4 Days Tanzania Big Five Safari – Explore Tarangire, Serengeti & Ngorongoro
4 Days Tanzania Big Five Safari Overview
This 4-day Tanzania Big Five safari is an unforgettable adventure through the heart of Tanzania’s Northern Circuit, combining the wildlife-rich plains of Serengeti National Park, the iconic Ngorongoro Crater, and the elephant haven of Tarangire National Park. It’s the perfect short safari for travelers who want to encounter the Big Five – lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino – in just four days, while exploring diverse ecosystems and stunning landscapes.
Starting and ending in Arusha, this compact yet rewarding itinerary ensures maximum game-viewing opportunities with minimal travel time.
Tour Highlights
Game drives in three of Tanzania’s top safari destinations
Witness the iconic Big Five in their natural habitat
Explore the ancient baobabs and elephant herds of Tarangire
Enjoy thrilling wildlife encounters in Serengeti National Park
Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater – the “Eighth Wonder of the World”
Overnight stays in comfortable lodges or tented camps
4 Days Tanzania Big 5 Safari Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arusha to Tarangire National Park
Depart Arusha in the morning and drive to Tarangire National Park, famous for its giant baobab trees and large herds of elephants. The park also hosts lions, leopards, giraffes, zebras, and more. Enjoy a full-day game drive and then head to your lodge near Karatu.
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Lodge/Camp in Karatu
Day 2: Tarangire to Serengeti National Park
After breakfast, drive through the Ngorongoro Highlands into the Serengeti Plains. Along the way, enjoy en-route game viewing and stop for a picnic lunch. Once inside Serengeti, embark on an afternoon game drive in search of lions, cheetahs, elephants, and other wildlife.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Lodge/Camp in Central Serengeti
Day 3: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Enjoy a morning game drive in Serengeti before heading to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. On your way, you may spot more wildlife and take in the scenic beauty of the region. Arrive at your lodge near the crater rim in the evening.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight: Lodge/Camp near Ngorongoro
Day 4: Ngorongoro Crater Game Drive – Return to Arusha
After an early breakfast, descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a half-day game drive. This UNESCO-listed site is a wildlife haven with over 25,000 animals, including black rhinos, hippos, lions, and hyenas. After your crater tour and picnic lunch, drive back to Arusha in the afternoon.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Short Important Information
Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights
Destinations: Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro
Start/End: Arusha
Best Time: Year-round (dry season: June–October)
Accommodation: Mid-range or luxury lodges/tented camps
Included: Transport, meals, park fees, crater service, guide, accommodation
Excluded: Tips, personal expenses, visa, travel insurance, optional cultural visits
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can this itinerary start from Kilimanjaro Airport?
Yes, pickups from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport can be arranged.Is Serengeti worth visiting on a short safari?
Absolutely. Even one day in Serengeti offers excellent chances to see big cats, elephants, giraffes, and vast herds.How long is the drive from Arusha to Serengeti?
It’s approximately 7 hours with game drives and stops along the way, making it a scenic part of the safari.Is accommodation inside or outside the parks?
Depending on your budget, both options are available. Inside parks offers quicker access to early game drives.Are park entry fees included in the package?
Yes, all entry fees and crater service fees are included.Can this safari be done in reverse order?
Yes, the route is flexible and can be customized to fit your schedule and preferences.
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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)