4-Day Northern Tanzania Safari: Lake Manyara, Serengeti & Ngorongoro
A four-day northern Tanzania circuit that visits Lake Manyara, full days in the Serengeti and a game drive down into Ngorongoro Crater. Expect concentrated wildlife viewing, varied terrain from groundwater forest to wide plains, and lodge or camping nights.
The Experience
Before You Go
Time your drives
Plan early-morning and late-afternoon game drives—animals are most active and light is best for photography.
Bring cash for tips and local purchases
Small Tanzanian notes are useful for park vendors and tipping guides or lodge staff.
Protect against sun and dust
A wide-brim hat, UV sunscreen and a lightweight buff will keep dust and sun off during open-vehicle drives.
Stay hydrated and pace food
Long drives mean bring a refillable water bottle and eat light meals to avoid fatigue and motion sickness.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Olduvai Gorge viewpoint near the eastern Serengeti plains for paleoanthropology context
- •Short, guided walks around lodge areas at dawn for birding and smaller mammal sightings
Wildlife
- •African elephant
- •Black rhino
Conservation Note
These parks operate under strict conservation zones and regulated visitor numbers; follow guidance on waste, noise and distancing from wildlife to reduce impact.
The northern circuit sits atop the East African Rift; Olduvai Gorge in the Serengeti was key to understanding early human evolution and sits within the same tectonic zone that shaped the parks.
What to Bring
Binoculars (8x–10x)Essential
Essential for detecting distant cats and bird flocks across the plains.
Neutral-colored clothing and layersEssential
Blend with the environment and add insulating layers for cool mornings and evenings.
Sunscreen and wide-brim hatEssential
Protects from strong equatorial sun during midday drives.
Camera with telephoto lens
Useful for wildlife photography; a 200–400mm range captures animals without disturbing them.
Common Questions
How long are daily drives and game-viewing periods?
Expect several hours in the vehicle each day—typically morning and late-afternoon game drives, with drives between parks taking longer (2–4 hours depending on route).
Are park fees included?
This itinerary lists park fees as included, but confirm exact inclusions and any additional conservation levies before booking.
What level of accommodation is provided?
Accommodations range from camping or basic lodges to optional upgrades; the itinerary notes full-board nights at Serengeti camp or lodge upgrades available.
Is this safari suitable for children or people with limited mobility?
The tour is described as suitable for all fitness levels, but long vehicle rides and uneven ground during game drives can be challenging—check vehicle access and special arrangements in advance.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 days
Location
Moshi, Kilimanjaro Region
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers in average physical condition; involves long vehicle hours, short walks and some uneven ground during game drives.
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