What to expect
This 3-day budget safari takes you through three of northern Tanzania’s most iconic wildlife destinations: Lake Manyara National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire National Park. Lake Manyara is a scenic gem known for its tree-climbing lions, diverse birdlife, and lush groundwater forests, offering a unique introduction to Tanzania’s varied habitats. The park’s soda lake often shimmers with thousands of flamingos, while its varied landscapes make game drives both beautiful and exciting.
The Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of Africa’s most extraordinary natural wonders and a sanctuary for wildlife. As the world’s largest unbroken volcanic caldera, it supports an exceptional concentration of animals, including the Big 5—lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino. Expect close encounters with zebras, wildebeest, hippos, and flamingos, all framed by dramatic escarpments and lush green plains.
Tarangire National Park offers a fitting finale with its enormous elephant herds, towering baobab trees, and rich biodiversity. Its mix of open savannah, swamps, and riverine woodland provides excellent opportunities for spotting wildlife, from predators to over 500 bird species. With comfortable budget accommodation and expertly guided game drives, this safari is ideal for travelers seeking maximum wildlife experiences in just three days.
This tour is great for
- Budget Safari
- Wildlife safari
- Calving Season
- Short Quick Adventure
Best Time to go
Tour Highlights
- Game drive in Lake Manyara National Park, home to tree-climbing lions and flamingos
- Wildlife-rich adventure in Ngorongoro Crater, with chances to spot the Big 5
- Exploration of Tarangire National Park, famous for elephants and baobabs
- Stunning landscapes and diverse habitats across three parks
- Affordable safari with comfortable budget lodges
Day by Day Experience
Lake Manyara National Park
Day 1: Lake Manyara National Park
Depart from Arusha in the morning and drive to Lake Manyara National Park, a small but diverse reserve nestled at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment. Begin your game drive through lush groundwater forests, open plains, and acacia woodlands, keeping an eye out for elephants, giraffes, buffalo, and the park’s famous tree-climbing lions. Birdwatchers will delight in spotting pelicans, flamingos, and other colorful species along the shimmering lake. Enjoy a picnic lunch within the park before continuing your wildlife exploration in the afternoon. Later, drive to Karatu for check-in, dinner, and overnight stay.
Popular Facilities
Ngorongoro Crater
Day 2: Ngorongoro Crater
After an early breakfast, head to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and descend 600 meters into the crater for a full-day game drive. The crater floor is home to an incredible concentration of wildlife, including all members of the Big 5. Watch hippos wallowing in pools, wildebeest grazing the plains, and flamingos dotting the soda lakes. Picnic lunch will be served in the heart of this remarkable landscape, surrounded by breathtaking views and the sounds of the wild. In the late afternoon, ascend the crater walls and return to Karatu for dinner and overnight.
Tarangire National Park
Day 3: Tarangire National Park – Arusha
What’s Included
- Transportation in a comfortable 4×4 safari vehicle
- Professional English-speaking safari guide
- Park entrance and conservation fees for Tarangire & Ngorongoro Crater
- 1-night accommodation at Marera Valley Lodge
- Meals as indicated in itinerary (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner on Day 1; Breakfast & Lunch on Day 2)
- Bottled water during game drives
What’s Excluded
- International or domestic flights
- Personal travel insurance
- Optional activities or tips
- Drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) at the lodge
- Visa fees
Explore Our Favourite Itineraries
