If you’re dreaming of a safari that combines iconic wildlife sightings with authentic, less-touristed corners of Tanzania, the Living Among Lions tour might just be your perfect match. This 5-day journey offers a thoughtfully designed itinerary that balances famous sights like the Serengeti and Ngorongoro with unique experiences in places like Lake Manyara.
It promises plenty of chances to see the Big Five—lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros—plus a variety of other wildlife, with guides who know their stuff.
What we love most about this tour is how flexible and personal it feels. You aren’t just along for the ride; you get personalized attention, with your own guide discussing the best times for game drives and making sure you see the highlights. And the quality of the wildlife encounters? Well, many reviews speak of unforgettable moments that seem to come straight out of a wildlife documentary.
However, the price tag—around $3,872 per person—is not cheap, but considering the length, the inclusions, and the expertise involved, it offers good value for those seeking an immersive, well-organized safari. Keep in mind, this isn’t a rushed, cookie-cutter tour. It’s best suited to travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides, stunning landscapes, and a more authentic, less hurried experience.
Key Points
- Expert Guides Make All the Difference: Many reviewers praise guides like Emmanuel, Losioki, and Arnold for their deep knowledge and ability to find animals in the wild.
- Unmatched Wildlife Viewing: Expect to see the Big Five and a variety of other species, often in close-up, thanks to the guides’ skills and the well-planned itinerary.
- Flexible, Personalized Experience: Day-to-day activities are tailored to your preferences, with options for full-day game drives and relaxed pacing.
- Stunning Locations: From the lush Lake Manyara to the endless plains of Serengeti and the dramatic Ngorongoro Crater, each stop offers breathtaking scenery and wildlife.
- Quality Lodging and Meals: Reviewers consistently mention beautiful lodges and delicious, plentiful meals, adding comfort to your wild adventure.
- Highly Rated and Recommended: With a perfect 5.0/5 rating from 191 reviews, this tour is trusted by many travelers who value authentic, well-managed safaris.
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An Authentic Tanzanian Adventure: What to Expect
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Arusha.
The Itinerary Breakdown
Day 1: Lake Manyara National Park
Your safari begins with a pickup from your hotel around 8 am, setting off across the Great Rift Valley to Lake Manyara. Though compact at just 205 square miles, this park offers a dazzling array of scenery, from lush acacia forests to the shimmering lake. Here, expect to see giraffes, elephants, impalas, and buffaloes, as well as the famous tree-climbing lions—a rare spectacle that makes Manyara a standout. The park’s hippo populations are sizable, and flamingos often line the lake’s shore. The park is also home to unique birds like Ground Hornbills and Crested Eagles.
Many reviews echo the joy of seeing wildlife in this lush setting, with one reviewer noting, “We saw a lot of animals, and our guide was very knowledgeable about the parks and their preservation efforts.” The full day here sets a relaxed, promising tone for the trip.
Day 2 & 3: Serengeti National Park
The drive to the Serengeti is a highlight in itself—vast, wild, and full of promise. Expect an early start and a scenic ascent over crater highlands, with a quick stop at Ngorongoro Rim for a jaw-dropping panoramic view of the volcano-shaped crater below. Many travelers describe this as “an out-of-this-world” experience, with the iconic endless plains roaring to life as you enter the Serengeti.
The park covers 6,900 square miles of sweeping grasslands, rolling hills, and riverine woodlands. It’s known worldwide for the Great Migration, where over 2 million wildebeest and hundreds of thousands of zebras move across the plains. During your full day here, you might do a morning game drive, return for lunch and rest, then head out for an afternoon adventure—or opt for a full-day drive with a picnic lunch, as many reviewers praise the flexibility.
Many guests mention how guides like Losioki or Julius are experts at animal spotting, sometimes positioning the vehicle perfectly for photos. One reviewer raves, “And in style, too! We saw the Big 5 quickly and comfortably.” The park’s vastness means encounters with lions lazing on the plains, leopards in the trees, or herds of elephants crossing your path are often highlights.
Day 4: Ngorongoro Crater
A pre-dawn wake-up call is recommended here to catch the sunrise and a lively early game drive. The Ngorongoro Crater is often called the Eighth Wonder of the Natural World—a 102-square-mile caldera with 2,000-foot-high walls, full of wildlife. It’s a natural sanctuary, home to virtually every species native to East Africa, including rare black rhinos.
