3Days luxury safari to Tarangire Ngorongoro crater and Manyara

Imagine spending three days exploring some of Tanzania’s most iconic parks—spotting lions lounging on the plains, elephants wandering across the horizon, and flamingos shimmering in lakeside refuges. This 3-day luxury safari with Dancing Simba Safaris promises an intimate encounter with Africa’s wildlife and landscapes, all wrapped up with comfortable lodges and professional guides.

What we love about this tour is how it combines premium vehicle logistics, well-planned itineraries, and knowledgeable guides who seem to know the parks’ secret animal hotspots. We’re also big fans of the diverse scenery—from savannah to forest to volcanic caldera—which keeps each day visually exciting. Add to that the consistently positive reviews praising the guides’ expertise and friendliness, and you start to see why this tour packs a punch.

One potential consideration is the price point of $1,500 per person—which might seem steep at first glance. However, when you factor in the quality of accommodations, park fees, and small group experience, many find this a very fair value for a curated, hassle-free adventure. This tour caters best to travelers craving a luxurious, well-organized safari with a focus on quality wildlife sightings and comfort.

This tour suits those looking for a high-end safari experience with plenty of opportunities to see the Big Five, enjoy scenic landscapes, and stay in cozy, park-based lodges without the stress of planning every detail.

Key Points

• All-inclusive package with park fees, meals, and private transport
• Expert guides known for their wildlife knowledge and friendly approach
• Comfortable lodge accommodations within or near the parks
• Diverse landscapes from savannahs to volcanic craters and lakes
• Small group/private tour setting for a personalized experience
• Rich wildlife encounters, including the Big Five and many other species

The Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Tarangire National Park

The adventure kicks off with an early pickup from your hotel in Arusha. The drive to Tarangire is a scenic journey, and once you arrive, you’ll jump into an open-roof jeep—an absolute must for photo opportunities—and start your wildlife watching. Tarangire’s signature feature is its endless tree-lined savannah and seasonal marshes, which attract large herds of elephants. Reports show there can be over 4,000 elephants here, making it a real highlight.

Expect to see more than just elephants—giraffes, buffalos, lions, zebras, and a variety of antelopes are common sightings. The landscape is dramatic, with towering baobabs and sprawling plains. Lunch is served at a designated picnic site within the park, giving you a chance to enjoy a meal amidst nature.

In the afternoon, the game drive continues, and according to reviews, guides are skilled at spotting animals from great angles, capturing perfect pictures. Guests rave about the professionalism and enthusiasm of the guides, with some mentioning their ability to spot animals in dense foliage.

Staying inside the park on the first night means no rush or back-and-forth travel, allowing you to relax and soak in the scenery without feeling hurried.

Day 2: Ngorongoro Crater

The early morning departure takes you toward the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. As you approach the crater’s gates, your guide will give a brief overview of the caldera’s formation—an active volcano that collapsed thousands of years ago, creating one of the world’s most famous wildlife arenas.

You’ll stop at the viewpoint for photos and to appreciate the vast, volcanic landscape before descending into the crater floor. Inside, the biodiversity is astounding—black rhinos, lions, leopards, elephants, and vast herds of gazelles. The crater’s forests on the slopes are home to mountain reedbucks, and birdwatchers will adore the over 500 species, including flamingos.

Guests mention the exhilaration of spotting rare animals like the wild dogs and the spectacular scenery that makes Ngorongoro a favorite among safari lovers. After a picnic lunch in the crater, the drive back up provides more chances for wildlife sightings, often with time to capture those special moments on camera.

Day 3: Lake Manyara National Park

Your final day begins with breakfast before heading to Lake Manyara. This park is renowned for its birdlife, especially flamingos, which flock to the alkaline lake during the rains, creating a surreal pink landscape. The park’s vegetation is diverse, ranging from lush forests to open grasslands, providing habitat for giraffes, hippos, and even elusive tree-climbing lions—an unusual but fascinating sight.

