This 5-day Tanzania safari immerses you in the heart of the Northern Safari Circuit, exploring four of the country’s most celebrated national parks Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater, and Serengeti. Perfect for travelers with limited time but a desire for unforgettable wildlife experiences, this itinerary offers a rich diversity of landscapes and animal sightings.
Begin in Tarangire National Park, home to giant baobabs and large elephant herds. Continue to Lake Manyara, where lush groundwater forests and soda lakes attract flamingos, tree-climbing lions, and countless bird species. Then descend into the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater for Big Five encounters in a stunning natural amphitheater.
Cap off your journey in the endless plains of Serengeti National Park, where the Great Migration unfolds and predators roam freely. With expert guides, scenic lodges, and breathtaking views, this short yet rewarding safari offers a front-row seat to the wonders of Tanzania’s wilderness.
Explore four diverse national parks in 5 days
See elephants and baobabs in Tarangire
Spot tree-climbing lions in Lake Manyara
Discover the Big Five in Ngorongoro Crater
Witness wildlife action on the Serengeti plains
Enjoy scenic drives, bush picnics & sundowners
Can start any day
5 Days
Can be optimizated
Private Tour
Customizable
Itinerary
Toyota Land Cruiser 4x4
Breakfast, Lunch
& Dinner
Kilimanjaro Int.
Airport
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where a friendly guide from Explore Trekking Adventure will warmly welcome you and escort you to your hotel in Arusha. Upon arrival, settle into your lodge nestled in serene gardens or with scenic mountain views. Depending on your arrival time, you can relax and unwind or enjoy a short town tour to get a feel for the local culture. In the evening, join us for a welcome dinner and a detailed safari briefing to prepare you for the unforgettable migration adventure ahead. Overnight in Arusha, the perfect starting point for your journey through Tanzania’s northern safari circuit.
Planet Lodge Arusha is one of the first truly 4-star boutique lodges in Arusha, offering a serene ambience and excellent facilities. Located just 4 km from the center of Arusha, 45 km from Arusha National Park, and 40 km from Kilimanjaro International Airport, Planet Lodge Arusha is ideally positioned for travelers coming to Arusha for adventure or business purposes.
Four Points by Sheraton Arusha is one of the first truly 4-star boutique hotels in Arusha, offering a refined ambience and excellent facilities. Conveniently located just 4 km from the center of Arusha, 45 km from Arusha National Park, and 40 km from Kilimanjaro International Airport, Four Points by Sheraton Arusha is ideally situated for those visiting Arusha for adventure or business travel.
Gran Meliá Arusha is one of the first truly 5-star luxury boutique hotels in Arusha, offering exceptional ambience and world-class facilities. Located just 4 km from the center of Arusha, 45 km from Arusha National Park, and 40 km from Kilimanjaro International Airport, Gran Meliá Arusha is ideally situated for those visiting Arusha for adventure or business travel.
Kudu Lodge & Campsite is a charming boutique retreat nestled in the heart of Karatu, ideal for safari travelers exploring Northern Tanzania. The lodge offers cozy accommodations, serene gardens, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Located just 15 km from the Ngorongoro Crater gate, it provides easy access to nearby national parks. Guests enjoy modern comforts blended with local character and natural beauty. Whether for adventure or relaxation, Kudu Lodge is a perfect stop on your safari journey.
Eileen’s Trees Inn is a peaceful and welcoming lodge located in the vibrant town of Karatu, ideal for exploring the Northern Safari Circuit. Just 15 km from the Ngorongoro Crater entrance, the inn offers comfort, charm, and personalized hospitality. Surrounded by lush gardens and native trees, it provides a relaxing retreat after a day of adventure. Guests enjoy cozy rooms, fresh local cuisine, and warm service. Eileen’s Trees Inn is a favorite for both nature lovers and safari travelers.
Ngorongoro Coffee Lodge is a stylish and tranquil retreat set amidst a working coffee plantation in Karatu, perfect for safari travelers. Located just 20 km from the Ngorongoro Crater entrance, the lodge combines rustic elegance with modern comfort. Guests enjoy spacious cottages, fresh farm-to-table cuisine, and scenic views of the highlands. The peaceful setting offers a relaxing break between safari adventures. Ngorongoro Coffee Lodge is an ideal base for exploring Tanzania’s northern wonders.
Depart for Lake Manyara National Park after breakfast. Nestled between the Great Rift Valley and the escarpment, the park is rich in habitats ranging from forest and swamp to open lake. Look for hippos, flamingos, monkeys, and possibly the park’s famous tree-climbing lions. Enjoy a relaxed picnic lunch in the park, then continue game driving before heading to Karatu in the Ngorongoro Highlands for dinner and overnight. Optional visit to a local village or coffee plantation if time permits.
Kudu Lodge & Campsite is a charming boutique retreat nestled in the heart of Karatu, ideal for safari travelers exploring Northern Tanzania. The lodge offers cozy accommodations, serene gardens, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Located just 15 km from the Ngorongoro Crater gate, it provides easy access to nearby national parks. Guests enjoy modern comforts blended with local character and natural beauty. Whether for adventure or relaxation, Kudu Lodge is a perfect stop on your safari journey.
