Tanzania · Safari

3-Day Tanzania Safari through Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater

3 Days Round trip from Ngorongoro Crater Easy pace

Spot the majestic tree climbing leopards

Marvel at animal sightings during sunset

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Explore the vast savannahs of the Serengeti, home to the Big Five and the seasonal Great Migration
02 Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, one of the best places to spot the black rhinoceros
03 Camp under the stars in authentic safari settings at Nyani and Simba campsites
04 Look for predators such as lions, leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas across Tanzania's wildlife havens
05 Enjoy birdwatching opportunities with ostriches, vultures, and seasonal flamingos

Embark on a 3-day safari adventure through Tanzania's breathtaking wilderness, exploring the vast savannahs of the Serengeti and the remarkable ecosystem of the Ngorongoro Crater. Discover iconic wildlife, including the Big Five, with opportunities to witness the Great Migration in season and spot rare species such as the black rhinoceros. From predator-rich plains and the Seronera River to the crater's grasslands, swamps, and forests, this journey combines diverse landscapes with unforgettable wildlife encounters. Overnight camping adds an authentic safari touch under Tanzania's star-filled skies.

This unique ecosystem supports a rich array of wildlife, including the Big Five, and is one of the best places to see black rhinoceroses.

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, Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Languages English, French, German

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Into the Serengeti's Vast Savannahs

Your safari adventure begins with a pick-up from your hotel in Arusha.
You'll travel to the Serengeti, a vast expanse of savannahs covering approximately 14,750 square kilometres (5,700 square miles).
Renowned for its incredible wildlife diversity, the Serengeti is home to the Big Five-lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros-as well as cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests.
The park is particularly famous for the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeests and zebras migrate in search of fresh grazing lands.
During your visit, you may also spot hippos and various antelope species in the Seronera River.
You'll enjoy a picnic lunch at a scenic spot within the Serengeti before heading to the Nyani Public Campsite, or a similar location, for your overnight stay. The campsite provides a classic safari experience, with an opportunity to enjoy dinner under the stars.

Day 02

Game Drive Through Eastern Serengeti to Ngorongoro

After breakfast at the campsite, you'll embark on a game drive through the eastern Serengeti.
This area is characterized by open plains dotted with acacia trees and is known for high concentrations of predators like lions and cheetahs. Look out for large herds of giraffes, elephants, and gazelles.
A picnic lunch will be served in the Serengeti around midday.
In the afternoon, you'll journey towards the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, arriving at Simba Campsite for dinner and your overnight stay. The campsite offers beautiful views and a comfortable base for exploring the next day.

Day 03

Wildlife Viewing in the Ngorongoro Crater

On your final day, you'll descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, a volcanic caldera that spans about 260 square kilometers (100 square miles) and is about 600 meters (2,000 feet) deep.
This unique ecosystem supports a rich array of wildlife, including the Big Five, and is one of the best places to see black rhinoceroses. The crater floor also hosts large populations of zebras, wildebeests, and buffaloes. Predators such as lions and hyenas are often seen here as well.
Bird enthusiasts will delight in spotting a variety of species, including the ostrich, flamingos (in wet season), and critically endangered vultures.
The crater's vegetation ranges from lush grasslands and swamps to dense forests along the crater walls. These varied habitats support a diverse range of plant life, including acacia trees, elephant grass, and wildflowers.
A picnic lunch will be served inside the crater around 1:00 PM.
After a day of wildlife viewing and enjoying the stunning landscapes, you'll begin your journey back to Arusha at around 3:00 PM.
You'll be dropped off at your hotel or the airport, concluding your unforgettable safari experience.

Where this trip takes you

Serengeti plains, Seronera River, Ngorongoro Crater grasslands, Nyani Public Campsite

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Ngorongoro Crater 3 cities · 3 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Pick-up and drop-off both ways from the airport to the hotel/national park
Safari 4x4 vehicle with a guide for all days of your safari
Full-board accommodation for all days of your safari
Meal plan: breakfast, lunch, and dinner
All entry fees, concession fees, camping fees, and government taxes
Mineral water of 1.5 litres or more per person per day
Camping gear and chef/cook

What's Not Included

Personal expenses
Anything else that isn't mentioned in the inclusions
International and domestic flight tickets
Things outside the itinerary
Tips or gratuities

What to bring

Lightweight, neutral-colored clothing
Binoculars: essential for wildlife viewing, as many animals are at a distance.
Camera and extra batteries: you'll want to capture the incredible moments, so a good camera with a zoom lens is recommended. Don't forget extra memory cards and batteries. It's also a good idea to bring a portable charger.
Sunscreen (high SPF): the sun in Tanzania can be very strong, so don't forget a broad-spectrum sunscreen.
Insect repellent: mosquitoes and other insects can be a nuisance, especially during early mornings and evenings. Choose one with DEET.

Know before you go

Respect wildlife: always keep a safe distance from animals. Avoid making loud noises or sudden movements that could stress or startle them.
No flash photography: flash photography can disturb animals, especially at night. Always turn off your flash when taking pictures.
Stay inside the vehicle: during game drives, always stay inside the vehicle unless your guide directs you to get out in a safe, designated area (for example, during a walking safari or at a designated picnic spot).
Follow the guide's instructions: your guide is your most important resource on a safari. Listen to their advice on animal behavior, safety, and appropriate actions in various situations.
Serengeti: the iconic Serengeti, with its vast plains and diverse wildlife. The Seronera area and Eastern Corridor offer excellent opportunities to witness the Great Migration (seasonal) and an abundance of predators.
Ngorongoro Crater: a unique ecosystem that holds a rich diversity of wildlife in a stunning, preserved caldera setting. The crater is famous for having one of the highest concentrations of wildlife on Earth.
Big Five sightings: throughout the trip, you'll have a chance to spot lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and the critically endangered rhino.
Birdwatching: the region also offers excellent birdwatching opportunities, with species like ostriches, eagles, vultures, and flamingos.
Scenic views: the dramatic landscapes, from the endless Serengeti plains to the lush Ngorongoro Crater, provide spectacular backdrops for your safari adventures.

The Wild Horizons safari provides a thrilling, immersive experience in two of Tanzania's most celebrated wildlife destinations. Over three days, guests will encounter breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and authentic safari settings.

Starting from Arusha, this journey takes you deep into the heart of the Serengeti, known for its expansive savannahs and the famous Great Migration. This area is rich in predators, including lions, leopards, and cheetahs, alongside grazing herds of zebras, wildebeests, and gazelles. Camp under the starlit Serengeti sky to savor the raw beauty of nature.

The adventure continues to the Ngorongoro Crater, a massive volcanic caldera that hosts dense populations of animals and rare species like the black rhinoceros. The unique, enclosed ecosystem of the crater offers a rich diversity of habitats, from grassy plains to swamps and forests, making it one of the best places in Africa for wildlife spotting. From dramatic landscapes to thrilling wildlife encounters, this safari combines adventure with comfort, providing a truly unforgettable Tanzanian experience.

Logistics