7-Day Ultimate Big Five Wildlife Adventure 2027, 2028 & 2029

The 7-Day Ultimate Big Five Wildlife Adventure is a private Tanzania safari designed for travelers who want extensive wildlife viewing across the country’s northern safari circuit. The itinerary combines Tarangire National Park, Lake Manyara National Park, Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater.

These protected areas provide opportunities to search for Africa’s Big Five: lion, leopard, elephant, Cape buffalo and black rhinoceros. The journey also offers chances to observe cheetahs, spotted hyenas, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, hippos, gazelles and hundreds of bird species.

Gowitos Safaris and Holidays operates the tour in a private 4×4 safari vehicle with a professional local guide. Accommodation can be arranged using comfortable mid-range lodges, luxury tented camps or premium safari properties.

Safari Overview

Safari information	Details
Duration	7 days and 6 nights
Starting point	Arusha or Moshi
Ending point	Arusha, Moshi or Kilimanjaro Airport
Safari type	Private Big Five wildlife safari
Destinations	Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Serengeti and Ngorongoro
Transport	Private 4×4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof
Accommodation	Mid-range, luxury or customized
Meals	Full board during the safari
Suitable for	Couples, families, photographers and private groups
Best travel period	Throughout the year

Highlights of the 7-Day Ultimate Big Five Wildlife Adventure

• Search for Africa’s Big Five
• See elephants among Tarangire’s baobab trees
• Explore Lake Manyara’s groundwater forest and wetlands
• Spend three nights in Serengeti National Park
• Look for lions, leopards and cheetahs
• Experience seasonal wildebeest migration activity
• Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater
• Search for the endangered black rhinoceros
• Travel with a professional private safari guide
• Enjoy flexible game drives in a private vehicle
• Stay in carefully selected safari accommodation
• Photograph Tanzania’s wildlife and landscapes

What Are the African Big Five?

The term “Big Five” originally referred to five animals considered particularly difficult to hunt on foot. Today, the name is used by wildlife travelers and photographers hoping to observe these important African species in their natural habitats.

African Lion

Lions live in Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Serengeti and Ngorongoro. They may be seen resting near rocky outcrops, watching prey from the grasslands or moving around water sources.

African Leopard

Leopards are solitary and secretive. They are sometimes observed resting in trees or moving through riverine woodland in the Serengeti.

African Elephant

Elephants are frequently encountered in Tarangire. They also inhabit Lake Manyara, Serengeti and parts of the Ngorongoro ecosystem.

Cape Buffalo

Cape buffaloes live in all four destinations included in the itinerary. They may be seen alone, in small groups or in large herds.

Black Rhinoceros

The endangered black rhinoceros is generally the most difficult member of the Big Five to find. The Ngorongoro Crater provides an important opportunity to search for this species, but sightings cannot be guaranteed.

Detailed 7-Day Big Five Safari Itinerary

Day 1: Arusha to Tarangire National Park

Your professional safari guide will collect you from your hotel in Arusha or Moshi after breakfast. Following a short briefing, you will travel to Tarangire National Park.

After completing the entrance procedures, you will begin your first game drive.

Tarangire is known for its large elephant population, ancient baobab trees, seasonal marshes and river habitats. The Tarangire River provides an important source of water during the dry season.

Possible wildlife sightings include:

• African elephants
• Lions
• Cape buffaloes
• Giraffes
• Zebras
• Wildebeest
• Impalas
• Waterbucks
• Warthogs
• Baboons

Leopards and cheetahs also live in the park, although their sightings are less predictable.

Around midday, you will stop for a picnic lunch at an authorized site. The afternoon game drive continues through productive wildlife areas before you travel to your lodge or tented camp.

Accommodation: Lodge or tented camp near Tarangire or Karatu
Meals: Lunch and dinner

Day 2: Lake Manyara National Park

After breakfast, drive to Lake Manyara National Park for a full game drive.

The park lies beneath the Great Rift Valley escarpment and contains groundwater forest, acacia woodland, grassland, wetlands and lakeshore habitats.

The forest near the entrance supports large troops of baboons and blue monkeys. Elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, impalas and hippos may also be encountered.

