5 Day Classic Big 5 Safari
Safari Overview
This 5-day private safari takes you deep into Northern Tanzania's most celebrated national parks a journey rich in wildlife, stunning landscapes, and authentic experiences. Starting from Arusha, you’ll explore the elephant-rich Tarangire, venture into the endless plains of the Serengeti for thrilling big cat sightings, descend into the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater for a Big Five safari, and wrap up your adventure at the lush and bird-filled Lake Manyara. With expert-guided game drives, scenic routes, and comfortable mid-range accommodations, this itinerary offers the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.
what to expect during this safari
Trip Summary
· Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
· Style: Private guided safari
· Accommodation: Mid-range lodges & tented camps
· Transport: Private 4x4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
· Highlights:
o Elephant herds & baobab trees in Tarangire
o Big cats and Great Migration landscapes in Serengeti
o Big Five game drive in Ngorongoro Crater
o Birdlife and tree-climbing lions in Lake Manyara
o Personalized service with expert local guide
SAFARI ITINERARY
Day 1: Arusha to Tarangire National Park
Your adventure begins with an early morning pick-up in Arusha by your professional safari guide. Drive approximately 2.5 hours southwest to Tarangire National Park, one of Tanzania’s hidden gems.
Tarangire is known for its rugged beauty, towering baobab trees, and its large elephant population the highest density in northern Tanzania. The Tarangire River, which runs through the park, is a crucial water source and draws a wide variety of animals, particularly during the dry season.
Spend the day on game drives, exploring the park’s mix of acacia woodlands, river valleys, and grassy plains. Sightings may include lions, giraffes, wildebeest, zebras, impalas, warthogs, and over 500 bird species — including hornbills, storks, and lovebirds.
Break for a picnic lunch at a shaded spot with views of the wilderness, then continue your game drive until late afternoon.
In the evening, transfer to Karatu, a lush town nestled in the highlands near the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Check in at your accommodation a welcoming lodge offering comfort, warm hospitality, and stunning views of the surrounding hills.
· Main Destination: Tarangire National Park
· Accommodation: Inoga Hotel Karatu
· Meals Included: Lunch & Dinner
Day 2: Karatu to Serengeti National Park
After breakfast, set off for Serengeti National Park, traveling through the scenic Ngorongoro Highlands. You’ll pass traditional Maasai villages and enjoy sweeping views of the crater rim as you head toward one of the most famous wildlife reserves on Earth.
Enter the Serengeti via Naabi Hill Gate, where you’ll stop to stretch your legs and climb to the viewpoint overlooking the plains. Begin your first game drive as you venture deep into the central Serengeti, known as the Seronera region a rich wildlife area with river systems that attract animals year-round.
As you explore, expect to see everything from cheetahs sprinting across the plains to hyenas scavenging, and elephants, buffaloes, and giraffes moving through the open savanna. This region is home to all Big Five species, and if your travel coincides with the Great Migration, you'll witness thousands of wildebeest and zebras on the move.
Arrive at your accommodation in the late afternoon, where you’ll spend the night under canvas in comfort, surrounded by the sounds of the wild.
· Main Destination: Serengeti National Park
· Accommodation: Tamu Tamu Tented Camp (mid-range tented camp inside the park)
· Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3: Full-Day Game Drive in the Serengeti
Today is dedicated entirely to the Serengeti experience. Rise early for a sunrise game drive the best time to see predators like lions, leopards, and cheetahs when they are most active.
Return to camp for breakfast or opt to stay out for a full morning of game viewing. The central Serengeti offers diverse habitats grassy plains, rocky kopjes, riverine forests each hosting different animals and behaviours.
Your guide will tailor the day to your interests, whether you're following a lion pride, tracking the elusive leopard, or simply soaking in the vast, peaceful landscape. Break for a picnic lunch in a shaded area before continuing your afternoon safari.
In the evening, return to camp for another night in the heart of the wild. Sit around the campfire, swap stories, and fall asleep to the calls of nocturnal wildlife.
· Main Destination: Serengeti National Park
· Accommodation: Tamu Tamu Tented Camp
· Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Highlands (Karatu)
Start your day with another early morning game drive, offering a final chance to see the Serengeti’s wildlife during the cooler, active hours. After breakfast back at camp, begin your drive toward the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
En route, enjoy more wildlife sightings as you cross the plains, gradually ascending to the lush highlands. Arrive in Karatu by late afternoon and check in once again at your hotel where you can relax and enjoy the fresh air and scenic views.
· Main Destination: Serengeti to Ngorongoro/Karatu
· Accommodation: Inoga Hotel Karatu
· Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5: Lake Manyara National Park to Arusha
After breakfast, depart for nearby Lake Manyara National Park, located at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment. Though small, this park is incredibly diverse in terrain from lush groundwater forests to open grassy floodplains and the shores of Lake Manyara, a shallow soda lake teeming with flamingos.
Lake Manyara is famous for its tree-climbing lions, large troops of baboons, and excellent birdwatching with over 400 species recorded, including pelicans, hornbills, and bee-eaters. The forest is also home to elephants, buffalo, and blue monkeys.
After a relaxing midday game drive and picnic lunch, begin your return journey to Arusha, arriving in the late afternoon. Your safari ends with unforgettable memories of Tanzania’s spectacular wildlife and natural beauty.
· Main Destination: Lake Manyara National Park
· Accommodation: Not included (End of safari)
· Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch
PRICE PER PERSON 2PAX FROM $2017