3 Days Safari to Tarangire NP, Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Manyara NP

A 3-day safari that whisks you through some of Tanzania’s most iconic parks sounds like a dream, and from the glowing reviews and detailed itineraries, this particular tour delivers just that. Offered by African Pangolin Safaris, this private journey promises an immersive wildlife experience, with the exciting potential to spot the Big Five, and the flexibility of a private tour that caters to your pace.

What we love about this safari is its well-crafted balance: it hits three top parks—Tarangire National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, and Lake Manyara—each offering distinct scenery and wildlife. Plus, the inclusion of entry fees, a knowledgeable guide, and an open-roof vehicle adds to the value. The only consideration? The packed schedule means early mornings and long days, but if you’re eager for a concentrated taste of Tanzania’s wildlife, it’s a small price to pay.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive yet manageable introduction to Tanzania’s top parks, especially those short on time but craving authentic, close-up wildlife encounters. It’s perfect for first-timers, wildlife enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a quick, high-impact safari experience.

Key Points

• Well-structured 3-day itinerary hitting three major parks with a focus on Big Five sightings
• Private tour with a knowledgeable guide, offering flexibility and personalized attention
• All inclusive of entrance fees and park service fees, maximizing convenience
• Open-roof 4×4 vehicle for optimal wildlife viewing and photo opportunities
• Affordable value considering the extensive access and quality of experience
• Long days, but well-paced and rewarding for wildlife lovers

Introduction: The Promise of a Short but Intense Safari

Travelers looking for a quick but comprehensive glimpse of Tanzania’s wildlife won’t be disappointed with this 3-day safari. Based in Arusha, the tour is designed to maximize your time in some of the most famous parks in the country, often with the chance to spot the Big Five—lion, rhino, elephant, buffalo, and leopard—and to see some extraordinary landscapes.

Three things that make this safari stand out are its focus on quality sightings, the professional guides, and the value offered by the all-inclusive pricing. It’s clear from the reviews that guests often mention the exceptional guide knowledge, with some travelers commenting on their guides’ ability to spot animals and explain wildlife behavior in detail.

A potential downside is the early start times and long hours. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or luxury accommodations, this might not be your perfect match. But if you’re eager to pack in as much wildlife action as possible in a short window, this tour will serve you well.

This safari is best suited for adventurous travelers eager to see Africa’s wildlife in a concentrated burst, and those who value knowledgeable guides and good value for their money.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Day 1: Tarangire National Park – The Elephant’s Playground

Your adventure kicks off with a pickup from your hotel around 7:30 AM in Arusha. The drive to Tarangire National Park takes roughly 90 minutes, making it a manageable morning trip. Known affectionately as the “home of elephants,” Tarangire is famous for its large herds gathering around the Tarangire River, especially during dry seasons.

Once inside, the game drive begins. You’ll likely see elephants in large groups, often with calves, which makes for incredible photo ops. The park is also home to leopards, lions, giraffes, and even the quirky tree-climbing pythons, which adds a bit of surprise to the wildlife list.

Travelers who have been on this trip praise the expert guides who really know how to track animals and where to find wildlife. “Once in a lifetime experience,” one reviewer said, highlighting the thrill of the sightings and the professionalism of the guides. Another noted the “amazing sightings” and the stunning landscape as major highlights.

After a full day of game viewing, you’ll head to Karatu for dinner and overnight accommodation. The evening is a good chance to relax, enjoy some local cuisine, and reflect on your first big day of safaris.

Day 2: Ngorongoro Crater – Wildlife in a Natural Amphitheater

Early breakfast tomorrow and then an approximately 8-hour day exploring the Ngorongoro Crater. This volcanic caldera is often called the “Africa’s Eden,” and for good reason. The crater floor hosts an abundance of wildlife, with high chances of spotting Big Five animals, thanks to the unique ecosystem.

The drive down into the crater is a highlight in itself, with breathtaking views as you descend into this natural amphitheater. Once inside, the game drive continues on the crater floor, where the density of animals is astonishing. Lunch is served at a picnic site on the crater’s floor—a memorable experience with lions resting nearby, rhinos grazing, and elephants crossing your path.

