(No availability) 4 Days Big Five Camping Safari in Northern Tanzania
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Affordable Big Five Tanzania Safari
From Arusha, you start with Lake Manyara National Park for a chance to spot the legendary tree-climbing lions and the flamingoes at the lake before crossing the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and enter through Naabi Hill gate and enter Serengeti. You will then head back the same way with a day of game drives at the Ngorongoro Crater floor and head back on Day 4 to Arusha town.
Key information
- Group and private safari possible, rates will vary depending on this.
- Group size: Minimum 2 persons. Maximum 6 persons per vehicle
- Children policy: Children are allowed to participate under the supervision of a parent or guardian.
- Language: English Speaking guides
- All park fees are included
- Sleeping bag
Meet the guides
Highlights
- Exposure to African wildlife
- Specially appointed vehicles
- Explorations of Tanzania National parks
- Funtastic overnight camping in the bush
- Awesome photography capture and game viewing
- 4WD Safari vehicles designed to provide comfortable sightseeing
- High-end tours complete with exclusive accommodation facilities
- 3 nights accommodation
Skill level
- Beginner
- Intermediate
- Advanced
Styles
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (US$ 450 per person)
Accommodation
African safaris offer a range of accommodation options, from luxury lodges to tented camps. Clients should consider their preferences and budget when choosing accommodations and inquire about amenities, such as electricity, hot water, and internet access.
Jevas Hotel / Venice Hotel
This hotel is located in the heart of Arusha city. It is easily accessible and is only 45 minutes from the Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), one and a half hours from the Namanga Border, and five minutes from the city center. All the rooms are well-furnished with elegant decor and wooden furniture and equipped with an electronic card door lock system to maximize security, making it one of the safest and best places to stay in Arusha.
All superior rooms have en-suite bathrooms with a combined shower and bath, plus a basin and toilet. Each room also has an air-conditioning unit, electronic safe, television with a selection of satellite channels, electricity points, and three-pin square plug points for easy charging. Mosquito nets are provided around the beds in all rooms.
Accommodation level: Mid-range
Facilities
- Reception
- Electronic card door lock system
- En-suite bathroom
- Basin and toilet
- Air-conditioned rooms
- Electronic safe
- Television with satellite channels
- Electricity points
- Three-pin square plug points for easy charging
- Mosquito nets around the beds
Fig Big Tree Lodge
Situated on the outskirts of the vibrant village of Mto Wa Mbu, you will experience the Fig Big Tree Lodge Hospitality in a quiet, natural environment. The Lodge also includes an outdoor pool. Guests can enjoy a drink at the on-site bar. There are lots of activities in the area, such as biking, canoeing, and hiking. Hippo Pool is 4 miles from Fig big tree Lodge. The sleeping bags and mattresses are provided.
Accommodation level: Budget
Facilities
- Garden
- Swimming pool
- Bar
- Restaurant
- Lounge
- Gift shop
- Designated smoking rooms
Seronera Campsite
The public campsites which are collectively called Seronera Campsite are located in the Central Serengeti area known as the Seronera. Seronera Campsite is one of the most famed campsites in Tanzania for animal encounters. Animals will pass through the campsite at night on their nocturnal wanderings. This campsite is guarded. Tents have mats and bathrooms are outside of the tent. The sleeping bags and mattresses are provided.
Accommodation level: Budget
Facilities
- Bathrooms
- Hot showers
- Solar Powered 220V electricity
- Eating area
Ngorongoro Simba Campsite
Simba Campsite lies on the very rim of Ngorongoro Crater and has an excellent view across the caldera. A fantastic sunrise over the crater rim opposite makes a fine breakfast scene. Often there are elephants wandering around the camp! This campsite is guarded. Tents have mats and bathrooms are outside of the tent. Facilities at Simba Campsite are basic but this is more than made up for by the atmosphere of this camp in the clouds. The sleeping bags and mattresses are provided.
Accommodation level: Budget
Facilities
- Eating area
- 220V generator power in the evening
- Hot showers
- Toilets
Program
Day 1: Arusha – Tarangire National Park
In the morning you will start your safari with a drive to the Tarangire National Park. The park, roughly the size of Luxemburg, covers an area of approximately 2,600 km². The landscape of savannah, seasonal swamps and giant baobab trees is home to Masai giraffes, buffaloes, hartebeest, eland, fringe-eared oryx, the weird-looking long-necked gerenuk and over 550 species of birds.
But it is the elephants Tarangire is famous for and the park, where herds of up to 300 animals roam, is probably one of the best places in East Africa to see them and to get close to these giant creatures. After an extensive game drive, you will arrive at a campsite inside the park, where you will spend the night in a tent.
- Accommodation: Jambo Campsite
- Included meals: Lunch and dinner
Day 2: Tarangire Area – Serengeti National Park
Today you will continue to the lush highlands where crops such as wheat, corn and coffee are grown. While travelling through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area you might stop for a breath-taking view over the Ngorongoro Crater before continuing to the Serengeti National Park. Serengeti means “endless plains” in the language of the Maasai and you will see the grassland savannah stretching to the horizon. Bizarre rock formations called kopjes dot the grassy landscape where predators are often seen. Depending on the season you will witness the migration of thousands of animals for which this park is famous for. You will arrive at your campsite in the Seronera Valley in the central Serengeti in the late afternoon. After supper you will fall asleep to the sounds of the African bush.
- Accommodation: Nyani Campsite
- Included meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Day 3 Serengeti National Park – Ngorongoro Conservation Area
After breakfast you join another game drive in the Serengeti National Park. This morning you might spot animals you haven’t seen yet. The Serengeti is also home to the Big Five – lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino and leopard – and today you might be able to see all the members of this group. After lunch at a picnic site, you will drive in direction of the Ngorongoro Crater. As soon as you have reached the edge of the crater, the caldera opens up before you. Over 25,000 animals live in this approximately 20 km wide crater. You will spend the night at a campsite directly on the crater’s edge with fantastic views over the caldera.
- Accommodation: Simba Campsite
- Included meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Day 4 Ngorongoro Crater Tour – Arusha
Rise and shine! After breakfast at daybreak you drive down into the crater. Inside the world’s largest caldera, you will see a diversity of wildlife ranging from black rhinos, Grant’s and Thomson’s gazelles, lions and leopards to elephants and mountain reedbucks in the forests on the slopes. You might also see buffaloes, spotted hyenas, rare wild dogs and some of the more than 500 bird species of the area. After an intensive game drive and a picnic lunch, you will leave the caldera in the afternoon and travel back to Arusha where you will arrive in the early evening.
- Included meals: Breakfast and lunch.
Wildlife Viewing Etiquette:
Clients should familiarize themselves with wildlife viewing etiquette, such as maintaining a safe distance from animals, avoiding sudden movements or loud noises, and following the guidance of experienced guides.
Location
Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara National Park provides a unique wilderness experience. Including diverse landscapes such as the Rift Valley soda lake, open grasslands, dense woodlands, and stunning mountainsides. In the north of Tanzania, Lake Manyara National Park centers around its eponymous alkaline lake, a key habitat for hundreds of bird species. Between November and April, thousands of greater and lesser pink flamingos gather on its shores, along with pink-backed pelicans, yellow-billed storks, grey herons, and pods of hippo. Surrounding the lake are marshlands, grassy plains, and acacia woodlands, home to the tree-climbing lions and long-tusked elephants. Giraffes strut across the grasslands, where herds of buffalo, zebra, and wildebeest graze. As well as enjoying game drives and walking safaris, you can visit the Maji Moto hot springs to soak in the warm, clear water under the shade of leafy trees.
Serengeti National Park
Serengeti is the most ancient and immensely famous park. Serengeti is hugely known for its annual migration. You can witness around six million hooves keep on hitting the open plains. There are also sights such as 300,000 Thomson’s gazelle, 200,000 zebra coming together along with the wildebeests' trek to feed on grassland. It is really hard to confine the attractions of Serengeti to migration alone. Enjoy a sparkling game-viewing experience in Africa, Serengeti national park tours is the place to go. There are numerous Grants gazelle, impala, kongoni, topi, elands, giraffes, small groups of elephants, large herds of buffalo, and many more.
Ngorongoro Crater
The Ngorongoro Crater was once a gigantic volcano. It is the largest intact caldera in the world. The Ngorongoro crater is a deep, volcanic caldera a breathtaking natural wonder. Before it erupted, it would have been higher than Mt Kilimanjaro. Today, long since having collapsed and eroded, it is an extensive highland area with 600 meters deep Ngorongoro Crater. Nearly three million years old, the ancient caldera shelters one of the most beautiful wildlife havens on earth.
Food
As the sun sets over the vast savanna, casting a warm glow across the horizon, the aroma of traditional African cuisine fills the air. At the heart of the safari camp, a communal fire crackles, casting flickering shadows on the surrounding landscape.
The culinary journey begins with succulent meats grilled over an open flame, seasoned with a blend of aromatic spices that awaken the senses. Tender cuts of marinated game meats, such as kudu, impala, or ostrich, sizzle on the grill, releasing mouthwatering fragrances that mingle with the earthy scent of the bush.
Accompanying the meats are an array of vibrant side dishes, bursting with freshness and flavor. Colorful salads featuring locally sourced produce, such as crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy bell peppers, offer a refreshing contrast to the rich meats.
Savory stews simmer gently in cast iron pots, filled with hearty ingredients like tender chunks of vegetables and tender meats, infused with aromatic spices and herbs. The flavors meld together, creating a comforting and soul-warming dish that satisfies both body and spirit.
To accompany the meal, a selection of freshly baked bread and fluffy grains, such as pap, rice, or couscous, provide a hearty base for soaking up the delicious sauces and juices.
As the evening progresses and the stars emerge overhead, guests gather around the fire, exchanging stories of the day's adventures while savoring each delectable bite. In this magical setting, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the African wilderness, every meal becomes a culinary adventure to remember.
The following meals are included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Drinks
The following drinks are included:
- Water
- Coffee
- Tea
The following dietary requirement(s) are served and/or catered for:
- Regular (typically includes meat and fish)
- Other dietary requirements on request
Things to do (optional)
Having some extra money during your Tanzania safari can enhance your experience and make it even more memorable.
Upgrade Accommodation:
If you're staying at lodges or camps during your safari, consider upgrading to a more luxurious accommodation option for added comfort and amenities.
Extend Your Safari:
If time permits, use the extra payment to extend your safari experience. You can add extra days to explore more national parks and wildlife areas, giving you a better chance to see a variety of animals in their natural habitat.
Book Special Activities:
Many safari destinations offer additional activities such as hot air balloon rides, guided walking safaris, or cultural visits to local villages. Use the extra money to book these special experiences for a unique perspective on the safari.
Photography Equipment:
Invest in high-quality photography equipment or accessories to capture stunning photos of the wildlife and landscapes you encounter during your safari. This could include a better camera, lenses, or a sturdy tripod.
Support Local Communities:
Consider using some of the extra money to support local communities or conservation efforts in Tanzania. You can donate to reputable organizations working to protect wildlife and their habitats or purchase handmade crafts and souvenirs directly from local artisans.
Indulge in Dining Experiences:
Treat yourself to gourmet meals or special dining experiences offered at your accommodation or nearby restaurants. Enjoying delicious local cuisine can be a highlight of your safari adventure.
Relaxation and Wellness:
After exciting days of game drives and exploration, pamper yourself with spa treatments or wellness activities offered at your lodge or nearby resorts. Relaxing massages or yoga sessions can rejuvenate your body and mind.
Guided Tours:
Hire a knowledgeable guide for personalized tours and insights into the wildlife and ecosystems of Tanzania. A private guide can tailor the experience to your interests and ensure you make the most of your time in the wilderness.
Souvenirs and Gifts:
Purchase souvenirs and gifts to commemorate your Tanzania safari experience. Look for locally made crafts, artwork, or traditional clothing to bring home as mementos or gifts for loved ones.
Create Lasting Memories:
Use the extra payment to create lasting memories by taking part in activities that are meaningful to you. Whether it's watching a breathtaking sunset over the savannah or sharing stories around a campfire with fellow travelers, treasure these moments during your safari adventure.
You can also book a hot air balloon safari in Serengeti National Park.
Spa treatments
As well as providing you with a relaxing thermal spa experience, we offer spa treatments to relax and de-stress you further, and leave you feeling pampered and looking great.
Whether you’re a regular spa user or new to the idea, you’re sure to find a treatment that’s perfect for you at Spa Experience by Better. We offer a large variety of health, relaxation and beauty options including spa treatments for both women and men, from top-end luxury spa treatments to very affordable treatments that will make you look and feel great. Treat yourself to a massage, manicure, wax, salt scrub, or one of our many other spa treatments.
The treatments mentioned are not included in the package.
What's included
- 3 nights accommodation
- All camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats, chairs, tables etc.)
- Safari SUV Land Cruiser 4x4 with pop-up roof
- Experienced English-speaking safari guide and cook
- 24/7 phone support
- All park fees
- All accommodation under your program
- Three meals per day on safari
- Air Ambulance Service by AMREF Flying Doctors
- Bottled water and soft drinks throughout the tour
- Thermos with hot tea/coffee
- Medical kit
- Binocular (1 per SUV)
- Wet wipes
- Sleeping bag
What's not included
- Air tickets
- Visa fee
- Insurance
- Tips to your safari guide and cook
How to get there
Recommended Airports
Kilimanjaro International Airport
44 km
Transfer included
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport
229 km
Transfer not provided
Arrival by airplane
Tanzania has three international airports, but Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) is the most common entry point. Please book your flight to arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport. Zicasso Expedition will pick you up from each one of the two airports. The pick-up is included in the price.
Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) is situated 46km/29mi east of Arusha, the gateway of Tanzania’s most popular Northern safari circuit. Tanzania’s main airport is Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) located 13km/8mi southwest of Dar es Salaam. The latter is the entry point for visitors to the southern parks.
Moving on from Arusha or Dar es Salaam, you can fly or drive between reserves. Some domestic flights out of Arusha will leave from Kilimanjaro International Airport, but most flights to reserves leave from the much smaller Arusha Airport (ARK) located 8km/5mi west of town. However you choose to travel, in most cases, your local tour operator will pick you up from the airport and arrange all further transportation as part of your safari package.
Domestic airlines and flights in Tanzania
Domestic and charter flights between parks are usually booked by Kiliholidays as part of the tour package. Domestic flights can be booked with several domestic carriers.
- Air Tanzania
- Precision Air
- Regional Air
- ZanAir
- Safari Air Link
- Coastal Aviation
- Auric Air
- Air Excel
Cancellation Policy
- A reservation requires a deposit of 20% of the total price.
- The deposit is non-refundable, if the booking is cancelled.
- The rest of the payment should be paid on arrival.
