Big Five Safari in Tanzania
Prepare for an unforgettable journey where you’ll witness the biggest stars of the East African savanna; the mighty Lion, the majestic Elephant, the rare Black Rhino, the graceful Leopard, and the stoic Cape Buffalo. This classic safari adventure that spans for 7 days, takes you through Tanzania’s most celebrated national parks in the Northern Circuit – ensuring dreamlike views of the wildlife and breathtaking landscapes of Africa. Join us on our big five safari in Tanzania, the adventure of a lifetime!
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HIGHLIGHTS
View an extraordinary variety of wildlife, including Big Five
Visit the iconic parks Serengeti, Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater, and Lake Manyara
Absorb knowledge from experienced, English-speaking safari guides
Explore in open-rooftop vehicles, offering spectacular views of the natural surroundings and its inhabitants
Enjoy accommodations that combine comfort with authentic local culture
Customize Your Adventure: Group Excursions or Private Journeys
Tailor your big five safari to your preferences: choose our Group Safari for great pricing and the joy of shared experiences, or go for the Private Safari for a personalized and secluded engagement with the wilderness. Both offers their unique benefits, ensuring your adventure with us is nothing short of extraordinary.
The 7-day adventure includes meals, accommodation, park fees, and visits to the most popular parks in the Northern Circuit – Lake Manyara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire National Park. Each park hosts a distinct array of wildlife, allowing you to observe a vast range of animals within a concentrated area.
Explore Tanzania with Expert Guides and Witness Nature’s Wonders
Discover the blend of comfort and charm within the heart of Africa with an exceptional value offered by our choice accommodations, setting the stage for a truly memorable safari.
You’ll take part of the knowledge of English-speaking safari guides, experts in both the parks and wildlife conservation, adding depth to your big five safari experience. Marvel at the Serengeti’s natural wonders, and the annual wildebeest migration between January to March —a breathtaking display of life on the move. At Tarangire National Park, witness the large herds of elephants and a rich tapestry of predators and prey in their natural habitats. Gaze at the beauty of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, where the vibrant Maasai culture coexists with an incredible array of birdlife and is also the site of the famed Olduvai Gorge, a landmark of human history. And not to be missed, Lake Manyara National Park, famed for its tree-climbing lions, unveils varied ecosystems and a plethora of wildlife. This and much more is what you’ll get to experience during our big five safari in Tanzania.
This best-selling trip promises to be an unforgettable experience, connecting you with the heart of Africa’s wildlife and cultural heritage.
For an upgraded and more luxurious experience, consider the Leopard Luxury Safari travel plan.
Please note: Updated travel plan since April 3, 2024. Bookings made before this date will follow the original schedule where the activities of day 2 are happening on day 6, and the other way around. Enjoy your journey!
| Day 1 |
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT – MOSHI | SPRINGLANDS HOTELArrive at Kilimanjaro Airport, Tanzania. After clearing customs, look for your driver. They will be waiting for you, holding a sign with your name. Your driver will transport you to Moshi. Overnight at Springlands Hotel (with breakfast) |
| Day 2 |
LAKE MANYARA | HIGHVIEW HOTELDrive to Lake Manyara National Park in the morning. Set against the steep escarpment of the Rift Valley, you’ll find Lake Manyara National Park with its evergreen groundwater forest and various ecosystems, including acacia woodland, grassy plains, a swampy fan delta, and – of course – the expansive lake. This diversity attracts various mammal, bird, and wildlife species. Manyara is also home to rare tree-climbing lions. The park offers excellent game viewing with buffalo, impala, giraffe, bushbuck, waterbuck, hippos, and many elephants roaming near the lake. Also, look out for blue monkeys, velvet monkeys, and very active olive baboons. Overnight at Highview Hotel (with lunch, dinner & breakfast) |
