3 Days Serengati and Ngorongoro crate group tour and safari

Travelers seeking a taste of Tanzania’s most iconic landscapes will find this 3-day group safari a compelling option. With a focus on the Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater, this tour promises unforgettable wildlife encounters, expert guides, and a well-organized itinerary—all at a reasonable price of $850 per person.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the knowledgeable guides like Douglas, Samuel, and Ombeni are repeatedly praised for their patience and passion—crucial for spotting elusive animals and answering endless questions. Second, the stunning views of the Rift Valley, Ngorongoro crater, and Serengeti plains are complemented by memorable moments like sunrise game drives. Third, the delicious, plentiful meals prepared by the dedicated cooks ensure you stay energized for long days of exploration.

A potential consideration is the long travel times—around 7 to 8 hours from Arusha to Serengeti—which might be tiring, especially for those with limited stamina. However, the scenery en route, including views of the Ngorongoro crater and the Rift Valley, softens the journey’s length. This tour best suits travelers who are eager for a cost-effective but comprehensive safari experience, enjoy group travel, and value guided expert insights over luxury accommodations.

Key Points

• Value-packed experience: For around $850, you get full access to two of Tanzania’s most famous parks, with all fees and taxes included.
• Expert guides: Guides like Douglas, Samuel, and Ombeni are praised for their knowledge, patience, and ability to get close to animals.
• Authentic camping experience: Staying at campsites inside the parks, such as Seronera and Simba, offers a genuine safari feel.
• Comprehensive itinerary: From game drives at sunrise to viewing the Big Five, every day is packed with wildlife and scenery.
• Flexible and convenient: Pickup from Arusha, mobile tickets, and a group size limited to six travelers make for a personalized experience.
• Incredible wildlife sightings: Expect to see lions, elephants, rhinos, giraffes, zebras, flamingos, and over 500 bird species.

Analyzing the Itinerary in Detail

This 3-day adventure is designed for travelers who want to maximize their time exploring Tanzania’s most famous parks without overextending on travel or costs. The carefully planned schedule balances travel, game drives, and meals to give you a well-rounded experience.

Day 1: Arrival and Serengeti Game Drive

Your journey kicks off with a 7- to 8-hour drive from Arusha, with a scenic route that offers views of the Rift Valley, the Ngorongoro Crater, and the expansive plains of the Serengeti. The early start at 7:30 am ensures you arrive around 3 pm, just in time for an evening game drive. Expect to see herds of giraffes, elephants, and possibly predators like lions lounging in the golden sunset. The Seronera campsite, nestled inside the park, provides a rustic yet authentic base for the night.

This initial drive is a highlight in itself, as the scenery and chance to spot wildlife from the vehicle introduce you to Africa’s natural beauty. Reviewers have noted the smooth organization and excellent communication from the team, making the start of your trip stress-free.

Day 2: Sunrise, Game Drives, and Transition to Ngorongoro

Early mornings are a signature feature here. You’ll wake at 5:45 am to witness a serene sunrise over the plains—an experience that is both peaceful and exhilarating. After a quick breakfast, a morning game drive continues until around 11:30 am, offering the opportunity to see giraffes, elephants, hippos, and lions. The Serengeti is renowned for its incredible concentration of large mammals—over 500 bird species—including ostriches and flamingos, which you might spot during the drives.

Post-lunch, the adventure continues with more game drives en route to the Simba campsite, located near Ngorongoro. Reviewers have appreciated guides like Samuel for their wildlife knowledge and the patience they exhibit during animal viewing, often taking extra time for photos and close encounters.

Day 3: The Ngorongoro Crater Experience

The final day is perhaps the most iconic. Waking early at 5:30 am, you descend into the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera. Animals are densely packed here, with over 6,000 wildebeest, 200 elephants, 30 lions, and 30 black rhinos. Expect to see the Big Five—lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino—plus flamingos and countless bird species.

Lunchtime inside the crater is a special moment, with the high concentration of flamingos providing a colorful backdrop. The crater’s terrain offers remarkable photo opportunities, and several reviewers have emphasized how guides like Ombeni take their time to find the elusive rhino or the perfect animal shot. The drive back to Arusha wraps up a full safari experience, with around 8 hours of travel and wildlife viewing.

