Tanzania · Safari

8-Day Big Five Safari in Tanzania's Northern Circuit

8 Days Round trip from Arusha Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Explore Big Five habitats across Tarangire, Ngorongoro, and Serengeti
  • 02 Discover volcanic crater scenery and wildlife-rich ecosystems
  • 03 Experience guided game drives focused on intimate wildlife sightings
  • 04 Capture dramatic wildlife behaviour during photography-focused moments
  • 05 Look for flamingos and tree-climbing lions at Lake Manyara

Explore Tanzania on an 8-day Big Five safari through Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater, and Serengeti National Park. Travel across golden savannahs, volcanic rims, and wildlife-rich plains with private guided drives and meaningful encounters along the way. Watch elephants, lions, and diverse birdlife while discovering varied habitats and dramatic landscapes. This journey reveals the beauty of Tanzania's celebrated northern circuit through close wildlife moments and authentic nature discovery.

Explore Tanzania on an 8-day Big Five safari through Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater, and Serengeti National Park.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 8 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Easy
Accommodation Included · Luxury
Transport Included
Wheelchair access Yes
Cities Arusha, Mount Meru, Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Lake Manyara, Tarangire National Park
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Arrival in Arusha and Mount Meru Views

  • Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and meet your private guide.
  • Enjoy a scenic transfer to Arusha with a welcome lunch and panoramic views of Mount Meru.
  • Spend the evening at leisure to rest and prepare for the safari adventure.
2
Day 02

Game Drive in Tarangire National Park

  • Explore Tarangire's golden savannah and admire ancient baobab trees.
  • Observe elephants, lions, leopards, and diverse birdlife during your game drive.
  • Relax in the evening and enjoy sunset views across the landscape.
3
Day 03

Wildlife Discovery at Lake Manyara

  • Witness flamingos shimmering along the lakeshore and look for tree-climbing lions.
  • Discover hippos and varied bird species across the park's unique habitats.
  • Spend the afternoon exploring the different ecosystems and wildlife.
4
Day 04

Big Five Encounters in Ngorongoro Crater

  • Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for close encounters with the Big Five.
  • Enjoy a picnic surrounded by dramatic volcanic scenery and open grasslands.
  • Spend the evening overlooking the crater rim with sweeping views.
5
Day 05

Into the Serengeti National Park

  • Drive into the iconic Serengeti plains and watch herds cross the horizon.
  • Explore wildlife-rich areas where predators and prey create thrilling moments.
  • Spend the evening immersed in the natural wilderness setting.
6
Day 06

Full-Day Exploration of the Serengeti Plains

  • Spend a full day exploring hidden valleys and riverine areas.
  • Join photography-focused game drives designed to maximise wildlife encounters.
  • Take the opportunity for an optional sunrise balloon safari if desired.
7
Day 07

Morning Safari and Return to Arusha

  • Enjoy a morning game drive as you bid farewell to the Serengeti.
  • Share a scenic picnic on the journey back to Arusha.
  • Spend the evening in peaceful surroundings reflecting on the adventure.
8
Day 08

Departure from Tanzania

  • After breakfast, transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for onward travel.
  • Carry unforgettable memories of the Big Five and Tanzania's landscapes.
  • Reflect on your journey through Africa's most celebrated safari destinations.
Tarangire National Park's golden savannah, Lake Manyara's flamingo shores, Ngorongoro Crater rim, Serengeti National Park plains

Where this trip takes you

Tarangire National Park's golden savannah, Lake Manyara's flamingo shores, Ngorongoro Crater rim, Serengeti National Park plains

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Arusha 6 cities · 8 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • All park entrance fees and conservation fees
  • Professional English-speaking safari guide
  • Private 4x4 safari vehicle
  • Accommodation as per selected plan (midrange or luxury)
  • All meals during safari and bottled drinking water
  • Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
  • Photography guidance and positioning assistance

What's Not Included

  • International flights
  • Visa fees
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses and beverages
  • Gratuities
  • Optional balloon safari (additional cost)
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Accommodation in Arusha before and after the safari

Know before you go

  • Optional sunrise balloon safari is available at an additional cost.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Arusha, Tanzania
Tour start
Arusha, Tanzania
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 8 days finish where they began, in Arusha.

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Starting from

USD 3,139 /person
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