5 Days – Elephant Kingdom Safari
Tarangire | Lake Manyara | Ngorongoro Conservation Area
By RESMA TOURS – Tanzania’s Leading Safari Operator
Introduction: Discover Tanzania’s Elephant Kingdom
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Tanzania’s northern safari circuit, where vast landscapes, ancient baobab trees, and spectacular wildlife await. Our 5 Days – Elephant Kingdom Safari is expertly curated for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, families, and first-time visitors eager to witness the wonders of Tarangire National Park, Lake Manyara National Park, and the legendary Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
From herds of elephants roaming Tarangire’s golden savannah, to the tree-climbing lions and flamingo-fringed shores of Lake Manyara, and finally to the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater—a UNESCO World Heritage Site teeming with Africa’s Big Five—this safari promises close wildlife encounters and incredible scenery at every turn.
Ideal travel season: June to October (dry season) for optimum game viewing, though the parks are magical year-round.
Best suited for: Couples, families, solo travelers, and small groups seeking a private, immersive Tanzania safari experience.
Arrival in Tanzania: Warm Welcome & Safari Briefing
Your adventure begins the moment you arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). A dedicated RESMA TOURS representative will greet you with a friendly smile and assist you with your luggage. Enjoy a comfortable, private transfer through lush Tanzanian landscapes to your selected hotel in Arusha.
Upon check-in, relax and refresh from your journey. In the evening, meet your expert safari guide for a personalized briefing—discuss your itinerary, wildlife hopes, and get answers to any last-minute questions to ensure you’re fully prepared for an unforgettable Big Five Safari!
Day 1: Arusha to Tarangire National Park – Land of Giants
- Driving time: ~2 hours (120 km)
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Tarangire Safari Lodge / Sangaiwe Tented Lodge / Lemala Mpingo Ridge (as per chosen category)
Morning:
After breakfast, your private Tanzania safari begins as you drive southwest towards Tarangire National Park. Known as the “Elephant Playground,” Tarangire boasts the largest elephant population in northern Tanzania and iconic baobab trees dotting the horizon.
Afternoon:
Enjoy a thrilling game drive along the Tarangire River, the park’s lifeline, attracting herds of elephants, buffalos, impalas, and a kaleidoscope of birdlife. Keep your camera ready for predator sightings—lions, leopards, and cheetahs often prowl these plains.
Evening:
Arrive at your lodge for sunset drinks overlooking the savannah. Relish a delicious dinner as the bush comes alive with nocturnal sounds.
Day 2: Tarangire – Lake Manyara National Park – Karatu
- Driving time: ~2 hours (120 km)
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Country Lodge Karatu / Marera Valley Lodge / The Manor at Ngorongoro
Morning:
Savor an early breakfast before journeying north to Lake Manyara National Park. Famous for its lush groundwater forest and dramatic Rift Valley escarpment, this compact gem offers diverse habitats and wildlife.
Afternoon:
Embark on a private game drive searching for Lake Manyara’s legendary tree-climbing lions, large troops of baboons, giraffes, hippos, and vibrant birdlife including flamingos, pelicans, and storks. Stop for a picnic lunch with views of the sparkling soda lake.
Evening:
Continue to the highland town of Karatu, nestled on the rim of the Ngorongoro highlands. Check in to your lodge and enjoy a hearty dinner amid tranquil gardens.
Day 3: Ngorongoro Crater Safari – The Eden of Africa
- Driving time: ~40 min to Crater gate, then descent
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (picnic), Dinner
- Accommodation: Ngorongoro Rhino Lodge / Acacia Farm Lodge / Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge
Morning:
After an early breakfast, descend 600 meters into the world-renowned Ngorongoro Crater—a wildlife haven and natural amphitheater. Witness the dense concentration of animals including black rhinos, elephants, lions, hyenas, zebras, wildebeest, and dazzling bird species.
Afternoon:
Enjoy a picnic lunch on the crater floor beside a hippo-filled pool. Spend the afternoon exploring the crater’s diverse landscapes, from grassy plains to acacia woodlands, spotting the elusive Big Five.
Evening:
Ascend the crater and return to your lodge for a restful evening, recounting the day’s extraordinary sightings over dinner.
Day 4: Cultural Encounters & Highlands Exploration
- Driving time: Short distances around Karatu/Ngorongoro
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Stay at your Karatu/Ngorongoro lodge
Morning:
Delve into the rich culture of the region with an optional visit to a Maasai village or local market. Engage with the Maasai people, learn about their traditional lifestyle, and capture memorable photos.