Lake Manyara is associated with tree-climbing lions. However, lions move naturally through the ecosystem and are not seen during every visit.

Birdlife may include:

• Pelicans
• Storks
• Herons
• Kingfishers
• Hornbills
• Eagles
• Egrets
• Flamingos

Flamingo numbers vary according to water levels, food availability and seasonal movement.

After a picnic lunch and afternoon game drive, continue to your accommodation near Karatu.

Accommodation: Lodge or tented camp in Karatu
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 3: Karatu to Serengeti National Park

After breakfast, travel through the Ngorongoro highlands toward Serengeti National Park.

The drive passes farmland, highland forest and Maasai grazing areas before reaching the open Serengeti plains.

Your guide will stop at viewpoints and wildlife sightings when appropriate. After entering the national park, you will begin an afternoon game drive.

The Central Serengeti, also known as Seronera, has permanent water sources that support wildlife throughout the year. The region is particularly suitable for searching for lions, leopards and cheetahs.

You may also see elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, wildebeest, gazelles and spotted hyenas.

Later, continue to your lodge or tented camp before sunset.

Accommodation: Lodge or tented camp in Serengeti National Park
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 4: Full-Day Serengeti Big Five Safari

Today is dedicated to exploring the Central Serengeti.

You may leave camp early to observe wildlife during the cooler morning hours. Predators are often more active before the midday temperatures rise.

Your guide will examine tracks, listen for alarm calls and use information about recent sightings to select the most productive areas.

Lions may rest near rocky kopjes, while leopards sometimes use trees along river valleys. Cheetahs often prefer open areas where they can scan the grasslands for prey.

You can return to the lodge for lunch or carry a picnic meal for a continuous full-day game drive.

The private schedule allows you to spend more time observing animal behavior and photographing preferred sightings.

An optional Hot Air Balloon Flight can be booked in advance at an additional cost.

Accommodation: Lodge or tented camp in Serengeti National Park
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 5: Serengeti Wildlife and Great Migration Search

After breakfast, continue exploring the Serengeti. The route will depend on recent wildlife activity and the season.

The Great Wildebeest Migration moves through different parts of the Serengeti–Mara ecosystem according to rainfall and fresh grazing.

Approximate seasonal locations include:

• December to March: Southern Serengeti and Ndutu
• April to June: Central and western regions
• July to October: Northern Serengeti and Mara River region
• November: Movement toward the central and southern plains

These periods are approximate. River crossings, large herd concentrations and calving events cannot be guaranteed for a specific date.

Even when the main migration herds are in another region, the Serengeti supports resident lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, buffaloes, giraffes and antelopes throughout the year.

Your guide will plan morning and afternoon game drives around the most promising locations.

Accommodation: Lodge, seasonal camp or tented camp in Serengeti National Park
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 6: Serengeti to Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Begin with an early Serengeti game drive. Morning hours provide another opportunity to search for predators and species not seen during the previous days.

After breakfast or brunch, you will begin driving toward the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

An optional visit to Olduvai Gorge can be arranged at an additional cost. This archaeological area has contributed important evidence to the study of early human history.

You may also add a respectful Maasai Village experience when sufficient time is available.

The landscape changes from the open Serengeti plains to the cooler Ngorongoro highlands. You will reach your lodge or tented camp later in the day.

Accommodation: Lodge or tented camp near Ngorongoro
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 7: Ngorongoro Crater Safari and Return to Arusha

After an early breakfast, descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for the final game drive of the 7-Day Ultimate Big Five Wildlife Adventure.

The crater floor contains open grassland, woodland, wetlands and a seasonal soda lake. Permanent water and grazing areas support a high concentration of animals.

Possible sightings include:

• Lions
• African elephants
• Cape buffaloes
• Black rhinoceroses
• Zebras
• Wildebeest
• Hippos
• Gazelles
• Warthogs
• Spotted hyenas

The crater is an important habitat for black rhinoceroses. However, they may remain far from the roads or concealed by terrain, and sightings cannot be guaranteed.

Leopards also live in the wider Ngorongoro ecosystem but are rarely seen on the open crater floor.

