Tracking Africa's Icons
Big Five Conservation Safari
A rigorous itinerary dedicated to tracking Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Rhino, and Cape Buffalo while participating in active conservation.
- Where
- Ngorongoro, Serengeti, Tarangire
- Best time
- June–October, when animals gather near water and grass is short
- Length
- 5–7 days recommended
- Ideal for
- First-time safari-goers and families
Overview
The experience
A rigorous itinerary dedicated to tracking Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Rhino, and Cape Buffalo while participating in active conservation. This isn't just about checking a list; it's about understanding the role these keystone species play in the ecosystem. You will spend time with researchers, learning about anti-poaching efforts and the intricate work of protecting the endangered Black Rhino. This is safari with a purpose.
What to expect
- Lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and black rhino
- Expert trackers and guides
- The Ngorongoro Crater for rhino
- The Serengeti for big cats
At a glance
- Where
- Ngorongoro, Serengeti, Tarangire
- Best time
- June–October, when animals gather near water and grass is short.
- Length
- 5–7 days recommended
- Ideal for
- First-time safari-goers and families
How it works
What it looks like on the ground
- Day 1-3
Rhino Sanctuary of the Crater
The Ngorongoro Crater is one of the last places on earth to see the Black Rhino in its natural habitat. We focus on finding the "Shadow of the Crater" early in the morning.
- Day 4-6
The Pride lands of Seronera
The highest concentration of large cats in the world. We track the great prides of lions and look for the "leopard in the acacia" during the heat of the day.
- Day 7-10
Wild Ruaha Giants
Head to the remote Ruaha for the massive herds of buffalo and the largest elephant population in Tanzania. A rugged, wild landscape where you truly feel the scale of the earth.
What to bring
- Binoculars
- Camera
- Neutral clothing
- Warm layer
Good to know
- Black rhino is the hardest of the five; the Ngorongoro Crater gives the best chance.
- Leopards are shy; patience in the Seronera Valley is often rewarded.
Where
Where you can do this
Read our in-depth guides to the parks where this experience happens.
Itineraries
Trips that include this experience
Balanced Circuit4-Day Classic Northern Safari
A compact but rich safari through Tanzania’s most iconic parks.
4 Days / 3 Nights · View itinerary →
Complete Safari7-Day Classic Northern Circuit
A complete safari journey through Tanzania’s most iconic northern parks.
7 Days / 6 Nights · View itinerary →
Extended Safari9-Day Grand Northern Safari
A deep and slow exploration of northern Tanzania ecosystems.
9 Days / 8 Nights · View itinerary →Add Big Five Conservation Safari to your safari
Tell us when you would like to travel and we will build it into a private itinerary.