A five-day overland safari from Dar es Salaam to Tarangire, Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro mixes long drives with concentrated wildlife encounters. Expect elephant herds, tree-climbing lions and a crater so full of life it can yield the Big Five in one day.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The first light over the Eastern Arc Mountains turns the roadside sisal fields to bands of green and gold as the vehicle leaves Dar es Salaam for the long overland push to Arusha. After a 10–12 hour drive across changing lowlands and foothills, the landscape tightens: baobab-studded plains of Tarangire, the forested rim of Lake Manyara, and the broad, bowl-shaped rim of Ngorongoro appear like chapters in a single day.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
5 days
Fitness Level
Suitable for most travelers; requires ability to sit for long drives and transfer in/out of safari vehicle.
Wildlife
History
The route crosses parts of the Eastern Arc and Rift landscapes; Ngorongoro is a collapsed volcanic caldera and an important archaeological region near Olduvai Gorge.
Conservation
Ngorongoro and the surrounding conservation area are managed for both wildlife and pastoral Maasai grazing—visitors are asked to minimize disturbance and follow park rules to protect sensitive habitats.
Reserve your spot on the 5 Days Safari from Dar es Salaam to Tarangire NP, Manyara NP & Ngorongoro Crater today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Start early for the best light
Game drives begin around dawn—wildlife is most active then and the light is best for photography.
Prepare for long drives
Day 1 and Day 5 are full-day drives (up to 10–12 hours); bring motion-sickness remedies and snacks.
Layer for altitude swings
Temperatures drop on the Ngorongoro rim—pack a warm mid-layer for mornings then shed it by midday.
Bring local cash
Small vendors, tips and some park extras may require Tanzanian shillings—ATMs are limited outside Arusha.
Binoculars (8x42 or similar)
Helps you pick out distant herds and birds from game vehicle.
Sun hat and sunscreen
Strong equatorial sun makes protection essential during midday stops.
summer
Sturdy walking shoes
Useful for short guided walks, lodge grounds and uneven picnic sites.
Light rain jacket
Protects against afternoon showers during the long-rain season.
spring