5 Days Tanzania Wildlife Safari

from $2,850

This 5-day Serengeti–Ngorongoro safari is perfect for travelers seeking an unforgettable Tanzania wildlife experience. Explore the vast plains of Serengeti National Park, famous for its abundant wildlife and the Great Migration, before descending into the spectacular Ngorongoro Crater for exceptional game viewing. Expect encounters with lions, elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest and other African wildlife, complemented by breathtaking landscapes and comfortable safari stays. The combination of world-class game drives, dramatic scenery, and authentic Tanzania safari experiences makes this an ideal short safari for discovering the highlights of northern Tanzania.

Safari Details: 5 Days Tanzania Wildlife Safari

Overview

Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
Destinations: Serengeti National Park & Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Safari Type: Wildlife, Game Viewing & Big Five Safari
Start Point: Arusha, Tanzania
End Point: Arusha, Tanzania
Main Activities: Game drives, wildlife viewing, Big Five spotting, scenic sightseeing, crater exploration and optional cultural experiences
Accommodation: Luxury, Mid-range, or Budget Lodges & Tented Camps
Best Time to Visit: June to October & December to February

The 5-Day Serengeti–Ngorongoro Tanzania Wildlife Safari is designed for travelers who want to experience some of northern Tanzania's most iconic wildlife destinations in one unforgettable journey. The safari combines the vast savannah plains of Serengeti National Park with the spectacular landscapes and exceptional wildlife viewing of the Ngorongoro Crater.

During the safari, enjoy exciting game drives across the Serengeti in search of lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest and other African wildlife. Depending on the season and location of the herds, you may also witness parts of the Great Migration, when vast numbers of wildebeest and zebras move across the Serengeti ecosystem.

The journey continues to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, where you descend into the famous Ngorongoro Crater for a full day of wildlife viewing. The crater's diverse habitats support a remarkable concentration of wildlife, creating excellent opportunities to see predators, large herbivores, flamingos and other species against a dramatic volcanic backdrop.

From the endless plains of the Serengeti to the enclosed ecosystem of the Ngorongoro Crater, this safari combines classic African game viewing, breathtaking landscapes and comfortable safari accommodation. The itinerary is suitable for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, couples, families and first-time visitors looking for a focused 5-day Tanzania safari.

Whether your priority is seeing the Big Five, experiencing the Serengeti, exploring the Ngorongoro Crater or combining wildlife with spectacular scenery, this Serengeti–Ngorongoro safari provides an opportunity to experience two of Tanzania's most celebrated safari destinations within five days.

Detailed Itinerary: 5 Days Tanzania Wildlife Safari

Day 1: Arrival in Tanzania and Transfer to Arusha

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be welcomed by an Ababa Uganda Safaris representative and transferred to your hotel in Arusha.

Depending on your arrival time, you can relax at the hotel, explore parts of Arusha, or simply rest and prepare for the safari ahead.

Arusha is the gateway to Tanzania's famous northern safari circuit and provides a convenient starting point for your journey to Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in Arusha.

Accommodation: Hotel in Arusha
Meals: Dinner

Day 2: Arusha to Serengeti National Park – Afternoon Game Drive

After breakfast, begin your journey toward Serengeti National Park, one of Africa's most renowned wildlife destinations.

The drive takes you through the scenic landscapes of northern Tanzania, with opportunities to experience local communities, changing vegetation, and the dramatic scenery surrounding the Great Rift Valley.

Continue toward the Serengeti, entering the park as you approach the vast savannah plains.

Depending on your arrival time, enjoy an afternoon game drive as you begin exploring the park. Keep an eye out for zebras, wildebeest, giraffes, elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, and predators such as lions and cheetahs.

Continue to your lodge or tented camp for dinner and overnight.

Accommodation: Lodge or tented camp in Serengeti
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 3: Full-Day Game Drive in Serengeti National Park

Wake up early for a full-day wildlife adventure in Serengeti National Park.

After breakfast, set out on a game drive across the Serengeti plains. The park is famous for its large concentrations of wildlife and the annual movements of wildebeest, zebras, and other grazing animals associated with the Great Migration.

Your safari guide will help you search for wildlife based on current animal movements and seasonal conditions. You may encounter lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, hippos, hyenas, zebras, wildebeest, and numerous antelope species.

Enjoy a picnic lunch at a designated location before continuing your afternoon exploration.

As the day comes to an end, return to your lodge or tented camp for dinner and relaxation.

Accommodation: Lodge or tented camp in Serengeti
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 4: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Conservation Area – Game Viewing

After an early breakfast, enjoy a final morning game drive through the Serengeti as you gradually make your way toward the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

Morning is often a rewarding time for wildlife viewing, and you may encounter animals becoming active across the plains. Depending on the route and wildlife movements, there may be opportunities to see lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, buffaloes, and other wildlife.

