Best 5 Days (Group Joining) - Serengeti (2 nights), Ngorongoro and Tarangire in Tanzania

5 Days / 4 Nights Tanzania Safari

Best 5 Days (Group Joining) Serengeti (2 Nights), Ngorongoro and Tarangire Safari in Tanzania

This 5-Day Group Joining Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Tarangire Safari in Tanzania takes you through 3 of Northern Tanzania’s top safari parks, offering an unforgettable experience in Africa. The itinerary covers Tarangire National Park (1 night inside or near the park), Serengeti National Park (2 nights within the park), and the spectacular Ngorongoro Crater (1 night inside or near the conservation area). An additional overnight stay in Arusha can be included on your arrival day before the safari begins depending on your travel schedule. The safari starts with a convenient pick-up from Arusha City, Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), or Arusha Airport (ARK) and ends with drop-off at the end of the safari depending on your travel arrangements.

Throughout the safari, you will explore diverse ecosystems ranging from Tarangire’s ancient baobab-dotted plains and elephant-rich landscapes to the endless plains of the Serengeti, one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations. The journey continues to the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its exceptional concentration of wildlife in Africa.

Accompanied by our certified, professional, experienced, and passionate safari guides, you will enjoy expertly guided shared game drives, incredible wildlife encounters, and stunning scenery at every turn. Whether watching elephants in Tarangire, spotting predators across the Serengeti plains, discovering the wildlife-filled Ngorongoro Crater, spotting the Big Five, meeting other travelers on a group joining safari, or experiencing spectacular African sunsets, this safari promises memories that will last a lifetime.

5 Days Tanzania Safari at a Glance

  • Safari Name: Best 5 Days (Group Joining) Serengeti (2 Nights), Ngorongoro and Tarangire Safari in Tanzania
  • Starting Point: Arusha City
  • Ending Point: Arusha City
  • Accommodation Before Safari: Optional overnight stay in Arusha
  • Night 1: Lodge / Tented Camp within Serengeti National Park
  • Night 2: Lodge / Tented Camp within Serengeti National Park
  • Night 3: Lodge / Tented Camp near/within Ngorongoro Highlands or similar accommodation
  • Night 4: Lodge / Tented Camp near/within Tarangire National Park or similar accommodation
  • Main Attractions: Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire National Park
  • Wildlife: Lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, hippos, hyenas, rhinos if lucky, and more
  • Best For: First-time visitors, wildlife lovers, photographers, couples, families, solo travelers, and group travelers

Important Travel Information

Location Distance & Travel Time
Arusha to Serengeti National Park Approximately 335 km | About 7 to 8 hours drive including scenic stops and park entry procedures
Serengeti National Park Full Day Game Drive Full day wildlife exploration across different regions of the park
Serengeti to Ngorongoro Highlands Approximately 145 km | About 3 to 4 hours drive with wildlife viewing on the way
Ngorongoro Crater to Tarangire Area Approximately 150 km | About 3 to 4 hours drive
Tarangire National Park to Arusha Approximately 120 km | About 2 to 3 hours drive
Kilimanjaro International Airport to Arusha Approximately 50 km | About 1 hour drive
Arusha Airport to Arusha City Approximately 8 km | About 15 minutes drive

Places You Will Visit on This 5 Days Tanzania Safari

Arusha City – Gateway to Northern Tanzania Safari

Arusha City is the main starting point for many northern Tanzania safaris. The city is located near Mount Meru and gives easy access to Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire National Park, Lake Manyara National Park, and other famous safari destinations.

Most travelers spend a night in Arusha before the safari starts. This makes the journey easier and gives you time to relax, prepare, and meet your safari team before the adventure begins.

Serengeti National Park – Tanzania’s Endless Plains

Serengeti National Park is Tanzania’s most famous safari destination and one of the best wildlife parks in Africa. The park is known for its endless plains, big cats, large animal herds, and the Great Wildebeest Migration.

During your game drives in Serengeti, you may see lions resting on the plains, cheetahs hunting in open grassland, leopards hiding in trees, elephants moving through the bush, and large herds of zebras, wildebeest, gazelles, and buffaloes.

