3 Days - Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater Safari in Tanzania
3-days Tanzania safari covers 2 of Northern Tanzania’s leading safari destinations. You will visit Serengeti National Park (1 night within 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 at the end of the safari. With our Certified, professional, experienced and passionate safari guides, it will be a trip of a life time.
Safari at a Glance
- Safari Name: 3 Days Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater Safari
- Starting Point: Arusha City or Moshi Town
- Airport Arrival: Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA) or Arusha Airport (ARK)
- Ending Point: Arusha, Moshi, KIA Airport, or Arusha Airport
- Accommodation Before Safari: Optional overnight stay in Arusha or Moshi
- Night 1: Tent/Lodge or Similar Accommodation in Serengeti
- Night 2: Mentioned on the Quote / Similar Accommodation
- Main Attractions: Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater
- Wildlife: Lions, Leopards, Elephants, Rhinos, Buffaloes, Cheetahs, Hyenas, Wildebeest, Zebras and more
- Best For: First-time visitors, wildlife lovers, photographers and short Tanzania safari holidays
Important Travel Information
| Location | Distance & Travel Time |
|---|---|
| Arusha to Serengeti | Approximately 335 km | 7–8 hours drive including park entry procedures and short game drive |
| Moshi to Serengeti | Approximately 415 km | 8–9 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 |
| Serengeti to Ngorongoro | Approximately 145 km | 3–4 hours drive with wildlife viewing |
| Ngorongoro to Arusha | Approximately 190 km | 4–5 hours drive |
Places You Will Visit
Arusha City – Tanzania's Safari Capital
Most Tanzania safaris begin in Arusha. Located beneath Mount Meru, Arusha serves as the gateway to the country's famous Northern Safari Circuit. The city is surrounded by coffee farms, local markets, cultural attractions and safari lodges. Travelers arriving one day before their safari usually spend the night here to rest before starting their adventure. Because of its strategic location, Arusha has become the main tourism hub for visitors exploring Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire and Mount Kilimanjaro.
Moshi Town – Home of Mount Kilimanjaro
Moshi is a beautiful town located on the southern slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro. It is well known as the starting point for Kilimanjaro climbing expeditions and offers a relaxed atmosphere with coffee plantations and mountain views. Travelers staying in Moshi can also easily join this safari through our organized transfer services.
Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA)
Kilimanjaro International Airport is the main international gateway for northern Tanzania. Located between Arusha and Moshi, it receives travelers from Europe, the Middle East and other international destinations. Upon arrival, our safari team can meet you directly at the airport and transfer you to your hotel or begin the safari according to your schedule.
Arusha Airport (ARK)
Arusha Airport mainly serves domestic flights within Tanzania. It is commonly used by travelers flying between Arusha, Serengeti, Zanzibar and other destinations. The airport is conveniently located close to the city center, making arrivals and departures quick and easy.
Serengeti National Park – Land of Endless Plains
Serengeti National Park is Tanzania's most famous wildlife destination and one of the most celebrated safari parks in Africa. The name "Serengeti" comes from the Maasai word meaning "endless plains." Covering nearly 15,000 square kilometers, the park is renowned for its incredible concentration of wildlife and the world-famous Great Migration involving millions of wildebeest, zebras and gazelles.
During your game drives, you may encounter lions resting under acacia trees, cheetahs scanning the grasslands, elephants moving through the bush, and large herds of grazing animals spread across the horizon. Serengeti offers the classic African safari experience that many travelers dream about before visiting Tanzania.
Ngorongoro Crater – Africa's Natural Wildlife Sanctuary
Ngorongoro Crater is one of the most remarkable natural wonders in Africa. Formed millions of years ago when a giant volcano collapsed inward, it created the world's largest intact volcanic caldera. Today, the crater floor supports a rich ecosystem filled with wildlife throughout the year.
Because animals rarely migrate outside the crater walls, visitors often enjoy exceptional wildlife viewing within a relatively small area. Ngorongoro is one of the best places in Tanzania to spot the endangered black rhino, while lions, elephants, buffaloes, zebras, wildebeest and hippos are regularly seen. The combination of breathtaking scenery and abundant wildlife makes Ngorongoro one of the highlights of any Tanzania safari.
Why Choose This 3 Days Safari?
- Visit Tanzania's two most famous safari destinations.
- Excellent opportunity to see the Big Five.
