Detailed 5-Day Tanzania Safari Itinerary
Your 5-Day Tanzania Safari itinerary can start from Arusha, Dar es Salaam, or even Zanzibar, offering flexible travel options no matter where your journey begins. From there, your adventure takes you through three of Africa's most legendary national parks. From the giant baobab valleys and elephant herds of Tarangire, to the sweeping plains of the Serengeti filled with lions, cheetahs, and the Great Migration, and finally into the breathtaking depths of the Ngorongoro Crater, each day delivers unforgettable wildlife experiences.
This well-paced Tanzania safari tour ensures ample time for game drives, photography, and relaxation at your lodge, offering truly immersive encounters with Tanzania’s spectacular landscapes and wildlife. Perfect for travellers seeking an affordable 5-day Tanzania safari without compromising comfort, this route combines adventure, quality, and exceptional value—ideal for couples, families, and small groups.
Day 1 - Depart Arusha to Tarangire National Park
Today, you depart from Arusha, the gateway to Northern Tanzania safaris, and head towards the Tarangire National Park along the picturesque Arusha – Dodoma highway. En route, you have the option to stop at a supermarket for any last-minute shopping. As you drive through the scenic Masai Steppe, anticipate reaching Tarangire in about 2 hours. Upon arrival, your driver will handle the necessary paperwork at the park's gate before embarking on your first game drive.
Tarangire is renowned for its vast elephant herds and iconic baobab trees scattered across the savannah. Enjoy lunch at a designated picnic site, followed by afternoon game drives until sunset.
Finally, you'll check into your chosen lodge or camp for an overnight stay at Heart and Soul Lodge , Country Lodge, or a similar accommodation in Karatu. Lunch and dinner are included.
Accommodation Options
Day 2 - Tarangire National Park to the Serengeti National Park.
After enjoying breakfast in Tarangire National Park, we embark on an early departure, beginning our journey across the floor of the Great Rift Valley. As we ascend the escarpment and make our way through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, you'll be treated to a delightful scenic drive, offering captivating views of the surrounding landscapes.
The journey through the conservation area unfolds as a leisurely and pleasant experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the stunning scenery and marvel at the breathtaking vistas along the way.
Upon our arrival in the Serengeti National Park during the afternoon, we dive straight into an exhilarating game drive, eagerly anticipating the wildlife encounters that await us. Our exploration continues until late in the day, soaking in the beauty of the Serengeti's vast plains and diverse ecosystems.
For lunch, we stop at one of the picturesque picnic sites, typically located at the Naabi Hill Gate. Here, you'll have the opportunity to stretch your legs and take in the surroundings while our guide takes care of necessary registrations and paperwork.
As the day draws to a close, we settle into our camp or lodge, where a warm campfire awaits us. Dinner is served, offering a chance to savor delicious meals while sharing stories of the day's adventures. Finally, we retire for the night, surrounded by the tranquility of the Serengeti wilderness. Your accommodation for the evening will be at either Thorntree Camp or Serengeti Heritage tented Camp, ensuring a comfortable and restful stay. All meals are included, ensuring you're well-fed and energized for the adventures that lie ahead.
Accommodation Options
Day 3 - Full day at the Serengeti National Park.
Rise early to embark on a sunrise game drive, a golden opportunity to encounter elusive nocturnal creatures and witness the awakening of diurnal species. Experience the magic of animals gathering along the roadsides to evade the morning dew, offering a chance for up-close encounters with wildlife. Following breakfast at the camp, indulge in a full day of game drives within the expansive Serengeti National Park.
Named after the Maasai word 'Siringit,' translating to "plains without end," the Serengeti lives up to its name with vast stretches of African Savannah awaiting exploration. Traverse these endless plains in search of a plethora of wildlife species, from the iconic wildebeests to majestic elephants, powerful lions, swift cheetahs, and elusive leopards. Amidst the rich tapestry of wildlife, witness the graceful movements of zebras, elegant elands, and a diverse array of resident and migratory bird species.
Retreat to the comfort of Thorntree Camp or Serengeti Heritage Tented Camp for a restful overnight stay, with all meals included. Experience the wonders of the Serengeti, where every moment promises adventure and discovery amidst the untamed beauty of nature.
Accommodation Options
Day 4 - Serengeti National Park – Ngorongoro Crater.
