6 Days Tanzania Big Five Safari – Explore Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro & Lake Manyara
6 Days Tanzania Big Five Safari Overview
This 6-day Tanzania Big Five safari offers the ultimate opportunity to witness the most iconic animals and landscapes in Northern Tanzania. Designed for wildlife enthusiasts and first-time travelers alike, this journey covers Tarangire National Park, the legendary Serengeti, the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, and the biodiverse Lake Manyara National Park.
Expect close encounters with the Big Five – lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino – along with hundreds of other animal species, all while experiencing different ecosystems, from open savannahs and volcanic craters to lush lake shores and baobab-dotted woodlands.
Tour Highlights
Witness the Big Five across four diverse national parks
Explore the vast plains of the Serengeti, home to the Great Migration
Discover the high density of wildlife in Ngorongoro Crater
Visit the elephant-rich Tarangire and bird-filled Lake Manyara
Enjoy immersive game drives with professional guides
Experience authentic accommodations in lodges or luxury tented camps
6 Days Tanzania Big Five Safari Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Arusha – Safari Briefing
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha Airport, you will be welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel in Arusha. Depending on your arrival time, you may relax at your lodge or explore the town at your leisure.
Meals: Dinner (if arriving early)
Overnight: Lodge/Hotel in Arusha
Day 2: Arusha – Tarangire National Park
After breakfast, your driver-guide will pick you up for a journey to Tarangire National Park, known for its huge herds of elephants, towering baobab trees, and large populations of predators and herbivores. Enjoy an extensive game drive and a scenic picnic lunch inside the park.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Lodge/Tented Camp in Karatu
Day 3: Karatu – Serengeti National Park
Depart after an early breakfast and drive through the Ngorongoro Highlands, descending into the famous Serengeti National Park. You’ll enjoy game viewing en route before reaching the central plains. Witness wildlife such as lions, cheetahs, elephants, and wildebeests in this world-renowned ecosystem.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Tented Camp or Lodge inside Serengeti
Day 4: Full-Day Game Drive in Serengeti
Today is dedicated to exploring the central and eastern regions of the Serengeti, depending on wildlife movement. Search for the Big Five and observe predators in action as you traverse various terrains. Your guide will tailor the day to maximize sightings and photography opportunities.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Tented Camp or Lodge inside Serengeti
Day 5: Serengeti – Ngorongoro Crater
After breakfast and a morning game drive, depart Serengeti and head back toward the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. In the afternoon, arrive at your lodge on the crater rim or nearby Karatu. Enjoy spectacular views and relax before your final big game adventure.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Lodge near Ngorongoro or Karatu
Day 6: Ngorongoro Crater – Lake Manyara – Return to Arusha
Early in the morning, descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for an unforgettable half-day game drive. The crater floor is packed with wildlife including lions, elephants, buffalos, hippos, and rhinos. After lunch, continue to Lake Manyara National Park for a short game drive if time allows. Later, return to Arusha or the airport, marking the end of your safari.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Short Important Information
Duration: 6 Days / 5 Nights
Destinations Covered: Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara
Starting/Ending Point: Arusha
Best Travel Time: June to October & December to February
Type of Safari: Private or group (customizable)
Transport: 4×4 Safari Jeep with pop-up roof
Accommodation: Mid-range, luxury, or budget on request
Included: Park fees, guide, transport, accommodation, meals, water, crater fee
Excluded: International airfare, visa, tipping, drinks, personal insurance
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does ‘Big Five’ mean in this safari?
The Big Five refers to lion, elephant, leopard, buffalo, and rhinoceros – historically considered the most challenging animals to hunt and now the most sought-after by wildlife enthusiasts.Which park is best for seeing the Big Five?
Ngorongoro Crater offers the best chance to see all Big Five in a single day, while Serengeti and Tarangire also provide excellent sightings.Can I extend this safari to include Zanzibar?
Yes, the itinerary can be extended to include beach holidays in Zanzibar or other destinations.Are accommodations inside or outside the parks?
You can choose between staying inside the parks for maximum wildlife exposure or just outside for cost savings.Is this trip suitable for children and families?
Yes, the safari is family-friendly. Child discounts and family lodges are available.What health precautions should I take?
We recommend consulting your travel doctor for malaria prophylaxis. Vaccinations for yellow fever may also be advised depending on your travel history.How much luggage should I bring?
Soft bags under 15kg are recommended for easy handling. Bring essentials like safari clothing, binoculars, a camera, and toiletries.
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Price Includeds
Park entry fees and government taxes
Private 4×4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof
Professional English-speaking driver-guide
Full-board accommodation during the safari
Bottled drinking water during game drives
Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
Price Excludeds
International and domestic flights
Travel insurance and visa fees
Tips for the guide and lodge staff
Alcoholic and soft drinks at lodges
Personal expenses (e.g. souvenirs, laundry)
Optional activities (e.g. balloon safari, Maasai village visit)