5-Day Tanzania Safari: Tarangire, Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater (Mid-Range)

Ngorongoro Crater Serengeti National Park Tarangire National Park

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Booking Overview Highlights Includes/Excludes Cancellation Faqs Services Reviews

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Overview

Duration:5 days 4 nights
Tour Type:Daily tour
Language:English, French, German, Italian

Set off on an unforgettable 5-day safari adventure through three of Tanzania’s most celebrated national parks - Tarangire, Serengeti, and the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater. This well-balanced itinerary offers a rich blend of scenic beauty and exceptional wildlife encounters. Witness massive elephant herds and ancient baobab trees in Tarangire, explore the endless plains of Serengeti teeming with predators and plains game, and descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, a natural wonder and sanctuary for the Big Five. With comfortable mid-range accommodations, professional guides, and immersive game drives, this safari delivers an authentic and memorable taste of Tanzania’s wild heart.

Tarangire National Park – Marvel at large elephant herds
Serengeti National Park – Explore vast savannas
Ngorongoro Crater
Comfortable mid-range lodges and camps
Expert-guided game drives
Scenic landscapes

Includes/Excludes

Transfers to and from Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO) and Arusha
All Park entrance fees
All game drives and activities as per the itinerary
All accommodations as stated in the itinerary
A professional driver/guide throughout the safari
All transportation in a 4x4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof for optimal viewing
Drinking water throughout the day on safari
All taxes/VAT
Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner as outlined in the itinerary)

International Airfares (flights to and from Tanzania).
Premium drinks (alcoholic and soft drinks outside of meals)
Entry Visas.
Personal items (souvenirs, laundry, etc.)
Additional accommodation before and after the safari.
Government-imposed increase of taxes or park fees during the tour.
Services not mentioned in the itinerary (e.g. optional activities or excursions)
Services not mentioned in the program.
Travel insurance and medical repatriation
Tips for guides, drivers, and other service staff (gratuities are optional but appreciated): - Safari Guide: $15-$20 per day, per person - Hotel Staff/Other Service Personnel: $2-$5 per person, per day (based on service received)

Day to Day Section

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Day 1: Airport to Arusha

Program of the day:

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK), where your friendly safari guide will meet and transfer you to your comfortable mid-range lodge in Arusha. Enjoy the scenic drive through local villages and rolling green hills as you settle into the rhythm of Tanzania.
After check-in, take some time to relax, freshen up, or explore the lodge surroundings. In the evening, enjoy a hearty dinner and a briefing from your guide about the exciting days ahead. Get a good night's rest—your safari adventure begins tomorrow!

Main Destination	Arusha
Activities	Arrival, Scenic Transfer, Check-in to the hotel & safari briefing
Accommodation	*Arusha Planet Lodge.*
Meal Plan	Bed & Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner

Day 2: Arusha - Tarangire National Park

Program of the day:

After breakfast, meet your guide and set off on a scenic drive to Tarangire National Park—famous for its ancient baobab trees and large elephant herds. The journey takes about two hours and offers a glimpse into rural Tanzanian life along the way.

Upon arrival, enjoy a full-day game drive through the park’s diverse landscapes. Keep your eyes open for lions, zebras, giraffes, and an impressive variety of birdlife. A picnic lunch will be served inside the park, giving you a moment to relax amid nature.

Later in the afternoon, drive to your lodge in Karatu, where you’ll check in, freshen up, and enjoy dinner. Rest well and get ready for the legendary Serengeti tomorrow!

Main Destination	Tarangire National Park
Distance / Time	Arusha – Tarangire (Approx. 2-2.5 hours)
Activities	Scenic Transfer & Game Drive
Accommodation	*Marera Valley Lodge*
Meal Plan	Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & Water

Day 3: Karatu - Serengeti National Park

Program of the day:

After an early breakfast, begin your journey to the legendary Serengeti National Park. The drive takes you through the scenic Ngorongoro Conservation Area, where you'll pass lush highlands and dramatic viewpoints worth a photo stop or two.

As you reach the Serengeti gates, the landscape opens up into endless plains filled with wildlife. This is the heart of Tanzania’s safari experience—home to the Big Five, and if you're lucky, the seasonal Great Migration.

Enjoy a full-day game drive with a packed lunch in the park. From lions resting under acacia trees to herds of wildebeest and zebra crossing the grasslands, the Serengeti never disappoints.