- Best value safari option for travelers with limited time and budget.
- Experience the legendary Serengeti plains.
- Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ngorongoro Crater.
- Professional English-speaking safari guide.
- Airport pickup and drop-off available from KIA or Arusha Airport.
- Suitable for couples, families, solo travelers and groups.
3 Days Tanzania Safari Itinerary
This 3 Days Tanzania Safari itinerary takes you through the famous Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater. The journey is carefully designed to give you the best wildlife experience in a short time, including game drives, scenic landscapes, and encounters with the Big Five.
Day
0
Arrival in Arusha – Airport Pickup & Hotel Stay
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA) or Arusha Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel in Arusha. This is your first introduction to Tanzania’s safari atmosphere.
The rest of the day is at leisure. You can relax at the hotel, recover from your flight, or explore the small town of Arusha depending on your arrival time. In the evening, your safari guide will meet you for a short briefing about your upcoming adventure, including itinerary details, safari tips, and what to expect in the parks.
Day
1
Arusha to Serengeti National Park
After an early breakfast in Arusha, your safari begins as you drive towards Serengeti National Park. The journey passes through beautiful landscapes including coffee plantations, the Great Rift Valley, and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
As you descend into Serengeti, the scenery opens into endless golden plains filled with wildlife. You will enjoy your first game drive on the way to your camp or lodge, spotting animals such as zebras, giraffes, elephants, and possibly lions along the way.
You will arrive at your accommodation in time for lunch or afternoon relaxation, followed by an evening game drive. Dinner and overnight stay will be in the heart of the African wilderness.
Day
2
Serengeti to Ngorongoro Conservation Area
On this day, you will enjoy an early morning game drive in Serengeti National Park when animals are most active. This is a great time to see predators such as lions and cheetahs hunting or moving across the plains.
After breakfast, you will continue exploring the Serengeti before heading towards the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The drive offers stunning scenery and more chances to spot wildlife along the way.
You will arrive in the Ngorongoro highlands in the evening, where you will enjoy dinner and overnight stay near the crater rim surrounded by cool mountain air and beautiful forest scenery.
Day
3
Ngorongoro Crater to Arusha
After an early breakfast, you will descend into the famous Ngorongoro Crater for a half-day game drive. The crater is one of the best wildlife viewing areas in Africa and is home to the Big Five.
You will explore the crater floor, where you may see lions, elephants, buffaloes, wildebeest, zebras, and the rare black rhino. A picnic lunch will be enjoyed near a scenic hippo pool inside the crater.
In the afternoon, you will ascend from the crater and begin your journey back to Arusha, marking the end of your unforgettable 3 Days Tanzania Safari.
This safari offers a perfect combination of wildlife, landscapes, and authentic African adventure, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Serengeti and Ngorongoro.
Pre & Post Tour Hotels
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.
Single Room
- Crest Safari Lodge - USD 47
- Kutoka Lodge - USD 64
- Karama Lodge - USD 113
- The African Tulip - USD 149
- Four Points by Sheraton - USD 205
- Arusha Coffee Lodge - USD 375
Double Sharing
- Crest Safari Lodge - USD 29
- Kutoka Lodge - USD 49
- Karama Lodge - USD 76
- The African Tulip - USD 112
- Four Points by Sheraton - USD 120
- Arusha Coffee Lodge - USD 240
Triple Sharing Room
- Crest Safari Lodge - USD 29
- Kutoka Lodge - USD 40
- Karama Lodge - USD 73
- The African Tulip - USD 93
- Arusha Coffee Lodge - USD 180
Add-on Tours in Ngorongoro
- Masai Village Tour: USD 25 per person
- Olduvai Gorge Museum Visit: USD 35 per person
- Ngorongoro Crater Rim Hike: USD 35 per person
Add-on Tours in Karatu
- Coffee Plantation Tour: USD 20 per person
- Iraq Village Tour: USD 25 per person
- Endoro Falls & Elephant Caves: USD 35 per person
Transfers Details
This tour starts from Arusha. Kilimanjaro Airport is the nearest international airport and Arusha Airport is the nearest domestic airport.
Airport Pickup / Drop
Arusha Airport: No extra charge
Kilimanjaro Airport: USD 30 per vehicle
Airport to Hotel Transfers
Arusha Airport ↔ Hotel: USD 25 per vehicle
Kilimanjaro Airport ↔ Arusha: USD 50 per vehicle
Intercity Transfers
Moshi ↔ Arusha: USD 100 per vehicle
Nairobi ↔ Arusha: USD 275 per vehicle
Flights Details
Important Note
We do not book international flights. We assist with local flights based on availability.
