11 of the Best Big Five Safaris in Tanzania – Affordable Wildlife Adventures

April 25, 2025
ABS, Africa travel

Looking for the ultimate Big Five safari in Tanzania? With legendary destinations like the Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti National Park, few places on Earth offer such an incredible chance to see all Big 5 animals in one unforgettable adventure.

While Kenya often shares the spotlight, Tanzania arguably delivers the best all-around experience for an African safari tour, offering rich wildlife encounters and excellent value for money. Let’s explore why Tanzania is considered a top-tier Big Five safari destination and highlight the 11 best Big 5 safari itineraries to consider in 2025 and beyond.

11 Of The Best Big Five Safaris in Tanzania: Affordable African Safari Tours

Why Choose Tanzania for a Big Five Safari?

Tanzania’s Northern Safari Circuit is a hotspot for spotting all members of the Big Five: lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffaloes. These parks are located close to one another, reducing travel time and costs, which helps maximize your time in the wild. It’s an ideal destination for both photographers and wildlife enthusiasts.

From classic savannahs to volcanic calderas, Tanzania’s ecosystems are as diverse as its animal population. Whether you opt for a luxury lodge, tented camp, or budget safari, there’s a perfect trip for everyone.

Top Budget-Friendly Big Five Safari Tours in Tanzania

Here are 11 handpicked Big Five Tanzania safari packages that take you through iconic national parks like the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, and Lake Manyara:

4-Day Private Tanzania Safari – Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire National Park (Tented Lodges)
4-Day Fly-In Serengeti Safari – Serengeti National Park (Luxury Camping)
4-Day Budget Safari – Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Lake Manyara (Standard Camping)
5-Day Tanzania Safari – Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire (Hotel / Safari Lodge)
6-Day Northern Circuit Safari – Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Tarangire (Lodges / Luxury Camping)
7-Day Deluxe Lodge Safari – Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Lake Manyara
7-Day Big Five Tanzania Safari – Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Tarangire (Tented Lodges)
7-Day Best of Tanzania Safari – Includes Lake Manyara (Luxury Camping and Lodges)
7-Day Tanzania Camping Safari – Standard Camping across major Big Five parks
8-Day Tanzania Wildlife Safari – Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, Lake Manyara
10-Day Northern Tanzania Private Safari – Covers all major parks in style (Luxury Camping)

All tours typically start and end in Arusha, the safari hub of northern Tanzania, and feature small group sizes (6–7 guests max), guided by experts in 4×4 safari vehicles.

Top National Parks for Big Five Sightings in Tanzania

Ngorongoro Crater – The Best Place to See the Big Five in Tanzania

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area offers unparalleled wildlife density. It’s one of the only places in Africa where you can see all five of the Big Five animals in a single day.

Lions: Ngorongoro boasts the highest density of lions in Africa.
Rhinos: It’s your best chance in Tanzania to see the endangered black rhinoceros.
Buffaloes: Common and easily spotted on crater floor drives.
Elephants: Mostly older bull elephants with impressive tusks.
Leopards: Elusive but present—sightings require a bit of luck.

Learn more: Best Time to Visit Ngorongoro Crater

Serengeti National Park – A Classic Big Five Safari Destination

The Serengeti is legendary, not only for the Great Migration but also for consistent Big Five sightings year-round.

Lions: The park holds Africa’s largest lion population.
Rhinos: Sightings are rare but possible, especially in central Serengeti.
Buffaloes: Huge herds are common and easy to find.
Elephants: Seen regularly, especially in the northern corridor.
Leopards: Best spotted in the central Seronera Valley.

Plan ahead: Best Time to Visit Serengeti National Park

Lake Manyara National Park – Big Four Safari Experience

While Lake Manyara lacks rhinos, it’s still an exciting destination with four of the Big Five:

Lions: Famous for tree-climbing lions.
Elephants: Frequently spotted near the forested edges.
Buffaloes: Common sightings in open plains.
Leopards: Rare but occasionally seen.

Despite being a smaller park, its variety of ecosystems makes it worth a visit.

