This 3-days Tanzania safari covers 3 of Northern Tanzania’s top safari parks. You will visit Arusha National Park (1 day exploration), Tarangire National Park (1 night within/outside the park), and Ngorongoro Crater (1 night within/outside the conservation area). The tour starts with airport pick up from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO)/ Arusha domestic Airport (ARK), or pick up from Arusha city, and ends with airport drop off or Arusha drop off at the end of the safari. With our Certified, professional, experienced and passionate safari guides, it will be a trip of a life time.
| Location | Distance & Travel Time |
|---|---|
| Arusha to Arusha National Park | Approximately 35 km | About 45 minutes to 1 hour drive |
| Moshi to Arusha National Park | Approximately 85 km | About 2 hours drive |
| Arusha to Tarangire National Park | Approximately 120 km | About 2 to 3 hours drive |
| Tarangire to Ngorongoro Highlands | Approximately 160 km | About 3 to 4 hours drive |
| Ngorongoro Crater to Arusha | Approximately 190 km | About 4 to 5 hours drive |
| Kilimanjaro International Airport to Arusha | Approximately 50 km | About 1 hour drive |
| Arusha Airport to Arusha City | Approximately 8 km | About 15 minutes drive |
Most northern Tanzania safaris begin in Arusha. The city is located near Mount Meru and is known as the main gateway to famous safari destinations such as Arusha National Park, Tarangire National Park, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater, and Serengeti National Park.
Travelers arriving before the safari can spend the night in Arusha to relax, prepare their luggage, and meet the safari team before starting the adventure.
Arusha National Park is a beautiful and peaceful park located close to Arusha City. It is known for Mount Meru, green forest, open grassland, Momella Lakes, and a wide variety of wildlife and birds.
During your game drive, you may see giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, warthogs, bushbucks, blue monkeys, black-and-white colobus monkeys, flamingos, and many other bird species. The park is a perfect starting point for this short Tanzania safari.
Tarangire National Park is one of the best parks in Tanzania for seeing elephants. The park is famous for its large elephant families, ancient baobab trees, and the Tarangire River, which attracts many animals during the dry season.
During your game drive in Tarangire, you may see elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, buffaloes, impalas, warthogs, waterbucks, and many birds. The park offers a real African safari feeling with beautiful landscapes and good wildlife viewing.
Ngorongoro Crater is one of the most famous wildlife destinations in Tanzania. It was formed millions of years ago after a large volcano collapsed, creating a huge natural caldera filled with wildlife.
The crater floor has grassland, forest, swamp, and lake areas, making it home to many animals throughout the year. During your game drive, you may see lions, elephants, buffaloes, zebras, wildebeest, hippos, hyenas, gazelles, and the rare black rhino if lucky.
Because many animals live inside the crater, Ngorongoro offers one of the best chances to see a lot of wildlife in a short time.
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK), our safari representative will meet and welcome you to Tanzania. After a short introduction, you will be transferred to your hotel in Arusha for relaxation and overnight stay before your safari begins.
This arrival day gives you time to rest after your journey, prepare your safari luggage, and get ready for your Arusha National Park safari experience. Depending on your arrival time, you may also meet your safari guide for a short briefing about the next day’s program, pickup time, park activities, and important travel details.
You will spend the night at your selected hotel in Arusha, ready to start your safari adventure the following morning.
After breakfast at your hotel in Arusha, your safari guide will pick you up and drive to Arusha National Park. This beautiful park is located close to Arusha City and offers a peaceful safari experience with amazing views of Mount Meru, green forest, open grassland, lakes, and wildlife.
After entering Arusha National Park, you will begin your game drive through different areas of the park, including the Momella Lakes and the scenic Ngurdoto Crater. The park is well known for giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, warthogs, bushbucks, blue monkeys, black-and-white colobus monkeys, flamingos, and many bird species.
During the game drive, you will also visit the famous Fig Tree, also known as Ficus thonningii. This large tree is wide enough for a safari vehicle to pass underneath, making it a special photo stop and one of the interesting landmarks inside Arusha National Park.
Around lunch time, your guide will take you to a picnic site where you will enjoy your packed lunch surrounded by nature. After lunch, you will continue with a relaxed game drive while enjoying more views of the park, wildlife, lakes, and Mount Meru scenery.
In the late afternoon, around 4:00 PM, you will leave Arusha National Park and drive back to Arusha Town. You will be dropped off at your hotel for dinner, relaxation, and overnight stay after a beautiful day of wildlife, nature, and scenery.