Continue toward the Ngorongoro Highlands, where the landscape changes from open savannah to highland forests and spectacular volcanic scenery.

Arrive at your lodge or camp near the Ngorongoro Crater and relax while enjoying views of the surrounding highlands.

Accommodation: Lodge or camp near Ngorongoro
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater Game Drive and Departure

Wake up early for one of the highlights of your Tanzania safari: a game drive inside the Ngorongoro Crater.

Descend into the crater and explore its remarkable ecosystem, where grasslands, wetlands, woodland, and lakes provide habitat for a wide variety of wildlife.

During the game drive, you may encounter lions, elephants, buffaloes, zebras, wildebeest, hippos, hyenas, antelopes, and numerous bird species. Wildlife sightings depend on seasonal conditions, weather, and animal movements.

After the crater experience, ascend from the crater and enjoy lunch before beginning your journey toward Arusha or the airport, depending on your onward travel arrangements.

Your 5 Days Serengeti–Ngorongoro Tanzania Safari concludes with unforgettable experiences across the Serengeti plains and the spectacular Ngorongoro ecosystem.

Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Trip Includes

Airport pickup and drop-off as specified in the itinerary
Private safari transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle
Services of an experienced English-speaking safari guide
4 nights of accommodation in lodges or tented camps
Meals as indicated in the itinerary
Serengeti National Park entrance fees
Ngorongoro Conservation Area and crater-related fees
Full-day and scheduled game drives in Serengeti National Park
Ngorongoro Crater game drive
Bottled drinking water during game drives
All scheduled activities mentioned in the itinerary
Government taxes and applicable service charges

Trip Excludes

- - International flights
  - Visa fees
  - Travel and medical insurance
  - Personal expenses
  - Alcoholic and other premium beverages
  - Laundry services
  - Tips and gratuities for guides and lodge staff
  - Souvenirs and personal shopping
  - Optional activities not included in the itinerary
  - Additional accommodation before or after the safari
  - Any services not specifically mentioned under Includes
  - Costs arising from changes to the itinerary requested by the traveler
  - Personal expenses resulting from delays, cancellations, or other unforeseen circumstances
  Note: Park, conservation, accommodation, and other safari fees can change. The final quotation should confirm the applicable rates and inclusions for the travel dates.

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What our travelers say

    
 
 
         
   Robert K 
 
 
 
 Verified Bucket list seeing the Mountain Gorillas in Bwindi
Just an awesome trip . Everything went smoothly from booking to the end . All was as promised never missed anything , always on time , friendly etc. resort that was recommended was perfect , great food , comfortable . Saw the gorillas easily all was perfect . Jonathan the owner even took me in Kampala to buy the right clothes , took me him self . Noel and driver were excellent , never an issue they really cared. I trust this company , will use them again and highly recommend .
  
 
        
   Maltes Traveller 
 
 
 
 Verified Highly recommended
We had a wonderful experience with Jonathan. He welcomed us at the airport and took great care of us from the moment we arrived until the end of our trip. The selection of hotels was impeccable, and the route he designed was perfectly planned. Jonathan is extremely knowledgeable about wildlife and went the extra mile to make sure we saw lions and all of the Big Five during our visit to Queen Elizabeth National Park. He was always attentive, patient, and eager to make our experience unforgettable. We couldn’t have asked for a better guide — highly recommended!
  
 
        
   bharti n 
 
 
 
 Verified Exceptional experience, enriching and truly unforgettable.
From the moment we landed we received a warm welcome. Jonathan was friendly and readily available to answer any queries throughout our trip. He was incredibly accommodating with our requests to visit schools, residences ensuring that we achieved everything we wanted from the trip. We had a great time with Jonathan and driver Isaac. Jonathan was very funny and very knowledgeable he became part of the family and the time just flew whilst we were there, we felt safe at all times. The food at each venue catered for all our needs. Definitely leant a lot on this trip. Just need to be aware that food ordered in restaurants do take a long time as they make it from scratch so if pushed for time might be advisable to pre order. We had unforgettable holiday and this company went above and beyond to make every moment special. I would recommend them to anyone.
  
 
        
   vjpar 
 
 
 
 Verified Great service from this local company
We done a road trip across East Africa from Uganda to Tanzania. Jonathan and his team facilitated our trip across Uganda and Kenya which proved to be a very enjoyable experience. Guided knowledge provided by Jonathan was excellent as was his humor and wit. We always felt safe and informed, he managed the journey very well indeed. We would definitely use Jonathan's services again.
  
