This 3-days Tanzania safari covers 3 of Northern Tanzania’s top safari parks. You will visit Lake Manyara National Park (1 night within/outside the park), Tarangire National Park (1 night within/outside the park), and Ngorongoro Crater. 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, who will ensure that yor adventure is memorable and is a life time trip.
| Location | Distance & Travel Time |
|---|---|
| Arusha to Lake Manyara | Approximately 125 km | 2–3 hours drive |
| Moshi to Lake Manyara | Approximately 205 km | 4–5 hours drive |
| Lake Manyara to Tarangire | Approximately 85 km | 1.5–2 hours drive |
| Tarangire to Ngorongoro Highlands | Approximately 160 km | 3–4 hours drive |
| Ngorongoro to Arusha | Approximately 190 km | 4–5 hours drive |
| KIA Airport to Arusha | Approximately 50 km | About 1 hour drive |
| Arusha Airport to Arusha City | Approximately 8 km | About 15 minutes drive |
Arusha is the main starting point for Tanzania’s famous Northern Safari Circuit. Located beneath Mount Meru, the city serves as a hub for travelers heading to Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro, Serengeti, and Mount Kilimanjaro. Most visitors spend a night here before beginning their safari adventure.
Lake Manyara National Park is one of Tanzania's most scenic parks. Situated beneath the Great Rift Valley escarpment, the park features lush forests, open plains, hot springs, and the shallow alkaline lake that attracts thousands of birds. Wildlife sightings commonly include elephants, hippos, giraffes, zebras, baboons, buffaloes, and numerous bird species.
Tarangire National Park is famous for its enormous elephant herds and iconic baobab trees. The Tarangire River acts as a lifeline for wildlife during the dry season, attracting animals from surrounding areas. Visitors often enjoy excellent sightings of elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, and a variety of predators.
The park's peaceful atmosphere and stunning landscapes make it one of the most rewarding safari destinations in northern Tanzania.
Ngorongoro Crater is one of Africa's most spectacular wildlife destinations and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The crater supports a rich ecosystem that provides year-round wildlife viewing opportunities within a relatively small area.
The crater floor is home to lions, elephants, buffaloes, zebras, wildebeest, hippos, hyenas, and the endangered black rhino. Its breathtaking scenery and exceptional wildlife density make it one of the highlights of every Tanzania safari.
Below are packages with a few popular ensuite options for your private tour, starting on Nov 13, 2023, in a group of two adults. Ensuite hotels are tented camps/lodges that can be inside/around national parks. You will have a private room with attached bathroom. Meals are provided by hotels.
- $884 per person for safari with Land Cruiser
- Stay at Omega View Hotel, Karatu
- $936 per person for safari with Land Cruiser
- Stay at Eileen's Trees Inn - Standard, Karatu
- $994 per person for safari Land Cruiser
- Stay at The Castle Ngorongoro, Karatu
- $1,070 per person for safari with Land Cruiser
- Stay at Acacia Farm Lodge, Karatu
- $1,336 per person for safari with Mini Land Cruiser
- Stay at Neptune Ngorongoro Luxury Lodge, Karatu
- $1,918 per person for safari with Mini Land Cruiser
- Stay at The Manor at Ngorongoro, Karatu
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 the adventure ahead. Depending on your arrival time, you may also meet your safari guide for a short briefing about your safari route, accommodation, pickup time, and the next day’s visit to Tarangire National Park.
You will spend the night at your selected hotel in Arusha or Moshi, ready to start your Tanzania safari the following morning.
After breakfast at your hotel in Arusha, your safari guide will pick you up early in the morning and start the journey to Tarangire National Park by 4x4 safari jeep. The drive takes you through beautiful northern Tanzania landscapes, local villages, farms, and open countryside before arriving at one of the most scenic wildlife parks in the country.
When you arrive at Tarangire National Park, your game drive will begin with beautiful views of ancient baobab trees, open savannah, river valleys, and termite mounds. Tarangire is famous for its large elephant herds and the Tarangire River, which attracts many animals, especially during the dry season.
During your game drive, you may see elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, buffaloes, warthogs, impalas, ostriches, baboons, mongoose, and many bird species. If lucky, you may also spot cheetahs or leopards in different areas of the park.
Around lunch time, you will enjoy a picnic lunch at a selected picnic site inside the park. After lunch, you will continue with an afternoon game drive, giving you more time to explore Tarangire’s wildlife areas and enjoy the peaceful safari atmosphere.
After a full day of wildlife viewing in Tarangire National Park, you will continue to your selected accommodation near Tarangire, Karatu, or the Ngorongoro area. You will have time to rest, take a shower, enjoy dinner, and spend the night before continuing with the next part of your Tanzania safari.
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. After that we will drive directly to Lake Manyara where we will have dinner and spend the night.
In early morning after breakfast, we will start to move on to Lake Manyara National Park where we will spend the day game drive and enjoy a picnic lunch. Lake Manyara National Park is located at the base Great Rift Valley showing good magnificent. A number of species is able to reside in the Lake Manyara National Park due to the wide-range of habitats encouraging photographers and bird watchers. Thousands of pink-hued flamingos occupy in the lake and other water birds include pelicans, storks and cormorants. The wildlife you may see are buffalo, elephants, giraffe, impalas and the ferocious hippos that inhabit the water. Our trip will come to an end in the late afternoon. We will proceed to Moshi/Arusha in your hotel.
