The estimated time of arrival (ETA) from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) to Arusha city is approximately 1 hour by road. The distance is about 50 kilometers (31 miles), but travel time can vary depending on traffic and weather conditions.
5 Days Tanzania Big 5 Safaris: Best Itinerary & Tips 2025
Explore Tanzania's Wildlife Giants: A Perfect 5-Day Big 5 Safari Itinerary & Travel Guide
This 5-day Tanzania Big 5 safari is perfect for spotting lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino in just a few days. You’ll visit top parks like Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro Crater—each known for rich wildlife and amazing views. The trip is well-planned, with daily game drives, relaxing lodge stays, and plenty of chances to see the Big 5 up close.
Prices range from $1,500 to $3,500 per person, depending on your budget and comfort level. Group safaris are more affordable, while private trips offer more luxury. Travel during the dry season (June to October) for the best sightings. Pack light, bring a good camera, and let Seko Tours Adventures guide you on a smooth and unforgettable safari.
Why Choose a 5 Days Tanzania Big 5 Safari?
A 5-day Tanzania Big 5 Safari is perfect if you want to see Africa’s most famous animals—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino—in a short time. This safari takes you to top parks like Tarangire, Ngorongoro, and the Southern Serengeti (Ndutu area), where wildlife sightings are guaranteed.
This package gives you the best chance to witness:
- Big herds of elephants in Tarangire
- Wildebeest migration calving in Ndutu (Dec to April)
- Rhinos in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area
- All Big 5 in just 5 days!
Tour Summary
![5 Days Tanzania Big 5 Safaris: Best Itinerary & Tips [oceanwp_date] - Seko Tours](https://sekotours.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/shrtinfo-pkg-icn-1.png "5 Days Tanzania Big 5 Safaris: Best Itinerary & Tips [oceanwp_date]")
Duration
5 Days
![5 Days Tanzania Big 5 Safaris: Best Itinerary & Tips [oceanwp_date] - Seko Tours](https://sekotours.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/jeep1-1.png "5 Days Tanzania Big 5 Safaris: Best Itinerary & Tips [oceanwp_date]")
Vehicle Type
4WD Safari
Tour Type
Private
![5 Days Tanzania Big 5 Safaris: Best Itinerary & Tips [oceanwp_date] - Seko Tours](https://sekotours.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/shrtinfo-pkg-icn-4.png "5 Days Tanzania Big 5 Safaris: Best Itinerary & Tips [oceanwp_date]")
Languages
Any Language
Places to Visit
Tour Itinerary
Day-by-Day Honeymoon Safari Itinerary
Day 1:
Transfer from Kilimanjaro Airport to Arusha
When you land at Kilimanjaro International Airport, your friendly guide from Seko Tours will greet you with a warm smile and a short safari briefing. After that, you’ll enjoy a comfortable one-hour drive to your hotel in Arusha.
Under The Shade Safari Lodge is a peaceful place where you can relax, enjoy delicious food, and get a good night’s sleep before the adventure begins. This is your time to recover from the flight and get excited for what’s coming next!
DAY ACTIVITIES
- Transfer From Jro Airport
Arusha City Photos
OVERNIGHT & MEAL PLAN
- Location: Arusha City
- Room Type: STANDARD CHALET
- Meal Plan: FB – Dinner, Breakfast and Lunch
- It's Reviews: TripAdvisor Reviews
Travel Time
Day 2:
Arusha to Tarangire National Park to Karatu
After breakfast, we drive for about 3 hours to Tarangire National Park. This park is famous for its large elephant herds, ancient baobab trees, and beautiful open savannah. It is home to all the Big 5 except the rhino (which is rare here).
During the game drive, you may spot:
Elephants walking through the riverbed
Lions resting under trees
Giraffes, zebras, and many birds
Big buffalos in muddy waterholes
Enjoy a tasty picnic lunch inside the park with great views. After the game drive, we head to Karatu town where you’ll spend the night at Farm of Dreams Lodge—a beautiful and eco-friendly lodge surrounded by nature.
DAY ACTIVITIES
- Tarangire Game Drive
Tarangire National Park Photos
OVERNIGHT & MEAL PLAN
- Location: Karatu
- Room Type: STANDARD
- Meal Plan: FB – Dinner, Breakfast and Lunch
- It's Reviews: TripAdvisor Reviews
Why Tarangire National Park Is the Perfect Start to Your Tanzania Safari
Tarangire National Park is a must-visit because of its large herds of elephants, iconic baobab trees, and quiet, uncrowded atmosphere. It’s especially amazing in the dry season (June to October), when animals gather around the Tarangire River, making it easy to spot lions, giraffes, zebras, and even leopards. If you want great wildlife viewing without the crowds, Tarangire is the perfect start to your Tanzania safari.
