5-Day Northern Tanzania Explorer
Overview
The complete northern Tanzania budget safari — all four major parks including Tarangire, Manyara, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro over 5 days with camping from $975 per person.
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Safari Highlights
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arusha to Tarangire National Park
Depart Arusha after breakfast and drive to Tarangire National Park. The park is famous for its giant elephant herds — often 300+ strong — and ancient baobab trees. Game drive along the Tarangire River spotting lion, leopard, buffalo, and hundreds of elephants. The park's 550+ bird species make it a birdwatcher's paradise. Camp near the park.
Lake Manyara to Serengeti National Park
Morning game drive in Lake Manyara National Park — explore the groundwater forest and lakeshore. Search for tree-climbing lions, elephants, hippos, and flamingos. After lunch, depart for the Serengeti via the Ngorongoro Highlands. Enter the Serengeti in the late afternoon for an evening game drive on the plains.
Full Day in the Serengeti
A full day of game driving in the Serengeti — Africa's most iconic safari destination. Explore the Seronera Valley in the morning, then push deeper into the plains in the afternoon. The Serengeti is home to the Big Five plus cheetah, hyena, jackal, giraffe, and over 500 bird species. Depending on the season, you may witness the Great Migration herds.
Serengeti to Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Final morning game drive in the Serengeti before departing for Ngorongoro. Drive across the Serengeti plains and up to the crater rim. Arrive at Simba Campsite with stunning views into the caldera. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon and watch the sunset from the crater rim.
Ngorongoro Crater & Return to Arusha
Early descent into the Ngorongoro Crater for a morning game drive on the crater floor. Search for the Big Five — black rhino, lion, leopard, elephant, and buffalo — all within this 260 km² volcanic caldera. Visit Lake Magadi for flamingos and the hippo pool. Packed lunch in the crater. Ascend and drive back to Arusha, arriving late afternoon.
Tour Route
- 1
Day 1
Arusha to Tarangire National Park
- 2
Day 2
Lake Manyara to Serengeti National Park
Included
- Arusha round-trip transfers
- All park entry fees and crater service fee
- Professional English-speaking guide
- 4x4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
- Full-board meals (B, L, D)
- Camping accommodation
- Drinking water on drives
Not Included
- International flights
- Tanzania visa
- Travel insurance
- Tips and gratuities
- Beverages
- Sleeping bag rental ($15)
- Optional balloon safari
- Personal expenses
Join a Group Departure
Fixed dates, shared vehicle, 15–30% less than private
Mon, Dec 7, 2026
Group safaris run with 4–8 travellers sharing one vehicle and guide. View all group departures →
Where to Stay
Handpicked lodges & camps for this safari
Kudu Lodge & Camp
Arusha
A welcoming budget lodge on the outskirts of Arusha offering comfortable rooms, a lush garden setting, and easy access to all northern safari circuit departures.
View Lodge →Marera Valley Lodge
Karatu
A mid-range lodge in the green hills of Karatu offering excellent value with spacious rooms, a swimming pool, and stunning views over the Great Rift Valley escarpment.
View Lodge →Simba Campsite
Ngorongoro Crater Rim
Tanzania's most iconic public campsite perched on the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, offering an unbeatable combination of world-class views and rock-bottom prices.
View Lodge →More Safaris in Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro
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Ready to Book Your Safari?
No hidden fees. No surprise charges. Just an unforgettable Tanzania adventure at a price you can afford.
$975 /person