We will start a journey by our jeep car for Tarangire National Park early in the morning after suspicious breakfast. When arriving in Tarangire we will begin experiencing the different mounds and the ancient baobab trees. Tarangire National Park is experienced for its diverse bird species and extended population of giant elephants. There are animal sightings of lions, giraffe, warthogs, ostriches, impalas, cheetah, mongoose, buffaloes, and mischievous baboons. After discovering and observing the wildlife in Tarangire National Park we will continue our drive to our next package step to Ngorongoro Crater. Take a rest, shower, overnight and dinner at your accommodation.
We will have an early drive from your accommodation after taking your morning breakfast to Ngorongoro Crater through Ngorongoro Conservation Area. In Ngorongoro Crater animals cannot frequently come in and out of the Ngorongoro Crater due to its elevated landscape. This led to the disability of spotting every member of the BIG FIVE in a single day/time comprising buffalo, elephants, rhinos, lions and leopards. Other wildlife animals that you may see are like zebras, hippo, wildebeest and hyenas. The Ngorongoro Crater also is featured by an extensive bird population including geese, storks and vultures, and flamingos on the Soda Lake in the crater rim. Your safari trip will end in the late afternoon at which we need to drive to Moshi/Arusha.
Arusha is the base for safari tours in North Tanzania. If you need accommodation in Arusha before/after your safari tour you can check some popular hotel prices on bed and breakfast basis below.
This tour starts from Arusha. Kilimanjaro Airport is the nearest international airport and Arusha Airport is the nearest domestic airport.
Arusha Airport: No extra charge
Kilimanjaro Airport: USD 30 per vehicle
Arusha Airport ↔ Hotel: USD 25 per vehicle
Kilimanjaro Airport ↔ Arusha: USD 50 per vehicle
Moshi ↔ Arusha: USD 100 per vehicle
Nairobi ↔ Arusha: USD 275 per vehicle
We do not book international flights. We assist with local flights based on availability.
Zanzibar ↔ Arusha: From USD 100 (Morning flight)
Dar es Salaam ↔ Arusha: From USD 90 (Morning flight)
Arusha ↔ Zanzibar: From USD 170 (Afternoon flight)
Arusha ↔ Dar es Salaam: From USD 110 (Afternoon flight)
Below is a clear breakdown of what is included and excluded in your Tanzania safari package. This helps you understand exactly what to expect before your journey to Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and other parks.
This 3-day Tanzania safari combines the wildlife-rich landscapes of Tarangire National Park with the remarkable concentration of animals found in the Ngorongoro Crater. During your game drives, you may encounter elephants, lions, buffaloes, zebras, wildebeest, giraffes, hippos and many other species in their natural habitats.
Tarangire is particularly well known for its elephant herds. You may see elephants moving through woodland, grazing near open areas or gathering around available water sources.
Lions can be encountered in both Tarangire and the Ngorongoro ecosystem. Your guide will look for them resting, moving through the grasslands or observing potential prey.
Large buffalo herds may be seen in grasslands, woodland and other suitable habitats. Their powerful appearance makes them one of the memorable animals to look for during game drives.
Giraffes are commonly associated with the open landscapes and woodland areas of Northern Tanzania. Their height makes them easier to spot as they move between trees and grasslands.
Zebra are frequently seen across Tanzania's safari landscapes. You may encounter groups grazing in open grasslands together with wildebeest and other herbivores.
Wildebeest are among the common large herbivores you may encounter during the safari. Their presence adds to the variety of wildlife seen across the northern Tanzania ecosystem.
Hippos can be found in suitable water habitats, particularly around areas where water provides a suitable environment for these large aquatic mammals.
Different antelope and gazelle species can be seen feeding across the grasslands and woodland areas, adding variety to the wildlife experience during your game drives.
Depending on the season, location and wildlife movements, you may also have opportunities to see predators such as cheetahs and leopards. These sightings are less predictable, but your experienced guide will help you search suitable areas during the game drives.
Tarangire and Ngorongoro support a wide variety of bird species, making the safari interesting for birdwatchers as well as wildlife enthusiasts.
Warthogs may be spotted feeding or moving through open grasslands during game drives.
Various primates may also be encountered in suitable woodland and forested areas.
Depending on water conditions and seasonal movements, flamingos and other waterbirds may be seen in suitable habitats.