Looking for a 5 Days Tanzania Big 5 Safaris: Best Itinerary & Tips 2025 for your dates?
Receive a free Tanzania safari quote straight to your email within 6 hours! Customize your preferences, and we’ll craft a unique experience just for you. Prices vary based on group size and accommodation choice.
CONTINUE TO NDUTU NGORONGORO
Day 3:
Proceed to Ndutu Area for Game Drive
In the morning, we leave Karatu and drive toward the Ndutu area inside the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, which borders the southern Serengeti. This region is rich in wildlife all year round, but from December to April, it becomes a hotspot during the wildebeest calving season.
Here, you’ll see:
Thousands of wildebeest giving birth
Hungry predators like lions and cheetahs
Huge herds of zebras and gazelles
Resident elephants and giraffes
The day is spent exploring the Ndutu plains and lakeshores, with a lunch break in the bush. You’ll stay at Nyikani Migration Camp, a luxury tented camp that moves with the migration.
Quick Highlights:
Great chance to see lions and leopards
Witness calving season action (Dec–Apr)
Amazing sunset over the plains
DAY ACTIVITIES
- Serengeti Ndutu Game Drive
- Ngorongoro Ndutu Wildebeest Migration Game Drive - Calving Season
Ndutu Area Photos Photos
OVERNIGHT & MEAL PLAN
- Location: Ndutu Ngorongoro
- Room Type: Safari Tent
- Meal Plan: FB – Dinner, Breakfast and Lunch
- It's Reviews: TripAdvisor Reviews
Best Time to Witness the Ndutu Wildebeest Migration
The best time to see the Ndutu Wildebeest Migration is from late January to March. During this period, thousands of wildebeests gather in the Ndutu area, located between the southern Serengeti and northern Ngorongoro Conservation Area, for the calving season. Over 8,000 babies are born each day, attracting big cats like lions and cheetahs looking for easy prey—making it a thrilling time for game viewing.
This season offers amazing photo opportunities, dramatic predator action, and easier access to wildlife since the open plains provide clear views. It’s also less crowded than the central Serengeti during peak migration months. For the best experience, book your trip early with a trusted safari company like Seko Tours Adventures, especially if you plan to stay in mobile camps close to the action.
Day 4:
Full Day Game Drive in Ndutu – Big 5 Safari Continues
Today is dedicated to exploring more of Ndutu. This region is one of the few places where you can go off-road, allowing you to get closer to the animals. This gives you more chances to spot the Big 5—especially lions, elephants, buffaloes, and leopards. While rhinos are rare, the nearby Ngorongoro area offers sightings.
The Ndutu plains are:
Rich with predator-prey activity during calving season
Home to resident animals year-round
A birdwatcher’s paradise
We’ll stop for a hot bush lunch, then continue the safari till late afternoon. After an unforgettable day, return to camp for dinner under the stars.
Quick Highlights:
Full-day open plains exploration
Excellent wildlife photography
Optional evening storytelling by the campfire
DAY ACTIVITIES
- Serengeti Ndutu Game Drive
Ndutu Area Photos Photos
OVERNIGHT & MEAL PLAN
- Location: Ndutu Ngorongoro
- Room Type: Safari Tent
- Meal Plan: FB – Dinner, Breakfast and Lunch
- It's Reviews: TripAdvisor Reviews
Why Ndutu Is a Top Spot to See the Wildebeest Calving and the Big Five
Ndutu is one of the best places to see both the wildebeest calving season and a high chance of spotting the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino. From late January to March, over a million wildebeests gather here to give birth, attracting predators like lions and leopards in large numbers. This makes Ndutu an ideal place to witness not just the migration, but also exciting Big Five action in one area.
What makes Ndutu special is the mix of open plains and woodlands, which supports a wide range of wildlife. You can go off-road here, getting closer to the animals than in most national parks. While black rhinos are more common in nearby Ngorongoro Crater, the rest of the Big Five can be seen right in Ndutu—especially lions and elephants. For an unforgettable safari with both the Big Five and the migration, Ndutu is the perfect destination.
