Tanzania · Safari

3-Day Tanzania Safari to Arusha, Tarangire and Ngorongoro Crater

3 Days Round trip from Arusha Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Experience three diverse parks in Tanzania's Northern Circuit
02 Encounter the Big Five in the Ngorongoro Crater
03 See giant baobab trees and large elephant herds in Tarangire National Park
04 Discover Arusha National Park's Momella Lakes, Ngurdoto Crater, and Fig Tree Arch

Embark on a 3-day safari adventure through three of Tanzania's remarkable northern parks. Explore Arusha National Park's lush forests, Momella Lakes, and Ngurdoto Crater, continue to Tarangire National Park with its giant baobab trees and large elephant herds, and descend into the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater. Enjoy unforgettable game drives, encounter the Big Five and other iconic wildlife, and take in spectacular landscapes before returning to Arusha or Moshi.

One of the most memorable experiences is passing under the Fig Tree Arch, a gigantic tree with a natural tunnel large enough for a safari vehicle to drive through, making it a perfect photo opportunity.

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

Languages English, French, German

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arusha National Park Safari and Fig Tree Arch

Start your journey with breakfast at your hotel in Arusha or Moshi before driving to Arusha National Park, a hidden gem with a variety of landscapes, from lush forests to the striking Momella Lakes and the Ngurdoto Crater. The park is renowned for its rich wildlife and scenic views.
One of the most memorable experiences is passing under the Fig Tree Arch, a gigantic tree with a natural tunnel large enough for a safari vehicle to drive through, making it a perfect photo opportunity. During your game drive through the park, look out for giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and more.
At lunchtime, enjoy a picnic in a scenic location before heading back to Arusha in the late afternoon, where you will stay at your hotel for the evening.

Day 02

Tarangire National Park and Overnight Near Lake Manyara

After breakfast, begin the day's journey to Tarangire National Park, an area famous for its towering baobab trees and large elephant herds. The park offers a unique safari experience, with game drives that often provide up-close views of elephants, lions, giraffes, and other African wildlife such as cheetahs, buffaloes, and impalas.
Tarangire is also a paradise for birdwatchers, with an extensive variety of bird species. After a day of exploring the park, continue to your accommodation near Lake Manyara for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 03

Ngorongoro Crater Game Drive and Return

Travel to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and descend into the crater, where lush plains and abundant wildlife create an unforgettable safari setting. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to a high concentration of animals, including the Big Five: lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffaloes.
The crater's high walls help contain the wildlife, offering some of the most extraordinary animal sightings. You may also spot zebras, wildebeests, hippos, hyenas, and flocks of flamingos around the Soda Lake.
After a memorable game drive, enjoy a picnic lunch before ascending the crater and driving back to Moshi or Arusha, where your safari adventure concludes in the late afternoon.

Where this trip takes you

Momella Lakes, Fig Tree Arch, Tarangire National Park's giant baobab trees

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Arusha 6 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

Accommodation & Food

You can choose between public campsites, tented camps, and lodges, depending on your budget and comfort preference.
Meals are provided as per the itinerary and usually include continental and local Tanzanian cuisine.
Special dietary requests can be accommodated with prior notice.

Wildlife Viewing & Safety

The parks are home to wild animals, so always follow your guide's instructions.
Stay inside the vehicle unless at designated picnic spots.
Avoid sudden movements or loud noises that may startle animals.

Safari Vehicles & Road Conditions

You will travel in a 4x4 Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof for easy wildlife viewing.
Some roads in the parks can be bumpy and dusty, so be prepared for an adventurous ride.

Photography & Connectivity

Bring extra camera batteries and memory cards, as charging options may be limited in campsites.
Drones are not allowed in national parks without special permits.
Some lodges and camps have Wi-Fi, but expect limited or no signal in remote safari areas.

Visa & Entry Requirements

Most visitors need a tourist visa, which can be obtained on arrival ($50 for most nationalities, $100 for US citizens) or online via Tanzania's eVisa portal.
Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.

Logistics