3 Days Shared Safari Tour Tanzania

Planning a trip to Tanzania and eager to see some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife? This 3-day shared safari tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and expert guiding, all at a reasonable price point. While it’s not a luxury lodge experience, it provides an authentic look into Tanzania’s renowned parks with plenty of opportunities for close encounters with elephants, lions, rhinos, and more.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its focus on variety—covering three parks in just a few days—giving travelers a broad snapshot of Tanzania’s diverse landscapes and wildlife. The knowledgeable guides, especially one reviewer’s mention of “Richard,” bring the parks alive with their insights, making each game drive more engaging. The inclusion of all park fees and meals adds convenience, while the camping accommodations keep you close to nature. Yet, it’s worth noting that with group sizes capped at four, the experience can feel intimate but also slightly limited in social interaction.

This tour is best suited for travelers seeking an affordable, well-organized introduction to Tanzania’s parks. If you’re after a flexible, small-group adventure with a strong focus on wildlife viewing and authentic camping, this tour hits the right points. However, those wanting more luxury or personalized service might prefer to explore other options.

Key Points

• Authentic experience: Combines wildlife viewing across three parks with camping, providing a true safari feel.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides like Richard enhance the experience with their insights.
• All-inclusive: Meals, park fees, and transportation are covered, simplifying planning.
• Small group size: Limited to four travelers, ensuring a personal experience but less social diversity.
• Great value: For $890 per person, you get three days packed with diverse scenery and incredible animals.
• Convenient pickup: Starts and ends in Arusha, with hotel pickup and drop-off included.

This 3-day safari is designed to give you a taste of Tanzania’s incredible parks without the long, expensive multi-week trips. It’s a smart choice for travelers wanting a manageable, budget-friendly adventure with all the essentials covered. We’ll break down each day so you know exactly what to expect—and why it’s worth it.

Day 1: Exploring Tarangire National Park

Your adventure kicks off with an early morning pickup from your hotel in Arusha, setting the tone for a full day of game viewing. Tarangire is renowned for its massive herds of elephants, which you’ll likely spot first thing in the morning. The park’s landscape is a striking mix of savannah, giant baobabs, and seasonal swamps, which draw animals year-round.

The guide’s local knowledge really shines here—expect to see impalas, zebras, giraffes, and possibly leopards. Tarangire’s reputation for elephants is well-earned; many travelers mention their awe at the sight of these gentle giants. The scenery is constantly changing with the climate, meaning every drive offers new perspectives.

The tour includes ample time to enjoy the park, with approximately six hours of game viewing. The accommodation for the night is at Migombani Campsite—a “comfort” camping site with essential amenities like a swimming pool, restaurant, sanitation facilities, and campfire evenings. Reviewers highlight the convenience of the camp’s facilities and the chance to unwind under the stars after a day of wildlife spotting.

Day 2: The Majestic Ngorongoro Crater

A highlight of this safari is the journey into Ngorongoro Crater, a volcanic caldera that’s often described as one of the most remarkable wildlife habitats on earth. The drive down into the crater takes around six minutes, but the views are breathtaking from the top.

Ngorongoro’s unique ecosystem hosts the Big Five—lions, leopards, buffaloes, elephants, and rhinos—in a relatively concentrated area. It’s the only park where you can expect to see such diversity in one day, including the endangered black rhino, which is exclusive to this park in Tanzania. Tour guides often mention the thrill of spotting the rhino, a true conservation success story.

The crater’s water bodies attract numerous animals, and the landscape is both lush and dramatic. The size of the caldera—326 km²—means it feels like an animal magnet; you’ll be amazed by the density of wildlife. The tour typically spends around six hours here, maximizing your chances to observe predator-prey interactions and herd migrations.

The guide will point out interesting behaviors, like lions resting in the shade or elephants bathing in the water. Reviewers note that “everything went as planned,” emphasizing how smoothly the day runs, and the guide’s extensive knowledge made the experience more meaningful.

Day 3: Birdwatching and Forests at Lake Manyara

Your final day takes you to Lake Manyara, a lush park famous for its birdlife, tree-climbing lions, and varied habitats—from dense rainforest to open grasslands. The northern rainforest is where you’ll find monkeys, baboons, and colorful bird species—a paradise for bird enthusiasts.

