7-Day Tanzania Safari: Serengeti + Ngorongoro + Tarangire
7 days in Tanzania is the right length for the northern circuit: Tarangire (1 night), Ngorongoro (1 night), Serengeti (3 nights), Arusha (1 night). Cost: $4,500–$8,000 per person mid-range.
A 7-day Tanzania safari covering the Serengeti, the Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire is the classic northern circuit itinerary. It's the right length to see the highlights without rushing, and the right shape to be efficient with the long drives.
The Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrive Kilimanjaro, transfer to Arusha
- Day 2: Drive to Tarangire (2 hours). Afternoon game drive.
- Day 3: Morning game drive in Tarangire. Drive to Ngorongoro via the highlands.
- Day 4: Morning descent into the crater. Afternoon drive to the Serengeti.
- Day 5: Full day in the Serengeti (Seronera).
- Day 6: Full day in the Serengeti.
- Day 7: Morning game drive. Fly back to Kilimanjaro.
Why This Itinerary Works
- Three distinct ecosystems: baobab savannah (Tarangire), volcanic crater (Ngorongoro), endless plains (Serengeti)
- Big Five: realistic chance in all three parks
- Migration: depending on season, the herds may be in the southern, central, or northern Serengeti
- Efficient: 7 days with only 2–3 long drives, mostly in the first half
Best Time
June–October (dry season, Migration crossings in the north). January–February (calving in the south). The Migration is only in one area at a time — your operator will advise based on your travel dates.
Cost
Mid-range private: $4,500–$7,000 per person. Upper mid: $7,000–$10,000. Luxury: $11,000–$16,000.
FAQ
Is Tarangire worth the detour?
Yes, especially in the dry season (July–October) when Tarangire has the highest density of elephants in East Africa. A 1-night stop is enough.
Related reading
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Frequently asked
What is the best time for a 7-day Tanzania safari?
August or September for the Migration river crossings. January or February for the calving in the southern Serengeti. June for fewer crowds.
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"We, a group of 5 recently retired women and two kids put our trust in the hands of Mr. John, the Safari Director. From receiving us from the airport to making sure our stay was perfect, he managed our entire travel logistics meticulously."
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United States
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India
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United Kingdom