A 2 Days Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro & Tarangire Safari is one of the most rewarding short safaris in Tanzania, designed for travelers who want to see a variety of landscapes, ecosystems, and wildlife within a limited time. In just three days, this safari covers three of Tanzania’s most famous national parks:
Lake Manyara National Park – known for its tree-climbing lions and flamingos.
Ngorongoro Crater – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the Big Five.
Tarangire National Park – famous for its giant baobab trees and elephant herds.
This safari is perfect for families, couples, and groups who want to maximize wildlife encounters while enjoying comfortable lodges or tented camps.
Covers 2 Iconic Parks in 3 Days – maximum variety in minimal time.
Big Five Experience – high chances of spotting lions, elephants, leopards, buffaloes, and rhinos.
Different Ecosystems – from lake shores and forests to savannahs and crater floor.
Convenient & Affordable – short but intense safari that fits most budgets.
Customizable – can be upgraded to luxury lodges or extended to Serengeti.
Spot tree-climbing lions in Lake Manyara National Park.
Witness the massive elephant herds of Tarangire National Park.
Explore the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, one of Africa’s top safari destinations.
Enjoy birdwatching with flamingos, storks, pelicans, and over 400 species.
Stay in beautiful lodges or tented camps near the parks.
Morning departure from Arusha or Moshi.
Scenic drive along the Great Rift Valley to Lake Manyara National Park.
Game drive through lush forests, grasslands, and the lakeshore.
Spot elephants, giraffes, zebras, hippos, buffaloes, and the famous tree-climbing lions.
Birdwatching: flamingos, pelicans, cormorants, and more.
Picnic lunch inside the park.
Evening transfer to lodge/camp in Karatu.
Overnight: Lodge/Camp in Karatu.
Early breakfast at the lodge.
Drive to Ngorongoro Conservation Area and descend into the crater.
Full-day safari on the crater floor with picnic lunch.
Spot the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino).
Other wildlife: wildebeests, zebras, hippos, hyenas, cheetahs, and flamingos in crater lakes.
Evening return to Karatu.
Overnight: Lodge/Camp in Karatu.
Lake Manyara: Tree-climbing lions, flamingos, hippos, baboons, giraffes.
Ngorongoro Crater: Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino), wildebeests, zebras.
Tarangire: Elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, and over 500 bird species.
June – October (Dry Season): Best wildlife viewing, animals gather near water sources.
November – March (Green Season): Beautiful landscapes, excellent birdwatching, fewer tourists.
April – May (Rainy Season): Cheapest rates but some roads may be muddy.
You can choose from:
Luxury Lodges & Camps – e.g., Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge, Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge.
Mid-Range Lodges – e.g., Marera Valley Lodge (Karatu).
Budget Camps – great for adventurous travelers.
Approximate cost per person:
Budget Package: $650 – $900
Mid-Range Package: $1,000 – $1,300
Luxury Package: $1,500 – $2,500+
Included:
Park fees
Accommodation (lodges/camps)
Transport in 4×4 safari vehicle
Professional guide
Meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Bottled water
Excluded:
International flights
Visa fees
Travel insurance
Tips & personal expenses
Book Early – lodges and crater permits sell out quickly.
Pack Light – neutral clothes, hat, sunscreen, camera, binoculars.
Bring Cash – for tips and souvenirs.
Stay Flexible – wildlife sightings vary by season.
Choose Private Safari – for more personalized experience.
1. Is this safari suitable for families with children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly with lodges and private vehicles available.
2. Can I see the Big Five on this safari?
Yes, especially inside Ngorongoro Crater.
3. How long is the drive from Moshi/Arusha?
Arusha to Lake Manyara: ~2 hours
Arusha to Tarangire: ~2.5 hours
Arusha to Ngorongoro: ~3–4 hours
4. Can this safari be customized?
Yes, it can be extended to Serengeti or shortened to 2 days.
5. What’s the difference between this safari and Serengeti migration safaris?
This one covers three different parks in 3 days, while Serengeti migration safaris focus mainly on the wildebeest migration.
6. Are meals included?
Yes, all packages include full board meals.
7. Is Wi-Fi available in lodges?
Yes, though connection may be slow in some areas.
8. Do I need a visa for Tanzania?
Yes, most travelers require a tourist visa.
9. What is the best season for birdwatching?
November–March is best for migratory birds.
10. Can this safari start from Kilimanjaro Airport?
Yes, transfers can be arranged.
A 3 Days Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro & Tarangire Safari is the ultimate short safari for travelers who want to see Tanzania’s rich wildlife and landscapes in just three days. From the tree-climbing lions of Lake Manyara to the elephants of Tarangire and the Big Five inside Ngorongoro Crater, this itinerary offers unmatched variety and excitement.
Whether you’re traveling on a budget or seeking luxury, this safari provides incredible experiences that you will remember for a lifetime. Book your 3 Days Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro & Tarangire Safari today and discover the magic of Tanzania’s northern circuit.
Tanzania is a year-round safari destination with many adventures being offered all over the country. For optimal wildlife sightings, the dry season from June to October is your best bet! Read more on when to visit Tanzania
Both have their perks with Big Five national parks, the incredible Great Migration and that quintessential African experience we all dream of. Check out our article on Serengeti vs Masai Mara to help you decide.
They both have such different safari experiences! Tanzania offers Big Five game reserves on classic dusty desert plains, rather South Africa partners the Big Five animals with luscious winelands. Both are just as good, but it depends on your safari style.
That’s a tough one! Botswana is home to herds of elephants at Chobe and the sparkling Okavango Delta, and Tanzania has the iconic Mount Kilimanjaro and Great Migration. Check out our article on Botswana vs Tanzania safaris to help you decide.
Tanzania is in general a safe, hassle-free country. However, like most places, you do need to take precautions and listen to your tour guide. It also pays to read our articles on ‘Things to know before going to Tanzania’.
A camera and binoculars are a must. You’ll regret it if you don’t take them! As for clothing, definitely pack lightweight, breathable clothing. Remember, Tanzania is an arid country so the days can get quite hot. Read more on what to pack for a safari in Tanzania in our travel magazine
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