Day 5:
Morning Game Drive & Return to Kilimanjaro Airport for flight home
After breakfast, we set off for a final game drive. This is your last chance to catch a glimpse of wildcats like cheetahs, leopards, or even lions on a hunt. We also look out for newborn wildebeest calves and their protective mothers.
Later, we enjoy a picnic lunch in the bush and then begin the drive back to Arusha (about 4 hours). Depending on your flight time, we’ll transfer you to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your journey back home.
You’ll leave with:
Amazing photos
Lifelong memories
A heart full of adventure
DAY ACTIVITIES
- Ngorongoro Ndutu Wildebeest Migration Game Drive - Calving Season
- Transfer To Jro Airport
We've got you covered
Our tours are top-notch but give you great value. The price we tell you upfront covers most of the costs for one person, like flights and all transfers.
Includes
- Park fees
- All activities (unless labeled as optional)
- All accommodation as stated in the itinerary
- A professional driver/guide
- All transportation (unless labeled as optional)
- All Taxes/VAT
- Roundtrip airport transfer
- All Meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)
- Air Ambulance Service by AMREF Flying Doctors;
Excludes
- International flights (from/to home)
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
- Tips to your safari guide ($30-50 per day per car).
- Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
- Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
- Alcohol drinks
- Visas and visa fees where relevant
- Additional activities not offered as scheduled by the accommodation
- Lunch and dinner in hotel (only before and after safari);
Let's Start Planning
Receive a free Tanzania safari quote with absolutely no obligations. Plan your adventure at your own pace—no pressure, just expert guidance!
Best Time for a Big 5 Safari in Tanzania
The best time for this 5 Days Tanzania Big 5 Safari is:
December to April: Wildebeest calving season in Ndutu
June to October: Dry season with best visibility for wildlife
Tanzania is a year-round destination, but these months give you a higher chance to spot all Big 5 animals, including the rare black rhino.
Where You’ll Stay
Here are the recommended lodges and camps for this safari:
Under The Shade Safari Lodge – Arusha
Peaceful and comfortable stay near the airport.Farm Of Dreams Lodge – Karatu
A cozy eco-lodge with beautiful gardens.Nyikani Migration Camp – Ndutu
A luxury mobile camp located in the heart of the action.
All lodges provide full-board meals and excellent service.
Packing List for Tanzania Safari
Here are the essential items to pack:
Light clothing for the day, warm jacket for the evenings
Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
Binoculars and camera
Comfortable walking shoes
Personal medicine and basic toiletries
Reusable water bottle
Power bank for charging on the go
Tips for a Better Safari Experience
Wake up early for the best wildlife sightings
Ask your guide questions—they know a lot!
Stay quiet during animal sightings
Be patient—nature rewards those who wait
Keep your camera ready at all times
Ready to Spot the Big 5 in Just 5 Days?
Join our expert-guided 5 Days Tanzania Big 5 Safari and witness lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, and buffalos in their natural home.
Spaces fill fast during the calving season—book early with Seko Tours!
Receive a free Tanzania safari quotation with no obligation.
We’ll help you plan your perfect trip—no pressure, just expert advice
How to plan your Tanzania safari
![5 Days Tanzania Big 5 Safaris: Best Itinerary & Tips [oceanwp_date] - Seko Tours](https://sekotours.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/masai_black-150x150-1.webp "5 Days Tanzania Big 5 Safaris: Best Itinerary & Tips [oceanwp_date]")
Connect
Call us or enquire online. Share your wish list and we’ll start planning your adventure.
![5 Days Tanzania Big 5 Safaris: Best Itinerary & Tips [oceanwp_date] - Seko Tours](https://sekotours.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Safaris-150x150-1.webp "5 Days Tanzania Big 5 Safaris: Best Itinerary & Tips [oceanwp_date]")
Customise
Your dedicated travel expert will be in touch within 12hrs to start designing your bespoke African itinerary.
![5 Days Tanzania Big 5 Safaris: Best Itinerary & Tips [oceanwp_date] - Seko Tours](https://sekotours.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Zebra-at-Seko-Tours-150x150-1.webp "5 Days Tanzania Big 5 Safaris: Best Itinerary & Tips [oceanwp_date]")
Confirm
We won’t stop refining your plans until we get the perfect trip at the best price.
