3 Days Safari from Mwanza to Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater

Planning a Tanzanian safari that packs in some of Africa’s most spectacular wildlife and landscapes in just three days? This tour, offered by Friends Of Africa Family Safaris, promises an adventurous glimpse into the heartlands of the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. While it’s a short trip, it’s designed to give you a taste of Africa’s legendary Big Five and the vast, unforgettable plains that make Tanzania a safari paradise.

We’re drawn to the opportunity to visit both Serengeti and Ngorongoro in one trip, the chance to see game in their natural habitat, and the promise of knowledgeable guides who, according to reviews, know exactly where to find the best sightings. The inclusion of park fees, transport, and camping gear makes for a hassle-free experience that balances cost and value, especially for those wanting a budget-friendly yet authentic safari.

One thing to consider is that some travelers have faced minor hiccups, like food quality issues or logistical imperfections. However, overall, the tour seems to appeal most to those who are flexible, eager for a quick yet immersive Tanzanian adventure, and comfortable with camping. If you’re after a comprehensive, luxury experience, this may not be the perfect fit — but for an authentic, cost-efficient safari packed with wildlife and scenery, it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Combines game drives in Serengeti and Ngorongoro, offering classic Tanzanian wildlife sightings.
• Cost & Value: At around $1,347 per person, it includes park fees, transport, camping equipment, and meals, making it a practical budget option.
• Guides & Service: Reviews praise knowledgeable guides like Henry and Emmanuel, who are skilled at spotting animals and making the trip memorable.
• Logistics & Comfort: Some minor issues with food hygiene and accommodation cleanliness, but overall efficiency and professionalism are noted.
• Flexible Options: You can opt to return to Mwanza or continue to Arusha on the last day, allowing for easy extension or transfer plans.
• Authentic Camping: Staying at Simba Campsite offers a true safari atmosphere, ideal for travelers wanting an immersive outdoor experience.

A Detailed Look at the 3-Day Tanzanian Safari

Day 1: Into the Heart of Serengeti

The adventure kicks off with a pickup from Mwanza, usually around 7:30 am, and a scenic drive through Ndabaka Gate into the Serengeti. This first stop is all about game viewing on the famed plains, where your guide will take you to spots with the best chances of spotting lions, elephants, zebras, and other iconic animals.

From reviews, it seems the guides excel at locating wildlife, with one traveler noting that “Henry knew where all the best animals were.” The journey to Serengeti isn’t just about the animals — it’s also about the vastness of the scenery, which you’ll see unfold as you cruise through seemingly endless grasslands dotted with acacia trees.

The afternoon involves more game drives, giving you a good chance to witness the natural behaviors of animals in their habitat. Afterward, you’ll transfer to your camping accommodation, which offers an authentic outdoor experience, perfect for those wanting more than just a lodge stay. While some reviews mention the camp facilities could improve in cleanliness, the overall atmosphere is genuine and immersive.

Day 2: Descending into Ngorongoro Crater

Rising early, you’ll enjoy breakfast before heading to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The highlight of this day is the descent into the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa’s most famous wildlife arenas. Descending 2,000 feet into the caldera, you’ll find yourself in a natural wildlife sanctuary where sightings are often abundant.

Expect to spend several hours exploring, with the opportunity to see the Big Five — lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, and rhinos — along with numerous other species. The reviews mention that guides are very knowledgeable, pointing out animal behaviors and providing insights that enrich the experience. A picnic lunch within the crater allows you to stay immersed without the rush of returning too early.

After your time in the crater, you ascend and head to Simba Campsite for dinner and overnight. While some travelers mention the camps could benefit from better hygiene and fan facilities, the experience brings you closer to real safari life, away from hotels and tourist resorts.

Day 3: Return or Continue to Arusha

On the final day, you can choose to drive back to Mwanza via the Serengeti’s endless plains or continue on to Arusha, making this a flexible option for your broader Tanzanian travel plans. The drive back is approximately eight hours, offering more chances for wildlife sightings along the way — especially if you opt for some additional game drives in Lake Manyara.

