3 Day Private Serengeti Safari Tour with One Way Flight

Traveling to Africa for a safari is often a dream come true, and this 3-day private Serengeti tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and incredible wildlife sightings. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the reviews and details paint a vivid picture of what you can expect—an authentic, well-organized experience designed for those who want to explore some of Tanzania’s most iconic landscapes.

Three things truly stand out about this tour: the seamless logistics of the one-way flight, the knowledgeable guides like Simon and Victor, and the stunning wildlife views across three remarkable parks. The only potential consideration might be the short time frame, which means you’ll want to be prepared for packed days of exploration. This adventure suits travelers who crave a compact but immersive safari experience, especially those with limited time but big wildlife dreams.

Key Points

• Authentic safari experience with expert guides and tailored itineraries
• Convenient one-way flight into the Serengeti enhances the adventure and minimizes travel fatigue
• Diverse wildlife sightings across Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Tarangire National Park
• Comfortable accommodations including glamping and luxury lodges
• Highly rated guides known for their knowledge and attentiveness
• Value for the price considering the flights, park fees, and personalized service

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You Expect at Each Stop

Day 1: Flying into the Serengeti and a Guided Safari

Starting your journey from Arusha, you’ll be picked up from your hotel and transferred to the airport for a scenic flight to the Serengeti. This flight is a standout feature—flying over the plains gives you an immediate sense of the vastness and beauty of Tanzania’s wilderness. Upon landing, your guide, such as Simon or Victor, will meet you at the airstrip for a full-day game drive.

Here, you’ll get your first taste of the Serengeti’s incredible wildlife. The landscape is breathtaking, and the sheer density of animals—up to 2 million wildebeest, hundreds of thousands of zebras, and many antelope—makes for extraordinary sightings. Expect to see predators like lions hunting, hyenas scavenging, and cheetahs stalking their prey. As one reviewer put it, “The flight into the Serengeti was incredible… it felt like being in the movie Lion King.”

Expect at least 9 hours of adventure with stops for photography, wildlife observation, and a picnic lunch amid the wilds. The guides are praised for their spotting skills, often catching animals from miles away and sharing fascinating facts throughout the day.

Day 2: Ngorongoro Conservation Area and Crater

After breakfast, you’ll head back into the plains for another morning safari in the Serengeti, watching the animals start their day. Around midday, you’ll transfer to the lush landscapes of the Ngorongoro Highlands, enjoying a picnic lunch en route. The highlight here is the Ngorongoro Crater—a natural wonder and UNESCO World Heritage site.

This massive volcanic caldera is teeming with wildlife, including lions, hyenas, and cheetahs, often seen hunting at close range. Travelers have noted how accustomed the predators are to safari vehicles, sometimes hunting just yards away. The crater’s mineral-rich plains support large herds of zebra and wildebeest, making it a prime spot for wildlife photography and close-up encounters.

Expect another 9-hour day of game viewing, with options to descend into the crater and explore its expansive floor, which measures about 12 miles in diameter. Many visitors mention the extraordinary scenery, describing it as “no wonder it’s among the 7 Natural Wonders of the World.”

Day 3: Tarangire National Park and Return

The final day sees a drive to Tarangire National Park, renowned for its large elephant herds and iconic baobab trees. The full-day game drive includes a descent into Ngorongoro Crater for a picnic lunch, soaking in the scenery and wildlife. This park offers a different landscape, with open plains and riverine forests, giving a well-rounded safari experience.

Travelers like one reviewer noted, “Benny, our guide, was very attentive to our wishes to stop as often and for as long as we wanted to view the wildlife.” This flexibility, combined with expert guide commentary, ensures a personalized experience. The day wraps up with your transfer back to the starting point in Arusha.

Transportation and Logistics: What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The journey begins with a private pickup in Arusha, with a focus on stress-free logistics. The one-way scenic flight is a major highlight—flying over the Serengeti is not just practical but elevates the safari to a memorable adventure. The flight saves hours of overland travel, allowing more time for game viewing.

Accommodations range from glamping setups with hot showers inside the Serengeti to luxury lodges. This variety offers a comfortable stay after long days of wildlife spotting. The tour is private, so you and your group will have the guide’s full attention, enhancing both safety and engagement.

Guides like Simon, Carlos, Benny, and Victor are praised for their extensive knowledge of animals, plants, and local culture. Their ability to spot animals quickly and share insightful stories makes a noticeable difference in the quality of the safari.

