3-Day Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater Safari from Arusha

Overview

Discover the Magic of Tanzania

Discover the magic of Tanzania, a true safari paradise known for breathtaking landscapes, extraordinary wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. On this unforgettable journey, you will explore some of the country’s most iconic destinations.

Explore the Ngorongoro Crater

First, visit the spectacular Ngorongoro Crater, where sweeping blue-green views surround one of Africa’s highest concentrations of wildlife. Here, you will have exceptional opportunities to see the Big Five lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and black rhinoceros all in a single day. In addition, the crater’s dramatic scenery makes every moment unforgettable.

Adventure in the Serengeti

Next, continue your adventure to the world-famous Serengeti National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its endless plains, abundant predators, and diverse ecosystems. Depending on the season, you may witness the awe-inspiring Great Wildebeest Migration, one of nature’s most dramatic spectacles. During your safari, thrilling game drives and breathtaking scenery combine to offer a fully immersive experience in Tanzania’s iconic wilderness.

Highlights

Tanzania’s classic northern reserves: the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater
See the Big 5 in Ngorongoro and enjoy wonderful birding
Seasonal viewing of the annual Wildebeest Migration
Witness the Great Wildebeest Migration (seasonal)
Beautiful scenery and endless photographic opportunities
Stay exclusively in public campsites
Encounter elephant herds and iconic baobab trees in Tarangire
Extensive game drives across the legendary plains of Serengeti National Park
Exceptional predator sightings including lions, cheetahs, and hyenas

Itinerary

Day 1: Arusha – Serengeti National Park

Morning Departure from Arusha

After an early breakfast, you will depart from Arusha at 7:15 am for an exciting road transfer to Serengeti National Park. The journey takes approximately eight hours, including stops along the way, and passes through the scenic Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

Optional Maasai Village Visit

Along the route, you have the opportunity to visit a traditional Maasai village (optional) and learn about the culture of the Maasai people, renowned for their historical warrior traditions. While hunting lions and drinking animal blood were once part of these practices, today the visit focuses on their unique lifestyle, intricate beadwork, and daily routines. This experience provides an enriching glimpse into Maasai culture.

Afternoon Game Drive in the Serengeti

Upon arrival at the Serengeti National Park in the late afternoon, enjoy a game drive in the Seronera area, the heart of the park. During this time, wildlife is often at its most active, giving you the chance to spot elephants, giraffes, zebras, and possibly predators on the hunt.

As the sun sets, marvel at breathtaking views of the Serengeti savannah and its wildlife. Afterwards, head to the Seronera campsite for dinner and overnight. From the camp, you may even see animals like hyenas roaming nearby, all under the careful protection of park rangers.

Accommodation: Nyani Campsites

Meals: Lunch & Dinner

Day 2: Half-Day Serengeti Game Drive – Ngorongoro Highlands

Morning Serengeti Game Drive

After breakfast at your camp, begin the day with an early morning game drive across the Serengeti’s expansive savannah grasslands. During this drive, explore diverse ecosystems and spot a wide range of wildlife, including lions, cheetahs, elephants, and antelopes. Following the morning drive, continue with a full-day game drive, tracking wildlife and capturing photographs of the dramatic landscapes that make the Serengeti one of Africa’s top safari destinations.

Transfer to Ngorongoro Simba Campsite

After lunch, transfer to the Ngorongoro Simba campsite, enjoying game viewing along the way. En route, you can opt to visit another Maasai village, where you will experience traditional culture and interact with the local community.

Evening at the Campsite

Arriving at the campsite in the late afternoon, prepare for dinner and your overnight stay while taking in the beautiful Ngorongoro highlands and surrounding wildlife. From the camp, animals such as hyenas are often observed nearby, with rangers ensuring your safety.

Accommodation: Ngorongoro Simba Campsite

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3: Ngorongoro Crater – Arusha

Morning Game Drive in Ngorongoro Crater

After an early breakfast, descend into the Ngorongoro Crater at around 6:15 am for a morning of game viewing on the crater floor. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the crater is home to over 25,000 animals and nearly all species of East African savannah wildlife, including the Big Five. During the drive, your main focus will be searching for the elusive black rhinoceros, while also spotting elephants, zebras, wildebeests, lions, and more.

Picnic Lunch and Afternoon Game Drive

After enjoying a picnic lunch inside the crater, continue your game drive through this incredible ecosystem. Along the way, capture photographs of wildlife and the breathtaking scenery that surrounds you.

Ascend and Return to Arusha

Later in the afternoon, ascend back to the crater rim and begin the return drive to Arusha town or Kilimanjaro Airport. This marks the conclusion of your unforgettable 3-day safari adventure through the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, leaving you with memories of Africa’s most iconic landscapes and wildlife.

Accommodation: N/A

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch