6 Days 5 Nights Lake Manyara, Serengeti & Ngorongoro Lodge Safari

This immersive safari begins in Arusha and brings you face-to-face with Tanzania’s most celebrated wilderness areas. From the lush beauty of Lake Manyara to the vast golden plains of the Serengeti, the prehistoric echoes of Olduvai Gorge, the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, and the wildlife-rich landscapes of Tarangire, this journey delivers the perfect blend of scenery, history, and wildlife encounters.

Full Itinerary

Day 1: Arusha – Lake Manyara (2½ hours, 130 km)

Your adventure kicks off with a pickup in Arusha and a scenic drive to Lake Manyara National Park, arriving just in time for lunch. In the afternoon, you head out for your first game drive in this jewel of the Great Rift Valley. Known for its soda lake shimmering with flamingos, lush groundwater forests, and famous tree-climbing lions, Lake Manyara offers a colorful introduction to Tanzania’s wildlife. With large elephant herds, diverse birdlife, and breathtaking escarpment views, the day ends with dinner and an overnight stay at your selected lodge.

Day 2: Lake Manyara – Serengeti Plains (6 hours, 205 km)

After breakfast, the road leads toward one of Africa’s most iconic destinations—the Serengeti. You pass through the vibrant farmlands of Karatu and cross the dramatic highlands of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area before descending into the endless Serengeti plains. Arrive in the famous Seronera region, known for its rich wildlife and the life-giving Seronera River. After lunch, enjoy an exciting afternoon game drive through this legendary wilderness. Dinner and overnight are in the heart of the Serengeti.

Day 3: Serengeti National Park – Full Day

Today is dedicated to exploring the Serengeti’s abundant wildlife. Begin with a morning drive along the Sogore River Circuit, where lion prides, cheetahs, topis, and ostriches roam freely. Later, visit the Seronera Visitor Center to learn about the park’s ecology, enjoy a picnic lunch, and relax under the giant acacia trees. In the afternoon, explore the famous Kopjes Circuit, where rocky outcrops shelter lions, reptiles, and other wildlife. End the day with dinner and an overnight stay in the Seronera area.

Day 4: Serengeti – Ngorongoro Crater (4 hours, 145 km)

Start with an early morning game drive, a prime time to witness predators on the hunt. After returning for breakfast, depart for Ngorongoro, stopping at the historic Olduvai Gorge—one of the world’s most important archaeological sites. Enjoy lunch and a brief lecture on human origins before continuing to the crater rim. Arrive by late afternoon to soak in breathtaking views of the world’s largest caldera. Dinner and overnight at your chosen lodge near the crater.

Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater – Tarangire (3½ hours, 155 km)

After breakfast, descend 600 meters into the Ngorongoro Crater, often described as the eighth wonder of the world. Its fertile grasslands and permanent water sources support massive herds of zebras, wildebeests, buffaloes, elephants, and a thriving lion population. Visit Lake Magadi, where flamingos and hippos gather in large numbers. After a picnic lunch and further exploration, drive to Tarangire National Park. Dinner and overnight are at your selected lodge.

Day 6: Tarangire National Park – Arusha (2 hours, 120 km)

Begin the day with a final game drive in Tarangire, a park famous for its towering baobabs and enormous herds of elephants. During the dry season, animals congregate around the Tarangire River, offering excellent game-viewing opportunities. Look out for rare species such as the Greater Kudu, Fringed-eared Oryx, and Ashy Starling. After a picnic lunch and an afternoon drive, exit the park and return to Arusha. You will be dropped at your hotel or transferred to the airport, depending on your departure plans.