5-Day Northern Tanzania Safari through Serengeti and Ngorongoro

5 Days Round trip from Arusha City Hotels Moderate pace

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The journey

Trip highlights

01 Explore Tarangire National Park, famous for massive elephant herds and ancient baobab trees
02 Search for Big Five wildlife with expert guiding across Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Lake Manyara
03 Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, one of Africa's most remarkable wildlife destinations, with possible black rhinoceros sightings
04 Travel through the Ngorongoro Highlands and Great Rift Valley with spectacular volcanic scenery and viewpoints
05 Enjoy full-day Serengeti game drives across endless plains with chances to spot lions, cheetahs, leopards, elephants, and buffalo
06 Experience Lake Manyara National Park's diverse habitats, groundwater forests, and abundant birdlife
07 Savor picnic lunches in the bush and peaceful evenings at safari lodges or tented camps

Discover Northern Tanzania on a 5-day safari through Tarangire National Park, Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, and Lake Manyara National Park. Travel from Arusha through ancient baobab landscapes, Great Rift Valley scenery, volcanic highlands, and endless savannah plains with an experienced local safari guide. Watch elephants gather in Tarangire, search for predators across the Serengeti, and descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for exceptional wildlife viewing in a breathtaking volcanic landscape. With sunrise and afternoon game drives, picnic lunches in the bush, and comfortable safari lodges or tented camps, this journey combines diverse ecosystems and outstanding Big Five opportunities.

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 5 Days

Tour type Shared

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Arusha, Mount Kilimanjaro, Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Lake Manyara, Tarangire National Park

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arrival in Arusha and Tarangire Wildlife Discovery

Arusha -> Tarangire National Park | Approx. 2-3 hours drive

Morning: Safari Welcome & Journey to Tarangire

Your 5-day Northern Tanzania safari begins with a morning pick-up from your hotel in Arusha or Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). Meet your professional safari guide, receive a briefing about your adventure, and begin your journey toward Tarangire National Park.

Drive through the beautiful landscapes of northern Tanzania, passing local villages, farmland, and scenic views of the Great Rift Valley region.

Afternoon: Game Drive in Tarangire National Park - Land of Giants

Enter Tarangire National Park, famous for its ancient baobab trees, diverse landscapes, and large elephant populations.

Enjoy your first wildlife experience as you search for:

Large elephant herds gathering around the Tarangire River
Lions resting under acacia trees
Giraffes moving through woodland areas
Zebras, wildebeest, and antelopes grazing across the plains
Buffaloes and colorful bird species

Enjoy a picnic lunch inside the park while surrounded by the sounds and scenery of the African wilderness.

Evening: Relax at Your Safari Lodge

After your game drive, continue to your lodge or tented camp near Tarangire or Karatu for dinner and relaxation.

Accommodation: Standard safari lodge/tented camp
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Highlights: Tarangire elephants, baobab landscapes, first wildlife encounters

Day 02

Journey to Serengeti Through the Ngorongoro Highlands

Tarangire/Karatu -> Serengeti National Park | Approx. 5-6 hours drive

Morning: Scenic Drive Through the Ngorongoro Highlands

After breakfast, depart for the legendary Serengeti National Park. Travel through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, one of Tanzania's most beautiful regions.

Enjoy breathtaking views of volcanic highlands, Maasai villages, and the famous Ngorongoro Crater viewpoint, where you can stop for panoramic photographs.

Afternoon: First Serengeti Game Drive

Enter Serengeti National Park and begin your afternoon adventure across the world-famous savannah plains.

The Serengeti offers incredible opportunities to spot:

Lions searching the grasslands
Leopards resting in trees
Cheetahs moving across open plains
Elephants and buffalo herds
Zebras, wildebeest, and gazelles

Experience the beauty of a landscape where wildlife stretches as far as the eye can see.

Evening: Serengeti Sunset & Wilderness Camp Experience

Arrive at your Serengeti lodge or tented camp for dinner and an unforgettable night surrounded by nature.

Accommodation: Serengeti safari lodge/tented camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Highlights: Ngorongoro Highlands, Serengeti entrance, predator viewing

Day 03

Full-Day Serengeti Safari and Big Five Search

Full-Day Game Drive in Serengeti National Park

Morning: Sunrise Wildlife Adventure

Wake early for a spectacular morning game drive, when predators and other wildlife are most active.

Watch the sunrise over the Serengeti plains while your expert guide searches for iconic African wildlife.

Possible sightings include:

Lion prides on the hunt
Cheetahs scanning the open plains
Leopards near river areas
Elephants crossing the savannah
Buffalo herds and numerous antelope species

Afternoon: Picnic Lunch & Deeper Serengeti Exploration

Enjoy a picnic lunch in the bush before continuing your exploration of different Serengeti habitats.

Depending on the season and location, you may witness areas connected to the famous Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebras move through the ecosystem.

Your guide will choose routes based on recent wildlife activity to maximize your safari experience.

Evening: Serengeti Lodge Relaxation

Return to your accommodation for dinner and relaxation while enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of the African wilderness.

Accommodation: Serengeti safari lodge/tented camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Highlights: Full-day Serengeti safari, Big Five opportunities, endless plains

Day 04

Ngorongoro Crater Safari in a Natural Wildlife Sanctuary

Serengeti -> Ngorongoro Crater Area | Approx. 3-4 hours drive

Morning: Final Serengeti Game Drive & Departure

After breakfast, enjoy a final Serengeti game drive as you leave the park.