After enjoying breakfast at your accommodation, we will prepare to depart for one final exhilarating game drive in the Serengeti. Led by our professional safari guide, you will have the opportunity to explore the Seronera River Valley, renowned for its rich diversity of wildlife and bird species. Alternatively, your guide may suggest other promising locations within the Serengeti based on their expertise and insights.
Throughout the journey, your safari guide will maintain communication with other guides via VHF high-frequency radios installed in our safari vehicles. This ensures that your guide stays informed about wildlife sightings and can lead you to the most promising areas for exploration.
In the afternoon, we will commence our journey back to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, where we will check into Heart and Soul Lodge for dinner and overnight accommodation. Nestled amidst the natural beauty of the area, Heart and Soul Lodge offers a comfortable and inviting retreat after a day of adventure. Enjoy a hearty dinner and restful overnight stay, with all meals included for your convenience.
Accommodation Options
Day 5 - Ngorongoro Crater – back to Arusha – End of safari
Start your day with breakfast at the lodge before embarking on an early descent to the floor of the Ngorongoro Crater for an unforgettable game drive experience. It's advisable to begin your descent right after breakfast or even opt for a packed breakfast to maximize your chances of encountering rare wildlife like the Black Rhinos. Spend the morning exploring the diverse habitats of the crater, known for its towering walls and remarkable concentration of wild animals, often dubbed as a natural zoo. With luck, you might even spot the iconic Big Five during your adventure.
After immersing yourself in the wonders of the Ngorongoro Crater until lunchtime, enjoy a picnic lunch at the designated hippo poolside site. Following your satisfying meal, ascend the crater rim and bid farewell to the conservation area. Your journey continues as you head back to Arusha, arriving later in the afternoon. This full-day excursion includes both breakfast and lunch, ensuring you're fueled up for an exciting day of exploration.
Best Time to Visit for a 5-Day Safari in Tanzania
A 5-day safari in Tanzania is magical year-round, but the experience shifts with the seasons, each offering its own unique rewards.
Dry Season (June – October)
This is the classic safari window and ideal for first-time visitors. Skies are clear, daytime temperatures are comfortable, and wildlife congregates around shrinking water sources, making game viewing effortless. It’s also the peak period for the Great Wildebeest Migration in the Serengeti’s northern reaches, where dramatic river crossings draw predators and photographers alike.
Green Season (November – March)
The short rains bring fresh grass and a burst of life to the plains. Fewer crowds and softer light create a serene atmosphere perfect for photography. From January to March, the southern Serengeti hosts the calving season, when thousands of wildebeest give birth and predators are close at hand—an unforgettable spectacle for wildlife lovers.
Shoulder Months (April – May)
These months mark the long rains. While some remote camps close, prices drop, and landscapes turn an intense, photogenic green. Birdwatching is exceptional, and with fewer vehicles in the parks, you can enjoy a sense of wilderness all to yourself.
No matter when you travel, our expert guides tailor the itinerary—Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire—to match seasonal wildlife movements. Whether you crave dramatic predator action or tranquil, emerald vistas, Tanzania’s natural rhythm ensures your 5-day safari will be extraordinary in every season.
Flights & Transfers from Zanzibar, Dar es Salaam, Arusha or Kilimanjaro
Your 5-day Tanzania safari is easy to begin no matter where you’re coming from. We arrange seamless domestic flights and private transfers so you can start your adventure from Zanzibar, Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), or even Nairobi.
From Zanzibar
Daily morning flights operated by Coastal Aviation, Auric Air, and Flightlink connect Stone Town or beach resorts to Arusha in about 1 hour 15 minutes. You’ll land in Arusha ready to head directly to Tarangire National Park or continue to the Serengeti.
From Dar es Salaam
Frequent flights to Arusha and Kilimanjaro make it simple to combine a city stay with a Northern Circuit safari. Connections to the Serengeti are also available for guests who want to skip extra driving.
From Arusha & Kilimanjaro
If you’re already on the mainland, our driver-guides will greet you at your hotel or at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for a smooth transfer to the first park on your itinerary—Tarangire, Serengeti, or Ngorongoro.
Private Road Transfers
For guests who prefer an overland journey, we provide comfortable 4×4 Land Cruisers with experienced drivers for transfers between airports, lodges, and national parks.