In the late afternoon, arrive at your mid-range lodge or tented camp inside the park. Settle in, have dinner, and fall asleep to the distant sounds of the wild.

Main Destination	Serengeti National Park.
Distance / Time	Karatu - Serengeti (Approx. 4-5 hrs.)
Activities	Game Drive
Accommodation	*Land of Nature Camp*
Meal Plan	Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Water & Soft Drinks

Day 4: Serengeti National Park – Ngorongoro Highlands

Program of the day:

Start your day with an early morning game drive across the golden plains of the Serengeti. As the sun rises, the park comes alive with activity—lions may be on the move, elephants feeding in small herds, and perhaps a cheetah scanning the horizon for prey. This is one of the best times to observe wildlife in action.

After an unforgettable morning, enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by the natural beauty of the Serengeti. It’s the perfect moment to relax and take in the sights and sounds of the bush one last time before heading out.

In the afternoon, begin your journey toward the Ngorongoro Highlands. Watch as the scenery shifts dramatically—from wide open plains to green, misty hills and forested slopes. This change in environment is not only scenic but also refreshing after a few days on the savannah.

Arrive at your cozy lodge nestled in the highlands by late afternoon. With cooler air and sweeping views, it’s an ideal spot to unwind. Enjoy a hearty dinner and a quiet evening reflecting on your time in the Serengeti.

Overnight in the Ngorongoro area, ready for tomorrow’s descent into the world-famous crater.

Main Destination	Ngorongoro Highlands
Distance / Time	Serengeti to Ngorongoro Highlands (Approx. 3-3.5 hrs.)
Activities	Game Drive & Scenic transfer
Accommodation	*Ang’ata Ngorongoro Camp*
Meal Plan	Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Water & Soft Drinks

Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater & Departure

Program of the day:

Wake up to the crisp highland air and enjoy a warm breakfast with panoramic views of the Ngorongoro Highlands. Afterward, descend into the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater—often called Africa’s Eden. This massive volcanic caldera is home to some of the highest concentrations of wildlife in Africa, including the legendary Big Five: lion, elephant, rhino, buffalo, and leopard.

Spend the morning on an exciting game drive across the Crater floor, where grassy plains, acacia forests, and soda lakes provide habitat for an incredible array of animals and birdlife. Keep your camera ready—you never know what you might encounter just around the corner.

Stop for a relaxed picnic lunch at a scenic spot within the Crater, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere and reflecting on the incredible sights of the morning.

In the afternoon, ascend the Crater rim and begin your drive back to Arusha or to Kilimanjaro International Airport, depending on your onward travel plans. As your journey comes to a close, carry with you unforgettable memories of Tanzania’s breathtaking landscapes and wildlife.

Optional: We can also arrange an additional night’s accommodation upon request for guests who prefer to rest before departure.

Main Destination	Ngorongoro Crater.
Distance / Time	Ngorongoro Crater – Kilimanjaro International Airport (Approx. 3.5 hrs.) Ngorongoro Crater – Arusha Airport (Approx. 3 hrs.)
Activities	Crater Tour & Departure
Accommodation	*N/A (Departure)*
Meal Plan	Breakfast, Lunch, Water & Soft Drinks

Frequently asked questions

How many days should I plan for a safari in Tanzania?

Tanzanian safaris can range from 1 to 14 days, depending on your schedule and the destinations you'd like to visit. A 5–7 day safari is ideal for exploring iconic parks like Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire.
For those with limited time, short safaris of 1–2 days can be arranged to explore parks like Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Arusha National Park, or even the Ngorongoro Crater. If you're keen on visiting the Serengeti but pressed for time, flying directly into the park is a convenient option to maximize your experience.

When is the best time to visit Tanzania?