Guests have praised the park’s variety of scenery and the chance to see animals in a less crowded setting. The park’s western border is the Rift Valley escarpment, offering stunning panoramic views for photo enthusiasts.

The day concludes with a drive back to Arusha, where the safari experience wraps up.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Guided Expertise

From reviews, it’s clear that guides like Ombeni and Proches are well-loved for their extensive wildlife knowledge and friendly demeanor. They seem to have a knack for spotting animals early and positioning the vehicle for the best shots, which is perfect for photography lovers. Guests also appreciate the guide’s patience and willingness to explain the animals’ behaviors, making the experience both educational and engaging.

Comfortable Accommodation

Staying inside the parks or nearby means you can wake up close to the action and avoid long drives after sunset. Guests describe the lodges as cozy and friendly, with some mentioning they are “cozy” and “very well located” for easy access to wildlife hotspots.

Diverse Landscapes

The itinerary is a feast for the eyes: Tarangire’s iconic giant baobabs, the caldera of Ngorongoro, and the shallow waters of Manyara all contribute to a picture-perfect safari. This variety keeps each day fresh, and the different ecosystems mean you’ll encounter a broad spectrum of wildlife.

Value for Money

While $1,500 per person might seem high, reviews suggest the tour offers excellent value—covering park fees, meals, transportation, and expert guiding—so you won’t have to worry about hidden costs or planning hassles. Most travelers agree that the quality of experience and the comfort level justify the price.

Small Group & Private Options

This is a private tour for your group, which means personalized attention and a flexible schedule. Guests mention being able to take their time, spotting animals from optimal angles, and enjoying a more intimate safari experience.

Practical Tips for Your Safari

• Timing: Most reviews indicate booking about 10 days in advance, so plan early to secure your spot.
• What to bring: Binoculars, a good camera, sun protection, and layered clothing—temperatures can vary from warm days to cooler mornings and evenings.
• Lodging: Staying inside the parks or nearby allows for early starts and relaxing evenings without rushing.
• Wildlife sightings: Guides are experienced and attentive, but some animals like lions or wild dogs are unpredictable. Patience and an eye for detail are key.

The Sum Up

This 3-day luxury safari delivers a well-rounded adventure, combining extraordinary wildlife encounters with comfortable accommodation and expert guiding. It’s ideal for travelers who want to experience Tanzania’s best parks without sacrificing comfort or personalized service. The combination of diverse landscapes, the chance to see the Big Five, and the professionalism of guides make it a standout choice.

If you’re seeking an adventure that balances value, quality, and authentic wildlife moments, this tour is hard to beat. Perfect for first-timers or seasoned safari lovers alike, it promises memorable moments and stunning scenery every step of the way.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The $1,500 fee covers all park fees, transport in a 4WD Land Cruiser with photographic roof hatch, meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), and accommodation.

Are transfers offered?
Yes, pickup from your hotel in Arusha is included. The tour ends back at the same meeting point.

How many people are in the group?
This is a private tour, so only your group will participate, ensuring a personalized experience.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but expect to be in vehicles for several hours each day. It’s best suited for those comfortable with outdoor activities and early mornings.

What’s the best way to prepare for this safari?
Bring binoculars, a camera, hats, sunscreen, and layered clothing. Comfortable footwear is also recommended for walking around lodges or viewpoints.

What animals are most likely to be seen?
The Big Five—lion, leopard, buffalo, rhino, and elephant—are the main highlights. You can also expect giraffes, zebras, antelopes, flamingos, hippos, cheetahs, hyenas, and more.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a private tour, there’s flexibility to tailor some aspects depending on your interests and timing.

What do reviewers say about the guides?
Guests consistently praise guides like Ombeni and Proches for their enthusiasm, wildlife spotting skills, and ability to provide in-depth explanations.

This safari promises an immersive, comfortable, and memorable journey through Tanzania’s premier parks, ideal for wildlife enthusiasts seeking quality and authenticity without the fuss.