Intercity Flights
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)
Meals Tips
Safari Tour Inclusions & Exclusions
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.
What’s Included in Your Safari
What’s Not Included
Wildlife You Can See on This 3-Day Serengeti & Ngorongoro Safari
This 3-day Tanzania safari takes you through two of Northern Tanzania's most famous wildlife destinations. Serengeti National Park is known for its vast savannahs, large wildlife populations and predator sightings, while the Ngorongoro Crater offers an exceptional concentration of wildlife within its unique volcanic landscape. Wildlife sightings are naturally unpredictable, but your experienced guide will help you make the most of every game drive.
Lions
Lions are among the most iconic animals of the Serengeti ecosystem. They may be spotted resting in the shade, moving across the plains or following prey during game drives.
African Elephants
Elephants can be seen moving through grasslands and woodland areas while feeding, walking in family groups or resting during the warmer parts of the day.
Wildebeest
The Serengeti is closely associated with large wildebeest populations and the Great Migration. The number and location of herds changes throughout the year depending on seasonal conditions and rainfall.
Zebras
Zebra are commonly associated with the Serengeti plains and can often be seen travelling in groups, feeding on grass and moving alongside other grazing animals.
African Buffaloes
Large buffalo herds can be encountered in suitable habitats across the Serengeti and Ngorongoro ecosystem. Their powerful appearance makes them one of the memorable animals to look for during game drives.
Cheetahs
Serengeti's open grasslands provide suitable habitat for cheetahs. With patience and a little luck, visitors may spot these fast predators scanning the plains or resting between hunts.
Leopards
Leopards are more elusive and are often associated with areas of thicker vegetation and trees. Your guide will watch carefully for signs of these secretive big cats during game drives.
Hippopotamuses
Hippos can be found in suitable water sources within the safari areas. They spend much of their time in water during the heat of the day and may be observed in groups around permanent pools.
Giraffes
Giraffes may be seen browsing on trees and shrubs along the safari route. Their height makes them one of the easiest large animals to recognize across the landscape.
Spotted Hyenas
Spotted hyenas are important predators and scavengers within the Serengeti ecosystem. They may be encountered around grasslands, denning areas or near wildlife activity during a game drive.
Birdlife
The Serengeti and Ngorongoro landscapes support a wide variety of bird species. Depending on the season, visitors may see eagles, vultures, storks, ostriches, flamingos and many smaller birds.
Black Rhinoceros
The Ngorongoro Crater is one of the places where travellers may have an opportunity to look for the endangered black rhinoceros. Sightings are never guaranteed, making an encounter especially memorable.
Can You See the Big Five?
Serengeti and Ngorongoro are both well known for diverse wildlife, and you may have opportunities to see several members of Africa's Big Five: lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhinoceros. However, wildlife is wild and sightings cannot be guaranteed. Your guide will use local knowledge and current conditions to help maximize your chances.
What Makes the Wildlife Experience Special?
Look for lions, cheetahs, leopards and hyenas across the diverse Serengeti landscapes.
Depending on the season, you may encounter groups of wildebeest, zebra and other grazing animals.
The crater provides a unique setting where diverse wildlife can be observed within a relatively compact area.
Keep an eye out for colourful and fascinating bird species throughout the safari.
Wildlife Sightings Are Naturally Unpredictable
Tanzania's wildlife lives freely in its natural environment, so no safari company can guarantee a specific animal sighting. Wildlife locations can change with weather, season, food availability and animal movement. Your guide will use experience and local knowledge to choose suitable areas and help you enjoy the best possible game-viewing opportunities.
Discover the Wildlife of Serengeti & Ngorongoro
Experience three days of game viewing across two of Tanzania's most remarkable wildlife destinations.
Plan This SafariWhere You Will Stay During This 3-Day Safari
Your accommodation is selected to complement your Serengeti and Ngorongoro safari experience. Depending on your selected package, travel dates and availability, you may stay inside or near Serengeti National Park on the Serengeti night and in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area or nearby Karatu area for the following night.
