5-Day Tanzania Northern Circuit Safari with Serengeti and Ngorongoro

5 Days Round trip from Arusha Easy pace

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The journey

Trip highlights

01 See Tarangire's elephant herds among ancient baobab trees
02 Explore the Serengeti's endless plains on rewarding game drives
03 Visit the seasonal Ndutu calving plains from late December to March
04 Descend into the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater for rich wildlife viewing

This five-day safari is a heartwarming journey through Tanzania's classic northern circuit, where each day brings a new landscape, a new wildlife moment, and a deeper feeling of connection to the wilderness. From Tarangire's gentle giants and baobab-dotted plains to the Serengeti's endless horizons, the seasonal Ndutu calving grounds, and the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, this itinerary is designed to feel both adventurous and unforgettable. The route travels from Arusha to Tarangire, onward to the Serengeti and seasonal Ndutu area, then to Ngorongoro Crater before returning to Arusha.

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 5 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Yes

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

Languages Arabic, Danish, Dutch, English, French, German, Hindi, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Swahili

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Tarangire's Giants and Baobab Plains

Activity: Begin your journey in Tarangire National Park, a beautifully wild landscape where ancient baobab trees rise above golden savannas and elephant herds move peacefully through river valleys.
Wildlife viewing: Watch for lions, giraffes, zebras, and colorful birdlife.
Accommodation: Africa Safari Manyara Escarpment

Day 02

Into the Serengeti and Seasonal Ndutu Plains

Activity: Travel into the Serengeti, where the plains seem to stretch forever and every game drive carries the promise of something special.
Wildlife viewing: The central region offers excellent year-round wildlife viewing, with chances to see lions, leopards, cheetahs, and wide-ranging grazing herds.
Seasonal route: From late December to March, your route also includes Ndutu, the heart of the Great Migration's calving season, where new life fills the open plains and unforgettable predator action often follows.
Accommodation: Africa Safari Ngorongoro Ndutu

Day 03

A Full Day of Serengeti Discovery

Activity: Spend a full day deeper in the Serengeti, following your expert guide through valleys, kopjes, and open grasslands in search of big cats, large herds, and quiet moments that stay with you long after the safari ends.
Game drives: Each game drive reveals a different side of the landscape, giving the day a beautiful sense of discovery, wonder, and adventure.
Accommodation: Africa Safari Ngorongoro Ndutu

Day 04

Ngorongoro Crater and the Highland Lodge

Activity: Descend into the spectacular Ngorongoro Crater, a natural amphitheater where dramatic scenery and abundant wildlife come together in one unforgettable setting.
Wildlife viewing: Lions, elephants, buffalo, hippos, and the rare black rhino roam this breathtaking caldera, offering a rich and rewarding day of exploration.
Activity: After taking in the crater's beauty and wildlife, continue to your lodge in the highlands.
Accommodation: Africa Safari Karatu

Day 05

Scenic Return to Arusha

Meal: After breakfast
Transfer: Enjoy a scenic drive back to Arusha, passing through beautiful landscapes and Maasai communities along the way.
End: Your safari concludes with vivid memories of Tanzania's wildlife, dramatic scenery, and warm hospitality - moments to carry home long after the journey ends.

The route

Where you'll travel

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

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Park entrance fees
All game drives
Professional safari guide
Airport transfers
Accommodation as listed
Meals as indicated
Drinking water in vehicle

What's Not Included

International flights
Visa fees
Travel insurance
Tips and gratuities
Personal expenses
Alcoholic beverages

What to bring

Passport, visa or travel authorization, tickets, and booking confirmation
Travel insurance policy details and emergency-assistance contacts
Copies of important documents stored separately and digitally
Bank cards and some Tanzanian shillings for small purchases and tips
Phone, charging cables, power bank, and a suitable travel adapter
Neutral-colored clothing and closed shoes
Binoculars, camera, and spare batteries or memory cards
Dust protection for cameras and electronics
A warm layer for early-morning game drives

Know before you go

Travel documents: Check passport validity and entry requirements, and obtain the correct visa or travel authorization before departure.
Health precautions: Consult a healthcare professional about recommended vaccinations, malaria prevention, and destination-specific advice.
Money and payments: Carry some Tanzanian shillings for small purchases, and confirm accepted payment methods with your providers.
Packing: Bring comfortable clothing, sturdy walking shoes, sun protection, insect repellent, and warm layers for early-morning safaris or mountain activities.
Connectivity and power: Mobile and internet coverage can be limited in remote areas. Bring a suitable adapter for Tanzania's electrical outlets.

Logistics