3 Days Safari Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park

Planning a Tanzanian safari can feel overwhelming, but this 3-day adventure offers a well-balanced mix of iconic wildlife sightings, breathtaking landscapes, and authentic camping experiences. While it’s not a luxury lodge-based tour, the value, guided expertise, and immersive nature make it a solid choice for those wanting a genuine encounter with Africa’s wilderness.

What we really love about this trip? First, the knowledgeable guides who bring the parks to life with their insights. Second, the stunning vistas and wildlife encounters – from the endless plains of Serengeti to the dramatic Ngorongoro Crater. And third, the authentic camping experience, which keeps the safari intimate and immersive.

One consideration? The tour’s price of $810 per person offers excellent value but depends on your expectations for comfort and convenience. If you’re after a more luxurious experience, this might not be your top choice. But if you love adventure, wildlife, and social travel, it’s hard to beat.

This trip suits travelers seeking a budget-friendly yet genuine Tanzanian safari experience, especially those who appreciate a small-group setting and a more authentic camping vibe.

Key Points

• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Felix and Bulldozer enhance every stop with fascinating insights.
• Authentic Camping: Sleeping in tents in the parks adds an immersive, genuine feel.
• Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see the Big Five, plenty of elephants, and other iconic species with excellent chances to photograph them.
• Value for Money: At $810, this tour offers a comprehensive experience with included meals and entry fees.
• Flexible and Small Group: With a maximum of 6 travelers, the tour feels personalized and intimate.
• Packed Itinerary: Three days of intense game drives, covering Serengeti’s plains and Ngorongoro’s crater in a short time.

A Complete Look at the 3-Day Safari Experience

This tour delivers a tightly packed yet rewarding journey through some of Tanzania’s most famous wildlife parks. Starting from Arusha, you’ll be picked up early and driven across scenic roads into the heart of the wilderness.

Day 1: Serengeti National Park – The Land of Endless Plains

Your adventure kicks off with an 8 a.m. pickup, followed by a roughly six-hour drive (around 335 km) into the southern part of Serengeti, entering through Ngorongoro gate. The journey itself is part of the experience— Tanzania’s landscapes shift from lush farmland to expansive savannahs, promising a scenic drive that primes you for the wildlife to come.

Once inside, your game drive begins. You’ll explore key regions like the Southern, Central, and Seronera Valleys, where the grasslands support a wide range of herbivores, including Wildebeest, Zebra, Waterbuck, and Thomson Gazelle. The Southern Zone is often called the “land of endless plains,” and it truly lives up to its name, stretching as far as the eye can see.

The game drives are flexible, guided by experts who are adept at spotting wildlife, even from a distance. Visitors commonly mention encountering large herds of elephants, with some noting that elephants are especially abundant in this part of Serengeti. The guides also point out distinctive flora, like candelabra trees and ephemeral flowers, which add layers to the landscape.

You’ll love the chance to see predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas, often resting or stalking in the tall grass. Reviewers mention that the Serengeti has a different weather pattern, which can influence animal behavior and visibility. For example, during October, dry grasslands make spotting wildlife trickier, but the landscape still offers spectacular views.

Day 2: Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater

The second day continues with more game drives in Serengeti, focusing on different features like Moru Kopjes—large granite outcrops that provide vantage points for predators—and Maasai cave paintings, which are a surprising cultural highlight amid the wildlife.

Elephants are again prominent, with some reviewers noting that herds can grow quite large, especially in regions like Moru Kopjes. The kopjes themselves are great spots for predator sightings, as big cats often lounge on or near these rocky outcrops.

Later, you’ll head towards Ngorongoro Conservation Area for an overnight stay within the park. Staying inside the crater offers a special experience—waking up to the sight of wildlife just outside your tent and the chance for early morning game drives.

Day 3: Ngorongoro Crater – The Garden of Eden

Ngorongoro is renowned as a ‘big five’ hotspot year-round, and many reviewers highlight it as the highlight of the trip. It’s the only Tanzanian park where you can generally see all five big animals (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhinoceros) in a single day.

Your day starts early with a descent into the crater, a volcanic caldera filled with lush grasses, water bodies, and a diverse array of wildlife. Expect to see wildebeest, gazelles, and waterbucks grazing by the crater lakes. Notably, some rare species like black rhinos have been spotted here, though they are more elusive.