Known for elephants, baobab landscapes, diverse herbivores and excellent wildlife viewing around seasonal water sources.
A spectacular volcanic environment with a remarkable concentration of wildlife within the crater floor, offering a different game-viewing experience.
Animals live freely in their natural environment, so sightings can vary depending on weather, season, time of day and wildlife movements. Your safari guide will use local knowledge and experience to help you make the most of every game drive.
Explore Tarangire and Ngorongoro on a carefully planned 3-day Tanzania safari with Macpace Tours.
Plan This SafariYour accommodation is selected to provide comfort, convenience and easy access to the safari destinations on your itinerary. Depending on the package selected, you may stay in a safari lodge or tented camp around Tarangire, Karatu or the Ngorongoro area. The exact accommodation will be confirmed before your safari.
After exploring Tarangire National Park, you will continue towards your overnight accommodation in the Tarangire or Karatu area, depending on the selected itinerary and accommodation arrangement.
Your second overnight stay is arranged around the Karatu or Ngorongoro area, providing convenient access to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and the following day's crater experience.
A comfortable place to rest after a full day of travelling and game drives.
Enjoy the unique atmosphere of staying in Tanzania's northern safari regions.
Meals are provided according to the accommodation and meal plan included in your selected package.
Accommodation is selected with the safari route and daily activities in mind.
The specific lodge or tented camp may vary depending on availability, season, accommodation category and the final safari arrangements. Macpace Tours will confirm the accommodation details before your trip and, where necessary, provide a suitable alternative of a similar standard.
Staying in the right area helps make the safari more comfortable by reducing unnecessary travel and keeping you conveniently positioned for the next day's activities. Accommodation around Tarangire and Karatu also gives you access to different parts of Northern Tanzania's safari circuit.
Tell us your preferred comfort level and travel dates, and Macpace Tours can help arrange accommodation that fits your 3-day Tanzania safari.
Plan This SafariExperience two of Northern Tanzania's most remarkable wildlife destinations in just three days. From the elephant-rich landscapes of Tarangire National Park to the spectacular wildlife-filled Ngorongoro Crater, this safari combines scenic landscapes, exciting game drives and unforgettable encounters with Tanzania's wildlife.
Begin your safari with a game drive through Tarangire, a beautiful park known for its large elephant herds, ancient baobab trees and diverse wildlife. Enjoy watching animals across open grasslands and woodland landscapes while your guide explains the ecosystem and wildlife around you.
After your Tarangire game drive, continue towards the Karatu area near the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The journey provides an opportunity to enjoy the changing landscapes of Northern Tanzania before settling into your accommodation for the night.
Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for an exciting game drive across its remarkable crater floor. The enclosed ecosystem supports a wide variety of wildlife, creating excellent opportunities for viewing animals in a dramatic natural setting.
The safari is not only about wildlife. Tarangire's baobab-dotted landscapes and the spectacular walls and grasslands of Ngorongoro create two very different environments to explore and photograph.
Tarangire offers a distinctive safari atmosphere with its iconic baobab trees, seasonal water sources and strong elephant presence. The park's varied habitats support a wide range of wildlife and provide excellent opportunities for game viewing throughout the year.
Ngorongoro provides a very different experience from Tarangire. Its dramatic volcanic landscape and concentrated wildlife create an unforgettable setting for a game drive.
Explore the open grasslands and wildlife habitats across the crater floor during your game drive.
Search for large mammals and predators while your guide follows current wildlife movements.
Enjoy spectacular views created by the ancient volcanic crater and surrounding highlands.
Capture wildlife, landscapes and memorable moments throughout your crater adventure.
Best known for elephants, baobab landscapes, woodland and open savannah. It offers a classic national park game-drive experience with diverse habitats.
Known for its spectacular volcanic scenery and high concentration of wildlife within the crater, offering a unique enclosed ecosystem.
Combining Tarangire and Ngorongoro allows you to experience different sides of Northern Tanzania in a short itinerary. You get the chance to enjoy diverse landscapes, wildlife viewing, scenic drives and the unique atmosphere of two iconic safari destinations.
Discover Tanzania's wildlife, landscapes and natural beauty with a carefully planned safari from Arusha.
Plan This SafariThis 3-day Arusha, Tarangire and Ngorongoro safari can be enjoyed throughout the year. However, different seasons offer different wildlife, scenery and travel experiences. The dry months are generally preferred for easier wildlife viewing, while the green seasons offer lush landscapes, fewer crowds and excellent photography opportunities.
