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Lake Manyara - Serengeti - Ngorongoro
5-Day Tanzania Big 5 Safari with Lake Manyara
Introduction
Experience the best of Tanzania's northern circuit on this action-packed 5-day safari. From the groundwater forests of Lake Manyara — famous for its tree-climbing lions and pink flamingos — to the endless plains of the Serengeti and the wildlife-rich floor of the Ngorongoro Crater, this itinerary covers Tanzania's most iconic destinations. Spot the Big Five, witness the Great Migration (seasonal), and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Why This Safari?
Big Five Guarantee
Visit Tanzania's three most iconic parks for the highest probability of spotting lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino.
Tree-Climbing Lions
Lake Manyara is one of the few places in Africa where lions regularly climb and rest in acacia trees — a photographer's dream.
Crater of Life
The Ngorongoro Crater is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with one of the highest densities of wildlife anywhere on Earth.
Serengeti Magic
Endless plains, the Great Migration, and some of the best big cat sightings in Africa await you in the Serengeti.
Flamingo Spectacle
Lake Manyara's alkaline waters attract thousands of lesser flamingos, creating a stunning pink shoreline.
Expert Local Guides
Our experienced Tanzanian guides bring decades of knowledge, ensuring you see more and understand deeper.
Tour Highlights
- Lake Manyara - Tree-climbing lions & flamingo flocks
- Serengeti National Park - The endless plains & Big Five
- Ngorongoro Crater Crater - Descend into the "Garden of Eden"
- Great Migration viewing (seasonal, Jul-Oct)
- Game drives in a custom 4x4 Safari Land Cruiser
- Expert naturalist guide with 10+ years experience
- Full board accommodation in lodges & tented camps
- All park fees and conservation levies included
Detailed Itinerary
Each day is carefully crafted to maximise your wildlife encounters while ensuring comfort and relaxation. Below you will find a complete breakdown of every day, from morning game drives to evening sundowners at your lodge.
Arusha to Lake Manyara National Park
Your safari begins with a morning pick-up from your Arusha hotel. Drive to Lake Manyara National Park, a stunning park nestled between the Great Rift Valley escarpment and the alkaline lake. Enjoy a game drive through the groundwater forest and open plains, searching for the famous tree-climbing lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and troops of baboons. Thousands of flamingos fringe the lake shore. Overnight at your lodge near Lake Manyara.
Lake Manyara to Serengeti National Park
After an early breakfast, depart Lake Manyara and drive south through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Enjoy panoramic views from the crater rim before descending into the vast Serengeti ecosystem. Arrive in time for an afternoon game drive on the Serengeti plains, where you may spot lions, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, and the first herds of wildebeest and zebra. Overnight in a tented camp inside Serengeti NP.
Full Day Serengeti Game Drive
Today is a full day of exploration in the Serengeti. Rise before dawn for an early morning game drive when predators are most active. Watch a spectacular African sunrise over the plains. Return to camp for brunch, then venture out again to different areas of the park in search of the Big Five and the Great Migration herds. Optional visit to a Maasai boma (village). Overnight in Serengeti NP.
Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater
After an early morning game drive in the Serengeti, depart for the Ngorongoro Crater. Descend 600 metres onto the crater floor for an unforgettable game drive in this unique "Garden of Eden." The Ngorongoro Crater offers some of the best game viewing in Tanzania, with a high density of predators and the endangered black rhino. Overnight at a lodge on the crater rim.
Ngorongoro to Arusha
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at your crater rim lodge with spectacular views of the crater. If time permits, descend into the crater for a short morning game drive to look for any species you may have missed. Then begin the return drive to Arusha, arriving in the early afternoon. Your guide will drop you at your Arusha hotel, the airport, or your preferred drop-off point. End of tour.
Destinations You'll Explore
Lake Manyara National Park
A stunning park at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment. Famous for its tree-climbing lions, large elephant herds, and thousands of flamingos that fringe the alkaline lake. Over 400 bird species recorded.
Serengeti National Park
Africa's most famous wildlife sanctuary and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Endless savannah plains teeming with wildlife — the stage for the Great Migration and home to Africa's highest concentration of big cats.