| Day 3 |
SERENGETI | SERENGETI SAFARI LODGE or SERENGETI WILDEBEEST CAMPHead out after breakfast for the drive to Serengeti National Park. “Serengeti” is derived from the Maasai language, meaning “endless plain.” En route to the Serengeti, you can experience Maasai culture by visiting a Maasai village (at an additional fee). Also, you can visit Olduvai Gorge (at an additional fee), known as the Cradle of Humanity. This Museum is a testament to the long journey that humanity has made from its humble roots in East Africa to its current state as the dominant species on Earth. Enjoy a game drive enroute to your camp. Overnight at Serengeti Safari Lodge or Serengeti Wildebeest camp (with lunch, dinner & breakfast) |
| Day 4 |
SERENGETI | SERENGETI SAFARI LODGE or SERENGETI WILDBEEST CAMPRelax for a full day in the Serengeti – unequaled for its beauty and home to the Great Wildebeest Migration. The huge herds of plains game, such as wildebeest, zebra, and antelope, dominate the park, while the attendant predators, such as lion and cheetah, are to be found amongst the many kopjes scattered across the plain. Its landscape varies from open grass plains in the south, savanna with scattered acacia trees in the center, hilly, wooded grassland in the north, to extensive woodland and black clay plains to the west. Overnight at Serengeti Safari Lodge or Serengeti Wildebeest camp (with lunch, dinner & breakfast) |
| Day 5 |
NGORONGORO CRATER | HIGHVIEW HOTELEnjoy a morning game drive en route to Ngorongoro Crater. Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for game driving and exploration. The crater is 600m deep, 16km across, and 265 sq km in area. Enjoy the spectacular scenery and game viewing in what has been described as the world’s eighth wonder. Many of Tanzania’s last remaining black rhinos can be seen grazing on the open grassland of the crater floor, surrounded by some of the 20,000 large animals that occupy the crater, including lion, cheetah, eland, zebra, and gazelle. Flamingos, among other bird species, can often be seen feeding at Makat Soda Lake. Afternoon drive to your lodge for your overnight stay. Overnight at Highview Hotel (with lunch, dinner & breakfast) |
| Day 6 |
TARANGIRE NATIONAL PARK | SPRINGLANDS HOTELDrive to Tarangire National Park in the morning. Tarangire is traversed by the Tarangire River, which never dries up. Being the only water source during the dry season, it draws hundreds of animals to the park, making wildlife and bird viewing spectacular. The landscape is varied, with grassy savannah plains, swamps, hills, and spectacular baobabs. Overnight at Springlands Hotel (with lunch, dinner & breakfast) |
| Day 7 |
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT | DEPARTEnjoy a leisurely morning before your transfer to Kilimanjaro airport for your flight home. |
Discover Africa’s Big 5: A Journey Through Tanzania’s Natural Heritage
The Big 5 is a term used to describe the five most iconic and sought-after game animals in Africa: the African lion, African elephant, African leopard, Cape buffalo, and black rhinoceros. These animals have a significant cultural significance in Africa and have been the subject of many myths, legends, and traditional beliefs. Going on a big five safari in Tanzania is a way to connect with this rich cultural heritage. Visiting Lake Manyara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire National Park in Tanzania means you can check off the Big Five from your bucket list. Each park has its unique collection of animals, so you’ll have the chance to see a vast range of wildlife in a relatively small area.
- This is our best-selling travel plan and for a good reason: The accommodation is comfortable, charming, and great value for money.
- The main parks are all on this travel plan: Lake Manyara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire National Park.
- Safari guides who speak English know the ins and outs of the parks and education in conservation and the animals. This will give your safari experience depth.