Continue toward the spectacular Ngorongoro Conservation Area, passing through scenic landscapes filled with volcanic mountains, forests, and wildlife corridors.

Afternoon: Descend Into Ngorongoro Crater

Enter the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa's most remarkable wildlife destinations.

Descend into the crater floor for an unforgettable game drive searching for:

Lions on the open grasslands
Large buffalo herds
Elephants in forest areas
Hippos in crater pools
Flamingos around seasonal lakes
Possible black rhinoceros sightings

Enjoy a picnic lunch inside this incredible natural amphitheatre.

Evening: Overnight Near Ngorongoro

After exploring the crater, continue to your lodge near Karatu or the Ngorongoro Highlands for dinner and relaxation.

Accommodation: Standard safari lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Highlights: Ngorongoro Crater, Big Five viewing, volcanic landscapes

Day 05

Lake Manyara Adventure and Return to Arusha

Ngorongoro Area -> Lake Manyara -> Arusha | Approx. 3-5 hours drive

Morning: Explore Lake Manyara National Park

After breakfast, depart for Lake Manyara National Park, a beautiful wildlife destination known for its diverse habitats, dramatic escarpment views, and abundant birdlife.

Enjoy a morning game drive searching for:

Tree-climbing lions (season and luck dependent)
Elephants walking through groundwater forests
Giraffes and zebras
Buffaloes and monkeys
Flamingos and hundreds of bird species

Afternoon: Scenic Drive Back to Arusha

After your Lake Manyara safari experience, enjoy lunch before beginning your return journey to Arusha.

Travel through the Great Rift Valley landscapes while reflecting on five unforgettable days of Tanzania wildlife adventure.

Evening: Safari Ends in Arusha

Arrive in Arusha in the late afternoon or evening. Your guide will drop you at your hotel, airport, or preferred location.

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Highlights: Lake Manyara wildlife, Rift Valley scenery, safari conclusion

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Arusha City Hotels 6 cities · 5 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Professional English-speaking safari guide with expert knowledge of Tanzania's wildlife, national parks, conservation, and local culture
Private 4x4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof for comfortable game viewing, photography, and wildlife observation
All transportation during the safari including transfers between Arusha, Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Lake Manyara, and return to Arusha
Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Arusha or Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) by prior arrangement
All national park entrance fees for Tarangire National Park, Serengeti National Park, and Lake Manyara National Park
Ngorongoro Crater conservation and crater service fees for the crater game drive experience
4 nights accommodation in selected standard safari lodges or tented camps with private rooms and en-suite facilities
Daily meals as specified in the itinerary including breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the safari
Picnic lunches during selected full-day game drives inside the national parks
Unlimited game drives across Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Lake Manyara with flexible wildlife viewing stops
Bottled drinking water during safari activities throughout the journey
Safari vehicle charging facilities for cameras, phones, and personal electronic devices
Wildlife tracking and safari planning support from your experienced driver-guide to maximize wildlife viewing opportunities
Government taxes and service charges related to included safari services

What's Not Included

International flights and domestic flights to and from Tanzania
Tanzania visa fees and passport-related expenses
Travel insurance including medical coverage, trip cancellation, and baggage protection
Tips and gratuities for safari guides, drivers, lodge staff, and camp teams (recommended but not mandatory)
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, laundry services, phone calls, and additional lodge or camp services
Alcoholic beverages including wine, beer, cocktails, and imported drinks
Soft drinks and beverages outside the included bottled drinking water
Optional activities and excursions such as hot air balloon safari, cultural village visits, Maasai experiences, or additional activities not listed in the itinerary
Accommodation before or after the safari unless specifically included in your booking
Airport transfers outside the scheduled Arusha or Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) pick-up and drop-off service
Additional accommodation upgrades or room category changes requested during the safari
Any services, activities, or expenses not specifically mentioned under 'What's Included'

What to bring

Camera or smartphone for unforgettable wildlife photography
Binoculars for enhanced animal viewing during game drives
Sun hat or cap for protection from the African sun
Sunscreen with high SPF protection
Insect repellent for outdoor comfort
Comfortable safari clothing in neutral colors suitable for wildlife viewing
Warm jacket or fleece for early morning and evening game drives
Comfortable closed shoes for lodge areas and outdoor activities
Personal medication and essential toiletries
Reusable water bottle for staying hydrated
Small daypack for carrying personal items during safari excursions

Know before you go

A valid passport is required for all travelers joining the safari.
Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed because animals move freely in their natural habitat, but our experienced safari guides use expert knowledge of wildlife behavior and park conditions to maximize sightings.
Expect several hours of driving between destinations, as this safari covers multiple national parks across Northern Tanzania.
Safari roads can be uneven and dusty, especially inside national parks. A reasonable level of mobility is recommended.
Bring layered clothing, as temperatures can change between warm afternoons and cool mornings or evenings, especially around Serengeti and Ngorongoro.
Inform us of any dietary requirements or allergies before arrival so suitable meals can be prepared.
Follow national park rules and your guide's instructions to ensure a safe and responsible wildlife experience.
Travel insurance is strongly recommended to cover medical emergencies, cancellations, and unexpected situations.
The itinerary may be adjusted slightly depending on wildlife movements, weather conditions, road conditions, and park regulations.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point

Pick-up from your hotel reception in Arusha or the arrivals area at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). Look for the Africantrust Safari representative holding a sign with your name or booking details. Pick-up time will be confirmed after booking.

Tour start

Arusha City Hotels, Arusha Airport, or Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), Tanzania