5-Day Northern Tanzania Safari Adventure
Safari in national parks: Ngorongoro Crater Tarangire, Lake Manyara and Serengeti National Park
This 5-day Tanzania safari immerses you in the heart of the Northern Safari Circuit, exploring four of the country’s most celebrated national parks Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater, and Serengeti. Perfect for travelers with limited time but a desire for unforgettable wildlife experiences, this itinerary offers a rich diversity of landscapes and animal sightings.
Begin in Tarangire National Park, home to giant baobabs and large elephant herds. Continue to Lake Manyara, where lush groundwater forests and soda lakes attract flamingos, tree-climbing lions, and countless bird species. Then descend into the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater for Big Five encounters in a stunning natural amphitheater.
Cap off your journey in the endless plains of Serengeti National Park, where the Great Migration unfolds and predators roam freely. With expert guides, scenic lodges, and breathtaking views, this short yet rewarding safari offers a front-row seat to the wonders of Tanzania’s wilderness.
Trip Highlights
- Explore four diverse national parks in 5 days
- See elephants and baobabs in Tarangire
- Spot tree-climbing lions in Lake Manyara
- Discover the Big Five in Ngorongoro Crater
- Witness wildlife action on the Serengeti plains
- Enjoy scenic drives, bush picnics & sundowners
Trip Features
- Start Date: Can start any day
- Duration: 4 Days
- Comfort: Can be optimized
- Tour Type: Private Tour
- Tour Plan: Customizable Itinerary
- Transport: Toyota Land Cruiser 4x4
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
- Airport: Kilimanjaro Int. Airport
Detailed Itinerary
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where a friendly guide from Explore Trekking Adventure will warmly welcome you and escort you to your hotel in Arusha/Moshi. Upon arrival, settle into your lodge nestled in serene gardens or with scenic mountain views. Depending on your arrival time, you can relax and unwind or enjoy a short town tour to get a feel for the local culture. In the evening, join us for a welcome dinner and a detailed safari briefing to prepare you for the unforgettable migration adventure ahead. Overnight in Arusha, the perfect starting point for your journey through Tanzania’s northern safari circuit.
- Accommodation: Budget, Midrange or Luxury in Arusha
- Meal Plan: Lunch & Dinner
After breakfast in Arusha/Moshi, you’ll drive to Tarangire National Park, famous for its ancient baobab trees and vast elephant populations. Enjoy a game drive along the Tarangire River, where animals gather to drink especially during the dry season. Keep an eye out for lions, giraffes, wildebeests, and colorful birdlife. After a picnic lunch or a hot meal at the lodge, continue with an afternoon drive before heading to your lodge or tented camp for dinner and overnight near or inside the park.
- Accommodation: Budget, Midrange or Luxury in karatu
- Meal Plan: Lunch & Dinner
Depart for Lake Manyara National Park after breakfast. Nestled between the Great Rift Valley and the escarpment, the park is rich in habitats ranging from forest and swamp to open lake. Look for hippos, flamingos, monkeys, and possibly the park’s famous tree-climbing lions. Enjoy a relaxed picnic lunch in the park, then continue game driving before heading to Karatu in the Ngorongoro Highlands for dinner and overnight. Optional visit to a local village or coffee plantation if time permits.
- Accommodation: Budget, Midrange or Luxury in karatu
- Meal Plan: Break Fast, Lunch and Dinner
After an early breakfast, enjoy a final short game drive en route to the airstrip (if flying) or begin the drive back to Arusha with a lunch stop en route. Upon arrival, you’ll have time for last-minute shopping or relaxation at a day hotel before your transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward flight. This marks the end of your whirlwind adventure through Tanzania’s most iconic wildlife destinations.
- Accommodation: N/A
- Meal Plan: Dinner
What's Included & Excluded
Included
- Transport to and from the Parks
- Allowance for the Crew
- First Aid Kit and Emergency Oxygen
- Park Fees and VAT
- Rescue Support – In case of emergencies within the park, a rescue vehicle is on standby.
- Accommodation During Safari
- Airport Pick-up and Drop-off
- Camping Equipment (if applicable)
- Daily Meals
- Tips for the Crew – Gratuities for your driver-guide, cook, or porters are appreciated but not included.
Not Included
- Drinks at the Hotel – Beverages before or after the safari at your accommodation.
- Personal Belongings – We are not responsible for loss or damage to personal items.
- Taxi Service – Local transport outside scheduled transfers is not covered.
- Health Insurance – Please ensure you have valid travel and medical insurance.
- Flight Tickets – Domestic and international flights are not part of the safari cost.
- Flying doctor emergency evacuation cover