A 5-day Tanzania safari costs roughly $900–$1,500 per person on a budget, $1,500–$2,750 mid-range and $3,000–$6,000+ luxury. See a typical 5-day route, what is included and what affects the price.
A five-day Tanzania safari is one of the most popular choices for travellers: long enough to see the Serengeti, Tarangire and the Ngorongoro Crater, and short enough to fit into a holiday. Here is what it typically costs in 2027, what drives the price, and what a good five-day package should include.
Quick answer: how much does a 5-day Tanzania safari cost?
As an indicative 2027 guide, a five-day safari in northern Tanzania costs roughly $900–$1,500 per person on a budget camping safari, $1,500–$2,750 per person with mid-range lodges, and $3,000–$6,000+ per person with luxury lodges and tented camps. The final price depends on the season, group size, accommodation and whether you drive or fly between parks. International flights are not included.
Estimated 5-day safari prices per person
| Safari style | Estimated price per person (5 days) | Where you sleep |
|---|---|---|
| Budget camping | $900–$1,500 | Organised campsites |
| Mid-range | $1,500–$2,750 | Comfortable lodges with private bathrooms |
| Luxury | $3,000–$6,000+ | Premium lodges and tented camps |
These are planning estimates, not confirmed quotations. For two people sharing, multiply by two: roughly $1,800–$3,000 on a budget safari, $3,000–$5,500 mid-range, or $6,000 and above for luxury.
A typical 5-day safari route
Most five-day safaris start and end in Arusha and follow the northern circuit:
- Day 1: Tarangire National Park. Ancient baobab trees, large elephant herds and diverse wildlife.
- Day 2: Journey to the Serengeti. Scenic drive through the Ngorongoro highlands with game viewing on the way.
- Day 3: Serengeti National Park. A full day on the plains in search of lions, elephants, giraffes and cheetahs.
- Day 4: Towards the Ngorongoro highlands. A morning game drive, then an overnight stay near the crater rim.
- Day 5: Ngorongoro Crater. A game drive on the crater floor, looking for buffalo, zebras, hippos and, with luck, the endangered black rhino, then back to Arusha.
The exact route and overnight stops depend on accommodation availability, the season and your interests.
What affects the price of a 5-day safari?
- Accommodation: the biggest factor. Five nights in luxury camps cost several times more than campsites.
- Season: the dry season (roughly June to October) and holiday periods bring higher rates and earlier sell-outs; quieter months can be cheaper.
- Group size: vehicle and guide costs are shared, so the price per person drops as more people travel together.
- Private or shared: a private safari for two costs more per person than a shared group safari, but gives you full control of the day.
- Driving or flying: a light-aircraft flight into the Serengeti saves hours on the road but adds to the price.
For a full breakdown of safari costs for every trip length, see our complete guide to Tanzania safari prices.
What is included in a 5-day safari price?
A well-organised five-day package usually includes:
- A professional English-speaking safari guide and a 4×4 safari vehicle
- National park and conservation fees
- Accommodation for four nights and meals as listed in the itinerary
- Game drives in each park and bottled drinking water
- Transfers between the parks on the programme
International flights, visas, travel insurance, tips, alcoholic drinks and personal expenses are usually extra. Always compare what each quotation covers, as a lower price may leave out park fees or transfers.
Is 5 days enough for a Tanzania safari?
Yes, for most first-time visitors. Five days lets you visit three of the best parks in northern Tanzania without rushing. Three or four days works for Tarangire and the Ngorongoro Crater only, while six or seven days gives more time in the Serengeti or for following the Great Migration.
Our 5-day safaris
Each page shows the day-by-day plan, what is included and the current starting price:
- 5-Day Tarangire, Serengeti & Ngorongoro (mid-range, with Lake Manyara)
- 5-Day Tarangire, Serengeti & Ngorongoro Safari (luxury)
- 5-Day Ndutu & Serengeti calving season safari
Request your 5-day safari quote
Tell us your travel dates, number of travellers, approximate budget and preferred accommodation, and our team in Arusha will send you a personalised quotation. You can plan your trip online, email kilihikeadventure@gmail.com or WhatsApp +255 762 584 747.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a 5-day Tanzania safari cost for two people?
Roughly $1,800–$3,000 for two on a budget camping safari, $3,000–$5,500 mid-range, or $6,000 and above for a luxury safari. Actual quotations depend on the season, accommodation and inclusions.
What is the cheapest time for a 5-day safari?
Some lodges offer lower rates in quieter periods, especially parts of the rainy season. Weather, road conditions and where the wildlife is should be weighed alongside price.
Is a private 5-day safari more expensive?
For couples and solo travellers, usually yes, because fewer people share the vehicle and guide. For larger groups, the difference per person is smaller.
Can I combine a 5-day safari with Zanzibar?
Yes. Many travellers add a few days on Zanzibar after their safari, with a short domestic flight from Arusha or the Serengeti.
When should I book a 5-day safari for 2027?
Several months ahead, especially for the dry season, the Great Migration and popular lodges. Booking early gives you more choice of accommodation.