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)
Note: These are estimated drive times. Because of the traffic, location of the accommodations, and several other factors, actual drive times may vary. Driving distances are approximate and do not account for exact places.
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 is designed for travelers who want to experience some of Northern Tanzania's most famous wildlife destinations without spending a long time on safari. Whether you are traveling as a couple, with family, alone, or with friends, this itinerary offers a balanced combination of wildlife, nature, scenery, and comfortable travel.
Ideal for travelers with only a few days in Tanzania who still want to experience Tarangire, Lake Manyara, and the famous Ngorongoro Crater.
A great choice for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers looking to explore diverse landscapes and capture Tanzania's wildlife in its natural environment.
Couples can enjoy a private safari experience combining wildlife, beautiful scenery, comfortable accommodation, and unforgettable moments together.
This itinerary is suitable for families who want a short and exciting introduction to Tanzania's wildlife and national parks.
If this is your first African safari, this route provides an excellent introduction to Northern Tanzania's wildlife, landscapes, and safari experience.
Perfect for visitors arriving through Kilimanjaro or Arusha who want to add a short Tanzania safari before or after another holiday, business trip, or Zanzibar stay.
Not sure if this itinerary is right for you? Our safari team can help you customize the route, accommodation, starting point, and travel arrangements according to your plans.
Plan Your Safari →This 3-day Tanzania safari can be enjoyed throughout the year. However, each season offers a different safari experience. The dry season is especially popular for wildlife viewing, while the green season offers beautiful scenery, fewer crowds and excellent opportunities for birdwatching and photography.
The dry season is one of the most popular times for a Tanzania safari. With less rainfall and thinner vegetation, wildlife can be easier to spot, especially around water sources in Tarangire.
The short rains bring fresh vegetation and greener landscapes across Northern Tanzania. This period can be a great choice for travelers looking for beautiful scenery and a quieter safari experience.
January to May offers lush scenery, fresh vegetation and excellent birdlife. Although some months receive more rainfall, safari activities continue and the landscapes can be especially attractive for photographers.
If your main priority is easy wildlife viewing, June to October is an excellent choice. If you prefer greener landscapes, fewer crowds and birdwatching, the green season from November to May can be a rewarding alternative. Ngorongoro offers wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the year.
Northern Tanzania has a generally pleasant safari climate throughout the year. Weather conditions vary by season and elevation, so you can expect warm afternoons, cooler mornings and evenings, and occasional rainfall depending on the month of your visit.
Safari areas around Lake Manyara and Tarangire are generally warm during the day, making conditions comfortable for wildlife viewing and game drives.
Early morning game drives can feel cool, particularly around the Ngorongoro Highlands. A light jacket or warm layer is recommended for morning departures.
Tanzania has distinct dry and rainy periods. During the rainy seasons, showers do not necessarily last all day, and safari activities can often continue normally.
Due to its higher elevation, the Ngorongoro area is cooler than many lower-lying safari areas, especially during early mornings and at night.
Understanding the seasonal pattern can help you prepare for your 3-day safari and choose the right clothing.
Pack lightweight, comfortable clothing for daytime game drives and bring a warm jacket or fleece for early mornings and evenings, especially when visiting the Ngorongoro Highlands. Comfortable closed shoes, a hat and sun protection are also useful during safari activities.
Packing the right items will make your safari more comfortable and enjoyable. For this 3-day Tanzania safari, bring lightweight clothing for warm days, warmer layers for cool mornings and evenings, and a few essential items for wildlife viewing.
Choose comfortable, lightweight clothing that is suitable for long game drives and changing temperatures.
Protect yourself from the African sun, especially during daytime game drives.
A few useful travel items can make your wildlife viewing experience easier and more enjoyable.
Keep your important personal and travel documents easily accessible throughout the safari.
Ngorongoro is located at a higher elevation than many of the surrounding safari areas, so early mornings and evenings can feel cool. We recommend carrying a warm jacket or fleece even when traveling during warmer months.
A Tanzania safari is an exciting and safe way to explore Northern Tanzania when you follow your guide's instructions and a few simple travel precautions. These practical tips will help you enjoy your 3-day safari comfortably and responsibly.
Your professional safari guide understands the parks, wildlife and local conditions. Always follow their instructions, especially during game drives and when near wildlife.
During game drives, remain inside the vehicle unless your guide confirms that it is safe to get out. Wildlife should always be observed from a safe distance.
Safari days can involve several hours outdoors. Use sunscreen, wear a hat and sunglasses, and drink enough water throughout the day.
Keep passports, phones, cameras, money and other valuable belongings secure. Avoid leaving important items unattended during transfers or excursions.
Do not feed animals, make unnecessary noise or attempt to approach wildlife. Respect park rules and help protect Tanzania's natural environment.