Spending two nights inside Serengeti allows you to explore more wildlife areas and enjoy one of Africa's greatest safari experiences.

Ngorongoro Highlands – Scenic Overnight Before the Crater

The Ngorongoro Highlands are located between Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater. The area is known for cool weather, green hills, farms, forests, Maasai villages, and beautiful views.

Spending a night near/within the Ngorongoro Highlands gives you a good location for an early morning descent into the crater. It also adds a peaceful and scenic experience to your Tanzania safari.

Ngorongoro Crater – Tanzania’s Natural Wildlife Wonder

Ngorongoro Crater is one of the most famous wildlife destinations in Tanzania. It was formed millions of years ago after a large volcano collapsed, creating a huge natural caldera filled with animals.

The crater floor has grassland, forest, swamp, lake areas, and open plains. This makes it home to many animals throughout the year, including lions, elephants, buffaloes, zebras, wildebeest, hippos, hyenas, gazelles, and the rare black rhino.

Because many animals live inside the crater, Ngorongoro gives visitors one of the best chances to see a lot of wildlife in a short time.

Tarangire National Park – Elephants, Baobab Trees and Wild Savannah

Tarangire National Park is one of the best places in Tanzania to see large elephant herds. The park is also famous for ancient baobab trees, open landscapes, river valleys, and peaceful wildlife viewing.

During your game drive, you may see elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, buffaloes, impalas, warthogs, ostriches, baboons, and many different birds. The Tarangire River is an important water source and attracts many animals during the dry season.

Tarangire is a great place to end your safari because it offers beautiful scenery, strong wildlife, and a real African safari feeling.

Why Choose This Best 5 Days Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Tarangire Safari?

  • Visit three famous northern Tanzania safari destinations in one trip.
  • Spend two nights inside Serengeti National Park.
  • Experience the endless plains of Serengeti and its incredible wildlife.
  • Enjoy a game drive inside the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater.
  • Explore Tarangire National Park, famous for elephants and baobab trees.
  • Good chance to see big cats and many other wild animals.
  • Professional English-speaking safari guide.
  • Comfortable 4x4 safari Land Cruiser with pop-up roof.
  • Affordable group joining safari experience.
  • Suitable for couples, families, solo travelers, groups, and photographers.

Best Time for This 5 Days Tanzania Safari

This Best 5 Days (Group Joining) Serengeti (2 Nights), Ngorongoro and Tarangire Safari in Tanzania can be done throughout the year. The dry season from June to October is one of the best times for wildlife viewing because animals are easier to see around water sources and open areas.

The green season from November to May is also beautiful, with fresh landscapes, many birds, fewer crowds, and good photography conditions. Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Tarangire offer excellent wildlife viewing in many seasons, making this safari rewarding throughout the year.

trip overview
trip overview
trip overview

Short Itinerary

  • Day 1 - Transfer from Arusha to Serengeti. Afternoon Game drives in Serengeti. Overnight at Tukaone Camps or similar
  • Day 2 - Full Day game drives in Serengeti. Overnight at Tukaone camps or similar
  • Day 3 - Morning game drives in Serengeti and afternoon transfer to accommodation at Karatu. Overnight at at Omega view hotel or similar
  • Day 4 - Ngorongoro crater tour (5 hours) in the morning and afternoon transfer to Nsya Lodge (Safari Bungalow) or similar
  • Day 5 - Transfer to Tarangire for game drives till afternoon. Transfer back to Arusha. End of Tour

Ensuite Accommodation Packages

Below are packages with a few popular ensuite options for your private tour, starting on Nov 13, 2023, in a group of two adults. Ensuite hotels are tented camps/lodges that can be inside/around national parks. You will have a private room with attached bathroom. Meals are provided by hotels.

