5-Day Northern Circuit Wildlife Safari: Tarangire, Lake Manyara & Ngorongoro

Overview

Unleash your inner explorer on an incredible 5-day Tanzanian adventure! Witness the magic of Tarangire, the beauty of Lake Manyara, and the wonder of Ngorongoro Crater. Get ready for unforgettable wildlife encounters in this 5-day Northern Circuit wildlife safari. Our tour offers an incredible mix of big game viewing, diverse ecosystems, and stunning scenery, perfect for both first-time and seasoned safari-goers.

✔ Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
✔ Destinations: Tarangire, Lake Manyara, and Ngorongoro Conservation Area
✔ Tour Type: Private or Group Safari
✔ Best Time to Visit: Year-round (Dry season: June - October; Green season: November - May)
✔ Accommodation Options: Mid-range lodges, luxury tented camps, or budget-friendly stays

Day 1: Arrival & Transfer to Tarangire National Park

Your journey begins with a morning pick-up from Arusha or Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). After a short briefing, we drive to Tarangire National Park, home to massive elephant herds, ancient baobab trees, and abundant wildlife.

Enjoy a full-day game drive along the Tarangire River, the park’s lifeline, where lions, leopards, zebras, and giraffes gather to drink. Bird lovers will be amazed by the 500+ species, including colorful kingfishers and the striking Kori bustard.

After an exciting day, unwind at a comfortable safari lodge or tented camp near the park.

🛏 Accommodation: Tarangire Safari Lodge / Baobab Tented Camp
🍽 Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Tarangire to Lake Manyara National Park

After breakfast, depart for Lake Manyara National Park, a scenic gem nestled at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment. This park is famous for its tree-climbing lions, large elephant populations, and flamingo-covered shores of Lake Manyara.

Enjoy a game drive through diverse landscapes, including lush groundwater forests, open savannahs, and acacia woodlands. Keep an eye out for baboons, hippos, and the elusive leopards resting in the trees.

In the afternoon, visit Mto wa Mbu village for a cultural experience (optional) before heading to your lodge for relaxation.

🛏 Accommodation: Manyara Serena Lodge / Marera Valley Lodge
🍽 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Lake Manyara to Ngorongoro Crater Rim

After breakfast, take a scenic drive toward the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, stopping at Karatu’s vibrant markets or Olduvai Gorge, where fossils of early humans were discovered.

Reach the Ngorongoro Crater Rim, where breathtaking views of the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera await. Spend the evening at a lodge or tented camp on the crater rim, enjoying the cool highland air and preparing for an exciting game drive the next day.

🛏 Accommodation: Rhino Lodge / Ngorongoro Serena Lodge
🍽 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Full-Day Safari in Ngorongoro Crater

Today, descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, a wildlife haven with over 25,000 animals, including black rhinos, lions, elephants, hippos, and large buffalo herds. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers one of the highest concentrations of wildlife in Africa.

Enjoy an extensive game drive on the crater floor, stopping at Lake Magadi to observe flamingos and hippos. Have a picnic lunch with stunning crater views, before continuing your safari through its diverse landscapes.

Return to your lodge for a relaxed evening by the fireplace.

🛏 Accommodation: Rhino Lodge / Ngorongoro Serena Lodge
🍽 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Ngorongoro to Arusha – End of Safari

After breakfast, enjoy a scenic drive back to Arusha, passing through the beautiful highlands of Karatu. Arrive in the early afternoon, with drop-off at your hotel or airport for your onward journey.

🍽 Meals: Breakfast

Why Choose This 5-Day Northern Circuit Safari?

✅ Big Five Sightings – Spot lions, elephants, leopards, buffaloes, and rhinos.
✅ Diverse Ecosystems – Explore lush forests, open savannahs, and volcanic craters.
✅ Small-Group or Private Options – Tailor your safari experience to your needs.
✅ Cultural Experiences – Optional village visits and interactions with local tribes.
✅ Comfortable Lodges & Camps – Stay in top-rated accommodations for an immersive experience.

Package Inclusions & Exclusions

✅ Included in the Safari Package:

✔ Private 4x4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof for wildlife viewing
✔ Professional English-speaking safari guide
✔ Accommodation in mid-range or luxury lodges/camps
✔ Meals as per itinerary (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
✔ National park fees & Ngorongoro crater entry fees
✔ Bottled drinking water during game drives
✔ Government taxes & levies

❌ Not Included:

✖ International flights
✖ Travel insurance & visa fees
✖ Optional activities (e.g., cultural visits, hot air balloon safari)
✖ Tips for guides, drivers, and lodge staff
✖ Personal expenses (souvenirs, drinks, etc.)

Pricing & Booking for 2025-2026

💰 Mid-Range Package: Starting from $2,100 per person
💎 Luxury Package: Starting from $3,500 per person
👥 Group Discounts Available (for 4+ travelers)

📅 Book Your Northern Circuit Safari Today!
Contact Macpace Tours to reserve your customized 5-day Tanzania safari for 2025-2026. Adventure awaits!