Travelers have appreciated the ability to spot wildlife even during the return journey, with some noting that guides continue to be sharp at locating animals in the distance. The day concludes with your arrival in Arusha or Mwanza, depending on your preferences.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s price of around $1,347 per person covers most essentials: park and camping fees, three meals, transport, and camping gear. This setup makes it a clear value for those who want an authentic safari without the hefty price tags of luxury lodges.

Meals are included throughout, with the reviews highlighting some issues with food hygiene — specifically, ants in lunch boxes — which is a point to keep in mind if you have dietary sensitivities. The tour does not include international flights or tips, so budget accordingly.

The Real Experience: What Travelers Say

From reviews, it’s clear that guides like Mataro, Sule, and Henry are a strong point — knowledgeable, friendly, and capable of making the wildlife sightings more worthwhile. One reviewer called it “one of the best experiences in my whole life,” emphasizing the professionalism and dedication of the crew.

However, some mention logistical issues, particularly with food quality and accommodations, suggesting that while the safari delivers superb wildlife viewing, certain amenities could be improved. For example, one guest noted that “lunch boxes had ants in them on both days,” and others suggested the rest houses could use better cleanliness and fans for the hot nights.

Despite these minor issues, the overall impression is positive, especially for travelers who prioritize authentic outdoor experiences and wildlife sightings over luxury. The guides’ ability to spot animals and share insightful commentary often elevates the entire adventure.

Who Should Consider This Safari?

This tour is best suited for adventurers on a budget or those eager for a more authentic camping safari experience. If you’re looking for a quick, action-packed trip to see Africa’s Big Five and the plains of Serengeti, this tour offers excellent value. It’s also ideal for travelers who are flexible and can handle minor comfort trade-offs in exchange for a real safari vibe.

Travelers who prioritize luxury or have specific dietary requirements might want to consider other options, but for those wanting a genuine, guided safari with a focus on wildlife, this tour hits the mark.

The Sum Up

The 3-day Mwanza to Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater safari offers a compact but immersive peek into Tanzania’s wildlife riches. With knowledgeable guides, stunning landscapes, and authentic camping stays, it’s perfect for those seeking adventure without breaking the bank.

While some minor issues with food hygiene and accommodation cleanliness exist, they don’t overshadow the overall experience. This tour provides excellent value, especially if you’re eager to tick off some of Africa’s most iconic safari sights in a short timeframe.

It’s a great choice for adventurous travelers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those wanting a real outdoor experience in Tanzania. If you’re ready for game drives, scenic vistas, and the chance to see the Big Five in their natural habitat, this safari could be just what you need.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pickup is available from Mwanza International Airport or your hotel in Mwanza.

How long are the game drives each day?
Day 1’s game drive in Serengeti lasts about three hours, and Day 2’s in Ngorongoro is around four hours. The final day involves approximately eight hours of travel with optional game viewing en route.

What’s included in the cost?
Park and camping fees, three meals, transport, and camping equipment are all included. Lunch, dinner, and breakfast are provided during the trip.

Can I extend my trip after Day 3?
Yes, you can choose to return to Mwanza or continue to Arusha after the safari, depending on your plans.

What type of accommodation is provided?
Camping at Simba Campsite, offering an outdoor safari experience, which is authentic but may lack some amenities.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews highlight guides like Henry and Emmanuel as experienced and skilled at spotting wildlife.

What is the main downside of this tour?
Minor issues with food hygiene and accommodation cleanliness have been reported, but these do not significantly impact the overall experience.

Is this tour suitable for families or solo travelers?
Yes, it’s a private tour and generally suitable for most travelers comfortable with camping and outdoor activities.

What is the best time to do this safari?
While the specific season isn’t mentioned, Tanzania’s dry season (June to October) usually offers the best wildlife viewing, so planning around those months is advisable.

This 3-day safari balances adventure, wildlife encounters, and scenic beauty, making it an appealing option for travelers seeking a genuine Tanzanian experience without the luxury price tag.