Option E1: $1,520 per adult for safari with Land Cruiser

  • Day 1 - 2 : Stay at Tukaone Camps, Central Serengeti or similar, Central Serengeti
  • Day 2 - 4 : Stay at Omega View Hotel, Karatu or similar, Karatu
  • Day 4 - 5 : Stay at Nsya Lodge or similar, Lake Manyara (Outside the Park)

TRIP ITINERARY

Day

1

Transfer from Arusha to Serengeti. Afternoon Game drives in Serengeti. Overnight at Tukaone Camps or similar

We start at around 6:30 AM from Arusha after breakfast and drive to Serengeti National park with packed lunch boxes. On this 7 hour drive we pass through multiple view points, culturally rich towns like Mto Wa mbu, beautiful high lying farmland of Karatu and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Around 1:00 PM, we reach the gate of the Serengeti National Park. After lunch, we check into park and head to the central park area, known as the Seronera area, one of the richest wildlife habitats in the park, featuring the Seronera River, which provides a valuable water source to this area and therefore attracts wildlife well representative of most of the Serengeti's species. We do an afternoon game drive in the Serengeti National Park till around 5:30 PM and proceed for overnight at Tukaone camps or similar.

Optional tours this day: Maasai Village tour ($25 per person) or Olduvai gorge museum visit ($35 per person) near/within Ngorongoro on the way to Serengeti.

Day

2

Full Day game drives in Serengeti. Overnight at Tukaone camps or similar

We depart around 8:00 AM after breakfast, with packed lunch boxes for full day game drives that last for about 8-9 hours in Central Serengeti. We return to camp around 5:30 PM. Overnight at Tukaone camps or similar.

Optional add-on tours this day: Balloon Safari in the morning ($540 per person) or Walking safari for 3-4 hours ($45 per person sharing or $60 for solo client) in Central Serengeti.

Day

3

Morning game drives in Serengeti and afternoon transfer to accommodation at Karatu. Overnight at at Omega view hotel or similar

After early breakfast, we depart at around 6:30 AM and will have game drives till around noon in Central Serengeti. Later depart for accommodation in Karatu, crossing Ngorongoro conservation area. Overnight at Crater rim Inn or similar.

Day

4

Ngorongoro crater tour (5 hours) in the morning and afternoon transfer to Nsya Lodge (Safari Bungalow) or similar

After an early breakfast, descend to the crater floor for game drive(5 hours). You can expect to see lions, elephants, zebras, hippos, hyenas, Jackals, rhinos and many birds. The birds seen here include eagle, vulture, flamingos in the Crater Lake, storks, giant vulture,and many more. Post the picnic lunch at the beautiful Hippo pool, you will begin a steep ascend to the top exit of the crater and proceed to accommodation. Dinner and overnight at Nsya Lodge (Safari Bungalow) or similar.

Optional add-on tours this day: Crater rim hike for 3 hours ($45 per person) at Ngorongoro crater rim.

Day

5

Transfer to Tarangire for game drives till afternoon. Transfer back to Arusha. End of Tour

We start at around 8:00 AM from hotel and drive to Tarangire National park with packed lunch boxes. Tarangire gate will be about 2.5 hours drive away. Once we reach the park, we start game drives here. Tarangire National park is known for its majestic baobab trees that dot the landscape, dwarfing the animals that feed beneath them. The Tarangire River is the centerpiece of this park which is famous for some of the largest herds of elephants in Africa. Here you may see lion, leopard, cheetah, lesser kudu, buffalo, Oryx, eland, giraffe and zebra. We will have a lunch break at a picnic scenic picnic spot. Post lunch, we will continue with game drives till afternoon or so and after the game drive, we will drive to Arusha to reach by around 6:00 PM. This is also the last day of our tour! Bid goodbye to your guide with lots of good memories. Hotel in Arusha can be arranged at extra cost.

Stay Locations

  • Day 1 - Central Serengeti
  • Day 2 - Central Serengeti
  • Day 3 - Karatu
  • Day 4 - Lake Manyara (Outside the Park)

Pre & Post Tour Hotels

Arusha is the base for safari tours in North Tanzania. If you need accommodation in Arusha before/after your safari tour you can check some popular hotel prices on bed and breakfast basis below.

