Discover 3 days Safari Tarangire, Ngorongoro & Lake Manyara

Setting out on a 3-day safari across some of Tanzania’s most iconic parks promises encounters with incredible wildlife and breathtaking scenery. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, detailed reviews and firsthand accounts paint a vivid picture of what travelers can expect.

What stands out are the majestic elephant herds in Tarangire, the spectacular wildlife concentration in Ngorongoro Crater, and the famous tree-climbing lions of Lake Manyara. Plus, the chance to see rare creatures like the black rhino adds a special thrill.

One potential consideration is the pace — with so many parks to cover in just three days, you’ll be on the move quite a bit, which might feel rushed for some. But for those craving a quick, comprehensive taste of Tanzania’s wildlife, this tour offers excellent value and authentic experiences.

This safari is best suited for adventurous travelers who want a broad overview of Tanzania’s most celebrated parks without the time or budget for a longer expedition. It’s ideal for first-timers or those short on days but eager to see a variety of ecosystems and iconic animals.

Key Points

• Wildlife diversity: Spot elephants, lions, rhinos, giraffes, and more across three parks.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides enrich the experience with insightful commentary.
• Stunning landscapes: From ancient baobabs to crater floors, scenery is unforgettable.
• Authentic camping experience: Includes accommodation in tents with camping gear.
• Value for money: At $600, it offers a comprehensive safari experience.
• Flexible booking: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel with 24 hours’ notice.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary and What You Can Expect

Day 1: From Arusha/Moshi to Tarangire National Park

Your journey kicks off with a drive from either Arusha or Moshi, depending on where you’re staying. We loved how smooth the transfer was, with a comfortable vehicle and a friendly guide who eagerly shared tidbits about Tanzania’s landscape as you leave the city behind.

Once in Tarangire, you’ll immediately understand why this park is famed for its immense elephant herds. Guides often mention that Tarangire’s elephants are more relaxed, making for some great photo opportunities. The park is also dotted with ancient baobab trees, which look like something out of a fantasy novel. You’ll likely encounter lions resting in the shade, along with leopards, giraffes, and a variety of bird species — birdwatchers especially appreciate Tarangire’s avian diversity.

After a picnic lunch amidst the scenery, the game drive continues, giving you a chance to soak in the landscape’s vastness. Many reviews highlight the guides’ expertise here — “Our guide was fantastic, pointing out animals I wouldn’t have noticed and explaining their behavior.”

In the evening, you’ll head to your lodge or campsite, where camping equipment such as sleeping bags and mattresses are provided. Camping here is straightforward, with many guests appreciating the chance to sleep under the stars without the hassle of setting up gear themselves.

Day 2: From Tarangire to Ngorongoro Crater

The highlight of this part of the tour is descending into the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its dense wildlife populations. It’s a full-day excursion, and the scenery alone is worth the effort.

Traveling down into the crater feels like entering a wildlife oasis. You’ll be greeted by elephants wading through the lush grasslands, prides of lions lounging under acacia trees, and hyenas prowling nearby. The crater’s ecosystem provides an ideal hunting ground for predators, which experts say makes it one of the best places to see lions and the elusive black rhino.

Many reviewers mention the guides’ impressive knowledge here. One shared that their guide “knew exactly where the animals tend to gather and made sure we didn’t miss the best sightings.” Along With spotting wildlife, the views of the crater’s rim are breathtaking, offering a perfect backdrop for photos.

After a full day exploring, you’ll climb back to the rim and settle into your accommodation for the night. Staying on the crater’s edge offers spectacular vistas and a quiet night’s sleep after an action-packed day.

Day 3: Ngorongoro to Lake Manyara and back to Arusha

The final day begins with a drive to Lake Manyara National Park, a smaller but remarkably diverse wildlife area. Many travelers are intrigued by the park’s tree-climbing lions, a unique sight that’s often highlighted in reviews.

Lake Manyara’s shores are teeming with flamingos, and it’s common to spot elephants and buffalo along the lakeside. Hippos are frequently seen wallowing in the water, and the park’s varied ecosystems make it interesting for bird enthusiasts — expect to see pelicans, storks, and kingfishers.

