5 Days – Northern Tanzania Safari Highlights

Tarangire National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Lake Manyara National Park

by RESMA TOURS

Discover the Wonders of Northern Tanzania

Embark on an unforgettable Tanzania Safari adventure with RESMA TOURS, expertly curated to showcase the iconic wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and unique cultures of Northern Tanzania. Our 5 Days Northern Tanzania Safari Highlights package invites you to experience three of the region’s most celebrated parks: Tarangire National Park, famed for its elephant herds and ancient baobabs; the UNESCO-listed Ngorongoro Conservation Area, home to the world-renowned Ngorongoro Crater; and the lush, bird-rich Lake Manyara National Park.

This thrilling private Tanzania safari offers close encounters with the legendary Big Five, tree-climbing lions, flamingos, and more, all set against the backdrop of East Africa’s most dazzling scenery. Whether you’re a first-time visitor, a wildlife enthusiast, a family, or a couple seeking a romantic escape, this itinerary delivers the best of Tanzania’s northern circuit in just five days.

Best Travel Season: While wildlife viewing is excellent year-round, the dry season (June–October) is optimal for game drives, while the green season (November–May) dazzles with lush landscapes and migratory birds.

Ideal For: Families, couples, photographers, solo travelers, and small groups eager for a classic African safari experience.

Arrival in Tanzania

Welcome to Tanzania! Upon landing at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you’ll be warmly greeted by our RESMA TOURS representative. Enjoy a seamless private transfer to your comfortable hotel in Arusha, the gateway to northern Tanzania’s wonders. After check-in, relax and refresh. In the evening, meet your safari guide for a detailed briefing, where you’ll discuss the adventure ahead, safari etiquette, and answer any questions to ensure a smooth journey.

Day 1: Arusha – Tarangire National Park

Morning:
Enjoy a delicious breakfast at your hotel before departing Arusha at 8:00 AM. Take in the changing landscapes on your scenic 2-hour drive to Tarangire National Park, renowned for its giant baobabs and teeming herds of elephants.

Afternoon:
Embark on your first thrilling game drive. Tarangire’s river draws a mosaic of wildlife, including buffalo, lions, leopards, giraffes, and over 550 bird species. Watch for iconic “tree of life” baobabs dotting the plains.

Evening:
Arrive at your lodge or tented camp nestled on the park’s edge. Enjoy a sundowner as you soak in Tarangire’s golden light, followed by a hearty dinner and your first night in the wild.

Approximate driving time: 2 hours (Arusha to Tarangire)
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Recommended Accommodation: Tarangire Simba Lodge / Maramboi Tented Lodge / Tarangire Sopa Lodge

Day 2: Tarangire – Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Morning:
After breakfast, set off for a final morning game drive in Tarangire. Keep your camera ready for elephants, zebras, or even elusive predators finishing their nightly hunt.

Afternoon:
Depart for the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Travel through Maasai homelands dotted with traditional bomas and rolling highlands. Arrive at your lodge perched on the crater rim, where panoramic views await.

Evening:
Settle in, enjoy dinner with crater vistas, and listen to stories about the Ngorongoro ecosystem. Prepare for tomorrow’s highlight: a descent into the wildlife-rich crater.

Approximate driving time: 3.5–4 hours (Tarangire to Ngorongoro)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Recommended Accommodation: Ngorongoro Rhino Lodge / Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge / Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge

Day 3: Full Day Ngorongoro Crater Safari

Morning:
Rise early for a sunrise descent into the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa’s most extraordinary wildlife sanctuaries. Enjoy breakfast on the crater floor as you watch animals begin their day.

Day:
Experience a full-day safari within the crater’s 600-meter-high walls. Witness dense populations of wildlife: black rhinos, lions, elephants, hyenas, wildebeest, zebras, and, with luck, the elusive leopard. The crater’s soda lake attracts flamingos and hippos.

Afternoon:
Break for a picnic lunch beside a hippo-filled pool, then continue exploring. In the late afternoon, ascend the crater wall and drive to your lodge near Lake Manyara for dinner and overnight.

Approximate driving time: 1 hour (Ngorongoro to Manyara area)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Recommended Accommodation: Manyara Wildlife Safari Camp / Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge / Escarpment Luxury Lodge

Day 4: Lake Manyara National Park

Morning:
Enjoy breakfast with lake views, then descend into Lake Manyara National Park for a captivating game drive. Famous for its verdant groundwater forest, tree-climbing lions, and large troops of baboons, the park is also a birdwatcher’s paradise.