Single Room

  • - Crest Safari Lodge - USD 47
  • - Kutoka Lodge - USD 64
  • - Karama lodge - USD 113
  • - The African Tulip - USD 149
  • - Four Points by Sheraton, Arusha - Traditional queen room - USD 205
  • - Elewana Arusha Coffee Lodge - Plantation room - USD 375

Double Sharing room

  • - Crest Safari Lodge - USD 29
  • - Kutoka Lodge - USD 49
  • - Karama lodge - USD 76
  • - The African Tulip - USD 112
  • - Four Points by Sheraton, Arusha - Traditional queen room - USD 120
  • - Elewana Arusha Coffee Lodge - Plantation room - USD 240

Triple Sharing Room

  • - Crest Safari Lodge - USD 29
  • - Kutoka Lodge - USD 40
  • - Karama lodge - USD 73
  • - The African Tulip - USD 93
  • - Elewana Arusha Coffee Lodge - Plantation room - USD 180

Transfers

This tour starts from Arusha. Kilimanjaro airport is the nearest international airport and Arusha airport is the nearest domestic airport.

Airport Pickup/Drop

Pickup or drop off at Arusha airport on the day of safari: No extra charge Pickup or drop off at Kilimanjaro airport on the day of safari: USD 30 per vehicle

Airport to Hotel transfers

Transfer from Arusha airport to Arusha hotel or vice versa: USD 25 per vehicle Transfer from Kilimanjaro airport to Arusha hotel or vice versa: USD 50 per vehicle

InterCity transfers

Transfer from Moshi to Arusha or vice versa: USD 100 per vehicle Transfer from Nairobi to Arusha or vice versa: USD 275 per vehicle

Flights

We do not book International Flights.

We can book local flights based on availability. Below are indicative additional costs for local flights.

Intercity Flights

  • From Zanzibar to Arusha: From USD 100 per person (Morning flight)
  • From Dar es salaam to Arusha: From USD 90 per person (Morning flight)
  • From Arusha to Zanzibar: From USD 170 per person (Late Afternoon flight)
  • From Arusha to Dar es salaam: From USD 110 per person (Late Afternoon flight)

Meals

  • Day 1 - Lunch & Dinner
  • Day 2 - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Day 3 - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Day 4 - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
  • Day 5 - Breakfast & Lunch

Drive Times

  • Day 1 -Arusha to Central Serengeti takes about 7 to 7.5 hours (305 km)
  • Day 2 -Central Serengeti to NCA takes about 3 to 3.5 hours (151 km)
  • Day 4 -NCA to Tarangire takes about 1.5 to 2 hours (108 km)
  • Day 5 - Tarangire to Arusha takes about 2.5 to 3 hours (106 km)

Note: These are estimated drive times. Because of the traffic, location of the accommodations, and several other factors, actual drive times may vary. Driving distances are approximate and do not account for exact places.

Safari Tour Inclusions & Exclusions

Below is a clear breakdown of what is included and excluded in your Tanzania safari package. This helps you understand exactly what to expect before your journey to Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and other parks.

What’s Included in Your Safari

National Park Fees +
All required entrance fees for either Serengeti, Ngorongoro, or other parks are fully covered for both clients, ensuring a smooth safari experience without hidden charges.
Safari Transportation +
Travel in a well-maintained 4x4 Toyota Land Cruiser with pop-up roof, designed for optimal wildlife viewing and comfort during long game drives across national parks.
Professional Certified Driver Guide +
You will be accompanied by a professional, certified, and highly experienced safari driver-guide with in-depth knowledge of Tanzania’s national parks and local environments. Our guides are fluent in English and several international languages, ensuring smooth communication for travelers from around the world. They are trained in wildlife behavior, animal tracking, photography positioning, and park ecology, giving you the best chances to experience and understand wildlife in its natural habitat. With strong local expertise in Tanzania’s landscapes, cultures, and safari routes, your guide ensures a safe, informative, and unforgettable safari experience from start to finish.
Game Drives +
Enjoy unlimited daily game drives as per itinerary, giving you maximum chances to spot the Big Five and witness the Great Migration where applicable.
Meals & Drinking Water +
Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) as per itinerary plus 2 liters of bottled drinking water per person per day during safari activities.
Taxes & VAT +
All government taxes, park VAT charges, and tourism levies are fully included in the package price.

