Big Five Safari In Tanzania

Planning a safari often means balancing dreams of incredible wildlife sightings with practical realities like budget, comfort, and authentic experiences. This 7-day Big Five Safari in Tanzania, offered by Savannah Explorers, promises an intimate journey through some of Africa’s most famous parks, with plenty of opportunities to spot lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos — the legendary Big Five.

While we’ve not personally taken this exact trip, reviews and detailed itinerary insights give us a clear picture of what travelers can expect and why many highly recommend it.

What we really love about this tour is its focus on value for money—a comprehensive experience that doesn’t cut corners—and the professional guides who seem to turn every game drive into a memorable adventure. The inclusion of unlimited mileage during game drives means you won’t feel rushed, and the flexible, tailor-made approach ensures the trip can suit different interests.

However, the fixed price and non-refundable policy are worth considering; it’s a serious commitment, but one that’s often justified by the quality of the experience.

This safari is best suited for wildlife enthusiasts eager to see Africa’s iconic animals in their natural environment, families and couples looking for a well-organized adventure, or anyone wanting a genuine, immersive taste of Tanzanian parks without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this safari tick—and whether it’s the right fit for your travel dreams.

This experience made our article of Moshi’s 16 Top Tours & Things To Do.

Key Points

• All-inclusive value: Full board, picnic lunches, drinks, and insurance make the price competitive.
• Expert guides and vehicles: Guides are praised for their knowledge, and vehicles are equipped for optimal wildlife viewing.
• Flexible game drives: Unlimited mileage during drives allow for more time spotting animals, including early morning options.
• Tailor-made experiences: Tours are customized based on customer preferences, adding a personal touch.
• Iconic parks covered: From Tarangire and Lake Manyara to Serengeti and Ngorongoro, a full Tanzanian safari package.
• Highly rated: Consistently perfect reviews, with a 5.0/5 rating from 99 satisfied travelers.

An Introduction to Tanzania’s Iconic Parks

This safari covers some of Tanzania’s most famous parks, each offering a different slice of wild Africa. From the large herds of elephants in Tarangire to the stunning biodiversity of Lake Manyara, and the legendary plains of Serengeti, this trip is designed to give you a broad yet detailed view of Tanzania’s natural wonders. The Ngorongoro Crater, with its dense population of wildlife, caps off the experience, providing a fitting climax to this wildlife odyssey.

One of the standout features of this tour is how it’s designed for authentic animal encounters. The professional guides are not just drivers—they’re storytellers and wildlife experts who know where to find the Big Five and how to get you close enough for memorable photos, without disturbing the animals. This approach is backed up by reviewer comments praising guides like Sokio, Maulid, and Gerry, who are described as knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Day 1: From Kilimanjaro to Karatu

Your journey begins with a 3-hour transfer from Kilimanjaro Airport to Karatu, a charming town that serves as your base for exploring northern Tanzania. If time permits, a stop at a local market offers a glimpse into everyday life, but many travelers prefer to relax at their lodge after a long journey. Accommodations like Farm of Dreams Lodge, Marera View Lodge, or Kudu Lodge provide a comfortable start—clean, welcoming, and ideally located.

Day 2: Tarangire National Park

After breakfast, it’s just an hour’s drive to Tarangire National Park, renowned for its massive herds of elephants and towering baobab trees. The game drive here can last up to 8 hours, and a picnic lunch keeps you fueled for wildlife spotting. Reviewer comments highlight the park’s impressive predator numbers—lions, cheetahs, and leopards are frequent sights—and the landscape’s stark beauty makes it easy to see why many consider Tarangire a highlight.

Day 3: Lake Manyara

A short 40-minute drive brings you to Lake Manyara, famous for its diverse habitats—from the lush forest to the lake’s shoreline and open plains. The park’s unique feature is the lions that often climb trees, a surreal sight captured in many reviews. Expect a game drive filled with primates, birdlife, and large mammals. The full-biodiversity of this park offers a microcosm of Tanzania’s ecosystems, and the picnic lunch enhances the experience.

Day 4-5: Serengeti National Park

Crossing into the Serengeti after a 3-hour transfer marks a major milestone. Overnight stays in tented camps like Tanzania Bush Tented Camp or Mbugani Tented Camp keep you close to nature—many reviewers rave about the authenticity and closeness to wildlife these provide. Expect long, immersive game drives—up to 10 hours—where you can expect sightings of lions hunting, cheetahs resting, giraffes grazing, and perhaps even the elusive leopard.

The Serengeti, covering over 15,000 square kilometers, is where the Great Migration takes place, and if you’re lucky, you might witness a river crossing or a pride stalking prey. Guides are often praised for their ability to locate animals and share fascinating facts, turning each drive into a learning adventure.

Day 6: Ngorongoro Crater

After a morning in Serengeti, a 2-hour transfer takes you to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, where you’ll descend into the Crater for a game drive. This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its high animal density, with chances to see rhinos, buffalo, and flamingos in a stunning volcanic caldera. Many reviews mention the density of wildlife here—truly an animal lover’s paradise. The picnic lunch allows you to maximize your time in this wildlife hotspot.