You will stop for a picnic lunch at an authorized location before continuing the game drive. Later, ascend the crater wall and drive back to Arusha or Moshi.

A transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport can be arranged when your flight schedule provides enough time.

Accommodation: Not included unless requested
Meals: Breakfast and lunch

Can You See All the Big Five?

The itinerary visits some of northern Tanzania’s best wildlife areas, but seeing all five species is never guaranteed.

Elephants, buffaloes and lions are often easier to locate. Leopards are secretive and may remain hidden in dense vegetation or trees. Black rhinoceroses are endangered and occur in much smaller numbers.

A seven-day itinerary improves the opportunity to find different species because it includes multiple destinations and several full game drives.

Professional guides use experience, tracks, alarm calls and recent information from other guides to search for wildlife without disturbing the animals.

Other Wildlife You May Encounter

The safari offers much more than the Big Five.

Additional animals may include:

• Cheetahs
• Spotted hyenas
• Jackals
• Servals
• Giraffes
• Zebras
• Wildebeest
• Hippos
• Warthogs
• Impalas
• Gazelles
• Waterbucks
• Bushbucks
• Baboons
• Blue monkeys
• Black-and-white colobus monkeys

All sightings depend on habitat, season, weather and natural animal movement.

Birdwatching

The destinations included in the 7-Day Ultimate Big Five Wildlife Adventure support diverse birdlife.

Possible sightings include:

• African fish eagles
• Bateleurs
• Vultures
• Secretary birds
• Kori bustards
• Grey-crowned cranes
• Hornbills
• Bee-eaters
• Kingfishers
• Storks
• Herons
• Pelicans
• Flamingos

Migratory species may be present during certain months.

Best Time for a Big Five Safari

The tour operates throughout the year.

June to October

The dry season generally provides easier wildlife viewing because vegetation is less dense and animals gather near water.

This is a popular travel period, so accommodation should be reserved early.

November to December

Short seasonal rains refresh the landscapes. Wildlife viewing remains possible, and many young animals may appear.

January to February

These months are generally warm. The Southern Serengeti and Ndutu ecosystem may host wildebeest calving activity.

March to May

The long-rain period creates green scenery and dramatic skies. Some roads may become muddy, but visitor numbers can be lower.

Is This a Private Safari?

Yes. The package can be operated privately for couples, families, solo travelers and groups.

A private safari includes:

• Your own 4×4 vehicle
• A dedicated professional guide
• Flexible game-drive timing
• Additional photography stops
• More time at preferred sightings
• Accommodation selected for your budget
• Personalized pickup and drop-off

Park schedules, conservation regulations and safe driving limits still apply.

Accommodation Options

Mid-Range Safari

Comfortable lodges or tented camps offering proper beds, private bathrooms, meals and reliable service.

Luxury Safari

Well-positioned lodges or camps with spacious rooms, enhanced service and additional comfort.

Premium Safari

Exclusive properties offering greater privacy, carefully selected locations and high service levels.

Family Accommodation

Family rooms, interconnecting rooms and child-friendly lodges can be requested.

Some camps are unfenced, allowing animals to move through the property. Guests must follow staff instructions and use an escort after dark.

What Is Included?

• Private 4×4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof
• Professional English-speaking safari guide
• Tarangire National Park entrance fees
• Lake Manyara National Park entrance fees
• Serengeti National Park entrance fees
• Ngorongoro Conservation Area fees
• Ngorongoro Crater service fee
• Six nights of selected accommodation
• Meals specified in the itinerary
• Bottled drinking water during game drives
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Game drives described in the itinerary
• Government taxes related to included services

What Is Not Included?

• International and domestic flights
• Tanzania visa
• Travel and medical insurance
• Accommodation before or after the safari
• Olduvai Gorge entrance fee
• Optional cultural visits
• Hot-air-balloon safari
• Alcoholic and soft drinks
• Tips for the safari guide and lodge staff
• Laundry services
• Personal expenses
• Services not listed under the inclusions

What to Pack

Recommended items include:

• Lightweight neutral-colored clothing
• Warm jacket or fleece
• Comfortable closed shoes
• Sun hat
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Insect repellent
• Binoculars
• Camera and spare batteries
• Extra memory cards
• Personal medication
• Light rain jacket
• Small day bag
• Reusable water bottle
• Passport and travel documents

Early mornings in Ngorongoro and Serengeti can feel cold. Carrying a warm layer is recommended.