Practical Aspects and Value

This safari’s pricing of $850 includes all park entry fees, taxes, three meals daily, and WIFI, which is notably generous for a safari of this scope. The group is limited to six travelers, offering a more intimate experience compared to larger tours, and the mobile ticket system simplifies logistics.

Transport-wise, you’ll be traveling in a comfortable jeep, with the guides emphasizing safety, wildlife respect, and clear communication. The timing—early starts and long days—maximizes wildlife sightings and minimizes the heat, which most travelers find beneficial.

The camping accommodations inside the parks are basic but authentic; reviewers have praised the experience, describing it as a chance to connect with nature in a way that luxury lodges cannot match. The guides’ stories and knowledge transform simple game drives into engaging wildlife lessons, making the trip both fun and educational.

The Guides and Food

Many reviews highlight the guides’ expertise, especially mentioning guides like Douglas, Samuel, Ombeni, and Gordon. They’re praised for their patience, animal-tracking skills, and ability to spot wildlife in the most unexpected places. The food prepared by the camp cooks also receives high marks, with reviewers mentioning the delicious and plentiful meals during their long days, which keeps energy levels high.

The Authentic Camping Experience

Camping inside the parks allows travelers to wake up to the sounds of wildlife and experience the parks from an insider’s perspective. Although not luxurious, the campsites offer a genuine safari vibe, and reviews suggest that the staff makes consistent efforts to ensure comfort despite the rustic setting.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a well-organized, budget-friendly safari that offers authentic experiences, this tour fits the bill. It’s ideal for adventurous travelers who don’t mind camping or simple accommodations and want to focus on wildlife sightings guided by knowledgeable locals.

Group travelers, solo adventurers, and even small families will appreciate the personalized touch with limited group sizes and expert guidance. It’s also suitable for those with a busy schedule, as the 3-day plan hits all major highlights without unnecessary detours.

The Sum Up

This 3-day group safari from Arusha offers a fantastic balance of value, authenticity, and expert guidance. You’ll get to see Africa’s Big Five, witness the breathtaking landscapes of Serengeti and Ngorongoro, and enjoy the company of passionate local guides—all at a competitive price.

The camping experience adds a layer of adventure and closeness to nature that many travelers cherish, while the well-planned itinerary ensures you make the most of your limited time. The numerous favorable reviews speak to the professionalism and friendliness of the team, making it a reliable choice for first-time safari-goers or seasoned wildlife enthusiasts alike.

While the long travel hours might be tiring, the scenery and wildlife encounters more than compensate. This tour is perfect for travelers who want an authentic, guided experience that captures the essence of Tanzania’s wilderness without breaking the bank.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, the tour is limited to a maximum of six travelers, making it a great option for solo adventurers who prefer a group setting. The guides are experienced in managing small groups and creating a friendly atmosphere.

Are park entry fees included?
Absolutely. The price covers all fees and taxes for the parks, so there are no hidden charges on arrival.

What kind of accommodations are provided?
This is a camping safari, so you’ll stay at campsites inside the parks, with basic but comfortable facilities designed for an authentic safari experience.

Can I expect WIFI during the trip?
Yes, free WIFI is available throughout the tour, which is helpful for sharing photos or staying connected.

What animals are most likely to be seen?
Expect to see lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, flamingos, and over 500 bird species. The guides are skilled at animal spotting, even in dense grass or at a distance.

How long are the driving days?
The first day involves about 7-8 hours of travel, with long game drives each day. The final day includes around 8 hours returning from Ngorongoro to Arusha.

Is the food suitable for vegetarians or special diets?
While the review mentions delicious meals, it’s best to inform the tour provider beforehand if you have specific dietary requirements, as the guides and cooks prepare hearty, traditional safari fare.

This wise investment in a Tanzania safari promises memorable wildlife sightings, authentic camping, and expert guidance—all wrapped into a well-priced package perfect for adventure seekers.