The best time to visit Tanzania depends on your interests and what you hope to experience during your trip:
• Dry Season (June to October): This is the ideal time for wildlife safaris, as animals gather around water sources, making them easier to spot. The weather is sunny and dry, with minimal rainfall. The Serengeti is particularly famous for the Great Migration during this period, and the Northern Circuit parks like Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire offer exceptional game-viewing opportunities.
• Wet Season (November to May): The wet season is divided into two parts:
o Short rains (November to December): Light rains refresh the landscape, but they don’t usually disrupt travel plans. This is a great time for birdwatching, as migratory birds arrive, and the parks are less crowded.
o Long rains (March to May): While this is the peak of the rainy season, the landscapes are at their greenest, and lodges often offer discounted rates. Calving season in the Southern Serengeti (January to March) is also part of this season, making it an excellent time to witness predators in action.
Both seasons have unique advantages, so your travel plans can be tailored to your specific preferences, whether it’s spotting wildlife during the dry season or enjoying lush scenery and fewer crowds during the wet season.

What is the Great Wildebeest Migration?

The Great Migration is a spectacular natural event where millions of wildebeests, zebras, and antelopes move through Serengeti National Park and into the Masai Mara in search of fresh grazing and water.
4. When is the best time to witness the Great Migration?
The timing varies by location:
• Calving Season: Mid December to March in the Southern Serengeti.
• River Crossings: July to September in the Northern Serengeti.
• Return Migration: October to December.

What’s the best way to get to Tanzania?

Most travelers arrive via Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR). There are also direct flights to Zanzibar for those heading to the beaches.

What should I wear on a safari in Tanzania?

When packing for a Tanzanian safari, consider the time of year and the destinations you plan to visit. Here are some essentials:
• Clothing: Pack lightweight, neutral-colored clothing to blend with the environment and avoid attracting insects. Include layers such as a warm jacket or fleece for chilly mornings and evenings, especially during the dry season.
• Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes or boots are a must for game drives or walking safaris.
• Accessories: Bring a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun, as well as insect repellent for the evenings.
• Other Essentials: A reusable water bottle, binoculars for wildlife spotting, and a camera to capture memories are highly recommended.
Your packing list may vary depending on the time of your visit, and for your convenience, a detailed checklist is included in our Final Check Document, available upon request. This document provides tailored recommendations to ensure you're fully prepared for your adventure.

Which country is better for a safari: Kenya or Tanzania?

Both Kenya and Tanzania offer incredible safari experiences, each with its unique highlights:
• Kenya: Known for its iconic landscapes, including the Maasai Mara and Amboseli, Kenya is renowned for its rich wildlife, especially during the Great Migration. It also offers diverse safari options, from classic game drives to balloon safaris.
• Tanzania: Tanzania is home to the world-famous Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Mount Kilimanjaro, offering diverse and vast landscapes. The country’s parks, such as the Selous and Tarangire, tend to be more secluded, providing a tranquil and less crowded experience.
Ultimately, the choice depends on your personal preferences and which landscapes or specific wildlife experiences you’re most interested in. Both countries offer top-tier safari adventures, so your decision can be based on your travel goals and the experiences you wish to have.

Can I leave the car during a safari?

Leaving the car is generally prohibited in most parks for safety reasons, as wildlife can be unpredictable. However, designated areas like picnic sites or walking safari zones allow you to step out under a guide's supervision.

Can I use a drone on safari?

No, drones are not permitted in Tanzanian national parks and reserves unless you obtain special government permission, which is rare. It's important to note that during airport security checks, travelers without the necessary regulatory permission may face complications or delays. We strongly advise checking with local authorities for any updated regulations before bringing a drone into the country.

Is there internet coverage on safari in Tanzania?

Most lodges and camps provide Wi-Fi, though speeds may vary. In remote areas, internet connectivity might be limited or unavailable.

What are the must-visit attractions in Tanzania?

Tanzania boasts world-renowned destinations like Serengeti National Park, Mount Kilimanjaro, Ngorongoro Crater, Zanzibar’s idyllic beaches, and Selous Game Reserve.

Do I need a visa to visit Tanzania?

Yes, most visitors require a visa, which can be obtained online (Tanzania Immigration Visa.) or upon arrival at the airport. Check the latest requirements before travelling.

What vaccinations are recommended for Tanzania?

Recommended vaccinations include typhoid, TDP, varicella, Hepatitis A and B. A yellow fever vaccination is mandatory if you're traveling from a yellow fever risk area.

What is the local currency in Tanzania?

The Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) is the official currency. Credit cards are accepted in many tourist areas, but it’s advisable to carry cash for remote locations.

What types of accommodation are available on safari?

Tanzania offers diverse options, from luxury lodges and tented camps to budget-friendly campsites and guesthouses, catering to all preferences and budgets.