What’s Not Included

International Flights +
Flights from your home country to Tanzania (Kilimanjaro, Arusha, or Dar es Salaam airports) are not included in the safari package.
Visa & Travel Insurance +
Tanzania visa fees and travel insurance coverage are the responsibility of the traveler and must be arranged prior to arrival.
Tips & Gratuities +
Tips for your driver guide, lodge staff, and porters are not included and are given at your discretion based on service satisfaction.
Personal Expenses +
Personal items such as souvenirs, alcoholic beverages, laundry, and phone calls are not included in the safari package.
Optional Activities +
Any optional excursions such as hot air balloon safari, Maasai village visits, or cultural tours are not included unless specified.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 5-Day Tanzania Safari

Find answers to common questions about this 5-day group joining safari to Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire National Park in Tanzania.

This 5-day Tanzania safari includes transportation in a 4x4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof, professional safari driver-guide, applicable national park and conservation fees, game drives, accommodation, meals according to the itinerary, drinking water during safari activities, taxes and applicable tourism levies. International flights, visas, travel insurance, personal expenses, tips and optional activities are not included.
This safari visits three of Northern Tanzania's most famous wildlife destinations: Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire National Park. The itinerary also passes through the Ngorongoro Highlands and starts and ends in the Arusha area.
You spend two nights in Serengeti National Park. Having two nights in Serengeti gives you more time for game drives and allows you to explore different wildlife areas rather than making only a short visit.
Yes. This is a group joining safari, making it suitable for solo travelers who want to experience Tanzania without booking an entire private vehicle. You share the safari vehicle and game drives with other travelers while enjoying the same major destinations and safari activities.
A group joining safari means that individual travelers or small groups share a safari vehicle and travel together according to the same itinerary. It is generally a more affordable way to experience a Tanzania safari while also giving travelers an opportunity to meet people from different countries.
The safari normally starts from Arusha City. Pickup arrangements can also be made from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK), depending on your travel arrangements and the agreed transfer plan.
The safari ends in Arusha City after the Tarangire National Park game drive on Day 5. Depending on your onward travel arrangements, airport transfers or additional accommodation can be arranged where applicable.
The safari uses a 4x4 Toyota Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof, designed for wildlife viewing and comfortable travel across Tanzania's safari routes. The pop-up roof allows passengers to stand or sit comfortably while viewing and photographing wildlife.
Wildlife sightings vary depending on season, location and animal movements, but you may see lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, hippos, hyenas, gazelles, warthogs and many species of birds. Ngorongoro Crater also offers a possibility of seeing the endangered black rhinoceros. No wildlife sighting can be guaranteed because animals move freely in their natural habitat.
Yes, this safari gives you opportunities to look for the Big Five: lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhinoceros. Serengeti and Ngorongoro are particularly well known for diverse wildlife. However, seeing all five animals during one safari cannot be guaranteed because wildlife sightings depend on natural conditions and animal movements.
Accommodation is provided in lodges or tented camps according to the selected accommodation package and availability. The itinerary includes stays in or around Central Serengeti, the Karatu/Ngorongoro Highlands area and the Lake Manyara/Tarangire area. Accommodation may be substituted with a similar property when necessary.
Yes. Meals are included according to the itinerary. The safari generally provides lunch and dinner on Day 1, breakfast, lunch and dinner on Days 2–4, and breakfast and lunch on Day 5. Lunch may be provided as a packed lunch during longer game-drive days.
This safari includes several scenic transfers because the destinations are spread across Northern Tanzania. The drive from Arusha to Serengeti can take approximately 7–8 hours depending on road conditions, park entry procedures, stops and accommodation location. Other transfers between Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Tarangire are shorter, but actual travel times can vary.
The safari can be taken throughout the year. June to October is generally a popular period for wildlife viewing because vegetation is often less dense and animals may gather around available water sources. From November to May, the landscape can be greener, birdlife is excellent and the scenery can be especially attractive for photography. The best travel period can also depend on which part of the Great Wildebeest Migration you want to experience.
Serengeti is one of the principal areas associated with the Great Wildebeest Migration, but the migration is a natural movement that changes location throughout the year. This means the exact location of the herds cannot be guaranteed. If seeing the migration is your main priority, the safari can be planned around the expected seasonal movement of the herds.
Yes, depending on availability and the day of the itinerary, optional activities may be added. Examples include a Maasai village visit, Olduvai Gorge visit, Serengeti hot-air balloon safari, walking safari and Ngorongoro crater-rim hike. Optional activities have additional costs and should be arranged in advance.
Pack lightweight and comfortable clothing, a warm layer for cool mornings and evenings, comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, personal toiletries, a reusable water bottle, camera equipment, binoculars if available and a small day bag. Neutral- colored clothing is generally practical for safari environments.
Yes. This 5-day itinerary is a strong option for first-time safari travelers because it combines Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire in one trip. It provides a mix of open Serengeti plains, crater wildlife viewing, elephant-rich landscapes and varied scenery within five days.
Yes. The safari is suitable for couples, families, friends, solo travelers and other small groups. Because it is a group joining safari, travelers share the safari vehicle with other participants rather than having a completely private vehicle unless a private arrangement is specifically requested.
This safari combines three of Northern Tanzania's most important wildlife destinations in a single five-day itinerary. You get two nights in Serengeti, a game drive in the famous Ngorongoro Crater, a wildlife experience in Tarangire National Park, professional guiding, 4x4 safari transportation and the social experience of a group joining safari. It is especially suitable for travelers looking for a comprehensive Tanzania wildlife experience within a limited number of days.

