5 day Tanzania safari from Moshi and Arusha
5 day Tanzania safari from Moshi and Arusha Detail itinerary
Arrival
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You'll be collected from the airport.
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Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.
Day 1 - Arusha to Tarangire National Park
We depart Arusha in the morning and head for Tarangire National Park, where you will begin your first game drive before midday. Lunch will be served under the mighty Boabob trees after you enter the park and catch your first glimpses of the wildlife and spectacular scenery. After lunch, make your way through the park snapping photos of the zebra, giraffe, and elephant that call this area their home. After a full afternoon of game drives, head to your campsite for dinner and a night under the stars.
Accommodations
Camping - Heart and soul Lodge
Destination: Tarangire National Park
Day 2 - Tarangire National Park to Serengeti National Park
There was a reason that "The Lion King" creators drew their inspiration from the Serengeti, and today you will get to discover why. Renowned for its' large lion population, this may be the best opportunity to get a great view of a Lion Pride in their natural habitat, as the gazelles, zebras, and buffalo are abundant in this region. Come during the right season, and witness the birth of the wildebeest calves, where they will begin their annual migration to Kenya at the end of May. Lunch will be served in the park, and after a full day of games drives your campsite or Private tented Camp Lodge awaits.
Accommodations
Lodge- Serengeti Heritage Tented Camp
Destination: Serengeti National Park
Day 3 - Serengeti National Park to Ngorongoro Crater
After a hearty breakfast and morning game drive in the Serengeti, we make our way to the infamous Ngorongoro Crater, the world's largest inactive volcanic caldera. An abundance of wildlife graces this infamous area, known worldwide for its' stunning landscape. Enjoy spotting a multitude of different species, from elephants, hippos and giraffes to the majestic Crater Lions and ravenous hyenas. After a short glimpse of the crater, we wind our way upwards as we head to our campsite on top of the crater rim.
Accommodations
Lodge - Rhino Lodge
Destination: Serengeti National Park
Day 4 - Ngorongoro Crater
After a hearty breakfast, we make our way to the gates of Ngorongoro Crater, where we descend into the world's largest inactive volcanic caldera. An abundance of wildlife graces this infamous area, known worldwide for its stunning landscape. Enjoy spotting a multitude of different species, from elephants, hippos, and giraffes to the majestic Crater Lions and ravenous hyenas. Enjoy a waterfront stop for lunch, enjoying the spectacular views and a bite to eat before you head out for your afternoon game drive. After ascending to the crater rim, we will head back to the camp or Lodge for the evening.
Accommodations
Lodge - Heart and Soul Lodge
Destination: Ngorongoro Crater
Day 5 - Lake Manyara National Park to Arusha
Today we will head for Lake Manyara National Park, for a morning game drive. Lunch will be served at a picnic site after you enter the park and catch your first glimpses of the wildlife and spectacular scenery. After lunch, make your way through the park snapping photos of all the wildlife that call this area home, with the lake serving as a spectacular backdrop. After a full afternoon of game drives, head back to Arusha in the evening.
*Due to availability, the accommodation has the potential to shift to other similar lodging.
🦁 Tanzania Safari from Moshi – FAQs
1. Can I start my Tanzania safari from Moshi?
Yes! Moshi is an excellent starting point for Tanzania safaris. Located at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro, it offers easy access to the Northern Safari Circuit, including Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater, and Serengeti National Park. Travel Wise Safari arranges both private and group safaris starting directly from your Moshi hotel.
2. What are the best safari destinations near Moshi?
From Moshi, you can reach several iconic parks:
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Tarangire National Park (4–5 hours): famous for elephants & baobab trees
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Ngorongoro Crater (5–6 hours): a UNESCO site full of wildlife
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Lake Manyara (4 hours): home to flamingos and tree-climbing lions
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Serengeti National Park (7–8 hours or 1-hour flight): for the Great Migration
You can also combine these with Materuni Waterfalls or Kikuletwa Hot Springs for short cultural extensions.
3. How do I travel from Moshi to the safari parks?
You can travel by 4x4 safari vehicle with a professional driver-guide or take fly-in safaris from Kilimanjaro Airport (JRO), which is just 45 minutes from Moshi. Road safaris are popular for adventure and scenic drives, while fly-ins save time for those with limited days.
4. What types of safaris are available from Moshi?
From Moshi, you can choose:
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Day safaris (to Arusha or Tarangire)
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2–5 day classic safaris (Tarangire, Ngorongoro, Serengeti)
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Luxury fly-in safaris from JRO to Serengeti
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Camping or mid-range lodge safaris for budget travelers
Travel Wise Safari tailors each tour to your style, budget, and schedule.
5. How many days do I need for a Tanzania safari from Moshi?
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1–2 days: Short escapes to Tarangire or Ngorongoro
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3–5 days: Classic Northern Circuit safari
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6–10 days: In-depth wildlife experience covering Serengeti & Ngorongoro
We recommend at least 3–4 days for a rewarding safari that balances wildlife, scenery, and travel time.
6. When is the best time to go on safari from Moshi?
The dry season (June–October) is the best time for clear skies and wildlife sightings.
However, the green season (November–May) offers lush landscapes, baby animals, and fewer tourists.
The Great Migration in Serengeti happens year-round, with movements depending on the month — your Travel Wise Safari expert can plan the best route for your dates.
7. What wildlife can I expect to see?
Expect to see the Big Five — lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos — along with cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, hippos, flamingos, and countless bird species. Each park near Moshi offers unique highlights, from Tarangire’s elephants to Ngorongoro’s crater lions and Serengeti’s endless herds.
8. Can I combine a safari from Moshi with a Kilimanjaro climb?
Absolutely! Many travellers climb Mount Kilimanjaro first and then relax on a post-trek safari. Travel Wise Safari arranges seamless combinations like 5-day Machame Route + 3-day Ngorongoro & Tarangire safari, including transfers, accommodation, and park permits.
9. Are there budget-friendly safari options from Moshi?
Yes. We offer budget camping safaris where you stay in comfortable tents inside or near the parks, guided by expert drivers and cooks. Shared group-joining safaris are also available for solo travelers or small groups wanting to reduce costs.
10. What should I pack for a safari from Moshi?
Pack light and neutral-colored clothing, a hat, sunscreen, binoculars, insect repellent, camera, and sturdy shoes. Evenings can be cool, so bring a jacket. Don’t forget your passport, park entry documents, and reusable water bottle.
11. Is it safe to go on a safari from Moshi?
Yes, Tanzania is one of the safest safari destinations in Africa. Our professional driver-guides ensure your comfort and safety at all times. Parks are well-managed, and lodges follow strict safety rules — especially in wildlife areas. Always listen to your guide’s instructions during game drives and nature walks.
12. Can I fly from Moshi or Kilimanjaro Airport to Serengeti?
Yes. There are daily flights from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) to Serengeti (Seronera, Kogatende, or Ndutu airstrips). This option is perfect for guests who want to save time and enjoy a luxury fly-in safari with scenic aerial views of northern Tanzania.