5 Days Group Tour in Tarangire, Manyara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater

5 Days Group Tour in Tarangire, Manyara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater

5 Days Group Tour in Tarangire, Manyara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater

Group Safari Tanzania

Group tour, also known as group safari, offer a cost-effective way to experience Tanzania's remarkable wildlife while connecting with fellow travelers from around the world. Departing from Arusha town, this group tour takes you to iconic parks such as Serengeti, Ngorongoro crater, Lake Manyara, and Tarangire, renowned for their diverse wildlife and captivating game viewing opportunities. Prepare to witness a captivating array of animal species, including the iconic wildebeest migration and the "BIG FIVE." Our group tour utilize budget camping accommodations, providing you with dom tents, comfortable mattresses, and essential camping gear. Alternatively, should you prefer luxurious lodges, additional charges apply, and we will gladly recommend the best lodge based on your preferences and the program.

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Detail Group Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Arusha – Tarangire Park

Embark on our group tour as we depart Arusha in the early morning for the renowned Tarangire National Park. This magnificent park is renowned for its herds of elephants and ancient baobab trees. It is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including leopards, giraffes, zebras, and lions. Experience the thrill of game drives until late afternoon, followed by a scenic drive to Mto-wa-Mbu. Dinner and overnight accommodation options are provided.

Day 2: Lake Manyara Park

Begin your group tour today with an early morning journey to Lake Manyara Park, where breathtaking scenery awaits. This lush park is famous for its vibrant foliage, tree-climbing lions, hippos, elephants, baboons, and an array of bird species, including flamingos. Enjoy a full day of exhilarating game viewing, accompanied by a picnic lunch, until late evening. Retreat to your camp or lodge for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 3: Group Tour in Serengeti Park

After a satisfying breakfast, continue with the group tour to Serengeti Park via Olduvai Gorge in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Take a brief moment to explore the archaeological site and discover the skull of the earliest man on Earth. Delight in a picnic lunch before continuing to Serengeti National Park for an unforgettable afternoon game drive. Witness the awe-inspiring sight of buffalo, wildebeests, elephants, giraffes, lions, leopards, and an abundance of other wildlife. You will be accommodated in your chosen lodging for dinner and overnight.

Day 4: Serengeti Park – Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Indulge in a morning game drive across various areas of the park, as we search for more magnificent creatures such as lions, leopards, cheetahs, zebras, wildebeests, gazelles, and vast herds of wildebeest. After a fulfilling adventure, we return to the camp or lodge for a delicious mid-day lunch before your group tour proceeds to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Dinner and overnight accommodation options are provided.

Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater

On this final day of your group tour, prepare for an awe-inspiring experience as we embark on game drives within the Ngorongoro Crater. Marvel at the abundant wildlife that ventures remarkably close to your vehicle, creating a true-life Eden. With over 25,000 large mammals, including black rhinos, zebras, gnus, gazelles, buffalos, lions, hippos, elephants, elands, hyenas, and a variety of aquatic birds, the crater floor is teeming with life. Explore this captivating wonder until late afternoon before departing for Arusha.

End of the group tour.

Rates

US $ 1000 per person.

Group Safari Price Includes

  • National park entry fees
  • Accommodation as booked
  • Ngorongoro Crater transit fees
  • A professional English speaking driver guide
  • Crater service fees
  • All camping equipment (in case of camping accommodation)
  • Daily safari briefing (To keep you aware and help you be prepared for the next day)
  • A shared safari vehicle with a viewing roof
  • All meals
  • 1 liter of pure drinking water per person daily

Group Safari Price Excludes

  • Accommodation in Arusha 
  • Any expenses of the personal nature
  • Drinks and beverages 
  • Visa
  • Medical Insuarance and Flying Doctor services
  • Tips for the driver guide

3 days Joining Safari in Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater & Tarangire

3 days Joining Safari in Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater & Tarangire

3 days Joining Safari in Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater & Tarangire

Dive into the heart of Tanzania's wilderness with a Joining Safari that takes you through Tarangire, the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, and the serene Lake Manyara.

Joining Safari Tanzania
Are you ready to embark on an adventure of a lifetime? A joining safari through Tanzania's iconic wildlife parks—Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater, and Lake Manyara—promises a wealth of stunning sceneries and the chance to witness nature in all its glory. The prospect of sharing this experience with fellow adventurers only adds to the thrill! From majestic elephants grazing in Tarangire to the breathtaking views atop the Ngorongoro Crater, and then onto the serene lakeside vistas of Lake Manyara, your journey will be one for the ages. Join us as we unpack the highlights of this incredible safari journey across these breathtaking landscapes!