The Value of a 3-Day Experience

Considering the cost of $1,477, the price covers flights, park fees, accommodations, and guiding services. Many reviews highlight how well-organized and seamless the experience is, with some mentioning how the logistics are flawless—drivers and guides are punctual and attentive to your wishes.

The tour’s short duration makes it ideal for travelers who want a concentrated dose of Tanzania’s wildlife without committing to a longer, more expensive trip. The inclusion of the scenic flight, a key feature, justifies the price by providing an exclusive and efficient way to access the parks.

Experience Quality and Guide Expertise: Why It Matters

One of the most frequently praised aspects of this safari is the guides’ knowledge and attentiveness. Travelers like those who did the safari after their Kilimanjaro climb praised guides such as Carlos and Simon for their friendly demeanor and deep understanding of the parks’ ecosystems.

Reviewers frequently mention how guides anticipate animal movements, giving travelers better chances to photograph predators or elusive species. The guides’ familiarity with the parks’ geography, combined with their patient, friendly attitude, makes the experience more engaging and less rushed.

Accommodations and Comfort

Participants often comment on the comfort level of the lodging. The first night’s glamping setup includes a hot shower in the middle of the Serengeti, which is a rare treat in such remote locations. The second night at the Farm of Dreams resort offers a luxurious, buffet-style meal featuring local fare.

This focus on comfort ensures you can relax after long days of wildlife viewing, making the safari suitable for travelers who value both adventure and quality accommodations.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

• Ideal for those with limited time who want a comprehensive safari experience
• Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts eager to see the Big Five and other iconic animals
• Suitable for travelers who value expert guides and seamless logistics
• Great for those wanting a unique aerial perspective of the Serengeti from the scenic flight
• Excellent for adventure seekers who want a well-rounded experience with comfort

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Safari?

If you’re looking for a short but impactful safari that combines top wildlife sightings with expert guiding and a touch of luxury, this tour is a strong contender. The inclusion of a scenic flight enhances the sense of adventure, making the trip feel exclusive and special. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate authentic experiences with knowledgeable guides and don’t mind a packed schedule that maximizes every minute.

This safari also caters well to those who want to experience Tanzania’s diverse landscapes—from the endless plains of the Serengeti to the lush Ngorongoro Crater and the iconic Baobabs of Tarangire—without sacrificing comfort or local insight.

Overall, for the price of $1,477, you’re getting a well-organized, memorable journey through some of Africa’s most breathtaking scenery, guided by passionate professionals who know how to make wildlife come alive. Whether it’s your first safari or a treasured addition to an African adventure, this tour promises a captivating experience worth every penny.

FAQ: Common Questions about the 3-Day Serengeti Safari

Is the tour suitable for first-time safari travelers?
Yes, the tour is designed for a wide range of travelers, including those new to safaris. The guides’ experience and the well-structured itinerary help ensure a smooth introduction to wildlife viewing.

What does the scenic flight involve?
The flight is a scenic, approximately 9-hour journey from Arusha to the Serengeti, providing breathtaking aerial views of the plains, wildlife, and landscapes, saving travel time and adding excitement.

Are meals included during the safari?
While the main itinerary mentions picnic lunches, specific details about meals are not provided. However, accommodations like the Farm of Dreams resort offer buffet dinners featuring local fare.

How many people are in a typical group?
This is a private tour, so only your group will participate, allowing for a personalized experience and flexibility with stops and schedules.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
You’re likely to see the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, rhino), along with wildebeest, zebra, gazelles, and numerous predators like cheetahs and hyenas.

How comfortable are the accommodations?
Expect a mix of glamping with hot showers in the Serengeti and luxury lodges like Farm of Dreams, providing a nice balance of adventure and comfort.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes, the tour provider mentions they can accommodate special meal preferences or dietary restrictions—just let them know in advance.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 6 days are non-refundable unless you qualify for the partial refund terms.

Is this tour good value for money?
Considering the included flights, park fees, guides, and accommodations, most reviews suggest it offers excellent value, especially given the quality of the guides and wildlife encounters.

Would this tour suit solo travelers or groups?
It’s a private tour for groups, making it ideal for families, friends, or couples looking for an intimate safari experience with personalized attention from guides.

In summary, this 3-day Serengeti safari offers a combination of expertly guided wildlife encounters, convenient logistics, and comfortable lodging—perfect for travelers who want a meaningful and manageable Tanzanian adventure. If you’re after stunning views, close animal encounters, and guided insights, this trip is likely to be a highlight of your African journey.