Tanzania Safari in 6 Days From South Africa

Name: 5 Days Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater Safari
Brand: Nihapa Tours
SKU: 5D-SER-NGO
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5.0 (34 reviews)

Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti

Wildebeest crossing Mara River during the Great Migration on a Safari Tanzania Serengeti tour

Gallery

Tanzania Safari in 6 Days From South Africa

Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti

Price

From $2,220.00

Duration

6 days

Max People

Min Age

Tour Type

4x4 Safari Tours

Overview

Experience an unforgettable 6 Day Tanzania safari from South Africa with Nihapa Tours, tailored to showcase the Great Wildebeest Migration in Serengeti National Park’s North Mara, alongside visits to Ngorongoro Conservation Area and the iconic Ngorongoro Crater. This private guided safari starts with a flight from South Africa to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). It ends with a return flight from Kogatende Airstrip, using a private 4x4 Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof and expert guides like Fadhili. Optimized for June-July 2025 to capture the migration’s dramatic Mara River crossings, this safari package immerses you in Tanzania’s wildlife, including the Big Five, while staying in eco-friendly lodges or camps for sustainable tourism.

Tour Highlights

Duration: 6 Days / 5 Nights
Parks Visited: Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Serengeti National Park (Central Seronera and North Mara), Ngorongoro Crater
Safari Style: Private guided safari
Group Size: Flexible (2–6 recommended)
Start: South Africa (Johannesburg or Cape Town) to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)
End: Kogatende Airstrip to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for return to South Africa
Departure Time (Day 1): Flight from South Africa to JRO (arrive by ~12:00 PM)
Return Time (Day 6): Afternoon arrival at JRO (~3:00–4:00 PM) for return flight
Dress Code: Casual, comfortable athletic clothing, hat, spare clothing
Customizations: Tailored upon request (e.g., Maasai village visits, Olduvai Gorge)
Extensions: Available (e.g., Zanzibar beach stay, Kilimanjaro climb)
Season: June-July (peak for Great Wildebeest Migration River crossings in Northern Serengeti); December-March (calving in southern Serengeti)
Private 4x4 Land Cruiser with pop-up roof
Expert English-speaking guides
24/7 support from Nihapa Tours

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day-1: South Africa to Arusha for the first Overnight

Morning flight from Johannesburg or Cape Town to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) (~4-5 hours) - normally includes a domestic connection through Dar es Salaam
04:00 PM: Pickup by Nihapa Tours guide at JRO
Drive 1 hour to Arusha - meet and greet at your Hotel in Arusha
Optional activities in Arusha: Guided Arusha City Tour without a vehicle (walking city tour) ($20/person)
Relax at your lodge in Arusha this evening
Overnight at Arusha Serena Hotel or Kahawa House (full board)
Meals: Dinner

Day 2: Arusha to Central Serengeti National Park via Ngorongoro Highlands (Seronera)

Morning drive ~ 6 hours to Central Serengeti (Seronera area)
Afternoon game drive in Seronera, spotting lion prides, leopards, and resident wildlife (elephants, buffalo, giraffes)
Introduction to the Great Wildebeest Migration as herds move north
Picnic lunch during the drive
Overnight at Lahia Tented Lodge, Kubukubu Tented Lodge, or Kati Kati Tented Camp (full board)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Serengeti National Park (Central Seronera to North Serengeti - Mara River)

Morning game drive in Seronera, targeting Big Five and migration herds
Drive ~2-3 hours to Northern Serengeti (North Mara, Kogatende area)
Afternoon game drive along the Mara River, seeking Great Wildebeest Migration River crossings with wildebeest, zebras, and crocodiles
Overnight at Mara Kati Kati Tented Camp or Mara Mara Tented Lodge (full board)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Serengeti National Park (North Mara - Kogatende)

Full-day game drive (6:30 AM–5:00 PM) or split morning/afternoon drives in North Mara, focusing on migration river crossings and predators (lions, cheetahs)
Picnic lunch amidst the migration spectacle
Optional: Hot air balloon ride ($450-$550/person) for aerial views of the herds
Overnight at Mara Kati Kati Tented Camp or Mara Mara Tented Lodge (full board)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Serengeti National Park (North Mara - Kogatende) back to Central Serengeti (Seronera)