Joining Safari Cost:

US $ 600 per person ( Minimum Six people)

Note For Private Safari Option: $ 955 per person (Minimum two people)

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The Lure of Joining Safari

Joining safaris are structured group tours that allow multiple individuals to share the adventure, making this an accessible option for solo travelers, couples, and families. The concept revolves around collective experiences—providing guests an opportunity to foster new friendships, share their love for nature, and relive every breathtaking moment together. The multitude of benefits also includes lower costs, organized itineraries, and the chance to engage with local guides who impart invaluable knowledge about the natural environment and cultural context of the areas visited.

 

Destinations to Visit

Starting this adventure joining safari in Tarangire National Park presents an impressive gateway to the wonders of East African wildlife. Iconic features such as the towering baobab trees and huge elephant herds create picturesque landscapes that delight all visitors. Tarangire is renowned for its prolific wildlife viewing opportunities, offering travelers close interactions with a myriad of species—elephants, lions, zebras, and more. As participants drive through the rugged terrain, they become members of a collective story, witnessing daily life in the wild unfold before their eyes. Such exposure not only offers thrilling adventures but also fosters a profound respect and appreciation for conservation efforts within these extraordinary ecosystems.

As one progresses on this remarkable journey, the majesty of Ngorongoro Crater awaits. Often dubbed the Eighth Wonder of the World, this UNESCO World Heritage site is distinguished by its unique geological features, which serve as important habitats for numerous wildlife species. Exploring the crater means encountering major attractions like the rhythmically wandering wildebeest, the vividly colored flamingos adorning Lake Magadi, and majestic lions lazing in the sun. Beyond the breathtaking wildlife encounters, the Ngorongoro Crater holds cultural significance as well, being an area deeply woven into the heritage and traditions of the Maasai people—further enriching the experience of every guest who steps foot here.

Completing the epic experience, Lake Manyara offers a tranquil retreat, known for its stunning birdwatching opportunities and vibrant boasting of unique flora and fauna. Participants in joining safaris can indulge in the serenity of this picturesque lake, encountering hundreds of bird species drawn from across the globe. Gentle hikes during this segment reveal beautiful ecosystems and splendid views of the rift valley, enhancing the overall safari experience. For those preparing to embark on joining safaris, incorporating tips such as essential packing items and being informed about the best wildlife viewing seasons can transform a good adventure into an unforgettable journey, ensuring they are ready for anything the wild may offer.

3 Day Joining Safari Itinerary

 

Day 1: Tarangire National Park

Your adventure begins in Tarangire National Park, known for its vast savannas and iconic baobab trees. Did you know that Tarangire has one of the highest concentrations of elephants in Africa? You might spot herds of these gentle giants roaming through the park.

As a part of your joining safari, you’ll start with an early morning game drive. This is the best time to catch a glimpse of wildlife before the sun gets too hot. Keep your camera ready for the elusive leopards, cheetahs, and lions that also call this park home.

 

Highlights of Tarangire:

  • Elephants: Over 3,000 elephants live in this park.
  • Diversity: Tarangire has a unique variety of wildlife, thanks to its diverse habitats, including rivers, swamps, and woodlands.
  • Birdlife: Over 500 bird species can be spotted here.

 

Day 2: Ngorongoro Crater

After a night under the stars in Tarangire, your joining safari continues to the majestic Ngorongoro Crater. This UNESCO World Heritage site is often referred to as one of the natural wonders of the world. It’s a massive volcanic caldera filled with lush grasslands, lakes, and wildlife.

What makes Ngorongoro Crater special is its population of the Big Five: lions, leopards, rhinoceros, elephants, and buffalo. During your game drive, you’ll have the best chance to see all of these magnificent animals in one place.

 

Must-See Features of Ngorongoro:

  • Wildlife: Over 25,000 large animals enjoy the rich habitat in the crater.
  • Unique Ecosystem: The varying altitudes in the crater support diverse ecosystems, from grassy plains to forests.
  • Culture: You might also meet the Maasai people, who inhabit the area and have a rich cultural heritage.

 

Day 3: Lake Manyara National Park

On the final day of your joining safari, you'll visit Lake Manyara National Park. This stunning National Park covers an area around a soda lake and is filled with incredible surprises.

Lake Manyara is famous for its flamingos that gather in large numbers, creating a beautiful pink hue against the blue waters. You may also encounter baboons and tree-climbing lions, both essential highlights of this unique park.

 

Key Attractions at Lake Manyara:

  • Flamingos: The best chance to see these vibrant birds is usually between November and April.
  • Diverse Ecosystems: The park contains different habitats such as a ground water forest and open grasslands.
  • Unique Flora: You might encounter the famous acacia trees, as well as various plant species.