Serengeti Spectacles and Tarangire’s Giants
On our Big Five safari in Tanzania, you’ll get to visit some of the most popular safari destinations. The Serengeti is an extraordinary ecosystem in Tanzania, Africa, home to some of the world’s most spectacular wildlife migrations. The Serengeti is known for its annual wildebeest migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles move across the grassy plains to find fresh grazing and water. This is one of the largest mammal migrations on earth and is a unique spectacle. Tarangire National Park is a beautiful and unique destination located in northern Tanzania. Tarangire National Park is home to one of the largest elephant populations in Tanzania. It is part of the Tarangire-Manyara ecosystem, including Lake Manyara National Park and surrounding wildlife management areas. Together, these areas form an important wildlife corridor and are critical for the survival of many animal species. The park has more than 3,000 elephants, but this area is also home to various other animals, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, zebras, giraffes, and buffalo. The Ngorongoro Conservation Area was established in 1959 as multiple land-use areas where wildlife coexist with the Maasai people who have lived there for centuries. Interestingly, this conservation area is also an important birding destination, with over 500 species of birds recorded in the area, including flamingos, eagles, vultures, and ostriches.
Ngorongoro’s Ancient Wonders and Manyara’s Unique Lions
The Ngorongoro is also home to Olduvai Gorge, considered one of the most important archaeological sites in the world. It is where the Leakey family discovered some of the earliest known human fossils, dating back over two million years. Lake Manyara National Park is also known for its tree-climbing lions. These lions have developed a unique behavior where they climb the trees in the park to escape the sweltering heat and avoid pesky insects. Additionally, Lake Manyara is surrounded by diverse habitats, including dense forests, grassy plains, and swamps. This variety of ecosystems supports a wide range of wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, buffalos, zebras, and many other species.
We’re convinced that our tailored Big Five safari in Tanzania will be an experience you’ll never forget!
Tanzania activities
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What documents do I need to travel to Tanzania?
A visa is required when traveling to Tanzania. Currently, this can be obtained online, on arrival at airports and border crossings, and is valid for 90 days. A valid passport is mandatory. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Tanzania.
Do lodges and camps have mosquito nets?
We carefully select the accommodation on safari so that you are comfortable and relaxed and can experience a one-of-a-kind atmosphere during your safari. All rooms/tents during your safari are fitted with mosquito nets or are insect-proofed to protect you against bites. You are also advised to use insect repellent to further protect yourself, especially outdoors in the evenings.
Is Tanzania safe to travel to?
Tanzania is generally considered a safe destination for safari-goers. Visitors should follow the safety guidelines provided and take necessary precautions, such as avoiding walking alone at night or leaving valuables unattended.
When does the wildebeest migration take place?
The wildebeest migration takes place in Tanzania typically between the months of November to August, although the timing can vary slightly depending on the weather patterns each year. The migration is a continuous movement of around 1.5 million wildebeest and large numbers of zebras and gazelles across the Serengeti plains in Tanzania in search of fresh grazing land and water. In November and December, the herds of wildebeest can be found in the northern Serengeti near the Kenyan border, where they start calving. As the rains stop and the dry season sets in, the herds begin to move south in search of water and fresh grazing. By April and May, the herds are usually in the central Serengeti. By June, the wildebeest and other herbivores gather at the Grumeti River, where they must cross to continue their journey south. By July, the herds are usually in the eastern Serengeti; by August, they move into the northern region of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Is it safe to drink water in Tanzania?
Drinking tap water in Tanzania is generally unsafe, as it may contain harmful bacteria and parasites that can cause illnesses such as typhoid, cholera, and hepatitis A. Drinking only bottled or filtered water is important to avoid getting sick. You can buy bottled water at most shops, hotels, and restaurants in Tanzania. When traveling in Tanzania, it’s also important to avoid drinking water from sources such as lakes, rivers, and streams, which may also contain harmful bacteria and parasites. Instead, use bottled or filtered water to brush your teeth and rinse your mouth after brushing. Additionally, avoiding ice in drinks and peeling fruits and vegetables before eating them is a good idea to reduce the risk of ingesting contaminated water.
What are the best national parks to visit in Tanzania for a safari?
Tanzania is home to many national parks, but the most popular ones for safaris are Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire National Park, and Lake Manyara National Park.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see on a Tanzania safari?
Tanzania is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, hippos, buffalo, leopards, cheetahs, and many species of birds.
What is the best time of year to go on a Tanzania safari?
