Tanzania · Safari

4-Day Northern Tanzania Safari with Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire

4 Days Round trip from Arusha Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Discover massive elephant herds and giant baobab trees in Tarangire National Park
02 Observe tree-climbing lions and flamingos in Lake Manyara National Park
03 Explore Ngorongoro Crater for high concentrations of wildlife, including black rhinos
04 Capture stunning landscapes and wildlife photography opportunities across the Northern Circuit

Embark on a 4-day Northern Tanzania safari through Tarangire National Park, Lake Manyara National Park, and the Ngorongoro Crater. Witness massive elephant herds among giant baobab trees, look out for tree-climbing lions and flamingos at Lake Manyara, and descend into the crater for remarkable wildlife viewing, including lions, elephants, zebras, wildebeest, buffalo, and possibly the endangered black rhino. Enjoy guided game drives across diverse landscapes with excellent wildlife and photography opportunities. This private safari is ideal for nature lovers and photographers seeking Tanzania's rich wildlife, forests, and iconic savannahs.

Descend 600 metres into the crater for incredible wildlife viewing, including lions, elephants, buffalo, zebras, wildebeest, and possibly the endangered black rhino.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 4 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Arusha, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Lake Manyara, Tarangire National Park

Languages English, French

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arusha to Tarangire National Park Safari

Depart from Arusha after breakfast and drive to Tarangire National Park for a full-day game drive. The park is famous for its massive elephant herds and scenic baobab trees.
Enjoy a picnic lunch inside the park, followed by an afternoon game drive.

Overnight at a lodge near Karatu / Manyara.

Meals: Lunch and Dinner.

Day 02

Game Drive in Lake Manyara National Park

After breakfast, depart for Lake Manyara National Park. Enjoy a game drive through the lush forest and along the lake, where you may see elephants, giraffes, hippos, flamingos, and tree-climbing lions.
After lunch and an afternoon game drive, return to the lodge.

Overnight at a lodge in Karatu.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.

Day 03

Full-Day Ngorongoro Crater Tour

Enjoy an early breakfast, then drive to the Ngorongoro Crater for a full-day crater tour. Descend 600 metres into the crater for incredible wildlife viewing, including lions, elephants, buffalo, zebras, wildebeest, and possibly the endangered black rhino.
Enjoy a picnic lunch at the hippo pool.

Overnight at a lodge in Karatu.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.

Day 04

Optional Cultural Visit and Return to Arusha

After breakfast, enjoy an optional visit to a Maasai village or local market before returning to Arusha.

Meals: Breakfast.

Where this trip takes you

Tarangire National Park, giant baobab trees, Lake Manyara National Park, Ngorongoro Crater

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Arusha 4 cities · 4 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

All airport transfers (JRO - Arusha - JRO)
Accommodation as per itinerary
Meals as specified (usually breakfast, lunch, and dinner during safari)
Professional safari guide/driver
Private 4x4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof for game viewing
All park entrance fees
Crater service fees
Bottled drinking water during safari
All game drives and activities mentioned in the itinerary
Government taxes and levies

What's Not Included

International flights
Visa fees
Travel insurance
Tips for guides
Additional accommodation before or after the tour

What to bring

Hat and sunglasses - Protect yourself from the strong African sun during game drives.
Sunscreen - High SPF recommended.
Light, comfortable clothing - Neutral colours like khaki, beige, or green are best for safari.
Warm jacket or sweater - Early mornings and evenings can be cold, especially in Ngorongoro.
Comfortable walking shoes - Useful for lodge areas and short walks.
Camera or smartphone - To capture wildlife and landscapes.
Extra batteries / power bank - For long game drives.
Binoculars - Great for spotting animals from a distance.
Insect repellent - Helps protect against mosquitoes.
Personal medications - Bring any medicine you may need during the trip.
Small backpack or day bag - For carrying essentials during game drives.

Know before you go

Safari destinations - This safari visits three famous parks: Tarangire National Park, Lake Manyara National Park, and the iconic Ngorongoro Crater, each offering unique landscapes and wildlife.
Game drives - Wildlife viewing is done in a 4x4 safari vehicle with a professional driver-guide. Game drives can last several hours, but there are stops for rest and meals.
Weather - Mornings and evenings can be cool, especially around Ngorongoro, while midday can be warm. Bring both light clothing and a warm jacket.
Wildlife viewing - Animal sightings are natural and not guaranteed, but these parks are known for high concentrations of wildlife, including elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, buffalo, and many bird species.
Cash for extras - It is helpful to carry some cash (USD or Tanzanian Shillings) for tips, souvenirs, or personal expenses.
Photography - Wildlife can be very close, so a camera or smartphone with good zoom is recommended.
Travel documents - Ensure you have your passport, visa (if required), and travel insurance before arriving in Tanzania.

Logistics