3 Days safari to Tarangire, Ngorongoro and Manyara national park

Exploring Tanzania’s Wildlife in Style: A 3-Day Private Safari Review

Tanzania’s national parks are some of Africa’s most iconic destinations, and this 3-day private safari offers a chance to see them through a well-curated, intimate lens. While I haven’t personally been on this exact tour, the details and reviews paint a compelling picture of what travelers can expect. From vast elephant herds and hunting lions to flamingo flocks and tree-climbing lions, this safari aims to present a full spectrum of East Africa’s wildlife.

What makes this trip stand out? First, it delivers a personalized experience with a private safari vehicle, ensuring you’re not caught in a crowded group. Second, the expert guides seem to be a real highlight—reviewers repeatedly mention how knowledgeable and friendly they are, making the journey more engaging and comfortable. Lastly, the itinerary covers three incredibly diverse ecosystems, giving you a broad view of Tanzania’s wildlife in just three days.

However, there’s one consideration: with a packed schedule and long driving hours—up to 11 hours on some days—you’ll want to be prepared for a full, sometimes tiring, adventure. But for those who want a luxury, all-inclusive, and authentic wildlife experience, this tour seems perfectly suited. It’s especially ideal for travelers craving a private, flexible, and memorable safari.

Key Points

• Exclusive Experience: Private safari vehicle and personalized service.
• Diverse Wildlife: Big five, birds, and unique species like tree-climbing lions.
• Expert Guides: Known for their knowledge and friendliness.
• Full Board Meals & Park Fees Included: Value-added convenience.
• Coverage of Three Iconic Parks: Tarangire, Ngorongoro, and Manyara.
• Long Days: Expect up to 11 hours of game drives, so bring snacks and patience.

A Detailed Look at the 3-Day Tanzanian Safari

The Allure of the Itinerary

This 3-day safari combines the best of northern Tanzania’s wildlife spectacles, with each park offering something uniquely captivating. It’s a concentrated adventure, designed to maximize sightings and immersion without feeling rushed.

Day 1: Tarangire National Park

Starting early from your hotel or Arusha airport, the journey to Tarangire National Park begins. Known for its impressive elephant herds, sometimes numbering over 300, this park promises a spectacle of pachyderm grandeur. As the guide might point out, the dry riverbed teems with grazing animals like zebras, wildebeest, and impala, especially during the dry season.

One of the park’s standout features is the Silale swamp, a hub for 550 bird species, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise. Reviewers emphasize the site’s bird diversity, noting it as “the most breeding species you’ll see in one habitat anywhere in the world.” Interestingly, Tarangire also hosts tree-climbing pythons, and predators like lions and leopards are often spotted lounging in the trees or stalking prey.

Traveling from here to the rim of the Ngorongoro crater for dinner, you get a taste of the diverse landscapes Tanzania offers. The day’s long drive (around 8 hours) demands patience but rewards with vibrant wildlife and picturesque scenery.

Day 2: Ngorongoro Crater

The highlight of day two is descending into Ngorongoro Crater, a geological marvel and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The 610-meter-deep caldera, sprawling over 260 square kilometers, is often called the “Garden of Eden” for its abundant wildlife. From lions and elephants to rhinos and buffalo, the Big Five are reliably seen here.

Our sources praise the guide’s ability to track game precisely, making the most of your time on the crater floor. The variety of birds adds to the spectacle, and you might also spot unique species like velvet monkeys, jackals, and hyraxes. The crater’s ecosystem is especially vibrant because of its natural water sources, supporting a dense concentration of animals.

After a full day exploring, you’ll head to Mto wa Mbu for dinner and overnight. The long drive back (around 11 hours with game viewing) might be tiring but is well worth the experience of being inside one of Africa’s most celebrated wildlife arenas.

Day 3: Lake Manyara National Park

The final day begins with a game drive through Lake Manyara National Park, famed for its tree-climbing lions and flamingos. The park’s lush woodlands and the shimmering waters of Lake Manyara create a stunning setting for spotting diverse wildlife.

Along With the flamingos, the park is home to hippos, crocodiles, and various antelope species. A boat excursion on the lake is included, offering a different perspective on the landscape and wildlife, especially the birdlife. Reviewers often mention how guides’ local insights enrich the experience, making each sighting more meaningful.