The guided game drive allows for plenty of photo moments and wildlife sightings, with many guests remarking on the guides’ ability to spot animals quickly. After a picnic lunch, it’s time to head back to Arusha, ending your safari adventure.

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Why Choose This Safari?

Guided Expertise and Authenticity

Every review emphasizes the role of knowledgeable guides who make or break the experience. Many mention guides being passionate, attentive, and eager to share insights about animal behavior and park history. This added layer of storytelling makes the safari more engaging and memorable.

Comfortable and Authentic Accommodation

Staying in tents equipped with sleeping bags and mattresses offers a genuine safari feel without sacrificing comfort. Many guests appreciated the simplicity of camping, especially as it connects you more closely with nature and the starry night sky.

Scenic Variety and Wildlife Encounters

Covering three parks means a broad range of ecosystems and animals within just three days. From the dense wildlife of Ngorongoro to Tarangire’s elephant herds and Lake Manyara’s flamingos, the tour provides a well-rounded picture of Tanzania’s natural wealth.

Value for Money

At $600 per person, including transportation, guided tours, and camping accommodations, the price is competitive. Considering the inclusiveness and access to multiple parks, this trip offers considerable value, especially when compared to longer or more exclusive safaris.

Practical Details and Considerations

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses comfortable vehicles suitable for game drives, and the group sizes tend to be small, enhancing the chance for personalized attention. The transfer from Arusha or Moshi is straightforward, with optional extra costs if you’re coming from Moshi.

Timing and Duration

The tour’s schedule is quite packed, with early mornings and full days of wildlife viewing. While this maximizes your experience, it might feel a bit rushed for those who prefer a more leisurely pace.

What to Bring

Essentials include a camera, a daypack for your valuables, and layers for varying temperatures — early mornings can be cool, especially at higher elevations. Although meals are included, bring extra water and snacks if you like to nibble between drives.

Fees and Payments

Note that national park fees are not included in the $600 price, which is a common practice. Organizers mention that you can reserve your spot and pay later, with a full refund available if you cancel 24 hours in advance.

Authentic Experiences from Past Travelers

One reviewer shared, “The guides knew exactly where the animals were and made sure we got the best views,” highlighting the value of experienced guides. Others appreciated the stunning views across the crater and the opportunity to see lions and rhinos up close, which are often rare sights elsewhere.

Several guests mentioned the camping setup as a highlight, enjoying the chance to sleep under the stars and wake up to the sounds of wildlife — a truly immersive experience.

The Sum Up

This 3-day safari through Tarangire, Ngorongoro, and Lake Manyara offers a well-rounded introduction to Tanzania’s wildlife and landscapes. It’s perfect for travelers looking to maximize their time and see a variety of animals without the commitment of a longer trip.

The careful balance of guided expertise, authentic camping, and strategic park visits creates an experience that feels both adventurous and manageable. While it’s a fast-paced itinerary, the wildlife encounters and scenic moments are worth every moment of the journey.

For those eager to tick Tanzania’s big parks off their bucket list, this tour provides excellent value and authentic insights into some of Africa’s most famous ecosystems. It’s especially suited for first-time safari-goers or travelers on a tight schedule who want a taste of the wild.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes transportation in comfortable vehicles suitable for game drives, with pick-up from Arusha or Moshi included.

What is the cost of the national park fees?
The national park fees are not included in the $600 price, so travelers should budget for these additional charges.

Can I pay now or later?
You can reserve your spot and pay later, with the option to cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour begins.

What kind of accommodation is provided?
Accommodation is in tents, equipped with sleeping bags and mattresses, offering a genuine camping experience with the convenience of provided gear.

How physically demanding is this safari?
The tour involves full days of game drives with some walking and sitting in vehicles. It’s suitable for most travelers in good health, but those with mobility issues should consider this.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While designed for adults, families with older children who enjoy wildlife and adventure will find this safari rewarding. Always check with the tour provider for age restrictions.

You can check availability for your dates here: