3-Day Tanzania Safari – Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro & Tarangire

Experience the highlights of Tanzania’s Northern Safari Circuit in just three unforgettable days. This compact yet enriching safari takes you through three stunning and ecologically diverse national parks, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire. Each destination offers unique scenery and incredible wildlife encounters, making this the perfect adventure for travelers short on time but eager for a true taste of wild Africa. The itinerary is flexible and can be adjusted to suit your travel needs, preferred travel dates, and accommodation level.

Recommended travel period: Year-round

Tour Plan

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Day 1: Arusha – Lake Manyara National Park

Begin your safari adventure with a warm welcome from your expert guide in Arusha. After a short briefing, set off on a scenic drive to Lake Manyara National Park. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch at your lodge or camp, then head out for your first game drive. Nestled at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment, Lake Manyara is known for its spectacular scenery, large flocks of flamingos, and the rare sight of lions resting in trees. The park also boasts abundant elephant populations and a rich diversity of birdlife and other wildlife species, all set against a backdrop of lush groundwater forests and open plains.

Travel time: Approximately 2.5 hours
Distance: 130 km
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Accommodation based on your chosen package

Day 2: Lake Manyara – Ngorongoro Crater – Tarangire

After breakfast, journey toward the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater. Descend into the crater for a thrilling half-day game drive in this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Often described as Africa’s Eden, the Ngorongoro Crater is home to nearly every species of East African wildlife, including endangered black rhinos, large prides of lions, massive bull elephants, and a dense population of grazers such as wildebeest, zebras, and buffalo. Enjoy a picnic lunch inside the crater surrounded by breathtaking views and abundant wildlife.

In the afternoon, drive onward to Tarangire National Park, where you'll settle in for the evening and prepare for another exciting day in the wild.

Travel time: Approx. 3 hours total (1.5 hrs Ngorongoro + 1.5 hrs to Tarangire)
Distance: 120 km combined
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Accommodation based on your chosen package

Day 3: Tarangire National Park – Return to Arusha or Moshi

After breakfast, set off for a morning game drive in Tarangire National Park, a hidden gem known for its vast elephant herds and towering baobab trees. The park’s life-giving Tarangire River draws wildlife from all directions, especially during the dry season. Look out for rare species like the Greater Kudu, Fringed-eared Oryx, and the striking Ashy Starling. The variety of landscapes, from grasslands to swamps, creates the perfect setting for both predator and prey.

Following your game drive and a picnic lunch, begin your journey back to Arusha or Moshi, bringing your Tanzanian safari experience to a close. Drop-off at your hotel or airport marks the end of this incredible three-day journey.

Travel time: Approximately 3 hours
Distance: 210 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Not included (can be arranged on request)

Included
  • Park fees (For non-residents)
  • All activities(Unless labeled as optional)
  • All accommodation(Unless listed as upgrade)
  • A professional driver/guide
  • All transportation(Unless labeled as optional)
  • All Taxes/VAT
  • Meals (As specified in the day-by-day section)
  • Drinks(As specified in the day-by-day section)
Excluded
  • International flights (From/to home)
  • Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
  • Tips (Tipping guideline US$10.00 pp per day)
  • Personal items (Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
  • Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
$1350
Duration
3 days
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(If Childrens are included please mention ages on Message section below)
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