Including these flexible options ensures you can tailor your 5-day Tanzania safari to match your travel plans, whether you’re flying in from a Zanzibar beach holiday, an international gateway like Nairobi, or a mainland Tanzanian city.
Pricing & What’s Included in Our 5-Day Tanzania Safari
Our 5-Day Tanzania Safari offers transparent, all-inclusive pricing so you know exactly what’s covered before you travel. Rates vary depending on your preferred level of comfort—mid-range or luxury—and the season of travel.
Typical Per-Person Pricing
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Mid-Range Package: from USD 2,450 per person (based on 2–6 guests sharing).
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Luxury Package: from USD 3,800 per person (based on 2–6 guests sharing).
Exact quotes depend on group size, lodge choices, and seasonal park fees.
Included in Every Package
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All domestic flights or private transfers from Zanzibar, Dar es Salaam, Arusha, or Kilimanjaro to the Northern Circuit.
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Exclusive use of a custom 4×4 safari Land Cruiser with pop-up roof for unlimited game drives.
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Professional, English-speaking driver-guide (French and German available on request).
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Four nights’ accommodation in hand-picked lodges or tented camps with full-board meals.
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All national park and Ngorongoro Crater entrance fees.
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Bottled drinking water throughout the safari.
Not Included
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International flights to Tanzania.
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Visa fees, travel insurance, and personal expenses such as tips, souvenirs, and optional activities (e.g., Maasai village visit or hot-air balloon ride).
With upfront pricing and no hidden costs, you can book your 5-day Tanzania safari confidently, knowing that every transfer, park fee, and game drive is already arranged for a seamless adventure.
Related Tanzania Safari
Questions About 5-Day Tanzania Safaris
Is it recommended to do a 5 day safari in Tanzania?
Planning the length of a Tanzanian safari can be tricky. The flight to Africa is long, and travelers often experience jetlag. To make the trip worthwhile, most visitors should plan to spend at least a week to 10 days in the country. Many people use their whole holiday for a safari of a lifetime, while others combine the safari with beach time or a Kilimanjaro climb.
A 5-day safari is relatively short but works well for a beach holiday with a safari extension. Although moving camp or lodging every day is tiring, with a 5-day safari, you can spend a couple of nights in one spot. If time allows, consider adding another day or two to truly make the most of this special experience.
What can I fit in during a 5 day safari in Tanzania?
When planning a 5-day safari in Tanzania, it's important to prioritize quality over quantity and avoid trying to do too much. The popular options are in the Northern circuit, where you can visit the Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti comfortably. If you opt for driving and flying back, consider staying in the Western Corridor or the northern Serengeti to avoid crowds. You can also consider adding on Lake Manyara National Park or Tarangire National Park for variety, but this will reduce your time in the Serengeti.
In the Southern safari circuit, there are fewer visitors and more opportunities for boating and walking excursions. Nyerere National Park and Mikumi National Park are a popular road-safari combination, and for a unique experience, you could add a night in Udzungwa Mountains National Park. Alternatively, spending 5 days and 4 nights in Ruaha National Park can be a great choice.
What kind of accommodation can I expect?
The tourism industry in Tanzania is well-established, offering a variety of accommodation options to suit every type of traveler. Whether you're on a tight budget or looking to splurge on a luxury holiday, Tanzania has something for you. From basic budget accommodations on the outskirts of parks and reserves to mid-range options inside the parks, there are plenty of choices. You can find larger hotels with great views or small tented camps for a back-to-nature experience. If your budget allows, there are also luxurious boutique lodges with stunning designs and top-notch service.
How much does a 5 day safari cost in Tanzania?
"It is challenging to provide an exact cost for a 5-day safari in Tanzania due to numerous factors. Budget tours typically start at around US$950 per person, while luxury tours start at approximately US$2,500. It's advisable to obtain multiple quotes before finalizing a booking. Comfort level is an important consideration, as tours range from budget (involving camping, lodges, or a combination of both) to luxury and even luxury+.
Private tours are generally more expensive than shared tours. Using internal flights during the safari can save time, but these flights can be pricey. Accommodation on fly-in safaris is typically high-end, making these packages more expensive. Traveling during the off-season, which usually aligns with the Wet season, can help save money.
Although it can rain frequently during this time, there are advantages such as lush landscapes, abundant birdlife, young animals, and fewer crowds."