Classic Wildlife Safaris

3-Day Serengeti National Park & Ngorongoro Crater Safari

Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater

Safari in national parks: Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park

Experience the heart of Tanzania on this 3-day safari through Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park, two of Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations. Witness dramatic landscapes, from the expansive Serengeti plains to the breathtaking caldera of Ngorongoro, while encountering a rich diversity of wildlife. This safari is perfect for travelers seeking an unforgettable blend of adventure, photography, and close-up encounters with nature.

Explore the Serengeti National Park, home to the famous Great Wildebeest Migration, Big Five species, and hundreds of other animals. From golden savannahs to the iconic kopjes, every moment in the Serengeti offers unique safari experiences, whether observing lions under the sunset or enjoying a thrilling game drive in the wild.

Conclude your safari in the Ngorongoro Crater, a natural wonder teeming with wildlife in a unique volcanic caldera setting. Here, you’ll have the chance to see elephants, rhinos, lions, and zebras in one of the world’s most picturesque wildlife arenas. With professional guides and comfortable accommodation options, this short but immersive safari guarantees memories that last a lifetime.

Trip Itinerary

  • Day 1: Arusha → Serengeti National Park

    Your safari adventure begins early in the morning as your driver-guide picks you up from your hotel in Arusha. After a brief introduction and safari briefing, you start your scenic drive toward the world-famous Serengeti National Park. Along the way, you pass through the lush landscapes of the Ngorongoro Highlands, enjoying breathtaking views and the chance to spot Maasai villages scattered across the plains. You’ll descend onto the vast Serengeti plains by midday, welcomed by the sight of giraffes, zebras, elephants, and endless savannah stretching beyond the horizon.

    Upon entering the Serengeti, you proceed with an immersive game drive en route to your camp or lodge. The central Serengeti (Seronera Valley) is known for its year-round water sources, creating one of the densest concentrations of wildlife in Africa. Expect to encounter lions lounging in the grass, cheetahs scanning the plains for prey, and possibly even elusive leopards resting in acacia trees. After your exciting first day in the wilderness, you arrive at your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay under the Serengeti’s star-studded sky.

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    Recommended Properties to Stay


  • Day 2: Full-Day Game Drive in Serengeti National ParK

    After breakfast, you set off on a full-day game drive to explore the diverse ecosystems of the Serengeti. From the iconic kopjes where lions perch, to sprawling grasslands alive with gazelles and wildebeest, every corner of the park offers unforgettable wildlife encounters. Your guide will navigate to the best wildlife areas based on the season, increasing your chances of witnessing predators in action or spotting the spectacular Great Wildebeest Migration (depending on time of year).

    Throughout the day, you’ll enjoy photography stops, birdwatching opportunities, and sweeping panoramas of the Serengeti’s golden plains. A picnic lunch is served at a scenic location, allowing you to soak in the natural surroundings in complete tranquility. The afternoon continues with more wildlife viewing as the golden light of sunset transforms the plains. You return to your lodge in the evening for a hot meal and well-deserved rest after a full day of adventure.Day 2: Full-Day Game Drive in Serengeti National Park After breakfast, you set off on a full-day game drive to explore the diverse ecosystems of the Serengeti. From the iconic kopjes where lions perch, to sprawling grasslands alive with gazelles and wildebeest, every corner of the park offers unforgettable wildlife encounters. Your guide will navigate to the best wildlife areas based on the season, increasing your chances of witnessing predators in action or spotting the spectacular Great Wildebeest Migration (depending on time of year). Throughout the day, you’ll enjoy photography stops, birdwatching opportunities, and sweeping panoramas of the Serengeti’s golden plains. A picnic lunch is served at a scenic location, allowing you to soak in the natural surroundings in complete tranquility. The afternoon continues with more wildlife viewing as the golden light of sunset transforms the plains. You return to your lodge in the evening for a hot meal and well-deserved rest after a full day of adventure.

  • night

    Recommended Properties to Stay


  • Day 3: Serengeti → Ngorongoro Crater → Arusha

    After an early breakfast, you check out and begin your journey toward the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. En route, enjoy a final game drive through the Serengeti as the morning light brings the landscape to life. Upon arrival at the crater rim, you’re greeted with breathtaking views of the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera — a UNESCO World Heritage Site often referred to as the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” You then descend 600 meters into the crater for a thrilling game drive.

    The Ngorongoro Crater is home to an extraordinary density of wildlife, including elephants, lions, hyenas, buffalo, hippos, and the endangered black rhino. The crater floor also features diverse habitats such as swamps, forests, grasslands, and Lake Magadi, where flamingos and other water birds gather. After a memorable safari experience, you enjoy your picnic lunch at a designated viewpoint before ascending the crater walls and beginning your drive back to Arusha. You arrive in the late afternoon or early evening, marking the end of your unforgettable 3-day safari.

    Important Note

    Accommodation on the final day of the tour is not included in the standard package. Clients who wish to stay overnight can request arrangements in advance. Additional charges may apply depending on the chosen hotel or lodge, availability, and room type. We recommend booking early to secure preferred accommodations and ensure a smooth end to your safari experience.

What is Included

Transfers

  • All transfers as outlined in the program.

 

Accommodation & Meals

  • Accommodation in lodges and camps as described in the itinerary.
  • Meals as specified in the program.
  • Bottled water, soft drinks, hot coffee, and tea provided while on safari in the jeep.

 

Guiding & Game-Driving

  • Services of a certified and experienced English-speaking safari guide.
  • Comfortable 4×4 Land Cruisers with pop-up roofs, equipped with fridges, Wi-Fi, and power outlets.
  • All national park fees, including park entry and concession fees.
  • Free Wi-Fi availability in 60–75% of the traveled areas, depending on cellular coverage.
  • 24/7 on-call support service throughout the safari.
  • Onboard medical kit for added safety and convenience.

What is Not Included

  • International and domestic flights
  • Tanzania tourist visa
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips/gratuities for guide and lodge staff
  • Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary (balloon safari, cultural tours, etc.)
  • Alcoholic beverages at lodges/camps (unless specified)
  • Personal expenses such as laundry, souvenirs, or additional meals not listed

Important Notes

  • All tours include shared accommodation in twin or double rooms unless a different arrangement is requested and confirmed. Single-room supplements are available upon request.
  • Accommodation in Arusha and Moshi generally includes breakfast only, unless otherwise specified. Please refer to your detailed itinerary for meal plans associated with each night.
  • Most safari lodges do not include tea, coffee, soft drinks, or alcoholic beverages in their standard packages. Guests may order and pay for these directly at the lodge or camp.
  • Many tented lodges within Tanzania’s wildlife areas operate partially or fully on solar power. This may mean bucket showers, limited Wi-Fi connectivity, and the absence of amenities such as hair dryers. These eco-friendly setups are designed to reduce environmental impact while offering an authentic safari experience.
  • We strongly recommend reviewing the accommodations listed in your itinerary to ensure they meet your personal travel style and expectations.

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