Reviewers like the guide “Mansoor,” who was praised for his skill in spotting animals and his friendly, informative style. “We saw all Big 5 and 6 if you include the cheetah,” one guest exclaimed, emphasizing the richness of the wildlife. The crater’s diverse landscape—from open grasslands to dense forests—keeps the scenery interesting throughout.

After the game drive, you’ll drive to Mto wa Mbu for dinner and overnight. This allows you to unwind after a long day of wildlife spotting in a less crowded setting.

Day 3: Lake Manyara – The Bird Lover’s Paradise

The final day begins after breakfast with a drive to Lake Manyara National Park. Known for its spectacular views, waterfalls, and rich birdlife, it offers a different vibe from the previous parks. Over 400 bird species, including flamingos and pelicans, call this park home, making it a haven for bird watchers.

The park’s varied habitats—grasslands, forests, water bodies—support large herds of elephants, giraffes, hippos, and water buffalos. Visitors often comment on the beautiful scenery and the chance to see wildlife in a less hectic setting compared to Ngorongoro.

A reviewer noted that the park’s large water bird populations and landscapes contributed to a peaceful yet exciting experience, with some stunning panoramic views of the Great Rift Valley.

After lunch, you’ll head back to Arusha, ending your safari with a full appreciation for Tanzania’s diverse ecosystems and wildlife abundance.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the tour are the 4×4 open-roof vehicle which allows excellent wildlife viewing and photos, all entrance and park fees, and accommodation as specified. The package provides bottled water during safaris, meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), and driver guide services—all making the experience hassle-free.

Not included are items like pre- and post-safari accommodation, personal expenses, tips for guides, and drinks beyond water, which travelers should plan for.

The Value of This Safari

Given the price of $1,350 per person, this tour offers good value considering the all-inclusive nature and the opportunity to visit three major parks with expert guides. Reviews consistently highlight the professionalism of the guides and the stunning wildlife sightings, making it clear that you’re getting your money’s worth.

Transportation and Comfort

Travel is in a private, open-roof 4×4 vehicle, providing excellent visibility and comfort for wildlife viewing. The long days are typical for such safaris, but the vehicle’s design ensures you’re not missing any action. The moderate group size (just your private group) adds a level of intimacy and flexibility.

Who Will Love This Safari?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors wanting to see the big parks in a short period, wildlife aficionados eager to spot the Big Five, and travelers who appreciate guided, all-inclusive experiences. It’s also suited for those who prefer a private tour for a more flexible schedule and personalized attention.

If you’re looking for luxury accommodations or leisurely pace, this might not be your best fit, but for a focused, high-value wildlife adventure, it’s hard to beat.

Final Thoughts

This 3-day safari combines excellent value, expert guides, and iconic landscapes into a manageable, exciting package. It’s a well-rounded tour that allows travelers to tick off key wildlife experiences in a short amount of time, making it perfect for busy schedules.

The opportunity to see the Big Five and enjoy Tanzania’s diverse scenery makes this experience highly appealing. Plus, the positive reviews and the inclusiveness of fees and services suggest this safari is both reliable and rewarding.

Overall, it’s an adventure that delivers authentic wildlife encounters and helps create memories that last a lifetime, especially for those eager to experience Africa’s wildlife in just a few days.

Frequently Asked Questions

What parks are included in this safari?
You will visit Tarangire National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, and Lake Manyara National Park, each offering distinct scenery and wildlife.

How long is the drive each day?
The drive to Tarangire from Arusha takes about 90 minutes. The game drives in each park last around 8 to 9 hours, with early starts and long days typical.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all park entrance and service fees are included in the price, making the process straightforward for travelers.

What type of vehicle is used?
A private 4×4 vehicle with an open roof is used to maximize wildlife viewing and photography.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
While most travelers can participate, the long hours and early mornings may be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, there’s room for some flexibility, but most logistics are fixed to maximize park time.

Are meals provided?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included for the days of the safari.

What is the best time of year for this safari?
While not specified, safaris in Tanzania are generally best during the dry seasons (June to October), when wildlife congregates around water sources.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring comfortable clothing, sun protection, camera gear, and a sense of adventure. Water is provided during the drive, but personal items are up to you.

What if the weather turns bad?
The tour requires good weather, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This safari promises a concentrated dose of Tanzania’s best wildlife spots with professional guiding and excellent value—perfect for anyone eager to experience Africa’s wild heart even in just a few days.