Reviewers often mention the magical feeling of descending into the crater floor, where animals roam freely in an environment that resembles a natural zoo. One guest said, “The concentration of wildlife here is incredible,” and many are impressed by the chance to see hippos at the lake and elephants crossing the plains.
Day 5: Ngorongoro & Departure
Your final morning involves an early descent into the crater for one last game drive—probably the best chance to spot elusive animals and capture photos of a sunrise over the African savanna. Afterward, enjoy a picnic near Hippo Lake before heading back up and leaving the crater. The journey back to Arusha is flexible, with an expected arrival around 5 pm.
Why This Tour Offers Great Value
While the price of $3,872 may seem steep, it covers so much—all major park entrance fees, full-board meals, private transportation, and the expertise of highly praised guides. Many reviews mention how guides like Emmanuel, Arnold, and Wilson go above and beyond, making wildlife sightings more frequent and engaging. The ability to customize your game drives, with options for relaxation or full-day adventures, offers excellent flexibility.
Comfort is also a priority; travelers consistently mention the beautiful lodges and delicious meals, which are essential for recharging after long days in the wild. This is not just a safari; it’s an experience that balances adventure with comfort, making it suitable for anyone who wants a comprehensive taste of Tanzania’s wilderness.
The Real Value for Wildlife Enthusiasts and Nature Lovers
This safari is about more than just ticking boxes. It’s about getting close to Africa’s most iconic animals in their natural habitat, with guides who genuinely know how to find them. The landscapes are breathtaking, and the sense of space and freedom is something you won’t forget. For travelers who value authentic experiences over cookie-cutter tours, this journey offers a deeply personal and memorable encounter with the wild.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This tour is best suited for travelers who are serious about wildlife and landscapes, appreciate expert guidance, and don’t mind a bit of travel time. If you want a balance of iconic sights and less-touristed areas, and are willing to invest in a quality experience, this safari delivers on that promise. It’s also ideal for those who enjoy a flexible, personalized itinerary with knowledgeable guides who make wildlife viewing both fun and informative.
It’s perfect for honeymooners, wildlife enthusiasts, or anyone eager to see the Big Five in a setting that feels authentic, comfortable, and thoughtfully organized.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for all age groups?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best suited to those comfortable with long game drives and early mornings. Always check with the tour provider if you have specific needs.
What’s included in the price?
The tour covers all park entrance fees, meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), and private transportation. It does not include tips, international airfare, or meals outside the safari unless specified.
How flexible are the game drives?
Your guide discusses the best times for game viewing, and you can choose between morning, afternoon, or full-day drives. Many reviews highlight the guides’ ability to adapt to your preferences.
What is the quality of the accommodations?
Reviews consistently mention beautiful lodges and comfortable settings that add to the experience without detracting from the adventure.
Are there opportunities for photography?
Absolutely. Guides often position vehicles for optimal shots, and many travelers leave with stunning photos of wildlife and landscapes.
What is the typical duration of transfers?
The journey from Arusha to each park involves some travel time, with the most extended drive being to the Serengeti. Expect long but scenic drives with frequent stops for wildlife viewing.
Can I customize the experience?
Yes, the tour is private, and your guide will work with you to tailor each day’s activities, making the experience more personal and relaxed.
Living Among Lions
Final Thoughts
The Living Among Lions safari offers an excellent blend of iconic wildlife viewing, stunning scenery, and authentic Tanzanian landscapes. With knowledgeable guides, flexible options, and high-quality lodges, it’s a carefully curated journey designed for travelers who truly want to connect with Africa’s wilderness. While it’s an investment, the memories you’ll create—seeing lions, elephants, and the Great Migration—are hard to put a price on.
If you’re after an adventure that feels genuine, detailed, and rewarding, this tour delivers on those promises. It’s best for wildlife lovers, those who value expert guidance, and anyone seeking a safari that balances comfort with adventure.
In summary, the Living Among Lions tour is a standout choice for those who want an immersive, well-organized, and memorable safari experience in Tanzania. Expect breathtaking scenery, close wildlife encounters, and the kind of guides who make the wild feel welcoming. For anyone eager to see the Big Five in one of the world’s most iconic landscapes, this tour offers a rewarding, authentic adventure.