 
        
   Adam John Smith 
 
 
 
 Verified Magical Uganda Safari Journey – February 2025!
I had an unforgettable experience with Ababa Uganda Safaris! From the moment I arrived, everything was well-organized, and the team was incredibly friendly and professional. The tour guides were knowledgeable, sharing fascinating insights about the wildlife and culture. Seeing gorillas up close in Bwindi and exploring Queen Elizabeth National Park was a dream come true. The accommodations were comfortable, and every detail was taken care of. I truly felt immersed in Uganda’s beauty without any stress. If you're planning a trip to Uganda, I highly recommend Ababa Uganda Safaris for a seamless and memorable adventure!
  
 
        
   Madhvi 
 
 
 
 Verified .gorilla trek
Our KQ flight was horribly delayed. From 2.30 pm to arriving @ almost 3 am the following day. Jonathan kindly arranged for airport pick at this early hour of day and even rescheduled our departure for bwindi so we could get some rest. That was very accommodating.the drive to bwindi was a long drive -11 hrs- n he informed hotel of our late arrival. The lodge he chose for us was good and comfortable. However the vehicle for transporti g us could be better as it was quite hot without air conditioning. Gorilla trek was good but tough. Overall Ababa safaris were very accommodating. I wouldrecommend them. The hotel in Kampala- Speke hotel leaves a lot to be desired
  
 
        
   mo-marvin 
 
 
 
 Verified Such a wonderful experience!!
My family and I contacted Jonathan to help us plan our first Murchison Falls safari. Jonathan arranged our transport from Kampala, with a stop at Ziwa Rhino sanctuary and guided game drives through Murchison falls. Ronnie, our professional driver and guide, was very knowledgeable and paid close attention to details to make us comfortable. He met with us a day before takeoff to answer any outstanding questions and recommended a time for us to set off to avoid any traffic. His experience made our trip even more enjoyable because we knew what to expect for entry fees into the park, where to stop to use clean washrooms, eat good food, and also what side of the boat cruise to sit on for the best views! We saw lions, elephants, giraffes, job, rhinos, buffaloes and many other animals. We would definitely go with them for our next safari in Uganda! They had great communication, value for money, professionalism, knowledge of the industry and were very reliable.
  
 
        
   Katelyn O 
 
 
 
 Verified A must-hire company! Punctual, professional, great communication.
We used Ababa Safaris for a trip from Kampala to Murchison Falls National Park. I would HIGHLY recommend! Our driver picked us up in a large safari vehicle with a pop up roof. The driver was very punctual and had excellent communication while preparing for the trip and during the trip. Ronnie took us to a nice restaurant for a rest stop that had clean bathrooms and good food. He was friendly with many people we met along the way at the Rhino Sanctuary, on the safari trails, and at our chosen lodging. It felt as though he had good connections with people, which we took as a good sign. Ronnie was very knowledgeable about the best places to see the animals and gave us a great safari experience. As the person in the family who does much of the planning, it was a very enjoyable experience to hand all of that over to Ababa and really get to enjoy myself.
  
 
        
   Hoehlenhonk 
 
 
 
 Verified Animals and beautiful nature in Uganda and Rwanda
From being picked-up from Entebbe airport in the middle of the night until the drop-off eleven days later in Kigali it was a perfect tour. Jonathan, our guide, and the driver Moses was a perfect team - very friendly, knowledgable and always in time. We visited Entebbe for a tour through the botanical gardens and the zoo, did safaris and boat trips in Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth NP and did trekkings to the chimpazees in Kibale and to the mountain gorillas in Rwanda. The primates are a must visit when you travel to this region. It's expensive but worth every dollar. The safari parks are of course not as rich in animals as for example the Masai Mara. But they are much cheaper, there are much lesser tourists and nevertheless it doesn't become boring regarding animal sightings. We saw a lot of different antelopes, beautiful giraffes, lions, many elephants, buffalos, a lot of hippos and crocodiles and much more. The choice of hotels was very good, simple and cheap where there was only a short overnight stay and a bit more expensive where it was worth to spend the money for staying close to the places of interest, e.g. close to the starting point for primate trekkings or in the middle of QENP and Murchison NP for not loosing game-drive-time.
  
 
        
   Dilip P 
 
 
 
 Verified UGANDA SAFARI WITH ABABA
We had a nice holiday with ABABA SAFARI in Uganda it was a nice experience in Uganda and the travel agent as well especially Jonathan was our tour guide very nice person he was always very helpful and kind. we traveled about 1200km but had no problem I am a vegetarian and wherever we go he always arranges something for me i recommend them at and competitive price I give them a 5-star