Read our complete Safari Packing Guide before traveling.

Responsible Wildlife Viewing

Gowitos Safaris and Holidays follows responsible wildlife-viewing practices.

Guests should:

• Maintain a respectful distance from animals
• Avoid loud noises around wildlife
• Never feed wild animals
• Remain inside the vehicle unless instructed otherwise
• Avoid blocking wildlife movement
• Use authorized picnic areas
• Never leave rubbish in the parks
• Follow the guide’s instructions
• Respect national park regulations

Optional Safari Extensions

The safari can be extended with:

• Additional Serengeti nights
• Seasonal migration camps
• Mto wa Mbu Village Tour
• Lake Eyasi
• Hadzabe and Datoga experience
• Arusha National Park
• Kilimanjaro day hike
• 4 Days Mount Meru Climb
• Zanzibar Island beach holiday
• Domestic flight from Serengeti

Why Book With Gowitos Safaris and Holidays?

Gowitos Safaris and Holidays is a local Tanzania tour operator providing private safaris, migration tours, mountain trekking, cultural experiences and Zanzibar holidays.

Booking with us provides:

• Personalized safari planning
• Professional local guides
• Private safari vehicles
• Flexible accommodation options
• Honest information about wildlife sightings
• Clear package inclusions
• Responsible game-viewing practices
• Local support throughout your journey

Explore more Tanzania experiences through Gowitos Safaris and Holidays.

Frequently Asked Questions

What animals are included in the Big Five?

The African Big Five are the lion, leopard, elephant, Cape buffalo and rhinoceros.

Are Big Five sightings guaranteed?

No. The animals move freely through natural ecosystems, so no tour operator can guarantee every species.

Is seven days enough for a Big Five safari?

Yes. Seven days provide time to explore several parks and conduct multiple game drives, improving the opportunity to observe different species.

Is this a private safari?

Yes. The standard package can be operated exclusively for your group.

Can we see the Great Migration?

The Serengeti section may include migration viewing when the herds are in the selected region. Their location depends on rainfall and travel dates.

Is the safari suitable for children?

Yes. Family rooms and child-friendly arrangements can be requested. Parents must supervise children throughout the safari.

What type of vehicle is used?

The tour uses a specially equipped 4×4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof and window access for wildlife viewing.

Are all meals included?

Lunch and dinner are included on Day 1, all meals from Day 2 through Day 6, and breakfast and lunch on Day 7.

Can vegetarian meals be arranged?

Yes. Vegetarian and other dietary requirements can normally be accommodated when communicated in advance.

Can I add a hot-air-balloon safari?

Yes. A Serengeti balloon flight can be added at an additional cost and must be reserved in advance.

Can I choose luxury accommodation?

Yes. Mid-range, luxury and premium accommodation options are available.

Can I fly out of Serengeti?

Yes. A domestic flight to Arusha, Kilimanjaro or Zanzibar can be arranged, depending on the airline schedule.

Can I add Zanzibar?

Yes. A Zanzibar beach holiday can be added after the safari.

Can I book for 2027, 2028 or 2029?

Yes. Reservations are available for 2027, 2028 and 2029. Final prices depend on travel dates, group size, accommodation and applicable park fees.

Book Your 7-Day Ultimate Big Five Wildlife Adventure

Search for lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes and rhinoceroses while exploring Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Serengeti and Ngorongoro with an experienced local guide.

Gowitos Safaris and Holidays will customize the journey according to your travel dates, preferred accommodation, group size and budget.

Website: Gowitos Safaris and Holidays

WhatsApp: +255 769 100 815

Email: info@gowitossafarisandholidays.com

Contact us for availability and pricing for the 7-Day Ultimate Big Five Wildlife Adventure in 2027, 2028 or 2029.