Ready to Experience Tanzania's Northern Safari Circuit?

Explore Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire National Park on a professionally guided 5-day group joining safari. Contact Macpace Tours & Safaris to confirm availability, accommodation options and your preferred travel dates.

Book This Safari

Wildlife You Can See on This 5-Day Tanzania Safari

Explore the incredible wildlife of Northern Tanzania across Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire National Park. This safari offers opportunities to see big cats, elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, rhinos and many other species in their natural habitats.

Northern Tanzania is one of Africa's premier wildlife destinations. During this 5-day group joining safari, you will experience different ecosystems, from the open grasslands of the Serengeti to the wildlife-rich Ngorongoro Crater and the baobab landscapes of Tarangire. Wildlife sightings depend on the season, location, weather and natural animal movements, so sightings cannot be guaranteed.

Serengeti National Park Wildlife

Serengeti is famous for its vast grasslands and exceptional wildlife diversity. During your two nights in the Serengeti, you may encounter lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, hyenas, gazelles and many other species. The park is also a major habitat for the Great Wildebeest Migration.

Ngorongoro Crater Wildlife

The Ngorongoro Crater is a remarkable wildlife viewing area where animals live within a unique volcanic ecosystem. Game drives may offer opportunities to see lions, elephants, buffaloes, zebras, wildebeest, hippos, hyenas and other wildlife. The crater is also one of the places where visitors may have an opportunity to look for black rhinoceros.

Tarangire National Park Wildlife

Tarangire is especially known for its large elephant herds, ancient baobab trees and seasonal wildlife concentrations. Depending on the time of year, you may see elephants, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, buffaloes, impalas, warthogs, lions and a variety of bird species during your game drive.

Wildlife Highlights

🦁

Lions

Lions are among the most commonly sought-after predators in Tanzania's northern safari parks.

🐆

Leopards

Leopards are elusive big cats that may be spotted resting in trees or moving through the grasslands.

🐘

Elephants

Elephant sightings are possible across Serengeti, Ngorongoro and particularly Tarangire.

🦏

Rhinoceros

Ngorongoro offers an opportunity to look for the endangered black rhinoceros.

🦒

Giraffes

Giraffes can be encountered across different habitats, particularly around open woodland and grassland areas.

🦓

Zebras

Large zebra populations can often be seen grazing and moving across the open plains.

🐃

Buffaloes

African buffaloes may be encountered in herds across the northern safari circuit.

🦛

Hippos

Hippos can be seen around suitable water sources, particularly in areas with permanent water.

🐆

Cheetahs

Serengeti's open plains provide suitable habitat for searching for fast and highly adapted cheetahs.

