Big Five Tanzania

Safari summary

Experience the Best of Northern Tanzania: 5-Day Serengeti, Ngorongoro & Tarangire Safari Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable 5-day safari through Tanzania’s most iconic national parks: Tarangire, Serengeti, and the Ngorongoro Crater. This carefully crafted journey is perfect for travelers seeking a rich and immersive wildlife experience within a short timeframe. Witness the Big Five in their natural habitat, marvel at endless golden savannahs, and explore one of the world's largest intact volcanic calderas teeming with wildlife.

This 5-day Northern Circuit safari combines breathtaking scenery, unmatched wildlife viewing, and cultural immersion. From massive elephant herds under baobab trees in Tarangire to the predator-rich plains of Serengeti and the UNESCO-listed Ngorongoro Crater, every day brings a new adventure. Whether you’re a first-time safari-goer or a seasoned explorer, this itinerary delivers the essence of Tanzania’s natural beauty.

*Highlights of the 5-Day Safari*

Tarangire National Park is famous for its ancient baobab trees, large elephant populations, and seasonal migration of zebras, wildebeests, and oryx. It offers a quieter, less crowded game-viewing experience, especially during the dry season.

Serengeti National Park is Tanzania’s most iconic park, best known for the Great Wildebeest Migration. It’s also home to big cats like lions, leopards, and cheetahs, along with dramatic, expansive landscapes. A full-day game drive provides outstanding chances to observe wildlife action.

Ngorongoro Crater is a breathtaking natural amphitheater that shelters more than 25,000 animals. A game drive inside this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers an unmatched chance to witness diverse wildlife, including the rare black rhino, in a compact and scenic environment.

Cultural Encounters along the way, such as optional visits to traditional Maasai villages, give travelers the opportunity to experience authentic Tanzanian culture and community life.

**Who Is This Safari For?**

This safari is ideal for couples, families, solo travelers, and small groups seeking a complete wildlife and cultural experience. Whether you're opting for mid-range lodges or luxury tented camps, the 5-day itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to your budget and preferences.

*Itinerary Overview*

Day 1: Depart from Arusha or Moshi and travel to Tarangire National Park. Enjoy a full-day game drive and picnic lunch before settling in at your lodge or tented camp for the night.

Day 2: After breakfast, drive through the scenic Ngorongoro Highlands into Serengeti National Park. Afternoon game drive en route to your camp in central Serengeti.

Day 3: Spend the entire day exploring Serengeti’s diverse ecosystems with early morning and afternoon game drives. Expect to see lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and possibly leopards or cheetahs.

Day 4: Enjoy a final morning drive in Serengeti before heading toward the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Overnight stay on the crater rim with incredible sunset views.

Day 5: Early morning descent into the Ngorongoro Crater for a game drive. Spot rhinos, lions, buffalos, and more. Return to Arusha by evening.

*What’s Included*

Transport in a 4x4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
Professional English-speaking guide
All park entry and conservation fees
Accommodation in lodges or tented camps with full board
Bottled water during game drives
Pick-up and drop-off in Arusha or Moshi

*Optional Add-ons*

Airport transfers to/from Kilimanjaro or Arusha
Visit to a Maasai village for cultural experience
Hot air balloon safari over Serengeti (additional cost)

*Best Time to Visit*

This safari is rewarding all year, but the dry season from June to October offers optimal wildlife viewing. If you're interested in the Great Migration, the best months range from December to July, depending on where the herds are moving through Serengeti.

*Why Choose This Safari*

This itinerary covers three of Tanzania’s most diverse and wildlife-rich parks in just five days. It's perfect for those with limited time but who still want an authentic safari experience. The trip is led by expert local guides and can be customized to suit different budgets, travel styles, and accommodation preferences. The high chance of spotting the Big Five, combined with scenic drives and cultural moments, makes this one of the most well-rounded safari tours in East Africa.

About this tour

	Tour type	Custom, tailor-made, private
	Main focus	Game drives
	Activity level	Moderate activity
	Best months	January, February, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
	Countries	Tanzania
	Parks	Ngorongoro Crater Serengeti Tarangire

Fine details

Safari highlights

• Walking safari—with armed guard
• Hot air balloons
• Photography safari—with professional guide

What’s included?

• Accommodation
• Airport transfers
• Park fees
• Private vehicle and driver

What’s not included?

• Alcoholic beverages
• All drinks
• Internal flights
• International flights
• Laundry
• Premium alcoholic beverages
• Spa treatments
• Tips and gratuities
• Visas