Morning and afternoon game drive in North Mara, maximizing Great Wildebeest Migration sightings and Big Five encounters
Explore the Mara River for dramatic crossings and resident wildlife (elephants, buffalo), afternoon drive ~2-3 hours to Central Serengeti (Seronera)
Overnight at Lahia Tented Lodge, Kubukubu Tented Lodge, or Kati Kati Tented Camp (full board)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Central Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater to Arusha, then Dar es Salaam

Early morning transfer by road to Ngorongoro Crater
Drive ~3 hours to Ngorongoro Crater; descend for a 6-hour game drive
Spot black rhinos, lions, hippos, and flamingos at Lake Magadi
Picnic lunch by the Hippo Pool
Transfer to Arusha and proceed to Kilimanjaro International Airport for a night flight to Dar es Salaam (flight at 11:40 pm ~1 hour, ~$200/person)
Arrive at DAR by ~12:40 -1:00 AM for the return flight to South Africa
End of safari services by Nihapa Tours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Why Choose This 6 Day Tanzania Safari

Witness the Great Wildebeest Migration River crossings in Northern Serengeti, a bucket-list spectacle
Three days in Serengeti (two in North Mara) for immersive migration viewing
Ngorongoro Crater finale for Big Five sightings, including rare black rhinos
Private 4x4 Land Cruiser for optimal game viewing
Ideal for wildlife photographers, families, and migration enthusiasts
Flexible, customizable safari package

Why Choose Nihapa Tours

Nihapa Tours delivers personalized Tanzania safaris with:

Extended Migration Time: Three days in Serengeti, including two in North Mara, to maximize Great Wildebeest Migration sightings
Expert Guides: Local experts like Fadhili provide deep wildlife and cultural insights
Flexible Options: Budget camping, mid-range, or luxury lodges (e.g., Mara Mara Tented Lodge)
Private Tours: Exclusive 4x4 vehicles for intimate, tailored experiences
Conservation Focus: Partners with Nature Steward for sustainable tourism

Best Time to Visit

June-July: Peak for Great Wildebeest Migration River crossings in Northern Serengeti
December-March: Calving season in southern Serengeti (Ndutu)
April-May: Fewer crowds, lush landscapes, less migration focus

Travel Tips

Flights: Book round-trip flights from Johannesburg/Cape Town to JRO ($350/person) via Nihapa Tours
Visa: Apply for a Tanzanian e-Visa online ($50 for South Africans, ~30 days processing)
Vaccinations: Consult for yellow fever (required if transiting through endemic areas like Kenya) and malaria prophylaxis
Currency: Tanzanian Shilling (TZS); USD widely accepted
Safety: Follow guide instructions; avoid wandering alone at night
Pack: Lightweight clothing, binoculars, camera, sunscreen, warm layers for Ngorongoro evenings
Park Fees: Ngorongoro $71/day + $71/night camping; Serengeti $83/day + $59/night camping
Tipping: ~$10/person/day for guides.
View Our South Africa Safari Guideline for more information

Book Your Safari

Ready to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration from South Africa? Contact Nihapa Tours for exclusive 2026 offers!

Call: +255 123 456 789
Email: [email protected]
Website: Request via Nihapa Tours for tailored bookings

Book your 6 Day Tanzania Safari with Nihapa Tours today for an adventure of a lifetime!

Costs Includeds/Excludes

All Mentioned Safari Activities
Air Ambulance Service by AMREF Flying Doctors
Airport Pick-up and Drop-off Transfers
Hotel Accommodations According to the Itinerary
Transportation in 4×4 Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof for easy game viewing and photography
All Park Fees
Experienced English-speaking safari guide
All Meals according to the Itinerary
Bottled water and soft drinks throughout the tour
Binocular (1 per Vehicle)
Medical kit
All Taxes on Tour Fees & Services
Crew salaries

Air tickets
Visa fees
Lunch and dinner in hotel (only before and after safari)
Travel insurance
Tips to your safari guide ($25-45 per day per car)
Other optional activities
Personal expenses

Day 1 South Africa to Arusha to Ngorongoro

Your safari adventure begins with a morning flight from Johannesburg or Cape Town to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), a journey of around 4–5 hours. Upon landing around midday, you'll be warmly welcomed by your dedicated Nihapa Tours guide. From here, enjoy a scenic 3-hour drive past the lush highlands of Arusha towards the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations.

Upon arrival, take time to soak in the panoramic views of the massive Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site teeming with wildlife. Optional visits include the famous Olduvai Gorge Museum, known as the “Cradle of Mankind,” or a cultural tour of a traditional Maasai village. Settle in for the evening at either a cozy lodge or campsite, with dinner served under the stars.