Eileen’s Trees Inn is a peaceful and welcoming lodge located in the vibrant town of Karatu, ideal for exploring the Northern Safari Circuit. Just 15 km from the Ngorongoro Crater entrance, the inn offers comfort, charm, and personalized hospitality. Surrounded by lush gardens and native trees, it provides a relaxing retreat after a day of adventure. Guests enjoy cozy rooms, fresh local cuisine, and warm service. Eileen’s Trees Inn is a favorite for both nature lovers and safari travelers.
Ngorongoro Coffee Lodge is a stylish and tranquil retreat set amidst a working coffee plantation in Karatu, perfect for safari travelers. Located just 20 km from the Ngorongoro Crater entrance, the lodge combines rustic elegance with modern comfort. Guests enjoy spacious cottages, fresh farm-to-table cuisine, and scenic views of the highlands. The peaceful setting offers a relaxing break between safari adventures. Ngorongoro Coffee Lodge is an ideal base for exploring Tanzania’s northern wonders.
Rise early for a descent into Ngorongoro Crater, a wildlife haven home to the Big Five, including the rare black rhino. Enjoy a morning game drive and picnic lunch near a hippo pool. In the afternoon, ascend the crater wall and drive toward Serengeti via the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Pass through scenic landscapes dotted with Maasai villages and wildlife. Arrive in the Central Serengeti by sunset for dinner and overnight in a tented lodge or camp inside the park.
Into the Wild Africa Tented Camp is one of the first truly 4-star boutique tented camps in the Serengeti, offering an authentic safari ambience and exceptional facilities. Located just 4 km from the Seronera airstrip, 45 km from the heart of the Serengeti plains, and approximately 40 km from key wildlife viewing areas, Into the Wild Africa Tented Camp is ideally situated for travelers seeking an unforgettable adventure in the wild or a peaceful retreat in nature.
Kubukubu Tented Lodge is one of the first truly 4-star boutique lodges offering a unique blend of comfort and wilderness experience. Located just 4 km from the nearest town, 45 km from the main national park, and 40 km from the closest international airport, Kubukubu Tented Lodge is ideally situated for guests seeking adventure or business travel in the area.
Lemala Nanyukie Lodge is a premier 4-star boutique safari lodge nestled in the eastern Serengeti, offering an unparalleled blend of luxury and wilderness. Situated approximately 60 minutes by road from the Seronera Airstrip, the lodge provides easy access to the heart of the Serengeti National Park. This prime location ensures guests can experience the rich biodiversity of the park, including the renowned Great Migration and abundant big cat populations
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before one last game drive through the Serengeti en route to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The journey transitions from golden plains to the lush highlands of Ngorongoro, with stunning views at every turn. Arrive at your crater rim lodge in time for lunch and a bit of relaxation. In the afternoon, soak in breathtaking views of the crater floor from your balcony or the lodge terrace as you sip on a cocktail or coffee.
The evening ends with a romantic dinner by the fire—an intimate setting to reflect on the magical days you’ve shared so far.
Into the Wild Africa Tented Camp is one of the first truly 4-star boutique tented camps in the Serengeti, offering an authentic safari ambience and exceptional facilities. Located just 4 km from the Seronera airstrip, 45 km from the heart of the Serengeti plains, and approximately 40 km from key wildlife viewing areas, Into the Wild Africa Tented Camp is ideally situated for travelers seeking an unforgettable adventure in the wild or a peaceful retreat in nature.
Kubukubu Tented Lodge is one of the first truly 4-star boutique lodges offering a unique blend of comfort and wilderness experience. Located just 4 km from the nearest town, 45 km from the main national park, and 40 km from the closest international airport, Kubukubu Tented Lodge is ideally situated for guests seeking adventure or business travel in the area.
Lemala Nanyukie Lodge is a premier 4-star boutique safari lodge nestled in the eastern Serengeti, offering an unparalleled blend of luxury and wilderness. Situated approximately 60 minutes by road from the Seronera Airstrip, the lodge provides easy access to the heart of the Serengeti National Park. This prime location ensures guests can experience the rich biodiversity of the park, including the renowned Great Migration and abundant big cat populations
After an early breakfast, enjoy a final short game drive en route to the airstrip (if flying) or begin the drive back to Arusha with a lunch stop en route. Upon arrival, you’ll have time for last-minute shopping or relaxation at a day hotel before your transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward flight. This marks the end of your whirlwind adventure through Tanzania’s most iconic wildlife destinations.
Drinks at the Hotel – Beverages before or after the safari at your accommodation.
Personal Belongings – We are not responsible for loss or damage to personal items.
Tips for the Crew – Gratuities for your driver-guide, cook, or porters are appreciated but not included.
Taxi Service – Local transport outside scheduled transfers is not covered.
Health Insurance – Please ensure you have valid travel and medical insurance.
Flight Tickets – Domestic and international flights are not part of the safari cost.
Enhance Your Day Trip Safari Experience with Optional Gear Add-ons
All equipment is subject to availability. Early booking is recommended.
Our day trip vehicles come equipped with standard safari amenities. If you’d like to enhance comfort during your game drives or picnic stops, optional gear add-ons—such as blankets, binoculars, and gourmet lunch packs—are available at an extra cost as listed above. Early booking is recommended to ensure availability.
