Tanzania · Safari

5-Day Tanzania Big Five Safari with Mto wa Mbu Cultural Visit

5 Days Round trip from Tanzania Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Explore Tarangire National Park's vast elephant herds and iconic baobab trees
02 Spend a full day on game drives in the Ngorongoro Crater, home to the Big Five
03 Spot tree-climbing lions, flamingos, and hippos in Lake Manyara National Park
04 Visit Mto wa Mbu village to learn about local tribes, customs, and farming techniques
05 Discover Arusha's bustling markets, cafes, and cultural centres

Embark on a 5-day safari adventure through Tanzania's northern circuit, beginning in Arusha and continuing to Tarangire National Park, known for its vast elephant herds and iconic baobab trees. Descend into the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the Big Five, before exploring Lake Manyara National Park, famous for its tree-climbing lions, flamingos, and hippo pools. The journey also includes a cultural visit to the vibrant village of Mto wa Mbu, where you can learn about local tribes, customs, and farming techniques. This safari combines stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and meaningful cultural encounters.

Descend into the crater, a natural enclosure teeming with wildlife, including the Big Five.

From the itinerary

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, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Lake Manyara, Tarangire National Park

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arrival and Leisure Time in Arusha

Upon arrival in Arusha, your guide will greet you and transfer you to your accommodation. Arusha is known as the gateway to Tanzania's northern safari circuit.
After settling in, take some time to relax and acclimatise.
Depending on your arrival time, you can explore Arusha city's bustling markets, cafes, and craft shops or visit cultural centres to learn more about Tanzanian traditions.
A peaceful evening at your lodge will help prepare you for the adventure ahead.

Day 02

Wildlife Viewing in Tarangire National Park

After breakfast, depart for Tarangire National Park, renowned for its vast elephant herds and iconic baobab trees. Tarangire's diverse landscape provides habitat for numerous wildlife species, including lions, giraffes, zebras, and over 500 bird species.
Spend the day exploring the park's savannahs, swamps, and riverine forests, which offer opportunities for incredible wildlife viewing.
Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park and continue with an afternoon game drive before returning to your lodge for a restful evening.

Day 03

Full-Day Safari in Ngorongoro Crater

Today, journey to the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa's premier wildlife destinations.
Descend into the crater, a natural enclosure teeming with wildlife, including the Big Five. The lush crater floor supports many animals, such as wildebeest, zebras, hippos, and rare black rhinos.
Explore this incredible ecosystem with a full day of game drives, including a stop for lunch at a scenic picnic site.
Later, ascend back to the crater rim for overnight accommodation in Karatu.

Day 04

Lake Manyara Safari and Mto wa Mbu Cultural Visit

Start the day with a visit to Lake Manyara National Park, a diverse and scenic reserve famous for its tree-climbing lions, large flocks of flamingos, and hippo pools.
After a morning game drive, head to the nearby village of Mto wa Mbu for a cultural experience.
Participate in a guided village tour, learning about the various tribes, their customs, and local farming techniques.
Engage in activities such as banana plantation visits or a biking tour before returning to your lodge.

Day 05

Return to Arusha and Departure

After breakfast, enjoy a scenic drive back to Arusha, where you will have time for some last-minute shopping or sightseeing, depending on your flight schedule.
Reflect on the incredible experiences of your safari adventure before being transferred to the airport for your departure.
As you head home, carry unforgettable memories of Tanzania's stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and vibrant cultures.