A 3 Days Tanzania Safari starting from Moshi is one of the most rewarding short safari experiences in East Africa. For travelers with limited time but eager to witness the world’s most spectacular wildlife, this itinerary is perfect. Moshi, known as the gateway to Mount Kilimanjaro, also serves as an excellent starting point for unforgettable safari adventures. From here, you can easily access Tanzania’s most famous national parks such as Tarangire National Park, Lake Manyara National Park, and the Ngorongoro Crater.
This guide provides a complete overview of the 3 days Tanzania safari from Moshi, covering itinerary options, best times to travel, what to expect, costs, accommodation, wildlife highlights, and tips to make your safari memorable.
Convenient Location: Moshi is located at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro, making it easy to connect to northern Tanzania’s safari circuit.
Perfect for Limited Time: Ideal for travelers with tight schedules who still want an authentic safari experience.
Affordable Yet Rewarding: Shorter duration means lower costs compared to longer safaris, without compromising on wildlife sightings.
Flexibility: Can be customized to cover Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro, or Serengeti (if time allows).
Witness large elephant herds in Tarangire National Park.
Explore the diverse ecosystems of Lake Manyara National Park.
Descend into the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater, home to the Big Five.
Experience game drives with stunning views of Tanzania’s landscapes.
Stay in comfortable lodges or budget camps depending on your preference.
Early morning departure from Moshi after breakfast.
Drive through scenic landscapes and Maasai villages to Tarangire.
Full-day game drive in Tarangire National Park, famous for its giant baobab trees, large elephant herds, and diverse wildlife.
Spot lions, leopards, giraffes, wildebeests, and over 500 bird species.
Evening drive to your lodge or campsite near Lake Manyara or Karatu.
Overnight: Lodge/Camp near Lake Manyara or Karatu.
After breakfast, proceed to Lake Manyara National Park.
Enjoy game drives along the Rift Valley escarpment with chances to spot tree-climbing lions, hippos, buffaloes, zebras, and flamingos.
Picnic lunch inside the park.
Evening transfer to Karatu or near Ngorongoro for overnight stay.
Overnight: Lodge/Camp near Ngorongoro.
Early morning descent into the Ngorongoro Crater, one of the world’s most famous wildlife destinations.
Full-day game drive with picnic lunch at the crater floor.
Spot the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, buffalo) along with cheetahs, wildebeests, zebras, and hyenas.
Afternoon drive back to Moshi, arriving in the evening.
End of 3 Days Tanzania Safari from Moshi.
Elephants – especially in Tarangire.
Tree-climbing lions – unique to Lake Manyara.
Black rhinos – rare sightings in Ngorongoro.
Flamingos – Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro salt lakes.
Big Five – lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, buffalo.
Over 400 bird species across the three parks.
June – October (Dry Season): Best for wildlife viewing, as animals gather near water sources.
November – March (Green Season): Beautiful scenery, birdwatching, and fewer tourists.
April – May (Rainy Season): Cheaper rates but some roads may be difficult.
During your 3 days Tanzania safari starting from Moshi, you can choose from:
Luxury Lodges: Comfortable, stylish lodges inside or near the parks.
Mid-Range Lodges: Affordable and cozy with great service.
Budget Campsites: For adventurous travelers who want a real safari experience.
Popular choices include lodges around Karatu, Manyara, and Ngorongoro.
The price of a 3 Days Tanzania Safari from Moshi varies depending on group size, accommodation type, and time of year:
Budget Camping Safari: $600 – $800 per person
Mid-Range Safari: $800 – $1,200 per person
Luxury Safari: $1,200 – $2,000+ per person
Costs usually include:
Park entry fees
Transport in a 4×4 safari vehicle
Accommodation (lodges/camps)
Meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Professional safari guide
Excludes:
International flights
Tips
Travel insurance
Personal expenses
Book in Advance: Especially during peak season.
Pack Light: Bring neutral-colored clothing, sunscreen, hat, binoculars, and camera.
Stay Hydrated: Carry water during game drives.
Travel Insurance: Always recommended.
Follow Guide Instructions: For safety and the best experience.
1. How far is Moshi from the safari parks?
Tarangire: About 4-5 hours drive.
Lake Manyara: About 5 hours drive.
Ngorongoro: About 6 hours drive.
2. Can I combine Kilimanjaro trek with this safari?
Yes, many travelers combine a Kilimanjaro climb with a short safari starting from Moshi.
3. What animals can I see in 3 days?
You can see elephants, lions, leopards, giraffes, hippos, rhinos, zebras, wildebeests, flamingos, and more.
4. Is 3 days enough for a Tanzania safari?
Yes, 3 days is enough to visit Tarangire, Lake Manyara, and Ngorongoro. If you want Serengeti, consider at least 4-5 days.
5. Can the safari start from Arusha instead of Moshi?
Yes, safaris can also start from Arusha. But if you’re based in Moshi, starting there saves time.
6. What should I pack for a 3 days Tanzania safari?
Light clothes, camera, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, and a warm jacket for evenings.
7. Are meals included during the safari?
Yes, most packages include breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
8. Is the safari suitable for families?
Absolutely. Family-friendly lodges and private vehicles are available.
9. Do I need a visa for Tanzania?
Yes, most travelers need a tourist visa. Check Tanzania visa requirements for your country.
10. Is malaria a concern?
Yes, it’s advisable to take anti-malaria precautions when traveling in Tanzania.
A 3 Days Tanzania Safari starting from Moshi is the perfect short safari option for travelers who want to experience the beauty of Tanzania’s wildlife without spending too much time or money. In just three days, you will explore Tarangire, Lake Manyara, and Ngorongoro Crater—three of the most iconic parks in the northern circuit. Whether you are in Tanzania for a Kilimanjaro trek or just passing through Moshi, this safari is an adventure of a lifetime.
If you are looking for the best 3 days Tanzania safari from Moshi, book today and experience elephants, lions, flamingos, and the legendary Ngorongoro Crater in just one unforgettable trip.
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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