6 Days Tanzania Big Five Safaris (2026/2027/2028)

Discover Tanzania’s legendary Big Five on a 6-day Tanzania Big Five Safaris itinerary crafted for 2026/2027/2028. Starting in Arusha, this route links Tarangire National Park, Lake Manyara, the Serengeti, and the Ngorongoro Crater—Africa’s most reliable Big Five circuit. You’ll travel in a custom-built 4×4 with a professional, TANAPA-licensed guide and stay in carefully vetted mid-range lodges (upgradeable to luxury). Expect massive elephant herds in Tarangire, tree-climbing lions in Manyara, endless Serengeti plains with big cats, and a finale in Ngorongoro—one of the world’s densest wildlife habitats. For deeper planning, see our pages on Tanzania Safaris, Serengeti National Park, and Ngorongoro Crater. We also reference park facts from TANAPA and UNESCO to keep details accurate (UNESCO Serengeti). This 6-day Tanzania safari itinerary balances game drives, scenic viewpoints, and cultural add-ons while keeping drive times reasonable for families and first-timers. Book as a small group tour for value or choose a private safari for flexibility—either way, you’re guided by local experts dedicated to ethical wildlife viewing and community-positive tourism.

Serengeti is a UNESCO World Heritage Site; Ngorongoro is contiguous and famed for extraordinary wildlife densities. UNESCO World Heritage Centre)

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Day-by-day itinerary

Day 1: Arusha → Tarangire National Park (Elephants & Baobabs)
Meet your driver-guide in Arusha and head to Tarangire, famed for its giant baobabs and one of Africa’s largest dry-season elephant concentrations. Enjoy an unhurried game drive along the Tarangire River, scanning for buffalo herds, giraffe, zebra, and big cats lounging in acacias. Arrive at your lodge for sunset over the savannah. Optional evening talk with your guide on Big Five tracking and seasonal movements. Overnight in Tarangire (FB).
(Background on Tarangire’s elephant herds available via TANAPA publications.) Tanzania Parks

Day 2: Tarangire → Lake Manyara National Park (Tree-climbing lions)
After breakfast, drive to Lake Manyara, a compact park bursting with habitats—groundwater forest, soda lake, and escarpment views. Keep an eye out for tree-climbing lions, vast flocks of flamingos (seasonal), and agile troops of baboons along the forested tracks. Picnic lunch at a scenic viewpoint, then continue game drives toward your lodge near Karatu. In the evening, relax by the fire and review tomorrow’s Serengeti route with your guide (FB).

Day 3: Karatu → Serengeti National Park (Big cats on the plains)
Cross the highlands and enter the storied Serengeti, a UNESCO-listed ecosystem synonymous with endless grasslands and predator action. En-route game drive to your central/northern Serengeti lodge (location chosen to match the season). Afternoon safari focuses on cheetah territories and lion prides around kopjes. As dusk falls, listen for distant hyena calls and admire the star-studded sky. Overnight in Serengeti (FB).
(Serengeti’s global significance and migration context: UNESCO.) UNESCO World Heritage Centre

Day 4: Full day in Serengeti (Sunrise to sundowner)
Start with a sunrise drive when predators are most active; look for leopard draped over sausage trees and coalitions of cheetah scanning termite mounds. After a bush breakfast, continue to hippo pools and seasonal migration corridors (your guide optimizes routes by recent sightings). Optional hot-air balloon at dawn (extra). Sundowner back at camp, where you’ll debrief on behavior you observed—stalking lions, mock-charges from buffalo, and secretive bat-eared foxes (FB).
(Serengeti’s biodiversity and conservation importance widely documented.) Frankfurt Zoological Society

Day 5: Serengeti → Ngorongoro Conservation Area (Crater rim overnight)
A final Serengeti game drive en-route to the Ngorongoro highlands. Stop at classic viewpoint lookouts and, conditions permitting, Olduvai Gorge museum area (optional). Arrive at your rim-side lodge with sweeping views into the world-famous caldera—home to dense populations of ungulates and the best chance of spotting a black rhino in Tanzania. Early night to prepare for a dawn descent into the crater. Overnight on the rim (FB).
(Ngorongoro’s status and wildlife density are recognized in UNESCO records.) UNESCO World Heritage Centre

Day 6: Ngorongoro Crater game drive → Arusha (Departure)
Descend early into the Ngorongoro Crater for a concentrated Big Five finale. Morning mist lifts to reveal lions on the crater floor, huge buffalo herds, elephants near Lerai Forest, and (with luck) rhino grazing on short turf. Picnic beside hippo pools before ascending the wall and returning to Arusha. Transfer to the airport or your hotel. Extend your trip with Zanzibar beach days or add a walking safari near Lake Manyara (B, L).

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Price comparison (indicative; per person, 2026–2028)

Prices vary by season (Jul–Oct high), rooming, child age, and exact camp selection. Request a live quote.

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What this safari offers (benefits & uniqueness)

• Big Five focus across Tarangire, Manyara, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro—Tanzania’s most reliable circuit for lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino.

• Local expertise: TANAPA-licensed guides, continuous sighting intel, ethical game-viewing.

• Smart routing: Minimal backtracking, dawn starts, and rim-overnight for Ngorongoro early entry.

• Flexible tiers: Group value or private/luxury upgrades; add balloon safaris or Maasai cultural visits.

• Trust: Park facts aligned with official sources (TANAPA/UNESCO).

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Frequently Asked Questions – 6 Days Tanzania Big Five Safaris

1. When is the best time to go on this 6-day Tanzania Big Five Safari?
The best time is during the dry season from June to October, when wildlife gathers around rivers and waterholes, making Big Five sightings easier. The green season (Jan–Mar) is ideal for photography and witnessing the Serengeti calving season.

2. What wildlife can I expect to see on this safari?
You have excellent chances of spotting lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos—the legendary Big Five. You’ll also encounter cheetahs, hippos, giraffes, flamingos, and over 400 bird species across Tarangire, Manyara, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater.

3. Is this safari suitable for families or first-time travelers?
Absolutely. The itinerary is crafted for families, couples, and first-timers, featuring moderate drive times, family-friendly lodges, and professional English-speaking driver-guides. Private or shared group options are available depending on preference.

4. What’s included in the 6-day safari package?
All park and crater fees, a 4×4 Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof, full-board lodges or camps, professional driver-guide, daily game drives, and airport transfers are included. Optional extras: balloon safari, cultural visit, and Zanzibar extension.

5. Can I customize this Tanzania Big Five itinerary?
Yes. You can add or reduce days, upgrade to luxury lodges, or include Zanzibar beaches after the safari. Contact us or chat via WhatsApp +254 728 567 308 for a tailor-made quote.

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Previous Travellers’ Reviews

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5.0 – “Best Big Five Safari Ever!”
Reviewed by Sarah & Michael, USA – July 2024

Our 6-day Tanzania Big Five Safari was beyond expectations! From Tarangire’s elephant herds to the endless plains of the Serengeti, every moment felt like a documentary. We even spotted all Big Five, including a rare black rhino in Ngorongoro! The lodges were excellent, the vehicle was comfortable, and our guide Joseph was incredibly knowledgeable. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Tanzania!

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⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5.0 – “Unforgettable Family Experience”
Reviewed by The Gomez Family, Spain – February 2025

Traveling with kids can be tricky, but Paradise Africa Safari made it seamless. The 6-day itinerary was perfectly balanced—short drives, comfortable lodges, and plenty of wildlife action. Our children loved seeing lions up close in the Serengeti and feeding giraffes at Lake Manyara. This was the most memorable family adventure we’ve ever had!

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⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5.0 – “Professional, Friendly & Ethical Safari”
Reviewed by Amit & Priya, India – September 2025

What impressed us most was the professionalism of the team and their respect for nature. Our guide Lawrence shared so much insight about animal behavior and conservation. The Ngorongoro Crater game drive was breathtaking, and spotting leopards in the Serengeti at sunrise was magical. Worth every penny!

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⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.9 – “Exceeded All Expectations”
Reviewed by Chloe & Adam, UK – December 2024

From the first inquiry to the final airport drop-off, everything was perfectly organized. The vehicle was clean, the food was excellent, and the itinerary truly captured the best of Tanzania’s Big Five parks. We’ll definitely return for a Zanzibar beach extension next time. Kudos to John Peter and the Paradise Africa Safari team!

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Safari Inclusions

Your 6 Days Tanzania Big Five Safari includes everything you need for a seamless and unforgettable wildlife experience.

• Transport: 4×4 pop-up roof Land Cruiser (guaranteed window seat for every guest)

• Professional English-speaking driver-guide licensed by TANAPA & TALA

• Accommodation: 5 nights in carefully selected mid-range lodges/camps (upgradeable to luxury)

• Meals: Full-board meal plan (breakfast, lunch & dinner daily during safari)

• Park Entry & Conservation Fees for Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater

• Unlimited game drives with daily bottled mineral water in the vehicle

• Airport transfers – from/to Arusha or Kilimanjaro International Airport

• 24/7 ground support from Paradise Africa Safari’s Arusha & Nairobi offices

• Government taxes & levies included in the total price

Every vehicle is equipped with power sockets, binoculars, and a fridge for your comfort throughout the journey.

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Safari Exclusions

The following items are not included in the package price but can be added upon request:

• International flights to/from Tanzania

• Visa fees and travel insurance (required for all travelers)

• Soft & alcoholic drinks at lodges or en-route restaurants

• Optional activities such as:

  • Hot-air balloon safari in Serengeti

  • Maasai village visit near Ngorongoro

  • Olduvai Gorge archaeological site stop

  • Zanzibar beach extension (custom quote)

• Tips & gratuities for driver-guide and lodge staff (recommended $10–$20 per person/day)

• Single-room supplement for solo travelers

Paradise Africa Safari believes in transparent pricing — no hidden costs. Every inclusion and exclusion is clearly listed before booking.

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Book Your 6-Day Tanzania Big Five Safari Today

Experience the ultimate Tanzania adventure — track lions on the Serengeti plains, witness elephants in Tarangire, and spot the rare black rhino in Ngorongoro Crater. Our 6-day itinerary offers unmatched value, expert local guides, and hand-picked lodges for an authentic, safe, and life-changing journey.

Let’s Start Planning

• WhatsApp Direct: +254 728 567 308

• Email: info@paradiseafricasafari.com

• View All Tanzania Safaris

• Add a Zanzibar Extension → Zanzibar Beach Holidays

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Why Book With Paradise Africa Safari

• Locally Owned & Operated – licensed by TANAPA & TATO

• 24/7 Guest Assistance – on-ground support in Arusha & Nairobi

• Guaranteed Window Seat & Private 4×4 Option

• Flexible Lodges – Budget to Luxury Upgrades

• Book Now Pay Later – Only 30 % Deposit Required

• Secure Payments via Bank Transfer or Credit Card (+3.8 %)

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Limited Spots Available for Peak Season 2026–2028

Lock in early-bird rates and secure your spot today.
Get Your Personalized Quote Now →

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Trust & Safety Guarantees

•  Member of TATO (Tanzania Association of Tour Operators)

•  Registered and licensed by Tanzania Tourism Board (TTB)

•  KATO-affiliated partner in Kenya

•  Over 4.9★ average traveler rating from verified reviews

“Every journey we create supports local communities and conservation.” — John Peter, Founder & CEO