The crater’s high density of wildlife makes it a photographer’s paradise. The guides are well-versed in spotting animals that might be hidden from less experienced eyes. Reviewers speak highly of the guides’ ability to tell stories about the landscape and animals, making the experience both educational and entertaining.

In the afternoon, you’ll make your way back to Arusha, ending the safari with plenty of photos and stories to share.

Transportation, Group Size, and Meals

This tour uses a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle suitable for the small group size of up to six travelers. This small group approach allows for more personalized attention from guides and fewer crowds during game drives.

Meals are included—breakfasts, lunches, and dinners—often enjoyed at scenic picnic sites or within campsite setups. Reviewers particularly praise the quality of food, with many mentioning the delicious and plentiful meals prepared by the safari cook. The camping aspect means you’ll be sleeping under the stars, which some find adds a layer of adventure and authenticity.

Camping Experience: Pros and Cons

Staying in tents rather than lodges is a key feature. It provides a very genuine safari feel, though some may find it less comfortable than luxury lodges. Reviewers report that the campsites are safe and well-organized, with good support from guides. The experience offers a more immersive connection to nature, especially with the chance to hear wildlife sounds at night.

Cost and Value

At $810 per person, including park entry fees and meals, this tour offers good value given the amount of wildlife viewing and the quality of guides. The reviews reflect high satisfaction, with many calling it a “life-changing” experience. Of course, this is a budget-friendly option compared to high-end lodges, but it doesn’t skimp on the richness of the experience.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Many reviewers highlight their guides’ skill and friendliness, describing them as reliable and passionate. For example, Felix and Bulldozer are praised for their knowledge and ability to spot animals in tricky conditions. Their stories and explanations make the game drives more engaging and insightful.

Food also earns rave reviews. Despite camping, the meals are described as tasty and satisfying, often served with a touch of local flavor. Travelers mention that the guides and cook really go above and beyond to make the experience memorable.

Some travelers appreciate the tour’s organization. Communication via WhatsApp and email was quick and clear, which eased planning stresses. The small group size allows for flexibility, helping maximize wildlife sightings.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This safari is perfect if you’re after authentic wildlife encounters without the luxury price tag. It’s well-suited for adventure seekers, small groups, and budget-conscious travelers who want an immersive experience. It also suits those who don’t mind camping and are excited about a more genuine, up-close connection to the parks.

If you’re after a luxury experience, this might not be the right fit. But if you value guided expertise, small-group intimacy, and the thrill of camping in wild parks, this safari will serve you well.

The Sum Up

This 3-day safari offers a fantastic balance of wildlife, landscapes, and authentic camping at a reasonable price point. The knowledgeable guides, well-organized itinerary, and rich scenery make it an engaging choice for travelers looking to see the best of Tanzania without breaking the bank.

It’s especially well-suited for adventure travelers, photography enthusiasts, and anyone eager to connect with nature in a more personal way. The emphasis on small-group travel and camping creates an experience that feels both genuine and memorable.

While it’s not a luxury lodge tour, the value and authenticity shine through. You’ll leave with fantastic wildlife memories, stunning photos, and stories to tell for years.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The $810 covers guided game drives, park entry fees, all meals during the trip (breakfast, lunch, dinner), and camping accommodations.

Can I expect to see the Big Five?
Yes. Ngorongoro Crater is particularly famous for Big Five sightings, and Serengeti offers excellent chances, especially for elephants and predators.

How many people will be in the group?
The maximum is 6 travelers, making the experience intimate and allowing guides to give more personalized attention.

Are meals provided?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included, with the food praised as tasty and satisfying, often enjoyed picnic-style in scenic spots.

What is the accommodation like?
You will stay in tents at designated campsites within or near the parks. The campsites are considered safe and well-organized, offering a true safari feel.

What should I pack for this trip?
Bring comfortable clothes suitable for warm days and cooler nights, a hat, sunscreen, binoculars, camera, and your sense of adventure.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally suited for most travelers, consider the camping aspect and the outdoor nature of the trip. It’s best for older children comfortable with camping and wildlife.

How flexible is the itinerary?
Guides adapt the game drives based on wildlife activity and weather, providing the best chances for sightings.

What is the best time to go?
While not explicitly detailed, reviews mention that certain months like October can influence wildlife visibility, so consider planning for the best wildlife viewing conditions.

This safari offers a genuine, cost-effective way to experience Tanzania’s iconic parks, packed with memorable wildlife moments, guided by passionate experts. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned safari-goer, it promises an authentic adventure you won’t forget.