Cost Includes:

  • All park entrance fees
  • Full board accommodation during the safari
  • English-speaking driver/guide service
  • Transport in a 4WD safari vehicle with an open roof for wildlife viewing
  • All meals during the safari
  • 1 liter of pure drinking water per person daily
  • Tours in designated protected area

Cost Excludes:

  • Airport transfers
  • Accommodation before and after the safari in Arusha
  • Tips for the driver/guide and cook
  • Services of the flying doctors
  • Personal expenses

Tips for an Amazing Joining Safari Experience

 

Packing Essentials

To ensure that your joining safari experience is amazing, it’s essential to prepare adequately and be well-informed. One of the crucial aspects of preparation is packing the right essentials, which can significantly enhance your comfort and enjoyment during the trip. Packing items like

  • Lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for varying temperatures,
  • A wide-brimmed hat, sturdy walking shoes,
  • A good pair of binoculars can make a world of difference
  • Sunscreen
  • Insect repellent
  • A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout your excursions.

 

Best Times to Join the Safari

The timing of your safari is another vital factor that can influence the experience. Tanzania boasts a myriad of regions that are home to spectacular wildlife, and the best times to visit often depend on the specific locations and seasons. Generally, many safari-goers favor the dry season, which runs from June to October, as animals tend to gather around watering holes, making wildlife spotting much easier. Additionally, witnessing the Great Migration during September and October in the Serengeti is an unforgettable experience. However, visiting during the green season, from November to April, can also be delightful, showcasing lush landscapes and an array of newborn animals eager for their first adventurous explorations.

4 Day Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater Safari

4 Day Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater Safari

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The 4-day Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater safari is one of the most requested tours in Tanzania. This itinerary is commonly known as the “Classic Express. Safari”
Although 4 days may not be sufficient for the expansive Serengeti, this is definitely feasible if you don’t mind the long drive on your last day. This is the most efficient itinerary. Including the Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater in one safari tour creates the dream “Northern Circuit” tour. It is a combination of the best aspects of both parks - the expansive plains of the Serengeti and the high concentration of animals in the Ngorongoro Crater.

Brief  Itinerary

Day 1: Arusha to Tarangire. Game drives at Tarangire
Day 2: Transfer to Central Serengeti. Afternoon game drives in Central Serengeti
Day 3: Morning game drives, lunch, and transfer to Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Day 4: Ngorongoro Crater Tour to Arusha

Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater Tour Price

Solo Traveler: US $ 3050
2 people: US $ 2060 per person
3 people: US $ 1770 per person
4 & more: US $ 1600 per person

What's Included in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Safari

  • Park Fees (For Non-Residents Only)
  • All Taxes and VAT
  • 4x4 Land Cruiser
  • Drinking Water During Safari Tour (2 Litres Per Person Per Day).
  • Meals As per Itinerary.
  • Concession / Camping Fees.
  • Game Drives Every Day During the Safari
  • Professional Driver / Guide

Exclusions

  • Airport Transfer (unless specifically stated).
  • Any other Activities that are not mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Personal Items (Souvenirs, Travel Insurance, Visa Fees Etc.)
  • International Flights
  • Tips
  • Extra Nights Accommodation Prior and After the Tour (unless mentioned).

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Detailed Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater Safari

Day 1 - Arusha to Central Serengeti

At 8 AM, we will depart for our safari from your hotel in Arusha. Once all guests have boarded the vehicle, we will set out for Serengeti National Park on a 240 km journey that takes about 6 hours. “Serengeti” is a local Maasai word meaning “endless plains”, and the sight of the grasslands stretching to the horizon, ultimately fusing into the sky, is truly magnificent. Covering 14,763 sq km, it makes our idea of distance seem utterly insignificant. Not only does the Serengeti have the “Big 5” (elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion and leopard), but another truly delightful sight will be to spot one of Africa’s most beautiful animals - The Impala, gazelles and many others. The Serengeti ecosystem is home to the greatest remaining concentration of plains game in Africa. The legendary Serengeti National Park is best known for its large populations of wildebeest, lions and leopards. Seronera is the central area of Serengeti National Park and one of its most productive wildlife zones. Seronera’s distinguishing feature is the Seronera River, the main water source that attracts the region’s typical wildlife. When exploring the zone of Seronera, pay attention to numerous prides of lions that live in this place. One more interesting feature is the Serengeti Kopjes – giant granite formations emerging from the sea of grass and serving as a wonderful shelter for different plants and animals. Lunch will be served during the day safari game drive
.

