19/02/2025
Planning a 5-day safari in Tanzania to Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Tarangire National Parks is an exciting adventure! Below is a detailed itinerary for a mid-range lodge-based safari with car drives. This plan ensures you experience the best of Tanzania’s wildlife and landscapes while staying in comfortable accommodations.
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# # # **Day 1: Arrival in Arusha – Transfer to Tarangire National Park**
- **Morning**:
- Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK).
- Meet your safari guide and drive to Tarangire National Park (approx. 2-3 hours).
- **Afternoon**:
- Enjoy a game drive in Tarangire, famous for its large elephant herds, baobab trees, and diverse wildlife.
- Spot lions, leopards, zebras, wildebeests, and migratory birds.
- **Evening**:
- Check into a mid-range lodge near Tarangire (e.g., Tarangire Sopa Lodge, Maramboi Tented Lodge).
- Dinner and overnight stay.
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# # # **Day 2: Tarangire to Serengeti National Park**
- **Morning**:
- After breakfast, depart for Serengeti National Park (approx. 5-6 hours drive with game viewing en route).
- Stop at the Ngorongoro Conservation Area for a scenic view of the crater.
- **Afternoon**:
- Arrive in Serengeti and enjoy an afternoon game drive in the endless plains.
- Witness the Great Migration (seasonal) and spot the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino).
- **Evening**:
- Check into a mid-range lodge or tented camp in Serengeti (e.g., Serengeti Sopa Lodge, Kati Kati Tented Camp).
- Dinner and overnight stay.
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# # # **Day 3: Full Day in Serengeti National Park**
- **Morning**:
- Start early with a sunrise game drive to catch predators in action.
- Explore the central Seronera Valley, known for its high concentration of wildlife.
- **Afternoon**:
- Continue with game drives, visiting different regions of the park depending on wildlife movements.
- Enjoy a picnic lunch in the bush.
- **Evening**:
- Return to your lodge for relaxation and dinner.
- Overnight stay at the same lodge or camp.
Day 4: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater
- Morning:
- After breakfast, enjoy a final game drive in Serengeti as you head toward Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
- Drive to Ngorongoro (approx. 3-4 hours) with a stop at Olduvai Gorge (optional visit to the museum).
- Afternoon:
- Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a game drive. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to dense wildlife, including the rare black rhino.
- Enjoy a picnic lunch by the crater floor.
- Evening
- Check into a mid-range lodge on the crater rim (e.g., Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge, Rhino Lodge).
- Dinner and overnight stay.
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Day 5: Ngorongoro to Arusha – Departure
-Morning:
- Optional early morning game drive in the crater or relax at the lodge.
- After breakfast, drive back to Arusha (approx. 4-5 hours).
-Afternoon:
- Arrive in Arusha for lunch and some last-minute shopping or relaxation.
- Transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha Airport for your departure.
-Included in the Safari:
- Park entry fees and conservation fees.
- Accommodation in mid-range lodges or tented camps.
- Meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) and drinking water.
- Professional English-speaking safari guide.
- 4x4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof for game viewing.
- Airport transportation.
Excluded:
- International flights.
- Visa fees (approx. $50-$100 depending on nationality).
- Tips for guides and lodge staff.
- Personal expenses (souvenirs, drinks, etc.).
- Optional activities (e.g., hot air balloon safari in Serengeti).
Tips for Travelers:
- Pack lightweight, neutral-colored clothing, a hat, sunscreen, and binoculars.
- Bring a good camera with extra batteries and memory cards.
- Stay hydrated and follow your guide’s instructions for safety.
- Check visa requirements and ensure you have travel insurance.