![5 Days Tanzania Big 5 Safaris: Best Itinerary & Tips [oceanwp_date] - Seko Tours](https://sekotours.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/seko-tour-car-150x150-1.webp "5 Days Tanzania Big 5 Safaris: Best Itinerary & Tips [oceanwp_date]")
Travel
Receive your Seko Tours documents, pack your bags and set off on your trip of a lifetime.
Popular questions about Tanzania Safari 5 Days Tanzania Big 5 Safaris: Best Itinerary & Tips 2025
The package includes all park entry fees, full-board accommodation, private transport in a 4x4 safari vehicle, and services of a professional safari guide. Airport transfers, bottled water during game drives, and government taxes are also covered.
You’ll stay in quality lodges and camps, enjoy all meals, and experience game drives in top wildlife areas. Everything is arranged so you can just relax and enjoy the safari.
The Big 5 are lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino. These animals were known as the most difficult to hunt, but today they’re the most exciting to see on safari.
You can see all of them in Tanzania’s parks, especially in the Ngorongoro and Serengeti areas. Rhinos are rare but often spotted in the Ngorongoro Crater region.
Yes, 5 days is enough if you visit the right parks. This itinerary covers Tarangire, Ndutu (part of southern Serengeti), and Ngorongoro, which are home to all Big 5 animals.
Seeing all Big 5 is never guaranteed, but this route gives you a high chance, especially during the calving season when wildlife is very active.
The best time is during the dry season (June–October) and calving season (December–March). During these times, animals are easier to spot, and the weather is good for travel.
The wildebeest calving in Ndutu from January to March is a major highlight. You’ll also see predators like lions and cheetahs during this period.
The safari starts with your arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and ends there too. Your guide will pick you up and drop you off at the airport.
All transfers, including the drive between parks and back to Arusha, are included in the package. This makes your journey smooth and stress-free.
You will stay in a mix of comfortable lodges and luxury tented camps. These include Under The Shade Safari Lodge, Farm of Dreams Lodge, and Nyikani Migration Camp.
All accommodations offer private rooms, great meals, and beautiful views. They are safe, clean, and provide a real safari atmosphere.
Yes, you can customize it to fit your travel needs. You can add extra days, change lodges, or include activities like a hot air balloon ride.
At Seko Tours, we help you plan the perfect safari based on your budget, interests, and travel dates. Just ask for a free quote with no obligation.
Yes, it’s family-friendly and many lodges offer child-friendly meals and family rooms. Game drives are also exciting and educational for kids.
Our guides are trained to make the experience safe and fun for all ages. Just let us know if you’re traveling with children, and we’ll adjust the plan to suit your family.
The cost depends on your group size and travel season. On average, prices range from $2,000 to $3,000 per person for mid-range options.
We offer competitive rates and great value for your money. Request a free, no-obligation quote to get a customized price for your trip.
You’ll travel in a private 4x4 Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof. This design is perfect for game viewing and photography.
The vehicle is fully equipped with charging ports, a cooler box, and comfortable seats. Your guide also carries binoculars and field guides for better wildlife spotting.
Some lodges offer Wi-Fi in common areas, but it may be slow. In the parks, network coverage can be limited, especially in remote areas like Ndutu.
We recommend enjoying a digital detox and focusing on the wildlife experience. You can use this time to connect with nature and relax.
Yes, most visitors need a tourist visa to enter Tanzania. You can apply online before your trip or get it on arrival at the airport.
The visa fee is usually $50 (or $100 for U.S. citizens). Always check the latest visa rules with the Tanzanian embassy in your country.
Yellow fever vaccination is required if you’re coming from a country with yellow fever risk. Other recommended vaccines include hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus.
It’s best to visit your doctor or travel clinic before your trip. Bring a copy of your yellow fever certificate just in case.
Pack light and comfortable clothes for warm days, a jacket for cooler mornings, and walking shoes. Don’t forget a hat, sunscreen, insect spray, and a camera.
For the beach, bring swimwear, sandals, and light clothes. A power adapter and small backpack are also useful.
Yes, tipping is common in Tanzania. For safari guides, $10–$20 per day per group is a standard tip. Lodge staff usually receive a group tip at the end of your stay.
Tips are appreciated but not mandatory. They are a great way to show appreciation for excellent service.
Seko Tours is a locally owned tour company with expert guides and years of experience. We know where to find the Big 5 and create unforgettable safari moments.
We offer fair prices, safe travel, and personal attention from start to finish. When you book with us, you’re supporting a local business that truly cares about your experience.
If your question is not listed, please contact us from here.