Stay in or Near Serengeti National Park
After your game drive in Serengeti National Park, you will spend the night at your selected lodge, tented camp or other agreed accommodation. Staying close to the safari area allows you to relax after your game drive while remaining well positioned for the following day's activities.
Stay Around Ngorongoro or Karatu
After exploring the Serengeti and travelling toward the Ngorongoro area, you will spend the night at a selected lodge, hotel or tented accommodation. Depending on your package, the accommodation may be located within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area or in the nearby Karatu area.
What to Expect From Your Safari Accommodation
Your accommodation provides a place to rest between game drives and enjoy your meals during the safari. Facilities, room types, meal plans and services vary depending on the property selected. Your confirmed booking will include the specific accommodation details for your trip.
Accommodation May Change Based on Availability
The exact lodge or camp can depend on your travel dates, accommodation category and availability at the time of booking. If a listed property is unavailable, Macpace Tours may arrange a comparable alternative within the appropriate location and accommodation category.
Find the Right Accommodation for Your Safari
Tell us your preferred travel dates and accommodation level, and we can help plan your 3-day Serengeti and Ngorongoro safari around your needs.
Plan My SafariSafari Experience: Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater
Experience the incredible wildlife and landscapes of Northern Tanzania on a 3-day safari through Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater. From open savannahs and predator sightings in the Serengeti to the remarkable concentration of wildlife inside the crater, this safari combines two of Tanzania's most famous destinations in one unforgettable journey.
Serengeti Game Drives
Explore the vast plains of Serengeti National Park on guided game drives. Look for lions, elephants, zebras, wildebeest, giraffes, cheetahs, hyenas and other wildlife moving through their natural habitat.
Ngorongoro Crater Safari
Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a memorable game drive surrounded by dramatic volcanic scenery. The crater provides an exceptional setting for viewing a wide variety of wildlife within a relatively compact area.
Big Five Opportunities
Serengeti and Ngorongoro offer opportunities to search for Africa's Big Five: lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhinoceros. Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, but your guide will use local knowledge to improve your chances.
Incredible Safari Landscapes
Travel through changing Northern Tanzania landscapes, from the wide-open grasslands of the Serengeti to the highlands and dramatic volcanic scenery surrounding Ngorongoro.
Wildlife Photography
Bring your camera and enjoy opportunities to photograph wildlife, landscapes and memorable safari moments. Your guide can help position the vehicle for suitable viewing and photography opportunities when conditions allow.
Experienced Safari Guide
Travel with a safari guide who understands the local environment, wildlife behaviour and road conditions. Their knowledge helps you understand what you see and make the most of your game-viewing experience.
What Makes Serengeti & Ngorongoro Special?
Serengeti National Park
Famous for its expansive savannahs, abundant wildlife and the Great Migration. The Serengeti provides a classic African safari environment with opportunities to encounter both predators and large herds.
Ngorongoro Crater
A spectacular volcanic landscape where wildlife can be viewed against the dramatic walls of the crater. The area is especially known for its diverse wildlife and opportunities to look for the Big Five.
A Short Safari Packed With Wildlife
With only three days available, this itinerary focuses on two of Tanzania's most rewarding safari destinations. Spending time in both Serengeti and Ngorongoro allows you to experience different landscapes, wildlife habitats and styles of game viewing without requiring a long safari.
Your 3-Day Safari Experience
Guided wildlife viewing across Serengeti and Ngorongoro.
Opportunities to see predators, grazers, birds and other African wildlife.
From open Serengeti plains to the dramatic Ngorongoro volcanic landscape.
Plenty of opportunities to capture wildlife and spectacular safari landscapes.
Every Safari Day Is Different
Wildlife behaviour and sightings can change throughout the day and from one season to another. Your guide will adjust the game-drive approach according to wildlife movement, weather, road conditions and the best available viewing opportunities.
Experience Serengeti & Ngorongoro in 3 Days
Discover Tanzania's wildlife, dramatic landscapes and unforgettable safari moments on a carefully planned Serengeti and Ngorongoro adventure.
Plan This SafariBest Time for This 3-Day Serengeti & Ngorongoro Safari
This 3-day Serengeti and Ngorongoro safari can be enjoyed throughout the year. The best time depends on whether you prefer easier wildlife viewing during the dry season, the green landscapes of the wetter months, or the opportunity to follow different stages of the Great Migration.
Best for General Wildlife Viewing
The dry season is a popular period for safari because vegetation is generally thinner and wildlife can be easier to spot around available water sources.