🦌

Gazelles & Antelopes

Various antelope species can be seen grazing and moving through the grasslands and woodland.

🐗

Warthogs

Warthogs are frequently encountered in open grassland and woodland habitats.

🐾

Hyenas

Spotted hyenas are important predators and scavengers within the Serengeti ecosystem.

Can You See the Big Five?

This 5-day Tanzania safari gives you opportunities to search for Africa's famous Big Five across Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Tarangire. Sightings depend on natural conditions and wildlife movements.

Lion
Leopard
Elephant
Buffalo
Rhinoceros

Birdlife You May See

In addition to mammals, this Northern Tanzania safari offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching. Depending on the season and habitat, you may encounter large birds of prey, colorful species and migratory birds.

Ostriches Eagles Vultures Flamingos Storks Kori Bustards Hornbills Secretary Birds
Wildlife Viewing Note: Animals live freely in their natural environment. Sightings vary according to season, weather, habitat and animal movements. Your professional safari guide will use local knowledge and wildlife-tracking experience to maximize your opportunities for memorable sightings.

Who Is This 5-Day Group Joining Safari For?

This Northern Tanzania safari is designed for travelers who want to experience Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire National Park in one well-planned five-day journey while sharing the safari experience with other travelers.

Whether you are traveling alone, as a couple, with friends or as a small group, this safari provides an opportunity to explore some of Tanzania's most famous wildlife destinations without the cost of organizing an entirely private safari vehicle. The group joining format makes this itinerary especially attractive to travelers looking for a social and cost-conscious safari experience.

Solo Travelers

This safari is a great option for solo travelers who want to explore Tanzania while sharing transportation and game drives with other safari participants. It also provides an opportunity to meet fellow travelers during the journey.

Couples

Couples looking for a wildlife-focused Tanzania adventure can enjoy Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Tarangire while benefiting from the affordability and social atmosphere of a group joining safari.

First-Time Safari Travelers

If this is your first Tanzania safari, this itinerary gives you a convenient introduction to three iconic destinations without requiring you to plan transportation, park logistics and daily game drives yourself.

Budget-Conscious Travelers

Group joining helps reduce the cost of safari transportation by sharing the vehicle with other travelers. It is an ideal choice for visitors who want to experience Northern Tanzania while keeping their safari budget under control.

Wildlife Enthusiasts

Wildlife lovers can enjoy multiple game-drive opportunities across Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire, with chances to look for lions, elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest and other African wildlife.

Safari Photographers

The combination of Serengeti plains, Ngorongoro's dramatic crater landscape and Tarangire's baobab scenery provides diverse opportunities for wildlife and landscape photography.

Friends & Small Groups

Friends and small groups can join the scheduled safari and enjoy the journey together while sharing the vehicle and safari experience with other participants.

Travelers With Limited Time

With only five days available, this itinerary is designed to combine three major Northern Tanzania safari destinations into one trip, making it useful for travelers with a limited holiday schedule.

Social & Adventure Travelers

If you enjoy meeting people while traveling, the group joining format creates opportunities to share game drives, stories and memorable wildlife experiences with fellow safari travelers from different backgrounds.

A Shared Safari Experience Without Missing the Highlights

This 5-day group joining safari combines affordability, professional safari guidance and access to some of Northern Tanzania's most famous wildlife destinations. You can explore Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire while sharing the adventure with fellow travelers.

Where You Will Stay During This 5-Day Tanzania Safari

Enjoy comfortable lodge or tented camp accommodation throughout your journey across Serengeti National Park, the Ngorongoro Highlands and the Tarangire area, with accommodation selected according to your safari package and availability.

Accommodation is an important part of your Tanzania safari experience. After a full day of game drives, you will have time to relax, enjoy your meals and prepare for the next day's adventure. The exact property may vary depending on availability, season and the selected accommodation category, while maintaining the agreed standard of service and comfort.

NIGHT 1

Central Serengeti Accommodation

Serengeti National Park

After arriving in Serengeti and enjoying your first game drive, you will spend the night at a lodge or tented camp in or around Central Serengeti. Staying close to the wildlife areas allows you to begin the following day with convenient access to the park's game-drive routes.

