5-Day Lake Manyara, Serengeti & Ngorongoro Safari

5 Days 4 Nights

Flamingos, Migration & Big Five Adventures

This 5-day safari takes you deep into three of Tanzania's most iconic landscapes. Begin in Lake Manyara, where flamingos line the shores and forests shelter elephants and tree-climbing lions. Continue to the Serengeti, whose vast plains host predators and seasonal migration herds. End with Ngorongoro Crater, a natural amphitheater rich with wildlife and one of the best places to spot the Big Five in a single day. Balanced and immersive, this journey is ideal for travelers seeking diversity and depth in under a week.

Highlights

  • Spot flamingos and unique tree-climbing lions in Lake Manyara
  • Witness Serengeti’s endless plains and predator activity
  • Seasonal chance to see the Great Migration
  • Descend into Ngorongoro Crater, UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Guided by JoyTrekking’s expert local team with cultural knowledge

Itinerary

  • Day
    One

    Arusha to Lake Manyara National Park

    • Depart Arusha for Lake Manyara.
    • Morning game drive along the lakeshore and forest.
    • Picnic lunch.
    • Afternoon game drive along the lakeshore and forest.
    • Overnight near Lake Manyara.

  • Day
    Two

    Lake Manyara to Serengeti National Park

    • Scenic drive through the Ngorongoro Highlands en route to Serengeti.
    • Afternoon game drive in central Serengeti.
    • Dinner and overnight in Serengeti lodge/tented camp.

  • Day
    Three

    Serengeti National Park (Full Day)

    • Full day of game drives in Serengeti.
    • Early morning and late afternoon safaris for best wildlife viewing.
    • Depending on season, see wildebeest herds or predator action.
    • Overnight in Serengeti.

  • Day
    Four

    Serengeti National Park to Ngorongoro Highlands (Karatu)

    • Serengeti to Ngorongoro Highlands (Karatu)
    • Morning Serengeti game drive.
    • Picnic lunch, then travel to Karatu near Ngorongoro for overnight.

  • Day
    Five

    Ngorongoro Crater Safari to Arusha

    • Descend into Ngorongoro Crater at dawn.
    • Game drive across diverse habitats, spotting lions, elephants,
    • buffalo, and rhinos.
    • Picnic lunch at hippo pools.
    • Afternoon return to Arusha.

Cost Includes

  • Professional local safari guide
  • 4x4 safari vehicle with open roof
  • All park entry fees
  • Accommodation: 3 nights (Tarangire, Manyara, Karatu)
  • Meals: Full Board
  • Drinking water during safari
  • Airport/hotel transfers (Arusha)

Cost Excludes

  • International flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses (souvenirs, drinks beyond water)
  • Tips for guide and lodge staff
  • Optional cultural add-ons (e.g., Mto wa Mbu village tour)

Dates

FAQs

How long is the drive from Arusha to Lake Manyara?

About 2–2.5 hours.

What wildlife is Lake Manyara known for?

Flamingos, elephants, hippos, and tree-climbing lions.

How many days are spent in Serengeti?

Two nights and two full days of exploration.

When is the best time for the Great Migration?

December–July in Serengeti, though wildlife is excellent year-round.

What kind of lodges are included?

Comfortable mid-range lodges/tented camps, with upgrade options.

Can this trip be customized?

Yes, extensions and cultural visits can be added.