Full-day game drive in the Ngorongoro Crater
- Diverse landscapes: savannah, crater floor, forests, and soda lake
- Private safari vehicle with a professional Safari Vibes Africa guide
Itinerary
Day 1: Arusha → Tarangire National Park
Depart Arusha in the morning and drive to Tarangire National Park, famous for its vast elephant populations and striking baobab trees. Enjoy a full game drive through river valleys and open plains before heading to your lodge for dinner and overnight.
Overnight: Lodge or tented camp near Tarangire
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Day 2: Tarangire → Serengeti National Park
After breakfast, travel northwest toward the legendary Serengeti National Park. As the landscape opens into endless plains, wildlife sightings begin almost immediately. Enjoy a game drive en route to your camp.
Overnight: Tented camp inside Serengeti
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3: Full Day Serengeti Game Drives
Spend a full day exploring the Serengeti, adjusting your game drives based on wildlife movements. Depending on the season, you may witness predator action or sections of the Great Migration. Your guide shares deep insight into animal behavior and ecosystem dynamics.
Overnight: Same Serengeti camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4: Serengeti → Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Enjoy a morning game drive before heading toward the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Ascend the crater rim and take in breathtaking views over one of Africa’s most extraordinary natural wonders.
Overnight: Lodge on the Ngorongoro crater rim or nearby
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater → Lake Manyara → Arusha
Descend early into the Ngorongoro Crater for a half-day game drive. This natural amphitheater hosts lions, elephants, buffalo, rhinos, and dense birdlife. Afterward, continue to Lake Manyara National Park for a final game drive before returning to Arusha.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Includes
- Private 4×4 Safari Vehicle with pop-up roof for game viewing
- Professional English-speaking driver/guide (French or German on request)
- All park entry fees
- Accommodations
- Meals
- Bottled drinking water during game drives
- Hotel pick-up & drop-off from Arusha or Moshi
- Government taxes and levies
Excludes
- International flights to/from Tanzania
- Domestic flights (e.g., Dar es Salaam ↔ Arusha) unless added to your package
- Travel insurance & medical coverage
- Visa fees and personal travel documents
- Alcoholic and premium beverages
- Tips & gratuities for driver/guide (customary but discretionary)
- Optional activities
- Personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, souvenirs)
FAQ
Is this safari suitable for first-time visitors to Tanzania?
Yes. This itinerary is one of the best introductions to Tanzania safaris. It covers three top parks, offers excellent wildlife sightings, and is well-paced for travelers new to safari experiences.
What level of accommodation is used on this safari?
Accommodation is flexible. You can choose between mid-range lodges, luxury lodges, or tented camps, all carefully selected for comfort, safety, and proximity to the parks.
How physically demanding is this safari?
This safari is not physically demanding. Game drives are done in a vehicle, with minimal walking. It’s suitable for families, seniors, and travelers of varying fitness levels.
What wildlife can I realistically expect to see?
You can expect to see elephants, lions, buffalo, zebras, giraffes, wildebeest, hippos, and many antelope species. In Ngorongoro Crater, there is also a strong chance of spotting the rare black rhino.
When is the best time to do this safari?
This safari runs year-round. The dry season (June–October) offers excellent wildlife visibility, while the green season (November–May) features lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and great birdlife.
Is the safari private or shared?
By default, this safari is private, meaning the vehicle and guide are exclusively for your group. Shared options can be arranged upon request.
Can this safari be customized?
Absolutely. The itinerary can be customized by adjusting accommodation level, adding extra days, or combining the safari with Zanzibar beach holidays after completion.