Day 2: Central Serengeti

Enjoy a relaxed morning breakfast, then embark on a whole-day game drive starting at 9:00 am, with lunch packed and return to the lodge in the late afternoon at 6:00 pm. Or you may choose to set out early in the morning at 6:00 am for game drives and then return back to the lodge for breakfast. After relaxing a bit, you may depart for afternoon game drives, witwith lunch packed. Today, you will visit the central part of the Serengeti National Park. The famous Serengeti National Park is a well-known safari destination due to its outstanding lion and leopard population. The central part of the Serengeti, called the Seronera area, is one of the park’s best wildlife habitats. This area features the Seronera River, an important water source for wildlife. During the wildebeest migration off-season, you need to be very cautious around the several lion prides common here. The behaviors and survival of these lion prides offer great game-viewing experiences year-round. After enjoying a picnic lunch and a full-day game drive, the day ends around 5PM. The day ends with a hearty meal and a good night’s sleep at your accommodation.

Day 3: Central Serengeti to Ngorongoro

After breakfast, you will take a morning game drive within Serengeti National Park. Afterwards, leave for Ngorongoro Conservation Area with a packed lunch. Ngorongoro Crater is the world’s largest volcano and a sixteen-mile expanse of pure natural wilderness. The Ngorongoro Crater is surrounded by extinct volcanoes, and its bottom, filled with water holes, contains about 30,000 wild animals.

Day 4 - Ngorongoro Crater Tour and back to Arusha

Your last day of the safari starts early after a quick breakfast; you will descend into the crater floor at around 6:30 AM. The Ngorongoro Crater is the largest inactive, intact and unfilled volcanic caldera in the world. It covers about 260 sq km and drops more than 2000 feet deep. The 5-hour game drive in the crater offers ample wildlife-sighting opportunities. Having your camera handy is definitely advisable. You can see African elephants, buffalo, black rhinos, Hippos, Hyenas, Cheetahs and lions in abundance here. After a picnic lunch at the pretty Hippo Pool, you will begin climbing to the top of the crater. Your final safari drive to Arusha has just started, with a 4-hour drive still remaining. You will reach your destination in Arusha by 6:00 PM in the evening. With a great experience and lots of memories to cherish, it is now time to say goodbye to your team.
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Best Months to Visit

The best time to go on safari in Tanzania's Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater is June to October for excellent wildlife viewing, dry weather, and a high chance of seeing animals.
However, the best month depends on whether you want to see the Great Migration, witness the wildebeest calving season, avoid crowds, or travel on a smaller budget.
June to October (Dry season)
Excellent wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources.
Generally good visibility and fewer obstacles from tall grass.
Best period for dramatic river crossings, particularly July–September in the northern Serengeti, although crossings are never guaranteed.
January to March (Calving season)
Huge herds of wildebeest gather around the southern Serengeti and Ndutu area.
Excellent opportunities to see newborn calves and predator activity.
Beautiful green landscapes and superb photography conditions.
2-Day Tarangire and Ngorongoro Crater Safari

2-Day Tarangire and Ngorongoro Crater Safari

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A 2-day Tarangire and Ngorongoro Crater safari takes you to popular Tanzanian parks with some of the best wildlife-viewing areas. Spend the first day on game drives in Tarangire National Park, where elephants gather near the Tarangire River, and baobab trees dot the plains. Stay overnight near Karatu or the crater rim, then set out early for Ngorongoro Crater. The crater floor offers chances to see lions, buffalo, hippos, and, with luck, a black rhino. This short safari suits travelers with limited time, though the drives between parks fill the schedule.

Tour Highlight

Perfect Short Safari

Big five encounter

Abundant wildlife viewing experience

Scenic Landscapes

Budget Safari Tarangire and Ngorongoro Crater

Brief Itinerary

Day 1: Tarangire national park

Day 2: Ngorongoro Crater - Arusha

The Budget safari rates are as follows:

  • Solo traveler: $1,080
  • For two people: $670 per person
  • For three to six people: $600 per person

Budget Safari Cost Includes:

  • Transport via a 4x4 safari vehicle with an open roof
  • Picnic lunch boxes
  • Park fees and Ngorongoro crater service fee
  • Basic camping accommodation with three meals provided
  • Daily supply of 1.5 liters of bottled water per person

Safari Cost Excludes:

  • Accommodation in Arusha
  • Sleeping bag
  • Drinks
  • Travelers medical insurance

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Day-by-Day Tarangire and Ngorongoro Crater Safari

Day 1: Tarangire National Park

This budget safari begins early in the morning by picking you up from your accommodation in Arusha. It’s a short drive to Tarangire, famous for its large elephant herds and iconic baobab trees. Tarangire is one of Tanzania’s lesser-known gems but boasts a stunning variety of wildlife.
Once inside the park, your guide will take you through the best spots for wildlife viewing. Keep your eyes peeled for elephants, giraffes, lions, and a variety of birds. One of the highlights is the elephants that call this park home – some herds can reach over 100 individuals!
In the mid-day enjoy your packed meal while taking in the beautiful surroundings.

