3-Day Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater Safari with Big Five Game Drives

3 Days Round trip from Arusha Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Witness extraordinary wildlife encounters across Serengeti and Ngorongoro
  • 02 Explore the vast Serengeti plains renowned for predators and migration
  • 03 Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for exceptional Big Five sightings
  • 04 Enjoy expertly guided game drives across Tanzania's northern safari circuit

Experience a captivating 3-day safari through Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater, exploring vast plains, witnessing diverse wildlife, and enjoying exceptional game drives. Discover iconic predators, admire sweeping landscapes, and descend into one of the world's most remarkable natural sanctuaries. Follow expert guidance as you search for the Big Five, observe vibrant birdlife, and immerse yourself in Tanzania's celebrated northern circuit, perfect for travellers seeking unforgettable wildlife encounters.

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 3 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Easy
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Wheelchair access Not applicable
Cities Arusha, Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Languages English, French, German, Italian, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Arusha to Serengeti Across the Great Rift Valley

  • Depart from Arusha early in the morning and enjoy a scenic drive across the Great Rift Valley and Ngorongoro Highlands en route to Serengeti National Park.
  • Enjoy a game drive upon entering the park, with opportunities to spot lions, leopards, elephants, giraffes, and abundant plains wildlife.
  • Have a picnic lunch on the way before continuing with an afternoon game drive across the vast Serengeti plains.
  • Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at a lodge or tented camp in Serengeti.
2
Day 02

Full-Day Wildlife Safari in Serengeti National Park

  • Begin the day with breakfast before embarking on a full-day game drive across the world-renowned Serengeti National Park.
  • Explore the endless plains while tracking predators such as lions, leopards, and cheetahs with the guidance of an expert safari guide.
  • Observe large herds of wildebeests, zebras, elephants, and giraffes alongside diverse bird species scattered across the savannah.
  • Return to your lodge or tented camp in the evening for dinner and an overnight stay surrounded by the sounds of the wilderness.
3
Day 03

Ngorongoro Crater Game Drive and Return to Arusha

  • Depart early from Serengeti after breakfast and drive towards the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Descend 600 metres into the crater for a full-day game drive in one of Africa's most remarkable wildlife sanctuaries.
  • Spot the Big Five, including lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and the endangered black rhino, along with zebras, wildebeests, hippos, and flamingos.
  • Enjoy a picnic lunch near the hippo pool before continuing your exploration, then ascend the crater wall for your return drive to Arusha.

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Arusha 3 cities · 3 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Transfer to and from the airport
  • Transport during safari with a driver-guide
  • Crater service fees
  • Full-board accommodation during the safari
  • Park fees during safari
  • Drinking water - 2 litres per person per day
  • Free Wi-Fi during safari

What's Not Included

  • Visa upon arrival
  • International flight tickets
  • Any items of a personal nature
  • Tips for a driver-guide
  • Balloon safari

What to bring

  • Light, comfortable clothing in neutral colours
  • Warm jacket for early mornings and evenings
  • Comfortable shoes
  • Sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
  • Insect repellent
  • Personal toiletries and medications
  • Passport or ID
  • Camera or phone, power bank, charging cables
  • Binoculars recommended
  • Small daypack and reusable water bottle
  • Snacks optional

Know before you go

  • Early starts for game drives, so expect early wake-up times.
  • Long driving hours through scenic routes in Serengeti and Ngorongoro, so bring comfort items.
  • Weather changes with colder conditions in Ngorongoro and warmer conditions in Serengeti, so pack layers.
  • Wildlife is wild, so sightings are not guaranteed, although chances for the Big Five are excellent.
  • Road conditions can be bumpy and dusty, so wear comfortable clothes.
  • Limited mobile network inside the parks.
  • Electricity may be limited, as some lodges use generators.
  • Carry some cash in small bills for tips or souvenirs.
  • Follow guide instructions at all times for safety.
  • Park rules prohibit off-road driving, feeding animals, and making loud noises during game drives.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Kilimanjaro International Airport, Kilimanjaro Airport Road, Tanzania
Tour start
Arusha, Tanzania
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 3 days finish where they began, in Arusha.

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Starting from

USD 1,860 /person
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Estimated room rates

Single Room $2,570.00 — $3,084.00
Double Sharing $1,860.00 — $2,154.00

When

Travellers

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