Day 2Ngorongoro to Serengeti National Park

After breakfast, begin your journey to the legendary Serengeti, traveling along game-rich routes and passing scenic landscapes. The drive to the Seronera area in Central Serengeti takes about two hours, offering a chance to spot wildlife even before you arrive at your destination.

Once in the heart of Serengeti, spend your afternoon on a thrilling game drive through Seronera’s wildlife-dense plains. This region is home to abundant lions, elusive leopards, grazing giraffes, and enormous elephant herds. It also serves as the gateway to the Great Wildebeest Migration, which begins its northward march from this central hub.

Day 3 Serengeti National Park (Central Seronera to North Mara)

Start the morning with an exciting game drive in Central Serengeti, where you may encounter the Big Five and watch thousands of wildebeest and zebra on the move. The morning drive transitions into a scenic journey north toward the Mara River area in the Northern Serengeti, taking about 2–3 hours.

In the afternoon, explore the Mara River, the stage for one of nature’s most dramatic spectacles, the Great Wildebeest Migration river crossings. With luck, you’ll witness thousands of wildebeest plunging into the river while crocodiles lurk nearby. Spend the evening unwinding at your wilderness camp or lodge, surrounded by the sounds of the African bush.

Day 4 Serengeti National Park (North Mara)

Dedicate the day to tracking the awe-inspiring migration in the Northern Serengeti. Begin early with a sunrise game drive or choose to split the day into morning and afternoon sessions. This region is predator country, so sightings of lions, cheetahs, and even elusive leopards are common.

A picnic lunch by the riverbank places you in the center of the migration action, offering a front-row seat to massive herds, thundering hooves, and the tense moments before a river crossing. For a truly unforgettable experience, consider a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the migration routes, an iconic African safari highlight.

Day 5 Serengeti National Park (North Mara)

Enjoy another full day in the North Mara region, maximizing your chances to witness dramatic migration events and up-close predator-prey interactions. Your expert guide will tailor the route based on herd movements and wildlife activity to give you the best experience.

Spend time exploring lesser-traveled areas around the Mara River where elephants, buffalo, and antelope often congregate. Optional walking safaris (subject to availability) offer a more intimate way to connect with nature and learn about tracking, plants, and animal behavior from a local guide.

Day 6 North Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater to Kilimanjaro Airport

Rise early for a final game drive in North Mara, one last opportunity to witness migration drama or capture perfect sunrise shots. Then begin your return journey with a drive back to Ngorongoro Crater for a rewarding 5-hour game drive within the world’s largest unbroken caldera.

Inside the crater, you’ll encounter a rich diversity of wildlife, including endangered black rhinos, hippos at the Hippo Pool, and pink flamingos on Lake Magadi. After lunch, catch a domestic flight from Kogatende to Kilimanjaro International Airport in time for your evening return flight to South Africa. Your unforgettable Tanzanian safari adventure ends here, expertly guided by Nihapa Tours.

Tour Pricing

Number of People	Cost Per Person in US($) Budget Camping	Cost Per Person in US($) Standard
1 Person	On Request	$4,056
2 People	On Request	$2,954
3 People	On Request	$2,403
4 People	On Request	$2,292
5 + People	On Request	$2,220

Tour Accommodations

Tour Day	Budget Camping Package	Standard Package
Day 1	On Request	Ngorongoro Serena
Day 2	On Request	Tloma
Day 3	On Request	Mara Kati Kati
Day 4	On Request	Mara Kati Kati
Day 5	On Request	Mara Kati Kati

What is the Great Wildebeest Migration?

The Great Wildebeest Migration is a year-round movement of over 1.5 million wildebeest, zebras, and other animals across the Serengeti in Tanzania and the Maasai Mara in Kenya in search of fresh grazing and water.

What happens if I get sick or injured on safari?

Any health or medical emergency will be attended to. If the condition requires hospitalization, you will be evacuated to the nearest hospital immediately. Make sure you have travel and health insurance coverage. It’s highly recommended

What if I have special dietary requirements?

Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, celiac, lactose-free, or if you have any allergies, just give us a heads up and you will be catered to.

What is the maximum group size per vehicle?

The maximum group size is Six (6) guests per vehicle.

What travel documents do I need?

You will need a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond your dates of travel with an entry or re-entry visa, duly endorsed.

Who are your operators in Tanzania?

We are. We are not agents for anybody, but run the treks ourselves through our own Tanzanian company. So you can rest assured that whoever you speak to in our company has climbed Kilimanjaro – and probably many times.

