Ngorongoro Crater Safari – Top Wildlife Experience

Overview

Embark on an unforgettable 5-day Tanzania adventure that combines wildlife safaris and a taste of Africa’s highest peak. This budget-friendly joining group tour includes thrilling game drives in Tarangire National Park, Serengeti National Park, and the majestic Ngorongoro Crater, finishing with a scenic Mount Kilimanjaro day hike via the Marangu Route. Ideal for travelers with limited time seeking a comprehensive Northern Circuit experience.

Itinerary

Day 1 :

Arusha to Tarangire National Park – Game Drive Adventure

Highlights:

Pick-up from Arusha
Full-day game drive in Tarangire
Iconic baobab trees and large elephant herds

Itinerary: After breakfast in Arusha, depart with your guide for Tarangire National Park, renowned for its giant baobab trees and the highest population density of elephants in Tanzania. Enjoy a full-day game drive in search of lions, zebras, giraffes, and migratory birds. In the late afternoon, transfer to your lodge or campsite near Mto wa Mbu or Karatu for dinner and overnight.

Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Budget lodge/tented camp

Day 2 :

Karatu to Central Serengeti – Afternoon Game Drive

Highlights:

Scenic drive through Ngorongoro highlands
Afternoon game drive in Serengeti
Possible sightings of the Big Five

Itinerary: After an early breakfast, drive through the scenic Ngorongoro highlands en route to Serengeti National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the Great Migration. Enter Serengeti via Naabi Gate and enjoy an afternoon game drive in the central Seronera area, known for year-round predator activity.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Public campsite or tented lodge inside Serengeti

Day 3 :

Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater Rim – Wildlife Viewing

Highlights:

Morning game drive in Serengeti
Transit to Ngorongoro with optional Maasai village visit
Overnight near the crater rim

Itinerary: Start the day with an early morning game drive to catch predators in action during the cooler hours. After brunch, begin your journey back toward the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Stop for scenic viewpoints and cultural experiences along the way. Arrive at your lodge or campsite near the crater rim in the evening.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Budget lodge/campsite near Ngorongoro

Day 4 :

Ngorongoro Crater Tour – Return to Arusha

Highlights:

6-hour game drive inside Ngorongoro Crater
Spot rhinos, lions, hippos, and more
Return drive to Arusha

Itinerary: Descend 600 meters into the Ngorongoro Crater, one of the best places in the world to see the Big Five in a single day. Enjoy a half-day crater tour, exploring its lush forests, swamps, and open plains teeming with wildlife. After a picnic lunch, ascend the crater walls and drive back to Arusha for overnight or airport transfer.

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation: Karubu heritage house

Day 5 :

Mount Kilimanjaro Day Hike – Marangu Route

Highlights:

Day hike on Africa’s tallest mountain
Rainforest trail to Mandara Hut (2,700m)
Blue monkeys, waterfalls, and mountain views

Itinerary: Depart early from Arusha or Moshi for Mount Kilimanjaro National Park. Register at Marangu Gate (1,860m) and begin your guided hike through the lush rainforest, spotting wildlife such as blue monkeys and exotic birds. After reaching Mandara Hut (2,700m), enjoy lunch and descend back. Return to Moshi/Arusha by evening.

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation: Not included (can be added if needed)

Included & Excluded

All park entry fees and conservation charges
4x4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof for game viewing
English-speaking professional safari guide/driver
Full-board accommodation (lodges and tented camps)
Daily game drives as per itinerary
Bottled drinking water throughout the safari
Airport transfers (pickup and drop-off)

International airfare and visa fees
Travel insurance
Tips and gratuities for your guide and staff
Optional activities and excursions not mentioned
Personal expenses (laundry, souvenirs, etc.)
Beverages (unless specified)

Map

Frequent Asked Question

What is included in the safari package?

Park entry fees, professional guide, 4x4 safari vehicle, accommodation, meals, bottled water, and all scheduled game drives.

What’s not included in the package?

International flights, travel insurance, visa fees, tips, personal expenses, and optional activities (e.g., hot air balloon rides).

When is the best time to go on this safari?

The safari operates year-round, but the best wildlife viewing is during the dry season (June to October), especially to see the Great Migration in the Serengeti

What kind of accommodation is provided?

You can choose between mid-range lodges, luxury tented camps, or budget options. All are clean, secure, and located near or inside the parks