The safari wraps up with a drive back to Arusha, concluding a journey packed with unforgettable moments. The total drive time on the last day is about 6 hours, giving you some downtime before arriving home or to your next destination.

What to Expect from the Experience

Transportation & Comfort

Traveling in an open-roof safari jeep, you get unobstructed views and easy photography opportunities. The vehicle’s comfort and reliability seem to be a plus, with knowledgeable guides ensuring smooth, informative rides. Reviewers mention that the guides’ friendliness and expertise significantly enhance the trip.

Meals & Inclusions

Full-board meals are included, so you won’t have to worry about packing food during long game drives. Bottled water is provided, which is essential in the warm climate. All park fees are covered, preventing extra hidden costs and making the booking straightforward.

Duration & Pace

The tour is intensive, with some days involving up to 11 hours of driving and game viewing. While this might be tiring for some, it maximizes wildlife sightings—especially with the guides’ skill in finding animals. Reviewers comment that the long hours are balanced by the rewarding scenery and the personal attention of the guides.

Pricing & Value

At $2,150 per person, this safari offers a comprehensive package, including park fees, meals, and a private vehicle. While it might seem steep, the exclusivity and personalized service, combined with the opportunity to see a wide range of animals, make it a worthwhile investment for wildlife enthusiasts. The private aspect ensures flexibility and tailored experiences, which are often missing from larger group tours.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

One reviewer praised the guides as “extremely reliable, friendly, and knowledgeable,” noting that despite personal less-than-stellar Zanzibar experiences, their guides on this safari were “very good.” This suggests the quality of guiding can significantly influence the overall experience, adding a layer of trust for future travelers.

Another comment highlights the “stunning views” and the chance to witness large herds of elephants and lions in their natural habitat, emphasizing how the tour’s sites are some of the best wildlife spots in Tanzania.

Who is This Safari Best For?

If you’re after a luxurious, private safari experience with a focus on wildlife viewing, this tour checks most boxes. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who value personalized attention and expert guiding. It suits those willing to endure long days for the best chances at wildlife sightings and are prepared for the adventure’s physical demands.

It’s also a good fit if you want to visit multiple parks in a short time, creating a broader snapshot of Tanzania’s diverse ecosystems without sacrificing comfort or quality.

Final Thoughts

This 3-day safari is a fantastic choice for travelers who want to experience some of Tanzania’s most iconic parks in an intimate, personalized setting. The combination of knowledgeable guides, diverse wildlife, and a well-organized itinerary delivers a memorable adventure that feels both luxurious and authentic.

While the schedule is intense, the payoff is a rich collection of wildlife moments, stunning vistas, and cultural encounters that will stick with you long after the trip ends. Whether you’re a first-time safari-goer or a seasoned wildlife enthusiast, this trip offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and exclusive access.

If you’re looking for a safari that respects your time, offers expert guidance, and showcases the best of northern Tanzania, this tour deserves serious consideration.

FAQ

What is included in the price?
The tour includes park fees, full-board meals, bottled water, and the use of a private safari jeep with an open roof for optimal viewing.

Are airport pickups or hotel transfers provided?
Yes, pickup from your hotel or Arusha airport is included, starting at 5:00 am.

How long are the game drives each day?
Some days involve up to 8-11 hours of driving and game viewing, depending on the locations and animal sightings.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and since it’s a private tour, it can be tailored to different needs, but be prepared for long hours and some physical demands.

Are park fees included?
Yes, all park entrance fees are covered in the cost.

Can I expect to see the Big Five?
Absolutely, Ngorongoro Crater is famous for its Big Five sightings, and Tarangire and Manyara also offer chances to see lions, elephants, and other iconic animals.

What about guides?
The guides are highly praised for their knowledge and friendliness, enhancing the overall experience.

Is there a boat trip included?
Yes, on the last day at Lake Manyara, a boat excursion is part of the itinerary.

What should I pack?
Bring lightweight clothing, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, camera gear, and perhaps a jacket for early mornings or chilly evenings.

This safari offers a well-rounded, authentic, and luxurious wildlife adventure that’s hard to beat for those looking to explore Tanzania’s most celebrated parks in just three days.