Afternoon:
Drive along the soda lake’s edge, spotting pink flamingos, hippos, elephants, and, if lucky, the legendary lions lounging in acacia trees. Take a short walk on the treetop canopy walkway (optional).

Evening:
Return to your lodge for relaxation, a farewell dinner, and a peaceful night surrounded by nature’s sounds.

Approximate driving time: Minimal (lodge to park gate)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Recommended Accommodation: Same as previous night

Day 5: Lake Manyara – Arusha – Departure

Morning:
After a leisurely breakfast, bid farewell to Lake Manyara. Drive back to Arusha, passing bustling villages and scenic farmlands.

Afternoon:
Optional: Enjoy souvenir shopping at local markets or cultural visits in Arusha, time permitting. Savor a farewell lunch at a local restaurant.

Evening:
Our team will transfer you to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward flight. Receive full departure assistance for a smooth and stress-free end to your Tanzanian safari adventure.

Approximate driving time: 2–2.5 hours (Manyara to Arusha)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation Options

Budget

Tarangire Simba Lodge (Tarangire)
Ngorongoro Rhino Lodge (Crater)
Manyara Wildlife Safari Camp (Manyara)

Mid-range

Maramboi Tented Lodge (Tarangire)
Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge (Crater)
Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge (Manyara)

Luxury

Tarangire Treetops by Elewana (Tarangire)
Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge (Crater)
Escarpment Luxury Lodge (Manyara)

Safari Includes

All park entry fees and crater service fees
Private 4×4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
Professional English-speaking safari guide
All meals as specified
Accommodation for 4 nights
Drinking water on safari
Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
Government taxes and levies

Safari Excludes

International and local flights
Visa fees
Travel insurance
Alcoholic and soft drinks
Tips and gratuities
Personal expenses (laundry, souvenirs, etc.)
Optional activities (e.g., Maasai village visit, canopy walk)

Best Time to Visit

June to October: Dry season, best for game viewing and Big Five sightings
November to May: Green season, excellent for birding and lush scenery

Wildlife You May See

African elephants (Tarangire’s giants)
Big cats: lions, leopards, cheetahs
Black rhino (Ngorongoro)
Buffalo, wildebeest, zebra, giraffe
Tree-climbing lions (Lake Manyara)
Hippos, flamingos, baboons, vervet monkeys
Over 500 bird species

What to Pack

Lightweight, neutral-colored clothing
Warm fleece/jacket (Ngorongoro can be chilly)
Comfortable walking shoes
Sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
Binoculars and camera with extra batteries
Insect repellent
Reusable water bottle
Personal medications

Why Choose This Safari?

Handpicked highlights of Northern Tanzania’s top parks
Exceptional wildlife diversity, including the Big Five
Private and personalized safari experience
Expert local guides with deep knowledge of flora and fauna
Flexible accommodation options to suit all budgets
Seamless logistics and attentive service from start to finish

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a private Tanzania safari or a group tour?
All RESMA TOURS safaris are private, tailored to your group’s pace and interests.
Can the safari be customized or extended?
Absolutely! We are happy to tailor or extend your itinerary to include places like Serengeti, cultural visits, or Zanzibar.
Are children welcome on this safari?
Yes—this itinerary is family-friendly and suitable for children of all ages.
What are the driving distances between destinations?
Daily drives range from 1 to 4 hours, with comfort stops as needed.
What type of vehicles do you use?
We use well-maintained 4×4 Land Cruisers with pop-up roofs for optimal game viewing.
What’s included in my meals?
Meals are varied and cater to dietary needs. Please inform us of any preferences or allergies.
Will I see the Big Five on this route?
There’s an excellent chance to spot all Big Five species, especially in Ngorongoro Crater.
Is Wi-Fi available at the lodges?
Most lodges offer Wi-Fi in common areas, though connectivity can be limited in remote areas.
What about medical emergencies?
Our guides are first-aid trained, and we offer emergency evacuation coverage.
How do I book or get more information?
Simply contact us for a quote or to discuss your travel plans.

Ready for Your Dream Tanzania Safari?

Experience the magic of Africa’s legendary wildlife, timeless landscapes, and warm hospitality with RESMA TOURS. Our 5 Days Northern Tanzania Safari Highlights is your gateway to adventure and lifelong memories.

Contact us today to request your personalized quote, ask questions, or customize this itinerary to suit your dreams.
Let RESMA TOURS make your Tanzania safari dreams a reality—enquire now and start your journey!

5 Days – Northern Tanzania Safari Highlights – Tarangire National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Lake Manyara National Park