Big Five in Southern Tanzania

The Southern Safari Circuit offers a wilder, less crowded alternative but is less reliable for Big Five sightings. The best option here is Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve), where lion and buffalo are common, and elephants are occasionally seen. However, leopards are elusive, and rhinos are almost nonexistent.

For off-the-beaten-track safaris that prioritize solitude and pristine wilderness, southern parks are excellent—but don’t expect guaranteed Big Five sightings.

Bonus: Combine Your Big Five Safari with a Zanzibar Beach Holiday

For the ultimate bush and beach combo, consider this top pick:

10-Day Zanzibar & Tanzania Safari – Includes Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and beach time on Zanzibar Island.

This itinerary blends thrilling game drives with tropical island relaxation—perfect for honeymooners or first-time safari travelers looking for variety.

See the Great Migration During Your Big Five Safari

With smart timing, you can combine your Big Five safari in Tanzania with the awe-inspiring Great Migration. Witness over two million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles cross the plains in one of Earth’s last epic migrations.

Best time to see the migration: Late June to August (river crossings)
Calving season: January to March (southern Serengeti)

Plan Your Big Five Safari in Tanzania Today

From dense lion populations in the Ngorongoro Crater to epic elephant sightings in the Serengeti, Tanzania is without doubt one of the best places for a Big Five safari in Africa. Whether you’re on a budget or planning a luxury escape, there’s a perfect itinerary waiting for you.

Ready to start planning? Our team at Gorilla Uganda Safaris offers customized tours, expert advice, and flexible travel packages to help you experience the Big Five—and so much more.

Contact us today to start designing your ideal Tanzania safari.

Top National Parks for Tanzania Big Five Safaris

Tanzania is one of the top destinations for wildlife lovers seeking to witness the Big Five in their natural habitat. The Big Five — lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros — are the stars of Africa’s safari circuit, and Tanzania offers incredible opportunities to spot them, all while offering options to suit various budgets. Whether you’re a first-time safari-goer or a seasoned traveler, there’s something magical about encountering these magnificent animals in the wild.

Here are 11 of the best Big Five safaris in Tanzania that offer incredible wildlife encounters at affordable prices.

1. Serengeti National Park – A Classic Big Five Safari

The Serengeti is world-renowned for its vast savannahs and abundant wildlife. As the site of the annual Great Migration, it’s a prime destination to spot the Big Five year-round. While the Serengeti’s popularity can make it seem expensive, budget options such as group tours, mid-range lodges, and mobile camping safaris allow you to experience this iconic park at a more affordable price.

Best time to visit: June to October (dry season)

Why it’s great: Year-round game viewing, incredible landscapes, and the chance to see the Great Migration alongside the Big Five.

2. Ngorongoro Crater – The “Garden of Eden”

The Ngorongoro Crater is a unique and stunning destination for a Big Five safari. The crater floor is home to a permanent population of wildlife, including a high density of elephants, buffalo, and rhinos. While safari tours in this UNESCO World Heritage site can be more expensive due to park fees, there are budget-friendly lodge options on the crater rim and in nearby areas like Karatu.

Best time to visit: Year-round

Why it’s great: The Ngorongoro Crater is one of the best places in Africa to see all five of the Big Five in a single day. It’s also famous for its breathtaking landscape.

3. Tarangire National Park – Elephant Paradise

Tarangire National Park is often overshadowed by the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, but it’s an affordable hidden gem for Big Five safaris. Known for its large elephant herds, Tarangire also boasts plenty of lions, buffalo, leopards, and a variety of other wildlife species. It’s more budget-friendly than the other top parks and offers an authentic, off-the-beaten-path safari experience.

Best time to visit: June to September (dry season)

Why it’s great: Great for elephant sightings, fewer crowds, and more affordable options compared to the Serengeti or Ngorongoro Crater.

4. Selous Game Reserve – A Less Crowded Big Five Safari

Selous Game Reserve, now known as Nyerere National Park, is one of the largest game reserves in Africa and offers a more secluded and affordable safari experience. Selous is less crowded than the Serengeti and Ngorongoro, providing a more intimate experience with wildlife. Visitors can enjoy game drives, boat safaris, and walking safaris, all with excellent Big Five opportunities.