The best time to go on a Tanzania safari depends on your preferences. The dry season from June to October is the best time for game viewing, but it can be crowded and more expensive. The wet season from November to May offers lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and lower prices, but some parks may be closed due to flooding.
What kind of transportation will be used during my safari?
Our safaris are in 4×4 vehicles, which are ideal for navigating the rugged terrain of the national parks. Some safaris may also include flights to remote areas or walking safaris.
What should I wear on my safari?
It’s important to dress in layers and pack versatile, easy-to-wash, and dry clothing. Don’t forget also to bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and a small backpack to carry your essentials while on safari. Choose comfortable, practical, and appropriate clothing for the weather conditions. Lightweight, breathable clothing such as cotton or linen shirts, pants, and shorts. Long-sleeved shirts and pants can also help protect you from the sun, insects, and thorny bushes. Neutral-colored clothing such as khaki, beige, or olive green. Avoid bright colors or patterns, as they can scare off wildlife or attract insects. Closed-toe shoes such as sneakers or hiking boots for walking safaris or nature walks. Sandals or flip-flops can be worn around camp but may not provide enough protection for outdoor activities. A hat or cap to protect your head and face from the sun. Sunglasses protect your eyes from the bright sunlight. A light jacket or sweater for cooler mornings and evenings. Swimwear if you plan to visit a lodge or camp with a swimming pool. A rain jacket or poncho if you’re traveling during the rainy season.
What is the tipping etiquette for safari guides and mountain crews on trips like this?
Tipping is highly appreciated at the end of safari/mountain climb. The size of tips will vary depending on the length and complexity of the trip, the number of staff on the trip and the number of clients on the trip. Generally, groups like to meet together before the end of the trek to discuss how much they would like to tip each staff member based on their individual trek experience. You should prepare an envelope after your trek for your tip money at the Hotel. You can use US dollars, Euros, TZ Shillings or a combination of these. Please ask the Safari/Climbing coordinator at the Hotel for advice.
RECOMMENDED TIP:
Mountain Climbs: $25-50 USD per Day per Climber to be shared between guides, chefs and porters.
Safaris: Driver/Guide: $35-50 USD per Day per Car. If it is a camping safari there will be a tip for the cook $10 USD per Day.
THESE ARE JUST GUIDELINES AND TIPS CAN BE GIVEN TO SAFARI STAFF/MOUNTAIN CREW ACCORDING TO SERVICES PROVIDED.
Accommodation
Springlands Hotel
Springlands Hotel in Moshi, 29 km from Kilimanjaro, offers accommodation with amenities like an outdoor pool, complimentary parking, a bar, 24-hour reception, and free WiFi. Continental or à la carte breakfast is served at the hotel.
Rooms are equipped with air conditioning, a seating area, satellite TV, a kitchenette, dining area, and private bathroom with all essentials, including a kettle. Enjoy a hiking around Moshi, with a mini-supermarket just 3 km away.
Upgrade to Chanya Lodge or Gran Melia Hotel.
Highview Hotel
The hotel offers dining in its restaurant or in the serene garden, with a mix of local and international dishes served à la carte or buffet style. Packed lunches are available for day trips. In the lounge, relax with a drink, enjoy board games, internet access, or cultural shows. The gardens provide shaded seating and house an organic vegetable and fruit garden.
Guests can enjoy hiking around Moshi, with a mini-supermarket just 3 km away.
Upgrade to Highview Coffee Lodge or Endoro Lodge or Tarangire Kuro Treetop Lodge.
Serengeti Safari Lodge
Located in the Seronera Tana Spring Area of Serengeti National Park, Serengeti Safari Lodge offers 15 luxury self-contained tents with private facilites.
Enjoy a luxurious experience with amenities as a swimming pool, spa services, a restaurant with local and continental dishes, a bar with a fireplace, internet access and a gift shop.
Upgrade to Ole Serai Luxury Camp, Moru Kopjes.
Serengeti Wild/Wildebeest Camp
The Serengeti Wild Camp features 20 spacious, self-contained tents, offers a close-to-nature experience including hearing distant elephant trumpeting at night.