As you explore further south, the landscape opens up, and animals like buffaloes, giraffes, and elephants roam the meadows. Lions in this park have adapted to the environment and are often seen lounging in trees—a quirky twist that makes for memorable sightings. The guide’s ability to track these elusive creatures enhances the chances of sightings.

The tour includes approximately six hours here, giving plenty of time to appreciate the different ecosystems. The park entrance fee is included, making it easier to relax and enjoy your last game drive. Afterward, the driver will transfer you back to Arusha in the late afternoon, ending a whirlwind safari full of wildlife encounters and scenic vistas.

Expert Guidance

One reviewer praised guide Richard for his extensive route knowledge and animal spotting skills, making the entire trip more engaging and educational. Guides who are attentive and passionate can turn a good safari into a memorable one, and this tour seems to benefit from experienced local guides.

Authentic Camping Experience

Staying at Migombani Campsite offers a genuine safari vibe—sleeping under canvas, listening to the sounds of night animals, and enjoying basic but comfortable amenities. The campsite’s swimming pool and campfire evenings are nice touches that balance adventure with comfort.

All-Inclusive Convenience

With all park fees, meals, and transportation included, you won’t have to worry about hidden costs or logistics. The meals are designed to keep you energized for long days of wildlife watching, and the transportation is reliable, with a pickup and drop-off service in Arusha.

Compact, Small Group

Limited to four travelers, the group size allows for personalized attention from your guide. While it offers a more intimate experience, it also means you’ll be traveling with a small, like-minded group, which can foster camaraderie.

Value for Money

At $890 per person, this tour offers three days packed with diverse parks, wildlife, and cultural richness. You get to visit Tarangire, Ngorongoro, and Lake Manyara—three top destinations—without the hassle of planning each day independently.

While the tour is well-organized, keep in mind that it’s a shared safari with a small group, which means early mornings and long days are typical. The camping accommodations are described as “comfort,” but still involve basic facilities, so travelers expecting luxury might need alternatives.

Timing is essential—starting at 7:00 am gives you the best chances for wildlife sightings, especially in the early morning when animals are most active. The group size of four travelers is intimate, but you should be prepared for a close-quarters experience.

Remember that tips for guides and drivers are not included, so bringing some extra cash for gratuities is recommended. Also, as the tour is dependent on weather and wildlife movements, sightings can vary, but the guides’ expertise helps optimize your chances.

This safari is perfect for travelers who want a balanced, authentic experience that combines wildlife viewing, cultural exposure, and camping—all without breaking the bank. It’s ideal for those who enjoy small-group travel and are comfortable with basic camping amenities. If your main goal is to see iconic animals in their natural habitat with knowledgeable guides, this tour delivers.

However, if luxury accommodations or private, tailored safaris are your preference, you might find this experience a bit too rustic. It’s best suited for adventurous travelers eager to connect with nature and learn from experts.

What is included in the tour price?
All park fees, transportation, meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), a professional guide, and camping accommodations are included.

What about tips and gratuities?
Tips for guides, drivers, and safari cooks are not included, so it’s advisable to budget extra for gratuities.

Is hotel pickup and drop-off provided?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from and drop-off at your hotel in Arusha.

How long are the game drives each day?
Each day features approximately six hours of game viewing, giving plenty of time to see a variety of animals and landscapes.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides can speak English, Spanish, and French, making communication accessible for many travelers.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy if you cancel at least 24 hours before the start of the tour.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to four travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is this suitable for children or families?
While most travelers can participate, the camping aspect and early mornings might be better suited for older children and adults.

This 3-day shared safari offers a fantastic way to experience Tanzania’s most famous parks without the hassle of planning each detail. The combination of experienced guides, authentic camping, and diverse wildlife encounters makes it a worthwhile option for those seeking a genuine safari adventure at a reasonable price.

Travelers looking for a small-group, budget-friendly trip that covers all the highlights—Tarangire, Ngorongoro, and Lake Manyara—will find this tour delivers on both value and experience. It’s perfect for wildlife lovers, photography enthusiasts, or anyone eager to get a taste of Africa’s natural beauty without the luxury price tag.

For anyone eager to start their Tanzanian adventure with a well-organized, authentic, and memorable safari, this tour checks all the boxes and promises plenty of stories to tell long after you’re back home.