Best time to visit: June to October (dry season)

Why it’s great: Affordable safari packages, a chance to experience wildlife from different perspectives (boat, walking, game drive), and fewer tourists.

5. Ruinsori National Park – Off-the-Beaten-Track Adventure

For a more off-the-beaten-track Big Five safari, head to Ruinsori National Park. Located near the border of Tanzania and Uganda, this park offers incredible wildlife sightings, including the Big Five. While it’s less known for Big Five sightings compared to Serengeti or Ngorongoro, it’s a beautiful alternative for wildlife seekers who enjoy exploring remote and rugged terrains.

Best time to visit: June to October

Why it’s great: Solitude and serenity of a less-explored destination combined with great wildlife encounters.

6. Lake Manyara National Park – Affordable Wildlife Experience

Lake Manyara National Park is famous for its unique tree-climbing lions and diverse ecosystems. While smaller than some other parks, it still offers great opportunities to see all of the Big Five, especially elephants and buffalo. Its location on the way to the Serengeti and Ngorongoro makes it a great addition to a budget safari itinerary.

Best time to visit: June to October (dry season)

Why it’s great: A variety of wildlife experiences, tree-climbing lions, and close proximity to other safari destinations.

7. Mikumi National Park – Tanzania’s Hidden Gem

Mikumi National Park is often overlooked by tourists heading to the Serengeti or Ngorongoro, but it offers fantastic wildlife viewing, including the Big Five. It’s much more affordable and less crowded, making it a great destination for budget travelers. The park is known for its stunning landscapes and diverse animal population, including lions, elephants, giraffes, and buffalo.

Best time to visit: June to October (dry season)

Why it’s great: An affordable alternative to more well-known parks, excellent Big Five sightings, and fewer crowds.

8. Katavi National Park – Remote Wilderness Safari

For an adventurous, remote safari experience, Katavi National Park in western Tanzania is an excellent option. It’s one of the country’s most pristine parks, offering the chance to see the Big Five in a truly wild, untouched environment. With limited access, it’s perfect for travelers looking for an exclusive and affordable safari.

Best time to visit: June to October (dry season)

Why it’s great: Remote wilderness, excellent wildlife viewing, and an affordable alternative to the more commercialized parks.

9. Saadani National Park – Beach and Safari Combo

Saadani National Park offers a unique blend of beach and safari experiences. Located on the Indian Ocean, Saadani is the only park in Tanzania that borders the coast. It’s an affordable option for travelers looking to combine wildlife viewing with a beach getaway, and it’s home to elephants, lions, buffalo, and leopards.

Best time to visit: June to October (dry season)

Why it’s great: A unique combination of beach and safari, affordable packages, and good wildlife sightings in a lesser-known park.

10. Ruinsori National Park – Remote Safari Adventure

If you’re seeking something off the beaten path, the Ruinsori National Park is a remote gem where Big Five animals are rarely seen. However, it offers an intimate experience for those keen to venture into a less visited part of Tanzania. The dense wilderness and diverse ecosystems make it an appealing option for adventurous travelers.

Best time to visit: June to October

Why it’s great: A lesser-known, tranquil experience for those seeking a deeper connection with nature.

11. Serengeti Plains – Budget-Friendly Safari Packages

For those on a budget, Serengeti Plains offers a range of budget-friendly packages including camping safaris, shared group tours, and affordable lodge options. While Serengeti is traditionally expensive, these budget packages still offer incredible chances to see the Big Five in action, especially during migration season.

Best time to visit: June to October (dry season)

Why it’s great: Affordable safaris in the world’s most famous park, with a high likelihood of seeing the Big Five.

Conclusion

Tanzania offers an array of Big Five safari options to suit every budget, from the world-renowned Serengeti to off-the-beaten-path gems like Selous and Katavi. Whether you’re a luxury traveler or on a tight budget, the wildlife adventures in Tanzania are unmatched. Book your next affordable Big Five safari in Tanzania and immerse yourself in the adventure of a lifetime!