5 Days Northern Tanzania Classic Safari – Tarangire, Serengeti & Ngorongoro
Discover the heart of Tanzania on this 5 Days Northern Tanzania Classic Safari, a perfectly balanced itinerary that showcases the country’s most iconic wildlife destinations. From the elephant-filled landscapes of Tarangire National Park to the endless plains of the Serengeti and the wildlife-rich Ngorongoro Crater, this safari delivers the ultimate African wildlife experience in just five unforgettable days.
Ideal for first-time visitors, couples, families, and photographers, this classic safari offers Big Five game viewing, diverse ecosystems, expert guides, and carefully selected lodges or tented camps.
Safari Highlights
Explore Tanzania’s top three safari parks in one trip
Excellent chances to see the Big Five
Massive elephant herds and baobab trees in Tarangire
Predator-rich plains of the Serengeti National Park
Descend into the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater
Private or small-group safari options
Customizable: budget, mid-range, or luxury
Year-round safari with great wildlife viewing
Why Choose a 5-Day Northern Tanzania Safari?
A 5-day safari is the perfect introduction to Tanzania’s wildlife. It allows enough time for immersive game drives without feeling rushed, making it ideal for travelers with limited time who still want a complete safari experience.
This itinerary:
Covers the Northern Safari Circuit
Minimizes long driving days
Offers varied landscapes and wildlife
Balances adventure and comfort
Delivers excellent value for money
Parks Visited on This Safari
Tarangire National Park
Known for its vast elephant population, seasonal river, and iconic baobab trees, Tarangire offers a quieter and more intimate safari experience compared to Serengeti.
Serengeti National Park
One of Africa’s most famous wildlife destinations, Serengeti is home to large predator populations and the Great Wildebeest Migration.
Ngorongoro Crater
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera, Ngorongoro boasts one of the highest wildlife densities in Africa.
Best Time to Visit Northern Tanzania
This safari operates year-round, with each season offering unique experiences:
June – October: Dry season, best wildlife viewing
January – March: Calving season in southern Serengeti
November – December: Short rains, fewer crowds, lush landscapes
Detailed 5-Day Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Arusha to Tarangire National Park
After breakfast, depart Arusha for Tarangire National Park, approximately a 2–3 hour drive.
Enjoy a full game drive through rolling savannah, swamps, and the Tarangire River. Expect to see elephants, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, lions, and numerous bird species.
Overnight: Safari lodge or tented camp near Tarangire
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Day 2: Tarangire to Serengeti National Park
After breakfast, drive toward the legendary Serengeti National Park via the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
As you enter the Serengeti plains, game viewing begins immediately. The vast open landscapes are home to lions, cheetahs, leopards, hyenas, and large herbivore herds.
Overnight: Lodge or tented camp in Central Serengeti
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Full Day Serengeti Game Drives
Spend a full day exploring the Central Serengeti (Seronera area), one of the best wildlife regions in the park.
Enjoy morning and afternoon game drives or a full-day safari with picnic lunch. Central Serengeti offers excellent chances to see predators hunting and resident wildlife year-round.
Overnight: Central Serengeti camp or lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Enjoy a morning game drive in Serengeti before traveling to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
In the afternoon, relax at your lodge near the crater rim or enjoy stunning views overlooking the crater floor.
Overnight: Lodge near Ngorongoro Crater
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater Tour – Return to Arusha
After an early breakfast, descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a half-day game drive.
The crater is home to:
Lions and spotted hyenas
Large buffalo herds
Hippos and flamingos
Rare black rhinoceros
After the game drive and picnic lunch, return to Arusha or transfer to the airport.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Wildlife You Can Expect to See
Lions, cheetahs, leopards
Elephants and buffalo
Giraffes, zebras, wildebeest
Hippos and crocodiles
Black rhinoceros
Over 500 bird species
Safari Accommodation Options
Budget Safari
Comfortable lodges or tented camps
Shared facilities
Excellent value
Mid-Range Safari
Well-located lodges
Private bathrooms
Great balance of comfort and cost
Luxury Safari
High-end lodges and tented camps
Exceptional service and views
Ideal for honeymooners
What’s Included
Park entrance fees
Professional safari guide
Private 4×4 safari vehicle
Accommodation and meals
All scheduled game drives
Bottled drinking water
What’s Not Included
International flights
Visa fees
Travel insurance
Tips and gratuities
Personal expenses
Who Is This Safari Ideal For?
First-time safari travelers
Couples and honeymooners
Families with children
Wildlife photographers
Travelers with limited time
Why Book This Classic Tanzania Safari With Us?
Local Northern Tanzania safari specialists
Handpicked accommodations
Experienced driver-guides
Flexible, private safari options
Competitive pricing and honest service