After lunch, continue your budget-friendly safari  as you explore the park further. Members of the park staff may share interesting facts and stories about the wildlife. Make sure to have your camera ready!

Tarangire National Park houses around 550 species of birds, making it a birdwatcher's paradise.

After an exciting day, it’s time to unwind. Budget safari tours often include simple accommodations in the area. Options range from cozy lodges to budget-friendly camps.

Day 2: Ngorongoro Crater

On the second day, continue with your safari and proceed to the amazing Ngorongoro Crater. This awe-inspiring natural wonder of Africa offers spectacular views from its vast crater.
The drive takes about 2 hours – perfect for enjoying the scenic landscape.
Once you arrive, take in the breathtaking views from the crater rim. The lush environment offers stunning panoramic views. A quick stop at a lookout point is a must!
After that, take a plunge into the crater for an unforgettable game drive. Home to a wide variety of animals, including the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros), this site usually exceeds expectations.
After watching lots of animals, rest by having lunch. Our guide will arrange a picnic lunch within the crater, so you can enjoy your meal amid nature.
The afternoon offers another chance to see the Ngorongoro Crater’s wonderful wildlife. Look out for herds of wildebeest and zebra, along with various birds typical of the area.
Quote: "The animal is not known to think, but it knows how to act.” - A reminder of the beautiful wild nature around you.
Return to Arusha
After soaking in all the beauty and majesty of Ngorongoro, it’s time to start your journey back to Arusha. You'll end this budget safari adventure filled with incredible memories.
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Exploring Tarangire and Ngorongoro Crater

Tarangire National Park is ideal for budget  safari travelers, offering a less crowded and equally stunning alternative to busier parks in Tanzania. Known for its iconic baobab trees and diverse wildlife, it provides excellent game viewing at lower entry fees. The best wildlife sightings typically occur during dry seasons when animals gather near water sources. Budget-friendly activities like walking safaris and community visits allow for deeper engagement with the local environment.

The Ngorongoro Crater is one of Africa's natural marvels, essential for budget safari itineraries. It boasts rich biodiversity and affordable entry fees, making it accessible without overspending. Travelers can experience a wide range of wildlife through group tours or self-guided visits. Cultural experiences like Maasai village tours add valuable insights into local traditions, helping to cultivate a deeper connection to the region while remaining budget-conscious.

Frequently asked Questions

Which one is better, Tarangire or Ngorongoro?
It really depends on your preference, but Ngorongoro is great for a high-density Big Five safari, while Tarangire National Park is known for its vast herds of elephants, unique baobab trees, and far fewer tourists.
Ngorongoro Crater
Game viewing: extremely dense game viewing; the best place in Tanzania to see all five major animals (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and the rare black rhinoceros).
Sights: unique volcanic caldera filled with lush greenery, soda lakes and impressive cliffs.
Weak sides: expensive park fees, crowded safari cars, and a managed park environment.
Tarangire National Park
Best wildlife: famous for vast herds of elephants, tree-climbing lions, and more than 500 bird species.
Sights: endless savannah with baobabs and the Tarangire River.
Weak sides: no rhinoceroses; wildlife is dispersed and requires more patience to spot predators.
Overall experience: quiet park which is more affordable. More info about visitor experience here.
How much time do you need in the Ngorongoro Crater?

You need just one day (to be precise, a 5- 6-hour game drive on the crater floor) to enjoy the wildlife and main attractions in the Ngorongoro Crater.

Time Restrictions and Regulations
Six Hour Limit: Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority restricts each vehicle to no more than six hours of game driving on the crater floor from every descent.
Gates Opening Time: Gates open at 6:00 AM, and all the cars should leave the crater floor before 6:00 PM.
Total Trip: With taking into account the trip down and up the crater walls, the total length of one day trip lasts for 7-8 hours.

Why One Day is Sufficient
Compactness: The width of the crater floor varies between 12 and 19 miles, which allows you to explore it in one day and see the concentrated wildlife on it.
Economic Reasons: A high single-descent service fee ($295) makes the majority of travelers make an all-inclusive and long morning-to-afternoon game drive.
Redundancy: Due to the self-sustaining nature and compactness of the ecosystem, second day on the crater floor will provide nothing new.