3 Days Tanzania Safari: Tarangire, Manyara and Ngorongoro Crater

3 Days Tanzania Safari: Tarangire, Manyara, and Ngorongoro Crater — An Honest Review

Planning a safari in Tanzania? This 3-day tour offers a chance to see some of the continent’s most iconic wildlife and landscapes without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. While we haven’t personally experienced it, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a picture of a well-organized, authentic adventure that appeals to lovers of nature, photography, and culture alike.

What we love about this tour:

• Professional, knowledgeable guides who make each park’s secrets accessible
• Diverse landscapes and wildlife that change from day to day
• Authentic encounters with Maasai culture and local communities

A possible consideration:

• The tour runs about 9 hours each day, which can be tiring, especially if you’re not used to long game drives.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, value-packed introduction to Tanzania’s wilderness in a short period. It suits first-timers and seasoned safari lovers alike, especially those who appreciate a good balance of wildlife viewing, cultural insights, and comfortable accommodations.

Key Points

• Incredible wildlife variety from elephants and lions to flamingos and rhinos
• Expert guides who share insights into animal behavior and park history
• Scenic drives through iconic parks like Tarangire, Lake Manyara, and Ngorongoro
• Authentic cultural experiences with Maasai communities
• All-inclusive essentials like binoculars, bottled water, and meals
• Value for money at under $1,000 per person, considering the guided experience and park fees

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Day 1: Tarangire National Park

Starting at dawn, you’ll head into Tarangire, a park often overlooked in favor of bigger names like Serengeti but equally spectacular. Known for its vast elephant herds and distinctive baobab trees, Tarangire is a photographer’s dream. The landscapes are varied, with open plains, riverbeds, and rocky outcroppings creating a stunning backdrop for wildlife sightings.

What makes Tarangire special? The park’s lower visitor numbers mean fewer crowds and more intimate encounters. As one reviewer mentioned, “Tarangire is a hidden gem,” providing a chance to see animals thriving away from busier parks. You’ll probably spot elephants in large family groups, giraffes gracefully stretching their long necks, and perhaps even lions resting in the shade.

The tour includes a night game drive option, which isn’t always offered in other safaris, giving a glimpse of nocturnal animals — a highlight for many. Expect to spend around 9 hours here, so comfortable seating and patience are key.

Day 2: Lake Manyara National Park

After breakfast, the journey continues to Lake Manyara, famous for its tree-climbing lions and flocks of flamingos. The park’s lush vegetation contrasts sharply with the dry plains of Tarangire, offering a different kind of scenery.

One reviewer noted the impressive birdlife, including large flocks of flamingos, and the chance to see elephants, hippos, and baboons. The lake itself provides stunning views of the Rift Valley and surrounding mountains, making for excellent photo opportunities.

A highlight is the chance to see lions in unusual trees, a quirky yet captivating spectacle. The park is perfect for a relaxed game drive, with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife in its diverse habitats. It’s also a good spot for a picnic lunch, with many visitors praising the scenic settings for their midday break.

Day 3: Ngorongoro Crater

The final day pivots to Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site and arguably the safari’s centerpiece. Descending into the crater early in the morning, you’ll be greeted by a landscape that looks like a natural zoo, spanning 260 square kilometers of grassland, forest, and water.

Ngorongoro is renowned for its high density of wildlife, including the Big Five: lions, elephants, buffalo, rhinos, and leopards. Many reviewers shared stories of close-up encounters with lions lounging and elephants crossing the plains.

You’ll have a picnic lunch overlooking hippo pools, where you might spot these massive creatures wallowing. The afternoon drive back up the crater rim wraps up a day that many describe as a highlight, with some mentioning it as “breathtaking” or “surreal.”

Transportation and timing:
The entire experience uses 4WD vehicles, ensuring comfortable, off-road capable transport. The early start and 9-hour days are designed to maximize wildlife viewing, but be prepared for some long hours in the vehicle.

What’s Included and What to Expect

Included in the package:

• Binoculars — essential for wildlife spotting and appreciated by reviewers for enhancing the experience
• Bottled mineral water throughout each day, keeping you hydrated during the long drives
• All meals: two dinners, three lunches, and two breakfasts, carefully prepared and often highlighted as tasty and nourishing
• Park entrance fees — these are included, adding value and removing extra expense worries

What’s not included:

• The tour does not include luxury accommodations, so travelers should expect comfortable but modest lodges or campsites.

