6 Days Big Five Tanzania Luxury Safari

Day by day

Day 1: Arrival – Arusha
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport where you’ll be warmly welcomed by your guide. Transfer to Arusha and check into your lodge. Relax after your journey before a personalized safari briefing in the evening. 
Overnight: Arusha Planet Lodge (or upgrade: Gran Meliá, Arusha Coffee Lodge)·     
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

Day 2: Arusha → Tarangire National Park
Drive to Tarangire National Park, renowned for its giant baobab trees and large elephant herds. As you journey through the Maasai plains, the scenery gradually opens into a classic African landscape dotted with acacia trees and ancient baobabs.Upon entering the park, your game drive begins, offering excellent opportunities to spot elephants, giraffes, zebras, and predators such as lions and leopards. The Tarangire River, a vital water source, attracts a high concentration of wildlife, especially during the dry season. Pause midday for a scenic picnic lunch overlooking the river, where you can relax and take in the peaceful surroundings before continuing your afternoon game drive. Arrive at your lodge in the evening and relax with sunset views.
Overnight: Tarangire Safari Lodge (or upgrade: Tarangire Treetops, Nimali Tarangire)·     
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Tarangire → Lake Manyara
Drive to Lake Manyara National Park, a lush park set at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment. Enjoy a game drive through forest, plains, and lakeshore home to tree-climbing lions, hippos, flamingos, and large troops of baboons. Stop for a picnic lunch in a scenic location. Continue to your lodge with stunning views.
Overnight: Eileen’s Tree Inn (or upgrade: The Retreat at Ngorongoro, Neptune Ngorongoro Luxury Lodge)·     
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Ngorongoro Crater – Big Five Safari
Drive to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and descend into the spectacular Ngorongoro Crater. Enjoy a half-day game drive in this wildlife-rich caldera, with excellent chances to spot the Big Five, including the rare black rhino. Pause for a picnic lunch on the crater floor before ascending to your lodge on Karatu.
Overnight: Eileen’s Tree Inn (or upgrade: The Retreat at Ngorongoro, Neptune Ngorongoro Luxury Lodge)·     
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

Day 5: Cultural Experience in Mto wa Mbu & Return to Arusha
Enjoy a relaxed morning at your lodge in Karatu, taking in the peaceful surroundings of the Ngorongoro Highlands. After breakfast, depart for the vibrant village of Mto wa Mbu, a unique cultural hub known for its diversity of over 120 tribes living harmoniously. Upon arrival, embark on a guided cultural tour that offers an authentic glimpse into local life. Activities may include: A walk through lush banana plantations and local farms, Visiting traditional homes to learn about rural Tanzanian lifestyles, Exploring local markets and tasting fresh tropical fruits, Observing local artisans at work, including Makonde wood carving and painting. You will also visit a traditional Maasai village, where you’ll be welcomed by the Maasai community. Experience their rich traditions through traditional songs and dance and sights into Maasai customs, dress, and way of life. A guided tour of their bomas (homesteads). After the cultural immersion, enjoy a freshly prepared local lunch, often served in a scenic setting surrounded by nature or village landscapes. In the afternoon, begin your drive back to Arusha (approximately 2–3 hours), passing through the Great Rift Valley and enjoying beautiful countryside views along the way. In the evening, gather for a special farewell dinner at your lodge or a selected restaurant in Arusha. This is a perfect moment to reflect on your safari adventure, sharing stories, unforgettable wildlife encounters and the highlights of your journey through Tanzania.·     
Overnight: Arusha Planet Lodge (or upgrade: Gran Meliá, Arusha Coffee Lodge)·     
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Departure
After breakfast, transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your onward journey.