Ngorongoro Crater
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa's most spectacular natural wonders. This 260 sq km volcanic caldera hosts 30,000 large mammals and offers the best chances to see the endangered black rhino in the wild.
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Tanzania Wildlife
Tanzania's northern circuit is home to an incredible diversity of wildlife. Here's what you can expect to see.
- Big Five: Lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and black rhino
- Predators: Cheetah, spotted hyena, jackal, bat-eared fox, serval
- Herbivores: Wildebeest, zebra, giraffe, hippo, impala, topi, eland
- Birds: Over 500 species including flamingos, ostriches, secretary birds
- Reptiles: Nile crocodile, agama lizards, rock pythons
- Marine: Hippos in rivers and crater lakes
Photo Gallery
Tree-Climbing Lions
Ngorongoro Crater
Serengeti PlainsLion on Safari
Elephant HerdMaasai Giraffe
Location
What Our Travelers Say
Join thousands of satisfied travelers who have experienced Tanzania with us.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time for this Tanzania safari?
The dry season from June to October is best for game viewing. The wildebeest migration peaks July to September in the northern Serengeti. The green season (November-May) offers lush landscapes, fewer tourists, and excellent bird watching.
Can I see the Big Five on this safari?
Yes, this itinerary is designed to maximise Big Five sightings. Lions, leopards, elephants, and buffalo are commonly seen. Black rhinos are regularly spotted in the Ngorongoro Crater, which has one of the healthiest populations in Tanzania.
What makes Lake Manyara special?
Lake Manyara is famous for its tree-climbing lions — a rare behaviour seen in only two places in Africa. The park also features a groundwater forest, large elephant tusks, and thousands of flamingos on the alkaline lake.
Do I need a visa for Tanzania?
Most visitors need a Tanzania visa, available on arrival at the airport or online via the eVisa portal. The cost is approximately $50-100 depending on nationality. Check with your local Tanzanian embassy for specific requirements.
What should I pack for this safari?
Pack neutral-coloured clothing (khaki, beige, olive), a warm jacket for chilly morning game drives, comfortable walking shoes, a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, a camera with extra batteries and memory cards, and a reusable water bottle.
Is Tanzania safe for tourists?
Yes, Tanzania is a very safe and welcoming destination for tourists. The safari parks are well-managed with professional guides, rangers, and established tourism infrastructure. Arusha and the safari circuit are safe and tourist-friendly.
What animals will I see on this safari?
Expect to see lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, buffalo, rhinos, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, hippos, crocodiles, flamingos, and hundreds of bird species across the different parks.
How much does this 5-day safari cost?
Please contact us for a personalised quote. Prices vary based on group size, accommodation level (mid-range to luxury), and season. We offer competitive pricing with no hidden fees.
Can children join this safari?
Yes, children are welcome on this safari. We can arrange family-friendly accommodations and activities tailored to younger travellers. Discounted rates apply for children under 12.
What is the group size?
Our groups range from 2 to 8 guests, ensuring a personalised safari experience with dedicated attention from your guide. Private safaris are also available.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes, comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory. It should cover medical evacuation, trip cancellation, lost luggage, and personal belongings.
What type of accommodation is included?
Mid-range lodges and tented camps with en-suite bathrooms, hot showers, and comfortable beds are included. Upgrades to luxury lodges and boutique camps are available upon request.
Is the tour eco-friendly?
Yes. We follow responsible tourism practices, support conservation initiatives, employ local guides, and minimise environmental impact. A portion of proceeds supports community projects in Tanzania.
What language are the tours conducted in?
All tours are conducted in English by experienced, professionally trained guides. Guides are fluent and knowledgeable about wildlife, ecology, and Tanzanian culture.
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellations made 60+ days before departure receive a full refund. 30-60 days: 50% refund. Less than 30 days: no refund. We strongly recommend travel insurance to protect your investment.
Ready for the Ultimate Big Five Safari?
Book your 5-day journey through Tanzania's greatest national parks and wildlife encounters.