Will I see wildlife?

Prior to the climb, you’ll enjoy an acclimatization day with wildlife viewing and nature walks. Trekking through the rain forest, you’re likely to spot black-and-white Colobus monkeys, tropical birds and more.

Will the safari be dusty?

Definitely! What’s the point of a safari if you don’t kick up the dust. And there will be plenty to kick in the dry months. Some of the trails on the safari route are bumpy and dusty, especially between Ngorongoro and Serengeti. So roll up the window and turn the AC on. Use sunglasses and a hat, and protect your electronic equipment from the dust storms

Will there be wildlife roaming at the camps and lodges?

Yes. Bear in mind they are wild and unpredictable. The thought restrains you from getting too adventurous on hands-on when you cross paths with a wild animal. Attacks are rare but discretion is a better part of valor. Exercise caution. Remember it’s their territory and you are the intruder.

What’s the accommodation like on the trails?

On the Marangu route, you’ll stay in huts, on the other routes you’ll camp in tents provided by Easy Travel. The Marangu huts each have dormitories, a dining-room, and a separate bathroom (flush toilets or ‘long-drop’ toilets). At the campsites, the toilets are ‘long-drop’ style and Easy Travel provides a kitchen/dining tent. If required, climbers can hire a mobile toilet on the Machame, Rongai, and Lemosho routes, at extra cost.

What do you mean by game drives?

The opportunity to explore the thriving wildlife of Tanzania in a safari vehicle by going deep into the secluded zones for an up-close and personal experience of Tanzania’s biggest and meanest

What can I expect on a typical safari day?

Depends on which park you have chosen in your itinerary. Every park has a distinct character, topography, and animals with attitude. If it’s Serengeti then enjoy the endless savannahs and Big 5. Tarangire’s offerings are a semi-arid landscape with majestic baobabs with no shortage of wildlife. Including the Big 5 in a day

Do you arrange Airport pick-up and Drop off?

All our tours to mount Kilimanjaro climbs include airport transfers. We pick you up at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or any other airport near Arusha and Kilimanjaro as per your itinerary plan and take you to your pre-climb hotel in Moshi or Arusha, then back again at the end of your itinerary. In short, we take care of your air transfers and accommodation, before and after your Mount Kilimanjaro climb.

How far in advance do I need to book a Safari?

Book your trip early. Ideally, 6 months in advance and 10-12 months in advance if you want to witness the Wildebeest migration in Serengeti.

How much does a safari cost?

Safaris are costly. Tanzania Wildlife Safaris prices depend on the number of people on the trip, how many days of safari, and the level of comfort or luxury.

What about bathrooms in the bush?

The safari trips have public bathroom facilities. In case you have to go and there isn’t one in sight. Relieving behind the vehicle is a good option. of course with the concurrence of your guide. They are sympathetic to nature calls

What about snakes and insects?

They are pretty common. Though sighting one is not a pretty thought. But on safaris atop a vehicle, they are not an issue. While on a walking safari, wear boots when venturing into bushes or woodlands. Use full trousers and long sleeve shirts to protect yourself from mosquitoes and other fly bites. In the bushes, they are a pestilence. Use insect repellent to keep them at bay

What about solar protection?

Tanzania is very near to the equator. So the sun is always at its acme for most of the day. The sun can be fierce and cause sunburns and sunstroke. Wear a hat, shades, and use SPF sunblock lotion

What about the roads on safari?

Bumpy on the safari circuits and on the game drives. If you have a back condition then take precautions with back braces, pillows, or whatever works for you.

What about tipping the safari driver guides?

Tipping for services is not obligatory, but very common in Tanzania. Your tip is highly appreciated and can make a big difference to your guide and lodge staff. Tipping is a good courtesy. Tip generously. And always keep their counsel for that optimum and safe safari experience. On safari, this is US$15-20 per person per day, handed directly to the guide at the end of your stay. Of course, you should only give a tip if you are satisfied with the quality of the service.

Am I allowed to walk around the national parks?

Stay in the vehicle unless you have clearance from the guide to walk or stretch your legs. If you are keen on hiking, there are guided walks that are available in Tarangire, Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro.

Are drinks provided in the safari vehicle?

Big yes! You can also carry your drinking water bottle in your backpack. The safari vehicles are equipped with a small refrigerator to keep the drinks of your choice chilled for you to enjoy during your safari. Beverages, beer, and soft drinks are also available