Classic Wildlife Safaris

3-Day Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater & Lake Manyara Safari

Tarangire National Park, Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Manyara

Safari in national parks: Tarangire National Park, Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Manyara

This 3-day safari offers the perfect blend of Tanzania’s most diverse and wildlife-rich destinations—Tarangire National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, and Lake Manyara National Park. Designed for travelers seeking a short but immersive wildlife adventure, this itinerary brings you close to some of Africa’s most iconic animals and landscapes. Each day unveils a new ecosystem, from baobab-studded savannahs to lush forests, soda lakes, and crater plains bursting with life.

You begin in Tarangire National Park, known for its vast elephant herds and dramatic scenery framed by towering baobab trees. The journey continues to the Ngorongoro Crater, the world’s largest unbroken caldera and home to a stunning density of wildlife, including black rhinos, lions, hippos, and massive buffalo herds. Your final day unfolds in Lake Manyara National Park, a magical haven famous for its tree-climbing lions, flocks of flamingos, and beautiful groundwater forests.

With expert guides, comfortable accommodations, and seamless logistics, this safari is ideal for families, couples, groups, and solo travelers seeking an authentic and unforgettable experience of Tanzania’s natural wonders.

Trip Itinerary

  • Day 1: Arusha → Tarangire National Park → Karatu

    Your safari begins with an early morning departure from Arusha, heading toward Tarangire National Park—known as the “Home of the Elephants.” As you enter the park, you’ll immediately notice the towering baobabs scattered across the landscape, creating one of Tanzania’s most visually striking environments. Your game drive takes you through river valleys, marshlands, and open plains where elephants, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, and antelopes roam freely.

    In the afternoon, you’ll explore deeper into Tarangire as predators like lions and leopards become more active. The Tarangire River attracts thousands of animals during the dry season, offering incredible photographic opportunities and unforgettable wildlife encounters. Later, you will drive to the cool highlands of Karatu for dinner and overnight at your lodge.

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    Recommended Properties to Stay


  • Day 2: Ngorongoro Crater → Karatu

    After an early breakfast, you will head toward the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and descend 600 meters into the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater. The drive along the rim offers breathtaking views of the lush crater floor, shimmering lakes, and dense forests below. Once inside, you enter a wildlife sanctuary unlike any other—home to more than 25,000 animals living within the caldera walls.

    Your full-day game drive takes you across open grasslands where lions bask in the sun, hippos wallow in the wetlands, and buffalo graze in large herds. This is one of the best places in Tanzania to see the endangered black rhino. Enjoy a picnic lunch at the hippo pool viewpoint before continuing your exploration of the crater’s diverse habitats. In the late afternoon, you’ll return to Karatu for another relaxing evening.

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    Recommended Properties to Stay


  • Day 3: Lake Manyara National Park → Arusha

    On your final day, you’ll make your way to Lake Manyara National Park, a lush and scenic paradise located at the base of the Great Rift Valley. The park’s diverse habitats include groundwater forests, acacia woodlands, and the sparkling soda lake that attracts thousands of flamingos. Your game drive reveals abundant wildlife such as elephants, giraffes, zebras, hippos, and—if you’re lucky—the park’s famous tree-climbing lions.

    As you explore further, keep an eye out for colorful birdlife, including pelicans, storks, and hornbills, making Lake Manyara a favorite among birdwatchers. After a rewarding morning of exploration, you’ll enjoy a final game-viewing session before driving back to Arusha, where your 3-day adventure concludes.

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

 

Guiding & Game Drives

  • Services of a certified and experienced English-speaking safari guide.
  • Comfortable 4×4 Land Cruiser with pop-up roof, equipped with fridge, Wi-Fi, and power outlets.
  • All national park fees, including park entry and crater service fees.
  • Free Wi-Fi availability in 60–75% of the traveled areas (depending on wilderness cell coverage).
    24/7 phone support throughout your safari.
  • Binoculars (1 per vehicle) for enhanced wildlife viewing.
  • Onboard medical kit for added safety.

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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