3-Days Tanzania Safari: Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater.

Overview

Embark on a breathtaking 3-day safari through two of Tanzania’s most iconic wildlife destinations—Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater. This adventure-packed journey offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the legendary Big Five, the vast Serengeti plains teeming with wildlife, and the dramatic landscapes of the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast, nature lover, or first-time safari-goer, this short yet thrilling experience will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

Day 1: Arusha/Moshi – Serengeti National Park Morning

• Your adventure begins with an early morning departure from Arusha/Moshi, the gateway to Tanzania’s northern safari circuit.
• Drive through the scenic landscapes of the Great Rift Valley and the lush highlands of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, with a brief stop at the Ngorongoro viewpoint for stunning crater views.
• Continue towards Serengeti National Park, a drive of approximately 6–7 hours, passing Maasai villages and witnessing changing terrains. Afternoon
• Arrive at Serengeti National Park around midday and enjoy a packed lunch at the park entrance or a scenic picnic site.
• Begin your first game drive in the heart of the Serengeti, exploring the vast golden plains and searching for the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino), along with cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, zebras, and countless antelope species. Evening
• Enjoy a stunning sunset game drive before heading to your lodge or tented camp for dinner.
• Relax under the African night sky, listening to the distant roars of lions and the calls of nocturnal wildlife.

Accommodation Options:

• Budget: nyani Campsite

Day 2: Full-Day Game Drive in serengeti National park – Transfer to Ngorongoro Early Morning Safari.

• Wake up before sunrise for an early morning game drive, the best time to spot predators in action. Witness the Serengeti come alive as lions return from a night of hunting and grazers prepare for the day ahead.
• (Optional: A hot air balloon safari can be arranged for a magical aerial view of the Serengeti, followed by a champagne breakfast in the bush.) Mid-Morning & Afternoon
• Continue exploring different areas of the Serengeti, depending on the wildlife movements and season. Visit Seronera Valley, known for its high predator population, or head towards the Western Corridor and Grumeti River if traveling during the Great Migration.
• Stop for a picnic lunch at a scenic location, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the wild.
• After lunch, embark on a final game drive before exiting the Serengeti and heading toward the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Evening
• Arrive at your accommodation near the Ngorongoro Crater rim and enjoy a warm meal while preparing for the next day’s adventure.

Accommodation Options:

• Budget: Simba Campsite

Day 3: Ngorongoro Crater – Arusha Morning

• Wake up early and descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, one of the most breathtaking wildlife sanctuaries in Africa. This massive caldera is home to over 25,000 animals, including lions, elephants, buffalo, and one of the highest densities of black rhinos in East Africa.
• Drive through various habitats, from open grasslands to acacia woodlands, and visit the famous Hippo Pool, where massive hippos bask in the sun.
• Enjoy an up-close encounter with wildlife in this self-contained ecosystem, often referred to as the "Eden of Africa." Afternoon
• Stop for a picnic lunch near a scenic viewpoint, taking in the incredible views of the crater floor.
• After an extended game drive, begin your ascent back to the crater rim and start your return journey to Arusha.
• Arrive in Arusha/Moshi by late afternoon or early evening, marking the end of your unforgettable safari.

Inclusions & Exclusions

Inclusions:

✔ 4x4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof for game viewing
✔ Professional English-speaking safari guide
✔ Park entrance fees for Serengeti & Ngorongoro
✔ Accommodation as per itinerary (budget, mid-range, or luxury)
✔ Meals as per itinerary (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
✔ Drinking water throughout the safari
✔ All government taxes and fees

Exclusions:

✖ International flights
✖ Visa fees ($50 for most nationalities, $100 for U.S. citizens)
✖ Travel insurance
✖ Tips for guides and camp staff ($10–$20 per day per person recommended)
✖ Personal expenses (souvenirs, beverages, etc.)
✖ Optional hot air balloon safari ($500 per person)

Why Choose This Safari? ✅ Perfect for those with limited time – Covers two of Tanzania’s best safari destinations in just three days.
 ✅ Unmatched wildlife diversity – Witness the Big Five and the Great Migration (seasonal) ✅ Breathtaking scenery – From the endless plains of the Serengeti to the dramatic Ngorongoro Crater. 
✅ Flexible accommodation options – Choose between budget, mid-range, or luxury lodges/camps 
✅ Expert-guided experience – Led by professional safari guides with deep knowledge of the parks.

Best Time to Visit June – October: Dry season, best for wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources.
 November – May: Green season with fewer crowds and lush landscapes; ideal for birdwatching.
 July – October & January – March: Best for witnessing the Great Migration in the Serengeti.

Booking & Customization This itinerary can be customized to suit your preferences, including upgrades to luxury lodges, additional days, or combining with other destinations such as Tarangire National Park or Zanzibar.

Contact your safari provider for tailor-made options!

Final Thoughts

This 3-day Serengeti & Ngorongoro safari is the perfect way to experience Tanzania’s legendary wildlife and landscapes in a short time. Whether you're watching a pride of lions hunt in the Serengeti or marveling at the crater’s rich biodiversity, this journey promises memories to cherish forever. Would you like any modifications, such as additional activities or alternative routes?