Best for Calving & Predators
The southern Serengeti and Ndutu areas can become highly active during the calving period, attracting predators and creating excellent wildlife-viewing opportunities.
Green Season & Fewer Crowds
The landscape becomes lush and green during the long rains. This period can appeal to travellers who prefer greener scenery and potentially fewer visitors.
Great Migration Season
The northern Serengeti can become an important area during the migration period, with opportunities for dramatic wildlife encounters depending on herd movements.
Wildlife and Great Migration movements are natural events. Exact locations and dates can change from year to year, especially because rainfall influences the movement of the herds.
Why Book With Macpace Tours?
Choosing the right safari operator makes a difference to your experience. Macpace Tours focuses on carefully planned itineraries, reliable safari logistics and personalized service from the first enquiry to the end of your Tanzania safari.
Carefully Planned Safaris
Every itinerary is structured around your travel dates, destinations, accommodation preferences and safari goals.
Experienced Safari Guides
Travel with knowledgeable guides who understand the wildlife, roads and changing conditions across Northern Tanzania.
Personalized Service
We can adapt your safari according to your preferred accommodation level, travel dates, activities and available time.
Local Tanzania Knowledge
Local knowledge helps us plan practical routes between Arusha, Serengeti and Ngorongoro while keeping your safari experience focused on wildlife and scenery.
Flexible Safari Options
Add-on activities, accommodation upgrades, transfers and other arrangements can be discussed when planning your safari.
Support Before & During Your Trip
Our team helps coordinate your safari arrangements and provides assistance with the important details of your Tanzania travel plans.
Ready to Explore Serengeti & Ngorongoro?
Let Macpace Tours help you turn your 3-day Tanzania safari idea into a well-planned adventure.
Plan My SafariFrequently Asked Questions About This 3-Day Serengeti & Ngorongoro Safari
Find answers to common questions about the itinerary, accommodation, wildlife, travel arrangements and the best time to visit Serengeti and Ngorongoro.
Is 3 days enough for a Serengeti and Ngorongoro safari? +
Yes. Three days provides a short but rewarding opportunity to visit both Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater. The itinerary is designed to make efficient use of your available time while allowing for game drives in both destinations.
What wildlife can I see on this safari? +
Depending on the season and location, you may see lions, elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, hippos, gazelles, hyenas and many bird species. Leopard and rhinoceros sightings are possible but cannot be guaranteed.
Can I see the Great Migration on this 3-day safari? +
You may encounter parts of the Great Migration depending on your travel dates and where the herds are located. Migration movements are influenced by rainfall and natural conditions, so exact sightings and locations cannot be guaranteed.
What is the best month for this Serengeti safari? +
There is no single best month for every traveller. June to October is popular for dry-season wildlife viewing, while January to March can be particularly interesting for calving and predator activity in the southern Serengeti.
Where will I stay during the safari? +
Accommodation depends on the selected package and availability. You may stay in or near Serengeti National Park and around the Ngorongoro area or Karatu, depending on the itinerary and accommodation category.
Can I customize this 3-day Tanzania safari? +
Yes. Depending on your travel plans, the safari can be discussed around your preferred accommodation level, departure arrangements, transfers, additional activities and other travel requirements.
Does the safari include airport transfers? +
Airport transfers can be arranged depending on your package and travel plans. Share your flight details when booking so the transfer arrangements can be coordinated with your safari schedule.
Is this safari suitable for first-time visitors to Tanzania? +
Yes. This itinerary is a practical option for travellers visiting Tanzania for the first time who want to experience two of Northern Tanzania's most famous wildlife destinations within a short period.
Serengeti Great Migration & Wildlife Calendar
The Serengeti is a year-round wildlife destination, but different months offer different experiences. Use this seasonal guide to understand the typical movement of the Great Migration and the wildlife experiences you may encounter during your Tanzania safari.
Migration Timing Is Natural, Not Guaranteed
The calendar above shows the typical annual pattern rather than fixed dates. Rainfall, grazing conditions and other natural factors can change the timing and location of the herds from year to year. Planning the right Serengeti area for your travel dates can improve your chances of seeing migration activity.
Planning Your Safari Around the Great Migration?
Share your preferred travel dates with Macpace Tours and we can help you choose the most suitable safari plan for the season.
Plan My Serengeti SafariOffice Location
Safari Booking
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