Keep your passport, travel insurance information, emergency contacts and other important travel documents easily accessible throughout your trip.
Conditions can change during a safari, so always follow the advice of your safari guide. If you have specific dietary, mobility, medical or other travel requirements, inform our team before your safari so appropriate arrangements can be discussed.
Help preserve Tanzania's wildlife and communities by respecting local cultures, following conservation rules, avoiding littering and supporting responsible tourism practices throughout your journey.
Choosing the right safari company can make a big difference to your experience in Tanzania. At Macpace Tours, we combine local knowledge, carefully planned itineraries and personalized travel support to help you enjoy a smooth and memorable safari.
Our knowledge of Northern Tanzania helps us plan routes around the parks, wildlife destinations, travel times and the type of experience you want from your safari.
Your safari does not have to follow a one-size-fits-all plan. We can discuss your travel dates, accommodation, starting point and additional experiences to create a trip that fits your plans.
A knowledgeable driver-guide is an important part of a great safari. Our safari experiences are designed around professional guiding, wildlife viewing and understanding the landscapes you visit.
Safari vehicles are an important part of the journey. Our safari programs use 4x4 vehicles suited to Tanzania's safari routes and designed to support comfortable wildlife viewing.
From planning your itinerary to arranging transfers, accommodation and optional experiences, our team can help coordinate the different parts of your Tanzania journey.
Whether you are traveling as a couple, family, solo traveler or group, Macpace Tours offers safari options that can be adapted to different travel styles, preferences and budgets.
Tell us your preferred travel dates, number of travelers and safari preferences, and our team can help you plan the right Tanzania safari for your journey.
Find answers to common questions about our 3 Days Lake Manyara, Tarangire and Ngorongoro Crater Safari, including the itinerary, starting points, accommodation, wildlife, transportation, meals, best time to travel and safari arrangements.
The safari package includes the services specified in the itinerary, such as safari transportation in a 4x4 vehicle, professional safari driver-guide, applicable national park fees, game drives, accommodation, meals according to the itinerary, and drinking water. Please check the Safari Tour Inclusions & Exclusions section for the complete details.
Yes. This safari can be arranged for travelers starting from Moshi or Arusha. Pickup arrangements can also be organized from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO/KIA) or Arusha Airport depending on your arrival plans.
This 3-day Northern Tanzania safari focuses on Lake Manyara National Park, Tarangire National Park, and the Ngorongoro Crater. These destinations offer different landscapes and excellent opportunities to see wildlife and experience the natural beauty of Tanzania.
Depending on the season and wildlife movements, you may see elephants, lions, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, hippos, hyenas, warthogs, antelopes, monkeys and many bird species. The Ngorongoro Crater also offers opportunities to see the endangered black rhinoceros. Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed because animals move freely in their natural habitats.
Yes, there are opportunities to see the Big Five lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhinoceros, particularly around the Ngorongoro Crater. However, seeing all five animals during one safari is not guaranteed because wildlife sightings depend on animal movements, weather, season and other natural conditions.
This safari can be enjoyed throughout the year. The dry season, particularly from June to October, is generally popular for wildlife viewing. The green season can also be rewarding for travelers interested in lush landscapes, photography and birdwatching. Your ideal travel period depends on your safari preferences.
Accommodation is arranged in selected lodges, tented camps, or other suitable properties according to the package and accommodation category selected. Budget, mid-range and luxury accommodation options can be discussed when making your safari booking.
Yes. The itinerary can be customized depending on your travel plans, accommodation preferences, starting location, activities and available time. Contact our safari team before booking to discuss your preferred itinerary.
Yes. Airport pickup and drop-off can be arranged from Kilimanjaro International Airport or Arusha Airport. Transfer costs and arrangements depend on your selected pickup and drop-off locations. Please see the Transfers Details section for current information.
Yes. Solo travelers can book this 3 Days Tanzania Safari. The safari can also be arranged for couples, families, friends and private groups. The final price may vary depending on the number of travelers and accommodation preferences.
We recommend packing comfortable lightweight clothing, long-sleeved shirts, comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, a light jacket, personal toiletries, travel documents, a camera, spare batteries, a power bank and any required personal medication.
Driving times vary depending on road conditions, weather, wildlife stops and the exact accommodation location. Approximate distances and travel times between the main destinations are provided in the Drive Times and Important Travel Information sections of this itinerary.
Yes. Depending on availability and the itinerary, additional activities can be arranged. Examples may include cultural experiences, walking activities, coffee tours and other optional excursions. Additional activities and their costs should be confirmed before the safari.
Booking in advance is recommended, particularly during popular travel periods when accommodation and safari vehicles can become limited. Early booking also gives you more accommodation choices and more flexibility when planning airport transfers and additional activities.
You can contact our safari team with your preferred travel dates, number of travelers, accommodation preference, pickup location and any special requirements. Our team can then confirm availability and provide the appropriate booking details for your Tanzania safari.
If you have questions about the itinerary, accommodation, pricing, transportation, airport transfers or safari customization, contact our team before booking. We will be happy to help you plan your 3 Days Lake Manyara, Tarangire and Ngorongoro Crater Safari.