Day 7: Back to Arusha or Kilimanjaro

After breakfast, it’s time to relax at the lodge or do some last-minute shopping in Karatu before heading back to Arusha or Kilimanjaro Airport for your departure. The transfer takes about 2-3 hours, giving you a chance to reflect on your adventure and perhaps plan your next trip back.

What Makes This Safari Stand Out?

Comfortable Transportation and Expert Guides

The safari vehicle is described as a 4×4 Land Rover or Toyota Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof—ideal for wildlife viewing and photography. Binoculars, a fridge, inverter, and complimentary drinks in the vehicle are thoughtful touches, allowing you to stay refreshed and prepared for long days in the wild. Reviewers often highlight the professionalism and friendliness of guides, like Thomas, Gerry, and Jerry, who are not only knowledgeable but passionate about conservation and animals.

Tailor-Made Experience and Flexibility

Unlike cookie-cutter tours, this safari emphasizes customization based on your preferences. Whether you want more early morning game drives, specific parks, or particular animals, the guides seem willing to adapt. This flexibility enhances the overall value, especially for seasoned wildlife travelers who seek specific sightings or a personalized approach.

Value for Money

Priced at $3,750 per person, the tour includes full board meals, picnic lunches, drinks, and insurance—features that often cost extra elsewhere. Reviewers consistently mention the quality of food and accommodation, noting that the lodges are comfortable and the meals satisfying. The AMREF Flying Doctors insurance adds a layer of peace of mind, especially when traveling in remote areas.

Authentic Experience with Local Insights

Guests frequently mention guides’ local knowledge and friendliness, adding context and stories to sightings. Many reviewers are impressed by the respect for environment and wildlife they observe during drives, which enhances the authenticity of the safari.

Potential Drawbacks

A key point to consider is the non-refundable policy—once booked, changes are not allowed. This means travelers should be certain about their plans. Also, since the tour is private and group discounts are available, the total cost might be steep for some, especially without travel insurance, but most feel the experience justifies the price.

Who Is This Safari Best For?

This safari suits adventurous travelers with a love of wildlife, who want a comprehensive, flexible experience without the hassle of arranging logistics themselves. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to see the Big Five in comfort, supported by friendly, expert guides. If you value good food, knowledgeable guides, and authentic safari moments, this tour ticks those boxes.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer independent travel, this might feel expensive. But considering the full package—including meals, insurance, and unlimited game drive mileage—many find it offers excellent value and a hassle-free way to learn about Tanzania’s wilderness.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers full board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), picnic lunches, drinks, and AMREF Flying Doctors insurance within a 500 km radius. It also includes the use of a professional guide, safari vehicle, and unlimited mileage during game drives.

Are airport transfers provided?
Yes. The tour includes pickup at Kilimanjaro Airport and transfer back at the end of the trip to either Arusha or Kilimanjaro Airport.

Can I customize this safari?
Absolutely. The tour is described as tailor-made, meaning guides are willing to adapt the itinerary based on your preferences, such as early morning game drives or specific parks.

What type of accommodation is used?
Guests stay in lodges and tented camps—the latter providing a more authentic safari experience. Noted options include Farm of Dreams Lodge, Marera View Lodge, Kudu Lodge, and several tented camps in Serengeti.

Is food included?
Yes. The tour provides full board with meals at the lodges, picnic lunches during game drives, and complimentary drinks and water.

What are the main parks visited?
The itinerary covers Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater—a well-rounded selection showcasing Tanzania’s incredible biodiversity.

How long are game drives?
Game drives typically last 8-10 hours, often starting early in the morning. Longer drives increase chances to see elusive animals and enjoy the landscape.

Are children allowed on this tour?
While not explicitly specified, most travelers of all ages enjoy safaris, but check with the provider for age restrictions or family-friendly options.

What is the best time to go?
While not specified, many safari experts agree that certain times (like the Great Migration or dry season) can enhance sightings. Consider peak wildlife months for the most dramatic scenery.

What is the cancellation policy?
The booking is non-refundable, so ensure your plans are firm before reserving.

Final Thoughts

This Big Five Safari in Tanzania offers a well-rounded, authentic wildlife experience backed by expert guides and good value. Its focus on unlimited game drive mileage, tailored itineraries, and comprehensive inclusions makes it attractive for those serious about wildlife and comfort. Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and quality of accommodations, making it clear this trip can truly live up to expectations.

While the non-refundable policy requires commitment, many travelers feel the overall quality and authentic encounters justify the expense. It’s ideal for adventure seekers eager to see Africa’s most iconic animals in their natural habitat without sacrificing comfort or organization.

If you’re dreaming of a comprehensive, guided safari adventure that promises plenty of Big Five sightings and memorable moments, this tour is worth considering—especially if you want a trusted operator with a solid reputation.