The dry season is one of the most popular periods for a Northern Tanzania safari. Vegetation is generally less dense and wildlife can be easier to spot around available water sources, making this a strong choice for travellers focused on game viewing.
The short rains bring fresh greenery and renewed colour to the landscape. This period can offer a quieter safari atmosphere while still providing opportunities for excellent wildlife viewing.
January and February can provide a beautiful balance of green landscapes and good wildlife experiences. The scenery is often vibrant, making this an attractive period for travellers who enjoy nature and photography.
The long-rain season transforms the northern safari landscapes into lush green environments. Rain can sometimes affect road conditions, but travellers who choose this period can enjoy dramatic skies, fresh scenery and a more peaceful atmosphere.
For travellers whose main priority is wildlife viewing, June to October is generally one of the strongest periods for this safari. Drier conditions can make wildlife easier to spot, particularly around water sources in Tarangire. However, this does not mean the safari is limited to these months.
Excellent choice for classic wildlife-focused safaris.
Greener scenery and potentially fewer visitors.
Green landscapes with good opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Lush scenery, dramatic skies and a quieter atmosphere.
Consider the dry season when easier visibility and access around water sources are your main priorities.
Choose the greener months if you prefer vibrant scenery and dramatic natural landscapes.
Green-season conditions can provide beautiful colours, skies and landscapes for photography.
Some shoulder and green-season periods can offer a more relaxed experience with fewer visitors.
There is no single month that guarantees every wildlife encounter. Animal movements, weather and local conditions change naturally throughout the year. Your safari guide will help you make the most of the conditions on the day of your game drives.
Tell Macpace Tours your preferred travel dates and safari priorities, and we can help you choose the most suitable time for your 3-day Tanzania safari.
Plan This SafariFind answers to common questions about the 3-day Arusha, Tarangire and Ngorongoro safari, including departure, accommodation, wildlife, meals, transportation and the best time to travel.
Yes. Three days can provide a rewarding Northern Tanzania safari experience, especially when the itinerary focuses on Tarangire National Park and Ngorongoro Crater. The route is designed to maximize wildlife viewing while keeping travel time practical.
This safari normally starts from Arusha, although departure arrangements can be adjusted depending on your travel plans. Airport transfers and pre-safari accommodation can also be arranged when requested.
The main destinations are Tarangire National Park and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, including a game drive inside Ngorongoro Crater. The itinerary may also include scenic areas around Karatu depending on the final route and accommodation arrangements.
Wildlife sightings vary naturally, but you may see elephants, lions, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, antelopes, hippos and many species of birds. Your guide will use local knowledge to look for wildlife based on current conditions and animal movements.
Yes. A game drive inside Ngorongoro Crater is one of the main experiences included in this 3-day itinerary. You will explore the crater floor with your safari guide while looking for wildlife and enjoying the dramatic volcanic scenery.
Accommodation depends on the selected safari package and comfort level. Options may include budget, mid-range or luxury lodges and tented camps around Tarangire, Karatu or the Ngorongoro area. The specific accommodation will be confirmed before your safari.
Yes. Meals are included according to the meal plan stated in your selected safari package. Your safari team will organize meals during the trip, including meals provided by your accommodation and suitable safari lunch arrangements.
The safari can be enjoyed throughout the year. June to October is generally popular for wildlife viewing because of drier conditions, while the green seasons can offer beautiful scenery, photography opportunities and a quieter safari atmosphere.
Yes. The safari can be adjusted to suit your travel dates, accommodation preference, departure location, activities and budget. If you have additional days, the itinerary can also be extended with other Northern Tanzania destinations or add-on experiences.
Yes. Airport transfers can be arranged from Kilimanjaro International Airport depending on your arrival time and travel plans. You can also arrange a pre-safari hotel stay before beginning the main itinerary.
Yes. This itinerary is a good introduction to Northern Tanzania because it combines two major safari destinations within a manageable three-day schedule. Your professional safari guide will assist you throughout the journey.
Yes. Private safari arrangements can be organized for couples, families, friends and small groups. A private safari gives you more flexibility with the itinerary, departure time and overall travel experience.
Every traveller has different needs. If you need more information about availability, accommodation, transfers, meals, travel dates or customizing this itinerary, contact Macpace Tours before booking.
Plan your 3-day Tanzania safari with Macpace Tours and experience two of Northern Tanzania's iconic wildlife destinations.
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