A private five‑day lodge safari that loops Lake Manyara, the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater—ideal for travelers seeking luxury bases with full days of game drives and focused wildlife viewing.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step into the back of a 4x4 at dawn as the Rift Valley opens before you: flattened gold grass, a smear of acacia silhouettes, and the engine humming like an expectant animal. Over five days this private luxury-lodge circuit moves from Lake Manyara’s forested edge up onto the Serengeti’s endless plains and down into the green bowl of Ngorongoro Crater.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
5 days
Fitness Level
Light-to-moderate fitness: able to tolerate multiple hours in a vehicle, short walks, and early starts.
Wildlife
History
The parks sit on land used for centuries by Maasai pastoralists; Ngorongoro itself formed from an ancient volcanic caldera and has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1979.
Conservation
Community-based conservation supports park management and local livelihoods; visitors can minimize impact by following guide instructions, avoiding single-use plastics, and supporting reputable lodges that engage local staff.
Reserve your spot on the 5 Days Big Five Adventures Luxury Lodge Safari in Tanzania today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Book early-morning drives
Animals are most active at dawn; plan pre-sunrise departures to maximize sightings and softer light for photography.
Bring binoculars and a telephoto lens
Luxury lodges give comfort, but wildlife can still be distant—optical gear improves viewing without disturbing animals.
Hydrate and layer
High daytime heat and cool mornings require water and light layers; dehydration is common during long vehicle days.
Follow your guide’s distance rules
Always stay in the vehicle unless instructed; guides know animal behavior and legal park setbacks to keep you safe.
Binoculars (8x or 10x)
Essential for scanning plains and getting close-up views without disturbing wildlife.
Lightweight layered clothing
Mornings can be cool and afternoons hot; layers let you adapt during game drives.
Wide-brim hat & sunscreen
Sun protection is vital on exposed plains and during long open-vehicle drives.
summer
Sturdy walking shoes
Useful for short lodge walks or optional guided walks where permitted.