Tanzania · Safari

3-Day Tanzania Northern Circuit Safari with Ngorongoro Crater

3 Days Round trip from Arusha Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Witness large elephant herds in Tarangire National Park
  • 02 Explore Ngorongoro Crater and observe diverse wildlife in one location
  • 03 Discover Lake Manyara's tree-climbing lions and vibrant birdlife
  • 04 Enjoy scenic landscapes from savannah plains to forest and soda lakes

Explore Tanzania's Northern Circuit on a three-day safari through Tarangire National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, and Lake Manyara. Witness large elephant herds, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes ranging from savannah to forest and soda lakes. Enjoy thrilling game drives with high chances of animal sightings and discover unique features such as tree-climbing lions and flamingos. This short yet rewarding safari offers an unforgettable wildlife experience with stunning scenery and expert guided exploration across Tanzania's most iconic destinations.

Witness large elephant herds, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes ranging from savannah to forest and soda lakes.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 3 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, German, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Arusha to Tarangire National Park Safari

  • Get picked up from your hotel in Arusha and begin a scenic drive to Tarangire National Park.
  • Enter the park and explore vast savannah landscapes with iconic baobab trees.
  • Observe large herds of elephants gathering near the Tarangire River.
  • Spot wildlife such as buffalo, giraffes, impalas, waterbucks, and diverse birdlife.
  • Visit the wildlife-rich Silale Swamp during your game drive.
  • Continue to the Karatu Highlands and relax at your lodge for an overnight stay.

Landmark: Tarangire National Park
Accommodation: Farm of Dreams Lodge

2
Day 02

Full-Day Ngorongoro Crater Game Drive

  • Depart after breakfast for the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
  • Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a full-day game drive.
  • Explore diverse landscapes including plains, woodlands, and lakes.
  • Spot wildlife such as black rhino, lions, elephants, buffalo, hyenas, zebra, and wildebeest.
  • Enjoy a scenic picnic lunch on the crater floor.
  • Ascend the crater in the afternoon and return to your lodge.

Landmark: Ngorongoro Crater
Accommodation: Farm of Dreams Lodge

3
Day 03

Lake Manyara National Park Safari and Return to Arusha

  • Have breakfast at the lodge before departing for Lake Manyara National Park.
  • Explore the park's diverse habitats, including forest, plains, and lakeshore.
  • Look for tree-climbing lions and flocks of flamingos along the lake.
  • Observe wildlife such as blue monkeys, buffalo, wildebeest, and zebra.
  • Enjoy a morning game drive through the scenic landscape.
  • Return to Arusha and get dropped off at your hotel or airport.

Landmark: Lake Manyara National Park
Accommodation: Not included

Tarangire National Park, Silale Swamp, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara National Park

Where this trip takes you

Tarangire National Park, Silale Swamp, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara National Park

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Arusha 4 cities · 3 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Park fees (for non-residents)
  • All activities (unless labeled as optional)
  • All accommodation (unless listed as an upgrade)
  • A professional driver/guide
  • All transportation (unless labeled as optional)
  • All taxes/VAT
  • Round-trip airport transfer
  • Meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)
  • Drinks (as specified in the day-by-day section)

What's Not Included

  • International flights (from/to home)
  • Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
  • Tips (tipping guideline: US$10.00 per person per day)
  • Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
  • Government-imposed increases in taxes and/or park fees

What to bring

  • Lightweight, comfortable clothing (neutral colors like khaki, beige, and green)
  • Warm layer or jacket (early mornings and evenings can be chilly)
  • Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers
  • Hat or cap for sun protection
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen (high SPF)
  • Insect repellent
  • Camera or smartphone with extra batteries or a power bank
  • Binoculars, if possible, for better wildlife viewing
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Small backpack or daypack
  • Travel documents (passport, insurance, and booking details)
  • Cash for tips and personal expenses

Know before you go

  • This safari starts and ends in Arusha, with hotel pick-up and drop-off included.
  • Departure is early in the morning (around 7:00-8:00 AM) to maximize wildlife viewing.
  • The safari is conducted in a 4x4 vehicle with a professional driver-guide.
  • Park entry fees, meals, and accommodation are included, as per the itinerary.
  • Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed, but the chances are very high.
  • The best time for this safari is year-round, with peak wildlife viewing from June to October.
  • Early mornings and evenings can be cold, especially in Ngorongoro, so bring warm clothing.
  • Roads inside the parks can be bumpy, and the safari involves long driving hours.
  • Bring cash for tips, drinks, and personal expenses (USD or EURO).
  • Travel insurance is highly recommended.
  • A valid passport is required.
  • This safari is suitable for most travelers, but it is not recommended for those with serious back problems.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Arusha, 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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USD 2,100 /person
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