Nearby, the Serengeti Wildebeest Camps – an extra area with 10 similar tents, providing comfortable wildlife encounters in the heart of Serengeti National Park.
Both camps offer modern amenities like internet, bars, a multi-cuisine restaurant and special dining experiences, including bush meals.
Upgrade to Serengeti Safari Lodge or Ole Serai Luxury Camp, Moru Kopjes.
Accommodation Upgrades
Please note that accommodation upgrades are exclusively available with our Big 5 PRIVATE option.
Should you choose the group adventure, the standard – yet comfortable – accommodation will be provided.
Chanya Lodge
Chanya Lodge is licated at the foothills of the majestiv Mount Kilimanjaro, juat outaide Moshi in Tanzania. A convenitently drive from the airport it’s perfect for trekkers, tourists, families and business visitors.
The residence offers 32 en-suite rooms, a large pool, a diverse cuisine restaurant and beautiful grassy gardens.
Endoro Lodge
Luxury accommodations with elegant chalet-themed rooms with fireplaces and immersion tubs, a swimming pool, a well-stocked bar and conference facilites with a P.A system for over 40 people.
Welcome to privacy, tranquility and elegance.
Gran Melia Hotel, Arusha
This magnificent hotel Is located between the majestic Serengeti and Kilimanjaro National Parks, unveiling the natural beauty of Tanzania’s wilderness.
Enjoy an oasis of five-star luxury and comfort with unbeatable facilities, exclusive suites, international cuisine, spa, an infinity pool and a gym – it’s the ideal retreat for an exciting safari adventure or a luxurious business meeting.
Highview Coffee Lodge
This 8 cottage lodge comes with beautiful views over local hills and farmland, and is a gateway to Tanzania’s Northern circuit and local cultures, including Mbulu, Iraqw, Bushmen and Maasai tribes.
The lodge features 12 rooms, a pool, internet, a lounge with a bar and a fireplace, local and continental dinig, gardens, spa services and a gift shop.
Ole Serai Luxury Camp, Moru Kopjes
Ideally located in the Central Seronera region of Serengeti National Park, near Moru Kopjes and Lake Magadi, this luxury camp is surrounded by hills and close to the Mbalageti/Seronera River and its diverse array of wildlife and a nearby hippo pool.
It features 20 well-appointed luxury tents, all en-suite with modern amenities, providing guests with panoramic views of nature and wildlife from the comfort of their beds or verandas.
Tarangire Kuro Treetop Lodge
Luxury tents perched along the Baobab tree line, each tent designed with luxury beddings, en-suite bathroom with an indoor and outdoor shower and a private veranda with the perfect vantage point.
Strategically located on a towering Kopje hill it offers a breathtaking view of the Tarangire River and the path to the Silale swamp in the west—famous for attracting diverse wildlife all year round, thanks to its perennial water sources.
Included in the price:
- Full board (breakfast, lunch & dinner) accommodation while on safari
- Bed and breakfast accommodation in Moshi
- Transfer to and from the airport
- Accommodation on arrival and departure day at Springlands Hotel or Similar
- Bush lunch in the Serengeti
- All game drives viewing in a custom built 4×4 Safari Land Cruiser
- All park and entrance fees
- Transportation with 4×4 vehicles with viewing roofs
- A professional English-speaking driver/guide during the safari
- Bottled water in safari vehicles
- Ngorongoro Crater car supplement fee
- Current Government taxes and levies
- 24-Hour support during the safari from our office in Moshi
Price does not cover:
- Domestic or International flights
- Entry visa to Tanzania
- Travel and health insurance
- Gratuities to your guide, hotel staff, and porters – Find guidelines in the FAQ
- Meals, drinks, and excursions not described in the itinerary
- Any other items of a personal nature, laundry, telephone, and postage
- Masaai village tour & Olduvai Gorge Tour
- Balloon excursion in Tanzania
Rest assured, we’re here to assist with anything not covered in the price.
Your convenience is our priority.
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- Without any obligation to book
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