Meeting point and logistics:
The tour starts at the Clocktower Roundabout in Arusha, a common hub for safaris, and ends back there, making logistics straightforward. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with a maximum group size of 28, ensuring a good balance between socializing and personal space.

Booking and cancellation:
You can confirm your spot with at least a 24-hour notice and receive a full refund if you cancel in time. This flexibility makes it easier to plan around unpredictable schedules or sudden changes.

Insights from Reviews: Why This Tour Gets Rave Reviews

Multiple travelers praised the guides’ knowledge and friendliness, often mentioning specific guides like Elli and Ombeni. One reviewer highlighted Elli as “so interesting,” explaining that guides who share stories and insights make the experience more memorable.

People also loved the stunning views and animal sightings. Many shared that they saw lions, elephants, giraffes, and even rare sightings like leopards and rhinos. One reviewer described the experience as “almost surreal,” emphasizing the close encounters and breathtaking landscapes.

Another common theme was the well-organized nature of the tour. From logistics to meals, guests felt the trip ran smoothly, allowing them to focus on enjoying their adventure. The inclusion of essentials like binoculars and water added to the experience’s value.

The authentic cultural experience with Maasai communities was also appreciated. Several travelers enjoyed learning about local traditions and seeing the community firsthand, adding depth to their safari.

What reviewers found most valuable:

• The expert guides’ stories and insights made animals’ behaviors come alive
• The scenic drives and vistas, especially at Ngorongoro and Lake Manyara
• The personalized touches like picnic lunches with impressive views
• The opportunity to see the Big Five in one day, which many considered a highlight

Is This Tour Worth It?

Considering the price of $998.65 per person, the value is quite compelling. It includes transportation, park fees, meals, and equipment like binoculars, which can add up if booked separately. Tour organizers have received high praise for their professionalism, making the expense feel justified.

While the daily schedule is busy, the long hours are part of the package, designed to maximize wildlife sightings and park experience. The tour’s reviews consistently mention how well it’s organized and how guides go above and beyond to make it memorable.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This safari is perfect for those who want a comprehensive introduction to Northern Tanzania’s wildlife in a short period. It’s suitable for first-time safari travelers, wildlife enthusiasts wanting to tick off the Big Five, or anyone eager to experience Tanzania’s stunning landscapes without sacrificing comfort. If you’re traveling on a budget but still want quality and authenticity, this tour offers excellent value.

The Sum Up

This 3-day safari through Tarangire, Manyara, and Ngorongoro is a balanced mix of wildlife, scenery, and cultural experiences. The guides’ expertise and the well-organized itinerary allow you to see some of Tanzania’s most iconic landscapes and animals without unnecessary stress or expense.

You’ll love the variety of habitats, the chance to observe animals in their natural environment, and the insights shared by knowledgeable guides. The included meals, park fees, and equipment make it a hassle-free option, especially for first-timers or travelers wanting a curated experience.

While the days are long, the payoff is unforgettable wildlife encounters and stunning vistas. If you’re looking for a safari that provides genuine value, authentic experiences, and a chance to witness Africa’s wilderness in comfort, this tour is a top contender.

FAQ

How long is each day on the safari?
Each day is approximately 9 hours, including travel, game drives, and meals, making for a full, immersive experience.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes two dinners, three lunches, and two breakfasts, prepared to keep you energized for the day’s adventures.

Do I need my own binoculars?
No, binoculars are provided, which many reviewers appreciated for enhancing wildlife spotting and photography.

What’s the maximum group size?
The tour accommodates up to 28 travelers, balancing social interaction and personal space.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but those sensitive to long hours of vehicle travel might find it tiring.

Are park fees included?
Yes, the entrance fees for Tarangire, Manyara, and Ngorongoro are included in the price.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start, with a full refund if canceled on time.

This safari promises a well-rounded, authentic look at Tanzania’s wildlife and landscapes, backed by enthusiastic reviews and a clear focus on value. If you’re after a memorable, hassle-free adventure in Africa’s most iconic parks, it’s worth considering.