Tanzania · Safari

8-Day Tanzania Big Five Safari through the Northern Circuit

8 Days Round trip from Arusha Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Explore the complete Big Five safari circuit
  • 02 Discover iconic Northern Circuit national parks
  • 03 Enjoy personalised wildlife encounters and guided drives
  • 04 Stay in exclusive lodges with nature immersion

Discover Tanzania on an 8-day Big Five safari through the legendary Northern Circuit. Travel across Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater, and the Serengeti while staying in exclusive lodges and tented camps close to nature. Enjoy guided wildlife encounters, photography-friendly game drives, and personal attention throughout the journey, with an optional sunrise balloon safari in the Serengeti. This carefully curated itinerary blends adventure, scenery, and comfort for travellers seeking depth, discovery, and unforgettable African moments in style.

Drive into the iconic Serengeti plains, where endless horizons host herds of wildebeest, zebra, and predators in action.

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 Kilimanjaro, 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 Scenic Welcome

  • 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 your safari adventure.
2
Day 02

Tarangire's Baobabs and Elephants

  • Explore Tarangire's golden savannah, dotted with giant baobab trees, and watch majestic elephants roam.
  • Lions, leopards, and exotic birds create an unforgettable safari introduction.
  • Spend the evening at your lodge with stunning sunset views over the park.
3
Day 03

Lake Manyara Wildlife and Birdlife

  • Witness flamingos along the shimmering lake and marvel at tree-climbing lions.
  • Hippos and diverse birdlife make this park uniquely captivating.
  • Enjoy an afternoon exploration of the lake's diverse ecosystems and wildlife.
4
Day 04

Ngorongoro Crater Big Five Safari

  • Descend into the crater for close encounters with the Big Five amidst breathtaking volcanic scenery.
  • Enjoy a picnic in nature's amphitheater surrounded by wildlife.
  • Spend the evening at your lodge on the crater rim with panoramic views.
5
Day 05

Into the Iconic Serengeti Plains

  • Drive into the iconic Serengeti plains, where endless horizons host herds of wildebeest, zebra, and predators in action.
  • Explore the vast plains and witness the drama of predator and prey interactions.
  • Spend the evening at your tented camp immersed in the wilderness.
6
Day 06

Full-Day Serengeti Exploration

  • Spend a full day exploring hidden riverine areas or enjoying an optional sunrise balloon safari.
  • Spend the evening under a starlit sky, completing the Serengeti magic.
  • Enjoy photography-focused safari drives for optimal wildlife encounters.
7
Day 07

Farewell Game Drive and Return to Arusha

  • Enjoy a morning game drive as you bid farewell to the Serengeti.
  • Have a scenic picnic en route before returning to Arusha.
  • Spend the evening at your lodge with nature-inspired design and comfort.
8
Day 08

Departure from Kilimanjaro

  • After breakfast, transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward journey.
  • Carry unforgettable memories of Tanzania's Big Five and majestic wildlife encounters.
  • Reflect on the incredible journey through Africa's most iconic destinations.
Tarangire baobabs, Lake Manyara flamingos, Ngorongoro Crater amphitheatre, Serengeti plains

Where this trip takes you

Tarangire baobabs, Lake Manyara flamingos, Ngorongoro Crater amphitheatre, Serengeti plains

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Arusha 7 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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