NIGHT 2

Central Serengeti Accommodation

Serengeti National Park

Your second night is spent in the Serengeti, giving you additional time to experience the park's diverse landscapes and wildlife. The second night also reduces the need to leave the Serengeti after only one game-drive day.

NIGHT 3

Ngorongoro Highlands Accommodation

Karatu / Ngorongoro Area

After exploring Serengeti, you continue toward the Ngorongoro Highlands for an overnight stay in the Karatu or surrounding area. This location provides convenient access to Ngorongoro Crater for the following day's crater game drive.

NIGHT 4

Lodge or Tented Camp Accommodation

Lake Manyara / Tarangire Area

Depending on the final itinerary and accommodation availability, your fourth night may be spent at a lodge or tented camp in the Lake Manyara or Tarangire area, providing a practical base before the final day's Tarangire wildlife experience.

Important Accommodation Information

Accommodation names and locations may change depending on availability, season, booking date and the selected safari accommodation category. If the listed property is unavailable, Macpace Tours & Safaris may arrange a comparable lodge or tented camp of a similar standard. Guests will be informed of any relevant accommodation changes before the safari.

What to Pack for This 5-Day Tanzania Safari

Packing the right items will make your Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire safari more comfortable and enjoyable. Keep your luggage practical and lightweight while preparing for changing temperatures, game drives and outdoor activities.

For this 5-day Tanzania safari, you do not need to bring your entire wardrobe. Comfortable, lightweight clothing, suitable footwear, sun protection, personal essentials and basic travel equipment are generally enough. Temperatures can vary between destinations and between early mornings and afternoons, so bringing layers is particularly useful.

Clothing

Choose comfortable clothing suitable for long game drives and changing weather conditions.

  • Lightweight shirts and T-shirts
  • Comfortable trousers or safari pants
  • Light jacket or fleece
  • Warm layer for early mornings
  • Underwear and socks
  • Sleepwear
  • Lightweight rain jacket

Footwear

Comfortable footwear is important even when most wildlife viewing is done from the safari vehicle.

  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Closed-toe shoes
  • Light sandals for relaxing
  • Comfortable socks

Sun Protection

Northern Tanzania can have strong sunshine during the day, making sun protection an important part of your safari kit.

  • Wide-brimmed hat or cap
  • Sunglasses
  • High-SPF sunscreen
  • Lightweight long-sleeved shirt
  • Lip balm with sun protection

Personal Essentials

Keep important personal items easily accessible during your journey.

  • Toiletries
  • Personal medications
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Insect repellent
  • Small personal towel
  • Reusable water bottle

Camera & Photography Gear

Tanzania's wildlife and landscapes provide excellent photography opportunities, so prepare your equipment before leaving for the game drive.

  • Camera or smartphone
  • Extra batteries
  • Memory cards
  • Camera charger
  • Power bank
  • Camera cleaning cloth

Travel Documents

Keep your important travel documents secure and accessible throughout the safari.

  • Valid passport
  • Visa or entry documentation if required
  • Travel insurance documents
  • Flight details
  • Safari booking confirmation
  • Emergency contact information

Safari Packing Essentials

If you want to keep your luggage simple, these are some of the most useful items to prioritize for your 5-day Northern Tanzania safari.

Comfortable Clothing
Walking Shoes
Sun Protection
Insect Repellent
Camera / Phone
Power Bank
Travel Documents
Reusable Water Bottle

Pack Light

A practical, lightweight bag is easier to manage during a multi-day safari. Avoid bringing unnecessary clothing or bulky items that you may not use during the trip.

Dress in Layers

Early mornings can feel cool, especially around the Ngorongoro Highlands. Layers allow you to adjust your clothing as temperatures change throughout the day.

Safari Tip: Neutral or natural-colored clothing can be comfortable and practical for wildlife viewing. Avoid bringing unnecessary valuables and keep important documents, electronics and personal items safely stored.

Office Location

Tour Booking

Related Packages
5 Days (Group Joining) Tour to Serengeti (2 nights), Ngorongoro and Tarangire Packages