5-Day Tanzania Safari – Serengeti Great Migration & Big Five

The 5-day Tanzania safari focusing on the Great Wildebeest Migration and Big Five offers extended wildlife viewing across Tanzania’s northern safari circuit. This itinerary includes game drives in Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire National Park, and Lake Manyara, delivering diverse ecosystems and exceptional wildlife encounters.

Designed to maximize time in Serengeti migration areas, this 5-day safari provides greater flexibility for tracking the herds while also exploring high-density wildlife regions such as Ngorongoro Crater. It is ideal for travelers seeking a balanced combination of migration viewing and classic Tanzania safari highlights.

When to See the Great Wildebeest Migration?

The Great Wildebeest Migration follows a seasonal pattern across Serengeti. From December to March, the herds gather in the southern plains during calving season. Between June and October, river crossings occur in northern Serengeti near the Mara River. This 5-day safari can be customized based on travel dates to increase migration viewing opportunities.

Why Choose This 5-Day Tanzania Safari?

Extended Time in Serengeti

Compared to shorter itineraries, this 5-day safari allows additional time in Serengeti to track migration movements and improve wildlife viewing opportunities.

Big Five Game Drives

Ngorongoro Crater offers one of the highest concentrations of wildlife in Africa, including lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino, and leopard.

Diverse Northern Circuit Landscapes

Experience baobab-studded Tarangire, the endless Serengeti plains, crater highlands, and Lake Manyara’s groundwater forest within one itinerary.

Flexible Accommodation Options

Choose between camping safaris and lodge-based safaris depending on your travel style and budget.

Plan Your 5-Day Tanzania Migration Safari

Incredible Africa Adventures offers professionally guided Tanzania safari tours tailored to seasonal wildlife movements. This 5-day itinerary can be customized to focus on specific Serengeti migration regions depending on travel dates. Contact us to begin planning your Tanzania safari experience.

Itinerary

Arrival Day: Welcome to Tanzania

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where you’ll be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel in Moshi/Arusha town. After a safari briefing by your expert guide, unwind and relax in preparation for your incredible journey ahead.

Day 1: Moshi/Arusha – Lake Manyara National Park

Kick off your adventure with a scenic drive to Lake Manyara National Park, one of Tanzania’s most spectacularly located wildlife reserves. Famous for its tree-climbing lions, large elephant herds, and lively baboon troops, this park offers an array of habitats, from lush forests to a massive alkaline lake. Witness flocks of pink flamingos and other exotic bird species drawn to the algae-rich waters. Enjoy a thrilling afternoon game drive before heading to your accommodation in Karatu town for the night.

Day 2: Lake Manyara – Serengeti National Park (Seronera)

After breakfast, travel through the picturesque highlands of Karatu and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, descending into the iconic Serengeti National Park. Known as the heart of Tanzania’s wilderness, the Serengeti boasts endless plains teeming with wildlife. Arrive at the Seronera region, a hub of animal activity thanks to the Seronera River. After lunch, embark on an afternoon game drive to spot lions, leopards, elephants, and more. End your day at a serene campsite or lodge, soaking in the Serengeti’s magical ambiance.

Day 3: Full Days in Serengeti National Park

Spend a full day exploring the legendary Serengeti. Begin with optional early morning game drives to witness predators like lions and cheetahs returning from their nocturnal hunts, as well as herds of grazers waking to a new day. Visit the hippo pool, marvel at the volcanic kopjes, and be captivated by the Great Wildebeest Migration (season-dependent). These action-packed days will immerse you in the Serengeti’s diverse ecosystems, offering unparalleled game-viewing opportunities. After a day of adventure, return to your lodge or campsite for another magical overnight stay.

Day 4: Serengeti – Ngorongoro Crater

After breakfast, journey to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, descending into the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater. This vast, unbroken caldera is a wildlife haven, home to an incredible diversity of species, including the Big Five: lions, elephants, leopards, buffaloes, and the rare black rhino. Enjoy a full day of game drives on the crater floor, taking in the beauty of this natural wonder. Capture incredible wildlife moments before heading to your accommodation near Karatu town for the night.

Day 5: Tarangire National Park – Arusha/Moshi

Conclude your safari with a visit to Tarangire National Park, known for its massive herds of elephants and majestic baobab trees. The park’s lifeline, the Tarangire River, attracts a variety of animals, especially during the dry season. Spot rare species like the Greater Kudu and the Fringed-eared Oryx, alongside lions, zebras, and giraffes. After a delightful picnic lunch and more wildlife sightings, return to Arusha/Moshi in the late afternoon, marking the end of your incredible Tanzanian safari adventure.

Departure Day: Farewell to Tanzania

Enjoy a relaxing morning at your hotel or explore the local town for souvenirs. Depending on your flight schedule, transfer to the airport for your departure. Alternatively, if you have an evening flight, you can return home directly after the safari’s conclusion.

Zanzibar trip and other add-ons are available if you wish to continue exploring Tanzania.

Group price

CAMPING SAFARI

$3350 per person when 1 person travels alone

$2150 per person when 2 – 4 persons travel together

$1650 per person when 5 – 6 persons travel together

LODGE SAFARI

$3900 per person when 1 person travels alone

$2700 per person when 2 – 4 persons travel together

$2200 per person when 5 – 6 persons travel together

For a more accurate estimate, it's best to contact us directly and discuss your specific requirements and budget. We can provide you with a detailed quote based on your itinerary, group size, and preferred level of comfort.

What is included

Transport in Custom Safari Vehicles: Enjoy your journey in comfortable 4x4 Toyota Land Cruisers, equipped with pop-up roofs for panoramic game viewing and unbeatable photo opportunities.

Park Entry Fees: All national park entry fees are included, giving you seamless access to Tanzania’s top wildlife destinations.

Full-Board Accommodation: Stay in quality accommodations that offer full-board service, providing you with all meals and a comfortable place to rest after each thrilling day on safari.

Ngorongoro Crater Service Fee: Experience the stunning Ngorongoro Crater, with all service fees included to make your visit smooth and enjoyable.

Dedicated Private Safari Guide: Travel with a knowledgeable, English-speaking private guide who will share insights on Tanzania’s incredible wildlife and ecosystems.

All Meals While on Safari: Enjoy delicious, freshly prepared meals each day of your safari, so you can focus on the adventure.

Bottled Mineral Water: Stay hydrated throughout your journey with plenty of bottled mineral water provided.

International Airport Transfers: Relax with convenient transfers to and from the international airport, ensuring a stress-free start and end to your safari.

What is not included

Meals and Drinks at Hotel: Lunches, dinners, and beverages at your hotel before and after the safari are not covered.

Travel Insurance: We recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that covers during your trips.

Flights: International and domestic flights to and from Kilimanjaro International Airport are not included.

Laundry Services: Laundry facilities are available at your hotel but are not included in the package.

Personal Items and Toiletries: Make sure to bring your own personal gear/essentials, including toiletries and other comfort items.

Tips for Guides, and Cook: While tipping is not mandatory, it’s a valued tradition to show appreciation for your team’s hard work and dedication, and so highly recommended.