3-Day Tanzania Safari through Tarangire, Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro

The journey

Trip highlights

• 01 Experience thrilling game drives in Tarangire National Park, renowned for its elephant herds and baobab trees
• 02 Spot tree-climbing lions and enjoy vibrant birdlife at Lake Manyara National Park
• 03 Explore the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with dense wildlife populations
• 04 Photograph wildlife along the life-giving Tarangire River year-round

Embark on this compact 3-day safari for a thrilling introduction to Tanzania's most iconic parks. From the majestic baobabs and dense wildlife of Tarangire to the vibrant birdlife and tree-climbing lions of Lake Manyara, and finally the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you will experience diverse ecosystems and unparalleled game viewing.

This natural amphitheater is a haven for wildlife, featuring dense populations of lions, black rhinos, and herds of wildebeests and zebras.

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 Yes

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

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1

Day 01

Arusha to Tarangire's Elephants and Baobabs

• After breakfast in Arusha, depart for Tarangire National Park, a two-hour drive through scenic landscapes.
• Known for its massive elephant herds and iconic baobab trees, Tarangire provides a rich tapestry of wildlife. Look out for lions, giraffes, zebras, and a variety of antelope species roaming the grassy plains. The park's life-giving Tarangire River attracts wildlife year-round, making it a photographer's haven.
• Enjoy a picnic lunch within the park before continuing your afternoon game drive.
• As the sun sets, exit the park and head to your nearby lodge or campsite for a relaxing evening under the stars.

2

Day 02

Lake Manyara's Birdlife and Tree-Climbing Lions

• Start the day with breakfast before driving to Lake Manyara National Park, renowned for its lush vegetation and alkaline lake teeming with flamingos. The park is a haven for bird enthusiasts, boasting over 400 species.
• Spot tree-climbing lions lounging on acacia branches and observe hippos wallowing in the water. The forested areas are home to troops of baboons and playful monkeys.
• Enjoy a game drive and lunch in the park, then head to your accommodation near Karatu for an overnight stay.

3

Day 03

Ngorongoro Crater Safari and Return to Arusha

• After an early breakfast, drive to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and descend into the world-famous crater.
• This natural amphitheater is a haven for wildlife, featuring dense populations of lions, black rhinos, and herds of wildebeests and zebras. Witness the interplay of predators and prey against the backdrop of the crater's stunning landscape.
• Enjoy a picnic lunch near the hippo pool before ascending the crater rim and returning to Arusha by late afternoon, concluding your safari adventure.

The route

Where you'll travel

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

• All park fees
• All taxes/VAT
• All transport by road using a 4x4 safari Land Cruiser
• All safari activities
• A professional driver-guide
• All accommodation
• Flying doctor/medical evacuation
• Meals
• Bottled drinking water

What's Not Included

• International flights (from/to home)
• Domestic flights as mentioned in the itinerary
• Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
• Tips (gratuities for the guide or hotel staff)
• Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
• Government-imposed increases in taxes and/or park fees
• Any other element not mentioned in the inclusions

What to bring

1. Passport and visa
2. Vaccination certificates (e.g. yellow fever)
3. Travel insurance
4. Lightweight, breathable clothing
5. Sturdy hiking boots
6. Sunscreen and sunglasses
7. Insect repellent
8. Binoculars for wildlife viewing
9. Personal first-aid kit
10. Power bank and adapters

Know before you go

1. Best Time to Visit: The dry season (June to October) is ideal for wildlife viewing, especially the Great Migration in the Serengeti. However, the green season (November to May) offers fewer crowds, lush scenery, and lower prices.
2. Health Precautions: Vaccinations for yellow fever, hepatitis, and typhoid are often recommended. Malaria is also present in Tanzania, so consider anti-malaria medication and bring insect repellent.
3. Visa Requirements: Most travelers need a visa to enter Tanzania, which can be obtained online (e-visa) or upon arrival at the airport.
4. Packing Essentials: Pack neutral-colored clothing (like khaki and green), comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, binoculars, a camera with a zoom lens, and a reusable water bottle.
5. Respect for Wildlife: Always stay inside your vehicle unless instructed otherwise, and follow your guide's directions to maintain a safe distance from animals.
6. Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended to cover medical emergencies, evacuations, and trip cancellations.
7. Tipping Practices: Tipping is customary in Tanzania; typical tips include around $10-$20 per day for safari guides and $5-$10 for hotel staff and drivers.
8. Currency: The local currency is the Tanzanian Shilling, but U.S. dollars are widely accepted. Bring small bills, as large denominations may not be accepted in rural areas.
9. Language and Culture: Swahili and English are widely spoken. Learning a few basic Swahili words can be helpful and appreciated by locals.
10. Environmental Responsibility: Many safari areas are ecologically sensitive. Dispose of waste properly, avoid single-use plastics, and respect conservation rules to protect Tanzania's natural beauty.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point

Arusha, Tanzania

Tour start

Arusha, Tanzania

Tour ends at the same location as the start point.