Afternoon:
Explore the lush Ngorongoro highlands with a guided nature walk (if permitted) or visit a coffee plantation, discovering the secrets behind Tanzania’s world-class beans. Enjoy lunch at the lodge or a scenic spot overlooking the highlands.
Evening:
Relax at your lodge, perhaps with a sundowner on the veranda or a fireside conversation under star-filled African skies.
Day 5: Return to Arusha – Farewell & Departure
- Driving time: ~3 hours (190 km)
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Morning:
After breakfast, depart for Arusha. Savor your last glimpses of the Tanzanian countryside. Arrive in Arusha for a farewell lunch and optional last-minute shopping for Tanzanian crafts and souvenirs.
Afternoon/Evening:
Your RESMA TOURS driver will transfer you to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward flight. Receive departure assistance and heartfelt goodbyes, carrying home memories of a truly magical safari adventure.
Accommodation Options
Budget:
- Tarangire Safari Lodge
- Ngorongoro Rhino Lodge
- Country Lodge Karatu
Mid-range:
- Sangaiwe Tented Lodge
- Marera Valley Lodge
- Acacia Farm Lodge
Luxury:
- Lemala Mpingo Ridge
- The Manor at Ngorongoro
- Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge
Safari Includes
- Private 4×4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof and professional English-speaking guide
- All park and conservation fees
- Full-board accommodation as per itinerary
- Bottled drinking water on safari
- Airport transfers (arrival & departure)
- Game drives and cultural experiences as described
- Government taxes and levies
Safari Excludes
- International & domestic flights
- Tanzania visa fees
- Travel and medical insurance
- Tips for guides and lodge staff
- Optional activities not specified in the itinerary
- Personal expenses and drinks not mentioned
Best Time to Visit
The dry season (June–October) offers the best wildlife viewing, with animals congregating at water sources and clear, sunny weather. The green season (November–May) brings lush landscapes, migratory birds, and fewer crowds—ideal for photographers and birders.
Wildlife You May See
- Elephants (large herds in Tarangire)
- Lions (including tree-climbing lions in Lake Manyara)
- Leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas
- Cape buffaloes
- Black rhinos (Ngorongoro)
- Giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, impalas, gazelles
- Hippos and crocodiles
- Abundant birdlife: flamingos, pelicans, bee-eaters, raptors
What to Pack
- Neutral-colored, lightweight clothing
- Warm jacket/fleece for cool crater mornings
- Sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Binoculars and camera with extra batteries
- Personal toiletries and medications
- Travel adapter and reusable water bottle
Why Choose This Safari
- Expertly crafted itinerary featuring three iconic parks
- Private Tanzania safari experience for flexibility and personalization
- Superb chances to witness the Big Five and unique wildlife behavior
- Handpicked lodges for every budget
- Knowledgeable, passionate guides
- Seamless logistics from arrival to departure
- Authentic cultural encounters
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is this safari suitable for children and families?
Yes, the pace and destinations are family-friendly, with activities suited for all ages.
2. Can I customize the itinerary or add extra days?
Absolutely! RESMA TOURS specializes in tailor-made safaris to match your interests and schedule.
3. What is the group size on this safari?
This is a private Tanzania safari—just your party and your expert guide.
4. Will I see all the Big Five?
While sightings can never be guaranteed, your chances in these parks are excellent, especially for elephants, lions, buffalo, and (with luck) rhinos in Ngorongoro.
5. Do I need a visa for Tanzania?
Most visitors require a visa. Check with your nearest Tanzanian embassy or apply online.
6. What type of vehicle is used?
A comfortable 4×4 Land Cruiser or Land Rover with a pop-up roof for optimal game viewing.
7. Are dietary requirements accommodated?
Yes, please advise us in advance of any special dietary needs.
8. Is travel insurance required?
Yes, comprehensive travel and medical insurance is highly recommended.
9. How do I book and pay for my safari?
Contact us for a quote, and we’ll guide you through the secure booking and payment process.
10. What about health and safety on safari?
Our guides are trained in first aid, and all lodges follow strict hygiene and safety protocols.
Ready for Adventure? Request a Quote or Customize Your Dream Safari!
Begin your extraordinary journey into Tanzania’s Elephant Kingdom with RESMA TOURS—the safari experts who turn dreams into reality. Contact us today to request a personalized quote, ask your questions, or customize this itinerary to suit your travel style.
Don’t miss the adventure of a lifetime—your private Tanzania safari awaits!
Contact us via [your website/contact form], phone, or email. Let RESMA TOURS craft your perfect Tanzania safari experience!