Tanzania · Safari

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

3 Days Round trip from Arusha Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Explore the central Serengeti's Seronera area, one of the park's richest wildlife habitats
02 Look for the Big Five across Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater
03 Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, a caldera with one of Africa's densest wildlife populations
04 See Soda Lake's flamingos alongside hippos, zebras, and wildebeests
05 Travel through the sweeping landscapes of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Embark on a 3-day safari through Tanzania's most iconic landscapes, from the vast Serengeti National Park to the remarkable Ngorongoro Crater. Enjoy thrilling game drives across the endless plains of the central Serengeti, where you may spot lions, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, and abundant birdlife. Continue into the Ngorongoro Crater, one of Africa's most concentrated wildlife havens, with excellent chances to see members of the Big Five alongside flamingos, hippos, zebras, and wildebeests. This journey combines breathtaking scenery, unforgettable wildlife encounters, and the magic of the African wilderness before returning to Arusha or Moshi.

Enjoy thrilling game drives across the endless plains of the central Serengeti, where you may spot lions, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, and abundant birdlife.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 3 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included · Budget

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Yes

Cities Arusha, Moshi, Mount Kilimanjaro, Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Languages English, German

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

From Arusha or Moshi to the Endless Plains of Serengeti

Your adventure begins with a hearty breakfast in Arusha or Moshi, setting the tone for the exciting days ahead. After breakfast, we begin the journey to the iconic Serengeti National Park.
The drive takes you through the stunning landscapes of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, where you will get your first glimpses of the majestic African wilderness. As we enter Serengeti, known as the 'Endless Plain,' you will be captivated by the sweeping vistas of savannah stretching as far as the eye can see.
Our first destination within Serengeti is the Seronera area, one of the richest wildlife habitats in the park, with the Seronera River flowing through it. This river serves as a crucial water source, attracting a diverse range of animals and making this area ideal for a wildlife adventure.
Here, you will have the opportunity to see a variety of animals such as lions, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, and an array of birds. The central Serengeti is renowned for its wealth of wildlife, and you will enjoy an exciting game drive throughout the afternoon.
In the evening, you will return to your chosen accommodation, whether a public campsite, tented camp, or lodge, for dinner and an overnight stay. The Serengeti's night sky provides a perfect backdrop to reflect on your first day of safari adventures.

Day 02

Morning Game Drive in Serengeti and Transfer to Ngorongoro

After an early breakfast, you will head out for a morning game drive in the central Serengeti. The early morning light casts a golden glow over the plains, and the air is filled with the sounds of birds, creating a peaceful and magical atmosphere as wildlife begins to stir.
Your guide will navigate the park to ensure you experience the best of Serengeti's diverse ecosystems, providing opportunities to see the Big Five, including lions, elephants, and leopards, as well as cheetahs, zebras, giraffes, and more.
After your game drive, we'll head towards the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, known for its stunning landscapes and significant wildlife.
The journey to the Ngorongoro rim offers panoramic views of the crater and surrounding highlands. On arrival, you will check into your accommodation, whether a camping site, tented camp, or lodge.
Dinner and an overnight stay will be provided at your accommodation. Relax as you prepare for the following day's exploration of the Ngorongoro Crater, one of the world's most unique and diverse ecosystems.

Day 03

Ngorongoro Crater Safari and Return to Arusha or Moshi

Today, we embark on one of the most anticipated highlights of your safari - the Ngorongoro Crater. After an early breakfast, we descend into the crater floor, where a rich tapestry of wildlife awaits.
This caldera, formed millions of years ago by a volcanic eruption, is home to one of the most concentrated populations of wildlife in Africa. The crater floor is a haven for a variety of species, and it offers an excellent chance to see members of the Big Five, including lions, elephants, rhinos, and buffaloes, in their natural habitats.
As we explore the crater, we'll also stop at the Soda Lake, where flocks of flamingos can often be seen, along with hippos, zebras, and wildebeests.
The hyenas cackle as they search for their next meal, and vultures circle above in search of carrion. The incredible diversity of wildlife makes the Ngorongoro Crater an extraordinary place for game drives.
The day's adventure also includes a picnic lunch near the lake, giving you the opportunity to relax while surrounded by the spectacular scenery. As the afternoon progresses, we begin the ascent out of the crater and head back to Arusha or Moshi.
This marks the end of your safari, with memories of incredible wildlife encounters and breathtaking landscapes. The journey back to Arusha or Moshi will give you a chance to reflect on your experiences before we drop you off at your accommodation or airport for your next destination.

Where this trip takes you

Seronera River, central Serengeti plains, Ngorongoro Crater, Soda Lake flamingos

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Arusha 5 cities · 3 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Park fees (for non-residents)
Concession/camping fees
Daily game drives while on safari
A professional driver-guide
4x4 Land Cruiser
All taxes and VAT
Meals as per itinerary
Drinking water while on safari (2 litres per person per day)

What's Not Included

International flights
Airport transfers (unless mentioned otherwise)
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour (unless mentioned otherwise)
Tips
Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
Government-imposed increases in taxes and/or park fees
Any activities not mentioned in the itinerary

Know before you go

Safari Etiquette & Wildlife Viewing

Stay inside the vehicle: for your safety and to avoid disturbing the animals, always remain inside the safari vehicle. Do not attempt to exit the vehicle unless instructed by your guide.
Respect the wildlife: maintain a respectful distance from animals. Do not attempt to feed or provoke any wildlife.
Quiet observation: speak softly and avoid loud noises, as animals can be easily disturbed by sound.
Photography: take as many photos as you like, but avoid using a flash, as it can startle the animals.

Health & Safety

Vaccinations: certain vaccinations are recommended for travel to Tanzania, including yellow fever, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid. Check with your healthcare provider for advice on required or recommended vaccinations.
Water: drink only bottled or filtered water to avoid waterborne illnesses. Avoid drinking from taps or unsealed bottles.
First aid kit: it's a good idea to carry a basic first aid kit with essentials like band-aids, pain relievers, and any prescription medications you might need.

Travel Documents & Visa Requirements

Passport: ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.
Visa: most visitors to Tanzania require a visa, which can be obtained online or upon arrival. Check if you are eligible for a visa on arrival or if you need to apply in advance.
Travel insurance: we recommend purchasing travel insurance to cover unexpected events, such as trip cancellations or medical emergencies.

Logistics